Philippines
The PHILIPPINES is the third largest English speaking country in the world. It is a land apart from mainland South East Asia, not only geographically but also spiritually and culturally. The Philippines consists of more than 7000 islands, and at certain times of the year it will feel like you have them all to yourself. The typical island boasts of a jungle-clad, mountainous interior and a sandy coastline flanked by aquamarine waters and the requisite coral reef. It has an abounding history combining Asian, European, and American influences.
Prior to Spanish colonization in 1521, the Filipinos had a rich culture and were trading with the Chinese and the Japanese. The Philippines is defined by its emerald rice fields, teeming megacities, graffiti-splashed jeepneys, smouldering volcanoes, bug-eyed tarsiers, fuzzy water buffalo and smiling, happy-go-lucky people.
THE FILLIPINO ROMANCE - 4 NIGHTS / 5 DAYS
MANILA – ARRIVAL
We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Manila, one of the oldest cities in Asia and capital of Philippines. With contradictions and surprises around every corner, the city packs in a lot of excitement to see, do, taste and experience.In the evening, enjoy an authentic Filipino seafood dinner at the popular Zamboanga Restaurant peppered with a colourful cultural dance show.
MANILA – TAGAYTAY
Immerse yourself into Philippines history at the Rizal Park named after Dr. Jose Rizal, Philippine’s national hero. Go on a tour of American War Memorial, Cultural Center of Philippines and then proceed to Intramuros also known as the “Walled City” that was considered as ‘Manila’ itself during the Spanish colonial period. Post this exciting tour, drive through the cobbled streets and visit San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago and immerse yourself more into Philippine’s amazing history.
After lunch, we’ll take you on a scenic 55 km drive to Tagaytay City which sits on the Tagaytay Ridge, 2,100 feet above sea level. The ridge provides a spectacular view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, whose crater houses another volcano known as “lake within a volcano”. Enjoy one of the most picturesque and attractive views in the Philippines.
MANILA – CEBU
Fly to Cebu, “the Queen of the South” and the oldest city established by the Spanish during colonial times. Visit Fort San Pedro, the oldest triangular fortress in the country that served as the nucleus for the first Spanish settlement. Proceed to ‘Magellan’s Cross’ that Ferdinand Magellan ordered Portuguese and Spanish explorers to erect, marking the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines. Marvel at the Spanish colonial houses including Basilicia ‘Minore Del Santo Nino’, which houses the oldest religious relic in the Philippines and the ‘Gorordo Museum’, once used to be the residential home of Cebu’s wealthiest families. Next stop will then take you to the impressive ‘Taoist Temple’, located at Beverly Hills overlooking the city of Cebu and Mactan Island.
CEBU – FREE FOR OPTIONAL TOURS
Spend your day with exciting activities and explore the place on your own or try some optional tours or just simply relax and enjoy your hotel’s facilities.
CEBU – DEPARTURE
A day for leisure to do some last minute shopping before we take to you to the airport for your flight home.