Holidaymakers can't get enough of cheaper Maldives alternative with stunning beaches
The Maldives is a dream destination for many travellers, but not everyone can afford the hefty price tag.
If you're looking for a Maldives getaway but don't have the funds, look no further than this stunning and affordable alternative.
Savvy traveller Dude Abroad told followers about the idyllic destination on TikTok. "This is Panglao Island where you can rent a house like this for $120 a month," he said.
"It's only a 10-minute walk from a stunning white sand beach with turquoise blue water. No doubt it's a humble home but it's got all the amenities you need, including an air con, hot water, a toilet that flushes and, yes, high speed internet."
Nestled among the Philippines' vast archipelago of 7,641 islands, Panglao sits in the northern Bohol Sea. Dude Abroad revealed the picturesque destination is just an hour's flight from Manila, the Philippines' capital, and when booked in advance flights can cost as little as $20 (£18.49) each way.
"On top of that, you can go out for activities like snorkelling or diving all at a reasonable price," he continued.
READ MORE: 'Paris copycat' city 6,000 miles away is 'ghost town' with own Eiffel Tower [BIZARRE]
"Or, you can just lounge around on the beach with a cocktail."
Dumaluan Beach is among the most popular coastal spots on the island, according to TripAdvisor, boasting an array of seafood restaurants and pool bars nearby for tourists to enjoy.
If you've made the journey, you'd be advised to sample some of the countless traditional meals the Philippines boasts, including balut – a fertilised duck egg which is incubated before being steamed. The delicacy is often sold as a street food.
Dude Abroad went on: "From the island airport it's just a five-minute drive to the main beach and the next thing you know, your toes are in the sand, chowing down on some fresh balut and watching an absolutely gorgeous sunset on your brand new life."
Unsurprisingly, the creator's post soon garnered hundreds of comments, with many users also vouching for the Philippines' beauty and desirable lifestyle. One person wrote: "Been going to the Philippines for 10 years now. Just trying to find a way to earn online so I could move there permanently."
Another added: "This is EXTREMELY tempting and interesting! Thank you very much mate."
