your destinations
THE PHILIPPINES
FAST FACT:
> Over 112 million hospitable people
> Tropical maritime climate and is usually hot and humid
> Temperatures usually range from 21° C (70° F) to 34° C (94° F)
> Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
> Only Catholic Country in the Southeast Asia
> Major Credit Cards are widely used
> Capital City- Manila
Best Time to Travel
September - May
Most Popular
Manila
“A metropolis that is alive with cultural sights, restaurants and bars, vibrant shopping districts and entertainment, it is as essential stop for soaking up the modern Filipino lifestyle and experiencing the warmth, humour and hospitality of the locals. Amidst all the action of the big city however, there are treasures to be found. The Spanish colonial heritage of Philippines lives on in the medieval city of Intramuros, while charming churches and cathedrals wait to be explored. A collection of galleries, museums and the landmark Cultural Center of the Philippines reveal this country’s rich traditions and contemporary talent. Live the high life, explore and experience the new – in Manila, there is never a dull moment.”
- Visit the Monument of Philippines’ National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park
- Historical Tour around Fort Santiago
- Visit the oldest Church in the country, San Agustin Church
- Learn Philippine History through Museum visits such as Casa Manila, San Agustin Church Museum, National Museum
- Try Filipino cuisine around Intramuros at local restaurants (such as Barbara’s)
- Visit the oldest Chinatown in the world-Binondo
- Shop at the largest shopping mall in the Philippines and sixth in the world- Mall of Asia
Boracay
“Known as one of the best beach destinations in the world – it is the quintessential island paradise with dazzling beaches lined with palm trees, splendid sunshine, warm crystalline waters and no shortage of activities to offer.”
- Boracay Island Hopping Tour (Visit DiniwidBeach , Tambisaan Beach, Coral Garden, Puka Beach / Balinghai Beach and Ilig-iligan Beach (dependent on weather condition)
- Parasailing
- Paraw Sunset Sailing
- Helmet Diving experience
- Sunset Cruise
Coron, Palawan
“Coron is one of Palawan’s most popular beach and island destinations. This paradise-like getaway comprises of the eastern half of Busuanga Island, Coron Island, and 50 other islets within the vicinity, all of which are separate from the main Palawan island. It has caught the attention of many due to its World War II wreck diving spots, beautiful rock formations, and unbelievably clear waters.”
- Take 721 steps to the top of Mt. Tapyas
- Kayangan Lake
- Barracuda Lake
- Twin Lagoons
- Beach 91
- Twin Peaks
- Balinsasayaw
- Malcapuya Island
- Ditaytayan Sandbar
- Bulog Dos Island
El Nido, Palawan
“Rich in flora and fauna and has a diverse marine life, it is home to at least 200 species of tropical fishes and more than 100 species of corals. It serves as a nesting ground of endangered sea turtles, and is the feeding area of marine mammals.”
- Islands to visit: Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-Payong, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Star Beach, Tapiutan Strait and Helicopter Island.
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- Snorkeling
Puerto Princesa, Palawan
“Visit the capital of Palawan, home of the UNESCO World Heritage site and famed Underground River. Travelers will have to pass through here when heading for other popular Palawan destinations such as El Nido and Coron. However, there’s more than meets the eye in The City in a Forest. You’ll be surprised to find out that Puerto Princesa has natural and cultural wonders to offer for different kinds of travelers as well. Plus, there are splendid beaches that line up its coast, too!”
- Take the Underground River Tour at Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Visit Plaza Cuartel, a National Heritage Site
- Visit Palawan Heritage Center (interactive museum)
- Souvenir and Handicraft Shop- Binuatan Creations
Siargao
“Once a well-kept secret in surfing circles, the island of Siargao has slowly become one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Discover why this tiny haven with world-class waves, white sand islets, turquoise tide pools, and hidden lagoons was hailed as the world’s most beautiful island back in 2018.”
- Surf at the famous Cloud 9
- Visit Sohoton Cove, Hagukan Cave, Magkukuob Cave, Balitas Cave, Crystal Cave
- Island Hopping Tour: Guyam Island, Daku Island, Naked Island
Cebu
“Beyond its historical sites, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, this urban destination also offers eco-adventures. Within the forests of interior Cebu, waterfalls and rare birds await those adventurous enough to seek them out. While along this 200 kilometer long island, coral reefs virtually surround its entire perimeter. It’s not uncommon for one to see locals, entrepreneurial as they are- tending to several businesses during the week, and going boating and scuba diving on weekends.”
