Destinations

With its 7,641 islands, the Philippines offers a multitude of captivating destinations, among which Iloilo and Guimaras stand out for their charm. These two gems in the Western Visayas region are perfect for travelers seeking culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a lover of pristine beaches or passionate about historical heritage, Iloilo and Guimaras promise a memorable experience. Iloilo City, often called the “City of Love,” is renowned for its hospitality and warm atmosphere. Located on the island of Panay, this city blends the old and the new, giving visitors a glimpse into the rich history and contemporary development of the Philippines. Iloilo’s history is deeply rooted in its colonial architecture and historic churches. Molo Church, also known as Santa Ana Church, is a prime example of Gothic architecture and is often referred to as the “women’s church” due to the many statues of female saints that adorn its interior. Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another architectural marvel with its intricate carvings and robust structure dating back to the 18th century. For those interested in local culture, a visit to the Museo de Iloilo is a must. This museum houses valuable artifacts and exhibits that trace the history and heritage of the region. Iloilo is also a culinary destination. Food enthusiasts will appreciate Batchoy, a rich and flavorful noodle soup originating from La Paz, a district in Iloilo. The city is dotted with restaurants and night markets where you can savor local delicacies in a friendly atmosphere. Just a short ferry ride from Iloilo, Guimaras Island is a tropical paradise known primarily for its sweet, juicy mangoes, reputed to be the best in the world. Guimaras offers a variety of beaches and natural landscapes to explore. Alubihod Beach is one of the most popular, with its clear waters and fine sand, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. For adventure seekers, exploring nearby islets like Ave Maria Islet or Nagarao Island promises interesting discoveries and moments of relaxation. Beyond the beaches, Guimaras also boasts intriguing tourist sites such as the Guisi Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses on the island, offering a panoramic view of the sea. Visitors can also explore the Guimaras Mango Plantation, a vast orchard where you can taste different varieties of mangoes straight from the source. The Manggahan Festival, an annual event celebrated in May honoring the abundance of mangoes on the island, is well-known in the region. This colorful and lively event includes parades, contests, food fairs, and cultural activities, offering visitors an immersive experience in local culture. Whether it’s the rich history of Iloilo or the paradisiacal beaches of Guimaras, these two destinations offer a perfect contrast between culture and nature. By visiting these places, travelers will discover not only the beauty of the Philippines but also the hospitality of its people. For anyone looking to experience an adventure in the Philippines, these are must-visit destinations.

Nestled in the remote mountains of the Cordillera region of the Philippines are the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, a masterpiece of ancestral engineering and symbiosis between man and nature. These hand-carved terraces in the mountainsides represent much more than just an agricultural landscape; they embody the ingenious spirit and profound cultural heritage of the indigenous Ifugao people who created them millennia ago. The Rice Terraces of Banaue are often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, and once you’ve contemplated them, it’s easy to see why. These vast expanses of hand-carved rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a breathtaking spectacle of lush greenery and natural geometry. What makes these terraces all the more impressive is that they have been shaped entirely by hand, without the aid of modern machinery, for centuries. The history of Banaue’s Rice Terraces dates back over 2,000 years, when Ifugao ancestors began shaping these terraces in response to the challenges posed by steep mountain slopes. Using ingenious construction techniques handed down from generation to generation, they transformed the steep slopes into vast agricultural plateaus capable of supporting an abundance of crops, including rice, the staple food of the Philippines. But beyond their vital agricultural function, the Banaue Rice Terraces are also a symbol of the deep relationship between the indigenous Ifugao peoples and their environment. The terraces are considered a sacred heritage, and every stage of their construction and maintenance is imbued with traditional rituals and beliefs. They are living testimony to the ecological wisdom and perseverance of the communities that inhabit them. Despite their cultural and ecological importance, the Banaue Rice Terraces face increasing challenges, including a declining farming population and erosion due to climate change. Yet these natural wonders continue to stand the test of time, reminding the world of the importance of preserving and protecting our planet’s cultural and natural treasures. The Rice Terraces of Banaue are much more than just a landscape; they are living monuments to human creativity and the harmonious relationship between man and nature. Their timeless beauty and cultural heritage make them one of the Philippines’ most fascinating and inspiring destinations, and they deserve to be celebrated and preserved for future generations.

