Palace welcomes PHL inclusion in Lonely Planet’s 2015 list

Malacañang on Saturday welcomed the Philippines' inclusion in the list of travel magazine-website Lonely Planet as one of the best countries to visit in 2015.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said it is a source of pride for the Philippines to have islands and other natural endowments.

“Ikinagagalak natin 'yan. Ikinararangal ng bansa magkaroon ng pinakamagandang isla at magagandang natural endowment,” he said on government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

Aside from the natural attractions, he said Filipinos have also attracted visitors due to their hospitality.

Lonely Planet had ranked the Philippines eighth in the yearly "Best in Travel - Countries" list.
 
It described the Philippines' placement as "well overdue," and cited country's coral reefs, coastlines, and "sunbathe-ready white sand."
 
Lonely Planet also cited the country's breakneck jeepney rides and love of fads and the supernatural as experiences tourists must have in the tropical country. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News