- Cebu City Tour: Guitar Factory, Basilica del Sto. Niño, Magellan’s Cross, Museo Sugbo/Yap San Diego House, Taoist Temple, Fort San Pedro
- Whaleshark Interaction in Oslob and Sardines Run in Moalboal
- Kawasan Falls
Bohol
“Bohol is one of the most beautiful island provinces in the Philippines, yet it is relatively undiscovered by the tourist crowd. Nature has blessed the island with undulating verdant hills, waterfalls, serene rivers, mangrove forests, undistributed wildlife, luminous white sand beaches and picturesque offshore islets.”
- Visit the Blood Compact Shrine, Chocolate Hills
- View the Tarsiers
- Drive through Mahogany Man-made forest
- Have your lunch while on Loboc River Cruise
- Visit Baclayon Church, Balicasag Island
“The island-province of Batanes is the smallest province in the Philippines with a land area of 230 square kilometers and was created by a series of volcanic activities and other geologic forces when Mt. Iraya erupted around 325 BC. It is bounded on the north by the Bashi Channel, on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the west by the West Philippine Sea and on the south by the Balintang Channel. Basco, its capital town, is about 280 kilometers north of Aparri, Cagayan or some 860 kilometers north of Manila and about 190 kilometers south of Taiwan. The prehistoric Ivatans who are nationally acclaimed as the “True Insulares” were boatmaking and seafaring people who lived in small tribal communities that lived on fishing, hunting, horticulture, and raising root crops.”
- Sightseeing at Mahatao View Deck
- Visit San Carlos Church
- Panoramic view at Marlboro Country
- Alapad Rock Formation
- Visit Honesty Coffee Shop
- Basco Lighthouse
- Climb Mt. Matarem
- Sightseeing: Panoramic view of Mt. Iraya
- Japanese Tunnel-WWII era tunnel
- Panoramic view- Valugan Boulder Beach
- Basco Lighthouse
Ilocos
“Ilocos is a region in the Philippines, encompassing the northwestern coast of Luzon island. It’s known for its historic sites, beaches and the well-preserved Spanish colonial city of Vigan. Dating from the 16th century, Vigan’s Mestizo district is characterized by cobblestone streets and mansions with wrought-iron balconies. Farther north, Laoag City is a jumping-off point for the huge La Paz Sand Dunes.”
- Go Sandboarding at the La Paz and Paoay, Ilocos Norte Sand Dunes
- Ferdinand E.Marcos Presidential Center (Marcos Museum)
- Laoag Sinking Bell tower
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Churches
- See the Bangui Windmills up-close
- Visit Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
- Take a stroll in Calle Crisologo, Ilocos Sur
SHARP HOLIDAYS
New Destinations
“Known as the Mystic Island of Central Visayas, Siquijor is the southernmost island in the Visayan Island Group. It is about 30 kilometers southeast of Negros Island and about 50 kilometers from the closest point of northwestern Mindanao.
The island is a serene place ideal for those who want to get-away from the hustle and bustle of city living. It is a haven for hikers, bikers and nature lovers. White sandy beaches cover the 102 kilometers of shoreline surrounding the island while mangroves and marine sanctuaries dot the island, providing a safe haven for its pristine marine life.
Siquijor is known throughout the country for its unique healing arts. Its centuries old tradition of concocting local potions is still being practiced and used as alternative medicine. Every year, traditional healers would gather in the island to “renew” their connection with nature and put together a fresh brew of local potion.”
- Salogdoong Beach
- Tulapos Marine Sanctuary
- Cantabon Cave
- Cambughay Falls
- Church of St. Francis of Assisi
- San Isidro Labrador Church and Convent
“Once a well-kept secret in surfing circles, the island of Siargao has slowly become one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Discover why this tiny haven with world-class waves, white sand islets, turquoise tide pools, and hidden lagoons was hailed as the world’s most beautiful island back in 2018.”
- Surf at the famous Cloud 9
- Visit Sohoton Cove, Hagukan Cave, Magkukuob Cave, Balitas Cave, Crystal Cave
- Island Hopping Tour: Guyam Island, Daku Island, Naked Island
