While the Philippines is blessed with an abundance of beaches and islands, there holds a special charm in the docks of Puerto Galera. Hundreds flock every year to this place, and while it has its pluses and minuses in comparison to other Philippine destinations, it remains and enjoyable trip nonetheless.

The gem that is Puerto Galera in Sabang Mindanao is considered one of the most developed beach destinations in the Philippines. What started out as a backyard tourism spot 160 miles away form Manila quickly became a mecca for mainlanders. The isle is easily accessible with trips coming in almost at any hour. As a result, it becomes to weary vacationers what fast-food is to hungry workers- a quick, easy and satisfying fix to de-stress.

Foreigners really love the island. Since the 70's, they have been in and out of the lush paradise. Some of them failed to resist the temptation of the tropics, so they stayed, making the first seeds of an expatriate community. Every year handfuls and handfuls of foreigners, form American to Koreans discover the island, due to its ease of access and popularity.

Coming to Puerto Galera by yacht, boat ferry or private means, one is greeted by a a colorful beach in the morning or a lit and happening place by night. The beaches are famous for the line of bars and party places that are only a few steps away. The nights, especially weekend nights, are opened up by hip and chic places offering not only drinks, dances on the beach and restaurants but also exhibition shows like fire eaters, fire dancers and even promotional events.

The life in Puerto Galera is comfortably familiar to the average person but still remains one of the perfect Philippine travel tips. In the morning, bars turn into cafes and brunch restaurants, energizing early wakers and soothing all-nighters. Come noon to afternoon, the freshest catch of the day turns into sumptuous lunches- tuna, blue marlin, prawns and crabs. Sunbathers are everywhere, while the boat ferries come and go.

Come nightfall, the party starts again. Beach raves are common, side by side with beach walkers, star gazers, night picnics and again full restaurants. There is something for everybody. For the quiet types, there are the beaches at night. For party-goers, options are non-stop til morning. For morning persons, one can stay and sleep in quaint rented rooms or villas for group accomodations.

There are also famous hiking trails for those who wants to work up a sweat. Banana boat rides, diving and snorkeling are available and guides are inexhaustible. Water is seriously the best attraction. The beach itself are white by morning, the water near the shores are clear enough to see through. You don't even need to ride a boat to find some amazing underwater views; within a kilometer from the shores, you can see lion fish, Moorish idols, frog fish and leaf fish. The Verde Island Passage is a deep clear water, just one of the many sites near here. A fantastic variety of underwater flora and fauna awaits even in the not so best season.

Backpackers can pitch tents and meet other tent lovers. One can lie on the sand til morning and sip wine, talk and meet people. Indeed, Puerto Galera is a place to meet a lot of people, or shrink away to find solace in a secluded spot. Nature takes you under its wing, while the other wing that is progress and comfort fans you.

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