Few islands in the Philippines create such an unforgettable first impression as Kalanggaman Island. I remember coming from a long weekend of partying in Kalibo for the Ati-Atihan Festival, squeezing in a quick detour back to Manila to catch my flight to Tacloban before meeting my friends in Palompon. Those were the peak years of my travels around the Philippines—going home only to do laundry before setting off on another adventure.

As we approached the island, I still remember what a beautiful day it was. The sea was calm, the sky was clear, and before long, a long stretch of blinding white sand appeared against the crystal-clear waters of the Visayan Sea.

I had seen countless photographs of Kalanggaman's famed sandbar, but nothing prepared me for its length. I was surprised by just how long it was. It is one of those rare places that not only lives up to the hype but exceeds it. At high tide, the island seem to float above the sea. As the tide recedes, they become a pristine tropical playground where you can wander barefoot toward the horizon — just as we did first thing upon stepping foot on its soft powdery sands.