Daisy Ridley is soaking up more than just the sun in the Philippines—she’s soaking in the love, the culture, and the paradise that’s left her (and her fans) absolutely glowing.
Two weeks into filming “The Last Resort,” Ridley couldn’t help but share her thoughts—and they’re nothing short of poetic.
A Hollywood Star Finds Her Paradise in Palawan
It’s not every day a Jedi shows up in the Philippines, but when she does, she comes bearing sunsets and selfies.
Daisy Ridley, known to millions for her role as Rey in the Star Wars saga, is currently in Palawan for a major Hollywood shoot. Her latest project, The Last Resort, has found its perfect backdrop in the island province that’s already world-renowned for its pristine beaches and jaw-dropping scenery.
“The Philippines so far [features] paradise, monitor lizards, commuting to work by boat, sunsets, and beautiful views everywhere you look,” she posted on Instagram.
From Studio Sets to Sea Commutes
Ridley’s experience in Palawan isn’t just a vacation with cameras rolling. It’s immersive, authentic, and oddly relatable.
She mentioned commuting by boat to get to filming locations, a daily dose of nature that feels wildly different from your average movie set.
And if you’re wondering, yes—monitor lizards have made an appearance too.
Just imagine a film crew navigating turquoise waters with backpacks, cables, and camera rigs while the cast watches dolphins, mangroves, and occasional reptiles pass by. It’s not sci-fi—it’s just another day on The Last Resort.
One sentence, but it says so much: “Beautiful views everywhere you look.”
Filipino Fans Show Their Love—Loud and Proud
The moment Ridley posted, fans from the Philippines and the Filipino diaspora came flooding into her comment section. And honestly, who could blame them?
There’s something powerful about seeing someone who’s been on red carpets and blockbuster premieres taking in your hometown and calling it “paradise.”
Some messages were heartfelt, emotional even:
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“Love that you are enjoying the country that many of my family and I call home.”
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“I couldn’t be happier knowing one of my favorite actresses, who played one of my favorite Jedi, is enjoying the Philippines.”
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“Hope you get to see and enjoy more of the country. Sending love from a Filipino-American friend.”
Those aren’t just comments. That’s a country beaming with pride.
Why Hollywood Keeps Coming Back to the Philippines
This isn’t the first time the Philippines has served as a film set—but it’s becoming more common, especially in recent years.
The country offers:
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Lush jungles and white-sand beaches
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Dramatic limestone cliffs and clear turquoise waters
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Affordable production costs compared to other tropical locations
Here’s a quick comparison of common filming destinations:
| Location | Known For | Average Cost (per day) | Travel Accessibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | Iconic beaches, volcanoes | $50,000+ | Easy from US |
| Thailand | Jungle scenes, temples | $25,000+ | Moderate |
| Philippines | Islands, marine life | $18,000+ | Improving rapidly |
So when you combine budget-friendliness, otherworldly locations, and a growing film infrastructure—it’s easy to see why international crews keep coming back.
What’s The Last Resort All About?
While plot details are still tightly under wraps, early industry whispers suggest The Last Resort will be a dramatic survival-thriller set in an island resort gone wrong.
Ridley, likely playing a lead character caught in paradise-turned-peril, has remained tight-lipped about the storyline. But her enthusiasm for the setting is already building hype.
No trailers. No teasers. Just some sunny photos and the occasional boat ride. Yet fans are already counting the days.
Local Tourism Gets a Hollywood Boost
It’s hard to overstate what a few Instagram posts from a global star can do for tourism.
Tourism authorities in Palawan have already reported a bump in online searches and inquiries since Ridley’s posts went live. This isn’t just a celebrity vacation—it’s an unintentional campaign for Philippine beauty.
One sentence here is enough: Hollywood eyes may be shifting more toward Southeast Asia again.
Filming continues in various Palawan locations over the next few weeks, and insiders say the shoot has been smooth—thanks in part to the warm welcome from locals and the natural magic of the landscape.