Intramuros is a district located in the city of Manila, a historic enclave that bears witness to centuries of Philippine history.  But what is special about it? First of all, it is the oldest district in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It dates back to the Spanish colonial period. At that time Intramuros represented the city of Manila itself, its cobblestone streets and imposing buildings protected by massive walls. Intramuros means “within the walls,” a rather apt name for a walled city as it was. So it was the Spanish who built this district and built schools, churches, roads, and forts there.  This historic district is brimming with emblematic monuments, living witnesses to a tumultuous past. Today, the Intramuros district boasts such famous monuments as the Basilica-Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Manila, a true icon of the Catholic faith in the Philippines. The Church of San Augustin is another architectural gem that has withstood the ravages of time and conflict. Fort Santiago, meanwhile, embodies both the grandeur and the tragedies of Philippine history. The Governor’s Palace, originally located in Intramuros, was the official residence of the Spanish viceroys of the Philippines. Today, the official residence of Philippine presidents is the Malacañan Palace. Manila’s Basilica-Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is the 8th reincarnation of Manila’s first cathedral. The first was built in 1581 from bamboo and palm leaves. The cathedral was destroyed several times and rebuilt each time, due to typhoons, earthquakes, a major fire and wartime bombings. The current version was rebuilt in 1950 and elevated to the rank of Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1981. The church of San Augustin was built in the 1590s, when the Spanish established Catholicism in the Philippines. Many churches and monasteries were built in Intramuros. However, the church of San Augustin was the only survivor of the bombing raids during the Battle of Manila at the end of the Second World War. This makes it a symbol of resilience and perseverance for the Filipino people. Then there’s Fort Santiago. It was here that national hero José Rizal was imprisoned and spent his final hours before execution. This marked a decisive turning point in the country’s struggle for independence. Yet despite its robustness and historical importance, Intramuros was not spared the ravages of war. During the Second World War, Intramuros suffered numerous American, Japanese and Filipino bombing raids that damaged the district and its monuments. Around 1945, it got worse when Japanese soldiers invaded Intramuros, destroying the original buildings and monuments and killing many Filipino civilians within the walls of Intramuros. Today, despite these ordeals, Intramuros remains a living testimony to Philippine history, a place where grandeur and tragedy, resilience and collective memory mingle. Every cobbled street, every wall, every monument tells a story, reminding future generations of the importance of preserving and protecting their cultural heritage.

