Cebu and Bohol
I visited Malapascua Island for about a week in September 2013. This island is off the northern tip of Cebu, and is about a 4 hour car ride plus 1 hour boat ride from Cebu airport (most dive resorts on the island can arrange all of your transfers for you). I was traveling in the Philippines and looking for something with a laid-back vibe and off the beaten path, but still with excellent diving - this was certainly the spot! There are just the right number of dive shops, restaurants and bars, and you can walk around the entire island in about 2-3 hours (there are no cars). Tourism has still not overrun the island, so the locals are very friendly and are down to hang out and show you a good time. I went as a relatively young, single traveler, but met a variety of people ranging from young to middle aged, and singles, couples, and groups of friends. It's incredibly inviting, so I think anyone would feel welcome.
Now, onto the diving! I was *very* impressed with the diving and conditions. Visibility was always good (70+ feet) and the water was quite warm (no need for wetsuit, although I normally went with one anyway). Marine life was spectacular. It is one of the best places in the world to see thresher sharks, which are spotted there year-round. It is also quite common to see manta and devil rays (which I had never seen before). The real treats though are for the macro photographer. Coral diversity and cover is excellent, and there is no shortage of amazing little critters - nudibranchs, all sorts of crabs and shrimps, and it is also quite common to see mandarinfish mating on nightdives - really neat! Additionally, there are some terrific wrecks (which are especially enjoyable for the tec diver).
Overall, I'd say this place is up there with my favorite spots I have ever been on a dive vacation. Highly recommended!
