IMAGINE SUBMERGING your stressed-out bod in the cool waters of a beach or a pool, lying under the rising sun in your trunks or bikini while sipping a cool beer or cocktail, or roaming a city degrees cooler than that big ol’ Metro. Weren’t those scenarios a treat?

Here are our top 5 summer destinations in the Philippines to consider as the temperature starts rising once again.

1. Puerto Galera, Mindoro

When you say summer, the beach is the first thing on your mind. Puerto Galera, one of the most well-known summer destinations in and out of the country, surely makes our summer list. Found in the beautiful island province of Mindoro, Puerto Galera has made its limelight shine like a diamond because of its scenic white sand beaches. Although crowded at the peak of summer, everyone still enjoys the company of strangers with the same goal: to cool off and enjoy. It’s a little pricey, but we know it’s well worth it, so what the heck?

2. La Presa, Benguet

Baguio, Sagada, and Benguet are by far the most popular summer attractions. We wouldn’t call Baguio the summer capital of the country if it weren’t loved for its cool weather, relatively cheaper cost of living, fresh fruits (yes, strawberries!) and vegetables, and numerous shopping areas. But current local movies and television series are reviving our fascination and addiction to these summer destinations. Ever heard of the ‘Forevermore’ teleserye, where the main actors lived, got to know each other, and fell in love in a small sitio (district) called La Presa? In the real world, La Presa and its neighboring communities have suddenly become tourist attractions for their, of course, cooler weather, farther up from Baguio, where you can see up close the Banaue Rice Terraces, the man-made terraces. Wouldn’t you like to see for yourself why they’re so famous?

3. El Nido, Palawan

El Nido is a marine reserve park in the province of Palawan. It encompasses numerous resorts and tourist attractions ready to satisfy your summer cravings. No one can resist its white sand shores, clear, unpolluted waters, virgin tropical forests, colorful marine life, fresh seafood, and picturesque scenery. El Nido is indeed a magical place, and its eventful cliffs and selfie-worthy scenery have people calling it paradise. There are also dozens of hotels and restaurants where you can peacefully bring your family and friends and have that memorable vacation you’ve long wanted.

4. Sky Ranch, Tagaytay

For the past whole year, from summer 2014 to this year’s summer season, maybe you’ve thoroughly planned your next swimming vacation, so maybe I’ll skip that. This choice is a little different. You don’t have to plan tediously or even pack a lot. After a quick, smooth drive from Metro Manila, you arrive at the cool breeze of Tagaytay City. What makes this Tagaytay trip different from your usual ones is that you get to enjoy it with your whole barkada and family, most especially the kids. Mark any weekend or work off and suit up for a day of rides and other festivities at the Sky Ranch amusement park. The Eye awaits: take a ride and imagine yourself aboard the London Eye. Isn’t that one perfect summer experience?

5. Coron, Palawan

If you want a sure-fire, tried-and-tested summer destination this season, book your plane tickets and board a plane to the province of Palawan. Coron is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the whole world. Not only locals and Filipinos but also foreigners and celebrities are drawn to its beaches and other attractions. On its white sand and crystal-clear beaches, you’ll feel the warmth of the sun and the coolness of summer. Dive deep into its colorful marine wonders, explore what the vast ocean waters have to offer, inhale the sweet-salty freshness of the air, and embrace the rich culture Palawan has kept for visitors to love as well. What are you waiting for?

I know that, amid the coolness of the air breathed out by the airconditioner in your home or workplace, your mouth is dripping and your palms are itching to wander and explore these summer destinations. I can’t blame you: here I am, dying to pack my things and travel off as well. So, I think it’s settled? See you anywhere there!

Note: Get the most out of summer by booking your flights early. Cebu Pacific flies from Manila to these summer destinations daily. Check out cebupacificair.com for tickets and schedule.