The capital of Palawan, Puerto Princesa, has around 260, 000 inhabitants and is home to natural wonders including the famous Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that occupies a place in the New 7 wonders of Nature. It is also a gateway to famous paradise destinations in Palawan like El Nido and San Vicente(Port Barton), as it has its own international airport. But there is more to Puerto Princesa than just being a departure point and a gateway to the famous underground river. Puerto Princesa, also known as ‘The City in a Forest’, offers various little-known but nevertheless must-see tourist sites that deserve more than a day of exploration.  There are various options to choose from including sites, natural parks, outdoor adventure spots, and shopping centers. There are also several islands and beach destinations for memorable adventures where you can enjoy the freshest seafood.  One of the most recommended activities in Puerto Princesa is visiting Honda Bay for an island-hopping excursion. To do this, you board a traditional outrigger boat (known as a ‘banca’) from the sta. Lourdes wharf. It takes between 30 minutes to an hour to reach Honda Bay and explore islands like Cowrie, Starfish, Luli, Pandan, Inaladelan, and more.  Most hotels and restaurants are located in the city center, close to Rizal Avenue, where you can find shopping centers such as SM City Puerto Princesa and Robinsons Place Mall Palawan.  Nightlife is also booming in the city, with bars and clubs located in the city center. This is where you’ll find popular spots such as Baker’s Hills, Mitra’s Ranch, Butterfly Garden Baywalk, Plaza Cuartel (where American POWs were killed by Japanese invaders during World War II, sparking the efforts that led to the Great Raid of Cabanatuan), and the Puerto Princesa International Airport.  If you’re looking for something more urban. There’s Palaweño Brewery that allows you to sample some of its delicious beers. This microbrewery is the only brewery managed by women in the country! There, you can enjoy unique drinks tailored to suit all tastes.  To the Northwest of the city, you can take boat rides to Sabang Beach where most of Puerto Princesa’s natural wonders are located, the most important being the underground river. This is also where you’ll find Sabang Falls, Sabang beach, Sabang X zipline, Sabang jungle trail, numerous caves, Buenavista viewpoint, Isla Felomina, and Ulugan Bay. There are also various accommodation options in the surrounding area.  The Underground River of Puerto Princesa is the site that truly put the city on the world’s radar. The number of daily visitors allowed to access the site is limited, so you cannot enter at will.  Tour operators have VIP access, so even those who prefer to travel independently would benefit from joining an organized tour of Puerto Princesa’s Underground River. The best tour includes everything from audio guides and buffet meals to land and boat transfers. The Iwahig River is known for its penal colony. However, it is also home to another entirely different population. Visit just before nightfall, and you will see the dazzling light of hundreds of fireflies, floating all around you in a captivating display. It is both romantic, awe-spiring , and surreal, just like something out of a movie, with the calm river flowing slowly around you. Just make sure to turn off your flash when taking photos, or you will scare the insects away.  To the Northeast of the city, you will find the Batak Cultural Village (a local tribe), the majestic Olangoan and Arutayan Falls, Cleopatra’s Needle. Olongoan Falls are just a half-hour walk from the main road. This hidden gem in Barangay Binduyan is one of the city’s beautiful waterfalls. The journey to get there is quick, and once you arrive, you can dive into these superb turquoise waters.  For food enthusiasts, you should know that Palawan, in general, has a unique local  cuisine. Various establishments in the city offer the opportunity to try crocodile sisig, made with crocodile meat, onion, and peppers – a must try dish. You should also taste tamilok, a dish where harvester wood worms are treated as raw seafood and cooked in vinegar. The Kalui restaurant is worth a visit; it is certainly one  of the best restaurants in the country, offering a unique dining experience. You will need to remove your shoes upon entering, and you have the option to eat with your bare hands. Its rustic ambiance and beautiful interiors make the experience even more special! A special menu is offered daily, good for two people, and the vegetables of the day. Enjoy the complimentary salad served in a coconut bowl!

Baguio is a highly urbanized city located in the Administrative region of the Cordillera (CAR) and has about 350, 00 inhabitants. It has been nicknamed the summer capital of the Philippines due to its climate. At an altitude of around 11500 meters above sea level, this promotes the growth of mossy plants, orchids, and pine trees, justifying its other nickname ‘City of Pines’. When the United States occupied the Philippines after the Spanish-American War, Baguio was chosen to become the summer capital of the Philippines. Governor General William Taft, during his first visit in 1901, noted the cooler temperatures that prevailed there at the time, with air as invigorating as in some American regions. The mansion, built in 1908, served as the official residence of the American governor-general during the summer to escape the heat of Manila. The mansion was designed by the architect William E.  Parsons, based on preliminary plans of architect Daniel Burnham, one of the first modern urban planners who also designed the entire city layout in 1904. Subsequently, the city’s architecture developed by paying tribute to the personalities who left their mark on the city, including Wright Park (in honor of Governor General Edward Luke Wright), Burnham Park, Governor Pack Road and Session Road. The city was largely destroyed by intense boombings from the American air force during the Battle of Liberation in World War II. The Reconstruction took place afterwards. The contemporary architecture of Baguio still largely reflects American influence, as they established a station there. Among the most well-known buildings are Teacher’s Camp, Camp John Hay, former American facilities in the city, and the current Baguio City Hall. However, some buildings still show Spanish influence, such as the Porta Vaga shopping center and La Azotea. One of the most modern buildings in the city is SM City Baguio, established in 2003. Baguio is an excellent stop when traveling up into the Cordillera. While passing through the city, it’s interesting to stop by the Public Market. It is a rich and fascinating place. There you can find all the products of the Cordillera and all the small trades. For a long time, all the agricultural and artisanal products of the region have converged there. It’s a stunning and very colorful maze. At the exit of Baguio, just before taking the famous Halsema Road, a high-altitude road, we pass through Trinidad. A district that is worth a look, you should not hesitate to get out of the vehicle to take photos of this place that strangely reminds us of the Brazilian favelas. You can also take the opportunity to admire the constant stream of jeepneys passing by.

