Cebu is 2nd ‘Friendliest’ Island

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/business/2017/04/11/cebu-2nd-friendliest-island-536219
• Thursday, April 13, 2017

By Katlene O. Cacho

CEBU ranked second as the World’s Friendliest Islands in 2016, according to New York-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure.

“Cebu is a former Spanish colony, and people still travel to see the remaining architecture. Of course, the helpful locals are one of the island’s greatest qualities,” said the travel magazine.

Three other islands in the Philippines cornered the top posts of the survey. Palawan was named the World’s Friendliest Island 2016 while Luzon and Boracay landed the third and fourth spots, respectively.

“People are very welcoming, respectful, and friendly,” said one thrilled T+L reader about their experience in Palawan.

“The island’s green-and-turquoise lagoons have long put it on the bucket lists of travelers around the world, and this year it is also the world’s most convivial island destination,” the magazine said.

In good company

Luzon was described as an island that is “extremely diverse, making it a dynamic destination for travelers seeking a rich cultural experience.”

Boracay, on the other hand, was also described “as beloved for its welcoming people as it is for its undeniable beauty.”

The list which was posted last March 31, also named Waiheke, New Zealand (5th); Ischia, Italy (6th); Tasmania, Australia (7th); Fiji, Islands (8th); Bali, Indonesia (9th); Great Barrier Reef Islands (10th); Moorea (11th); Paros, Greece (12th); Bora Bora (13th); Exhumas, Bahamas (14th); and Caye Caulker, Belize (15th).

In July last year, Travel + Leisure, also named Cebu the sixth Best Island in the World.

Another travel magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, has also recognized Cebu as among the best island destinations.