With over 7000 idyllic islands, some of the world’s best scuba diving and surfing, a rich and diverse cultural history as well as some of the world’s most famously friendly locals, it is rather surprising that the Philippines remains a relatively undiscovered holiday destination. This vast archipelago is characterised by lush, jungle-clad mountains, exquisite beaches and crystal clear waters. Culturally inclined visitors can explore myriad mystical tribal villages, ancient rice terraces, and crumbling Spanish churches while food lovers can indulge in the renowned Filipino cuisine, which is an eclectic mix of culinary ideas borrowed from the varied cultures that have influenced the country: Malays, Polynesians, Chinese, Spanish and of course the warm and welcoming native islanders. Whether you are keen laze about in the sun, get involved in some adventurous watersports, or get in touch with your inner culture vulture, this remarkable archipelago has so many varied islands to offer that you should have no trouble finding your own little piece of paradise.
If you are a fan of big bustling cities, you will almost certainly fall in love with Manila. As the capital of the Philippines, the city is sprawling, chaotic, and culturally complicated, with a colourful multi-cultural heritage and a lively nightlife. Manila is a destination best suited for energetic travellers who enjoy discovering heritage sights, getting some retail therapy in glitzy shopping malls and partying their nights away in the city's infamous go-go clubs and wild late-night hotspots. Culture vultures and history lovers can enjoy the city’s diverse museums such as the National Museum of the Filipino People and the Ayala Museum. Explore the medieval walled enclave of Intramuros full of historic attractions, take a guided tour of the lavish Malacanang Palace, and visit San Agustin, Manila's oldest stone church. If you look beneath its rough gritty exterior, Manila is a treasure trove of cultural, historical delights just waiting to be discovered.
Known among Filipinos as the ‘8th Natural Wonder of the World’, these ancient rice terraces bear testament to a phenomenal feat of human labour. Hand-carved into the Ifugao Mountains more than 2000 years ago to facilitate crop cultivation on the steep slopes, they are today considered a national treasure and governed by strict traditional agricultural principles. Treks of varying length and difficulty lead through these terraced valleys, taking in exquisite views, rushing waterfalls, and natural rock pools perfect for swimming.
Set among the misty Cordillera Mountains of the Philippines' Echo Valley, Sagada is an enthralling town where travellers will be surrounded by extraordinary nature and unique cultures. With its impressive network of hiking routes through rice terraces, natural swimming pools and dramatic peaks, as well as numerous opportunities for adventure sports in its caves, cliffs, and rapid-filled rivers, the idyllic town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The nature-defying Hanging Coffins, some of which date back hundreds of years and are set on a sheer rock face, are a must-see. Discover the area’s heritage in the village of Demang, where the traditional Appai community lives and celebrates the ‘begnas’ festival. Learn more at the intriguing Ganduyan Museum. An array of restaurants offer Filipino specialities, vegetarian options, and generous portions.
Sandwiched between dramatic limestone karst cliffs and the spectacular Bacuit Bay on the northernmost tip of Palawan Island, the coastal settlement of El Nido serves as the gateway to the extraordinary Bacuit Archipelago. This tourist hub's bustling beachfront area has become a well-known party hotspot with plenty of lively bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Tour the numerous surrounding islands to enjoy a wide range of watersports including diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. With its vibrant centre set a short hike or mountain bike ride away from traditional villages, lush forests, gorgeous mangroves, and pristine beaches, El Nido offers the best of both worlds - wild hedonism combined with the peaceful and rejuvenating tranquility of nature.
Busuanga is the largest Island of the Calamian archipelago in the northern part of the Palawan Province in the Philippines. This idyllic, secluded island is blessed with golden sand beaches, limestone cliffs and an abundance of unusual marine life. Popular tourist activities include hiking, jungle trekking, horseback riding, fishing, snorkeling, and sailing but the island’s primary draw card is its variety of fascinating recreational diving sites due to the twelve Japanese wrecks that were sunk during World War II. Spend your days exploring the exquisite underwater wonderland surrounding the island’s coral reefs, river cruising alongside mangrove forests, kayaking on the crystal clear waters surrounding the island, hiking through a verdant rain-forests to discover hidden waterfalls or simply relaxing in one of the island’s marvelous natural springs. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a chilled out beach bum, this island paradise is jam-packed with attractions to satisfy any interest.
Located in the Central Visayas region, Cebu City encompasses Cebu Island and more than 150 smaller surrounding islands and islets. As the Philippines’ oldest city, Cebu surprises visitors with its bustling streets, shopping arcades, and strobe-lit nightclubs - it bubbles with modern activity. Amid the madness, you’ll find several sites that bear testament to Cebu’s ancient roots, including exquisite Santa Nino Basilica (the oldest church in the country), atmospheric Colon Street (the oldest street in the country), and the striking 16th century Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. For more frivolous entertainment, visit the slick Ayala Centre - a modern, upmarket mega mall - or head to one of the nearby beaches for sunshine, sea, and R&R.
This beguiling island combines all the best of coastal living - idyllic beaches, turquoise waters, great surf, superb seafood. And its charms don’t stop there - it also has exotic wildlife, mangrove swamps, intriguing caves, and a supremely laid-back vibe. Favourite activities include visits to Magpupungko Pool, which is encircled by a rocky reef, forming a protected swimming hole of crystal clear aquamarine water, and boat trips to Siargao’s surrounding islets (Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island) for snorkelling, exquisite scenery and a sublime lunch sourced straight from the ocean. Another nearby island, Bucas Grande, is famous for the Sohoton Caves, which are surrounded by a marine lagoon and feature glittering stalactites and stalagmites.