Vigan is the capital of Ilocos Sur, located on the west coast of the island of Luzon. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, it is a rare, nearly intact example of a Spanish colonial town in Asia. An entire district is closed to traffic, reserved for pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages. Its cobbled streets and architectural style blending European and Asian influences are worth a visit. Vigan has a population of approximately 55,000 inhabitants, and its name traces back to the conquistador Juan de Salcedo, who noted the abundant vegetation in the region. He had also asked the natives about the plants they grew and had received the answer “Biga’a” from which Vigan is derived. To be precise, originally its name was Villa Fernandina, in honor of the first child of King Philip II of Spain, Ferdinand. And as the city expanded, the Diocese of Nueva Segovia settled there and the name became Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan. The discovery of Vigan is done in the traditional way, in a horse-drawn carriage. During this walk, you will make several stops, including by: The Bantay church, A local pottery workshop, The church of San Vincente Ferrer, The National Museum of the Philippines in the Padre Burgos House. Take the time to walk through the quiet and typical streets of Vigan in the afternoon (and at night when they are deserted for the best photos). Don’t hesitate to stop at one of the cafes to try their chocolatey delights! The region also offers beautiful opportunities, especially when heading to Laoag where you can stop to visit Sitio Remedios in Currimao, the San Agustin Church, the sand dunes of Paoay, the Marcos Museum, and the Malacanang of the North. And if time permits, the Sta Monica Church in Sarrat, also in Ilocos Norte, is worth a visit. This magnificent heritage city is located on the west coast of the island of Luzon. Have you ever visited Vigan? If you haven’t explored this city yet, contact us to include it in your next trip!

The capital of the Philippines is very often the place where you set foot for the first time when you arrive in the archipelago. Manila’s NAIA airport is one of the country’s main airports and has a bad reputation due to its congestion and dilapidation. Not to mention the difficulties related to transfers between the 4 terminals. For the record, NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) was named in 1987 following the assassination of the leader of the opposition to Marcos, Benigno Aquino Junior, in 1983, as he got off his plane on his return from the United States. Today, a project for a new airport is underway, in Bulacan, which is more out of the way. A project that is part of the development of infrastructure in a country that is sorely lacking it. This is how the metro, road, motorway and rail network is being deployed. Manila, the capital of the Philippines, has about 1.8 million inhabitants on less than 40km², making it one of the most densely populated cities in the world. It is the second-largest city in the country by population. Naturally, it is part of the metropolitan region of Manila, Metro Manila, which includes 17 cities and has a population of around 20 million. This monster, therefore, seems scary, but by looking into it a bit and spending some time there, you grow fond of it, despite the traffic issues, as it’s one of, if not the most congested city in the world. It’s an opportunity to try jeepneys, the most common mode of transport in the Philippines, currently on the verge of disappearing. Historically, while the Spanish first landed in Cebu, Manila was chosen as the capital of the country due to its geographic location, being situated in a bay which greatly facilitated its protection. During World War II, it was the most heavily bombed city on the Pacific front. The most interesting places to visit include Intramuros, the fortified old Manila, where you can find San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in Manila, Casa Manila (a reconstructed colonial mansion), Fort Santiago, the city walls, and next to Intramuros, Rizal Park. Roxas Boulevard runs along Manila Bay and offers a beautiful view of Bataan, especially at sunset. Also worth visiting are Malacañang Palace (equivalent to the Élysée Palace), Quiapo, Chinatown, the Chinese cemetery with its particularly lush graves, and more. There are of course many other things to say about Manila… It could fill a book. After exploring the Intramuros neighborhood and its history during your stops in Manila, you can: Admire the wonderful firefly show in Puerto Princesa Take in the sights on a boat tour to discover the wonders of El Nido For more information, do not hesitate to contact us.