Philippines

Island Adventure: Remote beaches, turquoise lagoons, and jungle trails

Day 1—Arrival and Slow Start
Touch down in balmy El Nido: your driver will whisk you from the airport to Morgan Villas, atranquil beachfront retreat. For extra space and elevated comfort, opt for one of the specialty villas perched higher on the hill, offering panoramic views and, in some cases, private plunge pools. Refresh with a smoothie or cocktail at the laid-back hotel bar before taking a short stroll along thebay to explore luminous El Nido town. Wander through the local markets, stop by small cafés, andenjoy a vibrant Middle Eastern fusion meal at Happiness Beach Bar. After lunch, hop on a tuk-tuk and head to the powdery sands of Vanilla Beach for an afternoon ofswimming, sunbathing, and even zip-lining. Stay until sunset for mesmerizing colors and waterfront cocktails before heading back to town for dinner. If you’d like to explore further, book any island excursions or tours at least a day in advance toensure availability.

Day 2—Island Hopping
After waking to the sound of the sea outside your villa, enjoy breakfast on your balcony—freshtropical fruit, omelettes, or hearty Filipino dishes—before setting out on El Nido Tour A, the island’s most beloved day trip. Spend theday aboard a traditional boat, hopping between hidden beaches and lagoons framed bytowering limestone cliffs. For more freedom, book a private tour; for a social adventure, join a small group (ideally under 15 people). Lunch is served on board or on a secluded beach, featuring classic Filipino dishes—mostly fish and meat based—so be sure to mention any dietary needs inadvance. Bring cash to buy cold beers and freshly carved coconuts from locals who sail by selling refreshments throughout the day. Weather here changes quickly, but even in passing rain, the airand water remain warm and inviting.

Day 3—Freedom and Exploration
Start your morning with an organic breakfast at Luway Luwayin town—pastries, smoothie bowls, and excellent coffee made with local ingredients. Borrow a kayak from your hotel and paddle across the bay to Paradise Beach, a peaceful cove that often feels entirely your own. Ask the hotel to pack a picnic and snorkelsfor spotting colorful marine life. Don’t forget to grab one of the bright waterproof dry bags sold around town—they make perfect souvenirs. If you’d rather go farther, join El Nido Tour C for a new circuit of beaches and snorkeling spots. For dinner, stroll through town and stop at Oppa Kitchen for creative Korean-Filipino fusion—pokebowls, noodles, and burgers bursting with flavor.

Day 4—Inland Adventures
Palawan isn’t just about beaches. Head inland on an overland tour to explore another side of theisland: caves, mangroves, forest trails, and refreshing waterfall swims. You’ll travel by buggy orprivate driver, depending on your choice. Return to town for a massage at Serene Oriental Spa, followed by sunset cocktails and light bites at AP KALA Beach Bar. For dinner, enjoy a refined take on Filipino cuisine at Jinjer, where creative dishes meet a breezy beachside setting. 

A Relaxing Locals’ Getaway: Volcanic landscapes, gardens, and coconut plantations

Day 1—Arrival in Tagaytay
Tagaytay feels like a pause betweensea and city, where time slows among gardens and misty hills.
Check-in at Anya Resort Tagaytay and enjoy a welcome drink before spending the afternoon by settling in beside the pool or wandering the lush hotel gardens. In the evening, head to the terrace of Taal Vista Hotel for fireside cocktails overlooking the Taal Volcano—an island within a lake, within an island. For dinner, choose Balay Dako for elevated Filipino classics, Antonio’s for a refined European-style meal, or Samira at your hotel for a tasting menu rooted in local flavors.

Day 2—Volcano and Gardens
Set out for a half-day trip to Taal Volcano Crater. Cross the lake by boat, hike up the rim, and take in the breathtaking view of this unique geological wonder. Afterwards, enjoy a fresh, organic lunchat Sonya’s Secret Garden, surrounded by flowers and greenery. Stroll the gardens and unwind with tea before returning to your resort. In the afternoon, cool off in the pool or book a treatment at Niyama Wellness Center. End the day with Mediterranean-inspired dining at Marcia Adams, where aged terraces and blooming vines create a timeless atmosphere.

Day 3—Cultural Stop in San Pablo City
On your way back to Manila, stop at Villa Escudero, a historic coconut plantation blending colonial charm and Filipino culture. Tour the grounds, visit the on-site museums, and experience a cultural performance before enjoying a unique lunch by a stream—your feet gently dipped in cool running water.

Layering the Old and the New: Where East meets West.

Vibrant and layered, Manila is a meeting point of worlds, where tradition meets modern rhythm, including a lively indie music and artistic scene. After breakfast, explore Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, filled with vibrant markets, street food, and colorful history. Then, head to Intramuros, Manila’s walled city from the Spanish colonial era, where you can visit the ornate Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago—a perfect walk or carriage ride at sunset. Return to Makati for dinner and cocktails. The area brims with international dining—Spanish, Thai, Japanese, Italian—and refined spots like The Curator, a hidden speakeasy bar serving exquisite coffee by day and cocktails by night.
Stay in Makati for the best balance of calm and comfort. Our recommended hotels include The Peninsula Manila, Raffles, and Discovery Primea, all offering 5-star service and refined elegance.

Once back home, you’ll find that Philippines is a place that stays with you—in the rhythm of thetides, in the scent of vanilla and sea breeze, in the quiet warmth of its people, in the surprisingly cool, multifaceted soul of Manila. You’ll leave with memories of lagoons and gardens, volcanoes and skylines, concerts and endless nights-carrying the lightness of its islands wherever you go.