ile Balicasag (The Philippines)

For many tourists, Balicasag is the epitome of an island paradise: fine sandy beaches, and a marine wildlife sanctuary visited by an endless succession of divers, snorkelers … and turtles (thankfully).

However, and even though this is an incredible place, the enjoyment it provides is spoiled by the dozens of boats you see just off the coast due to all the divers and snorkeling enthusiasts (of whom, admittedly, I was one myself). Furthermore, I observed people feeding the fish in order to attract them in large numbers in the marine sanctuary.

Perhaps because I have actually experienced a deserted island, or at least one with very few tourists, I would describe Balicasag not as a place worth spending much time at but instead as a recommended place to visit if you want to go diving during your trip to the Philippines.