Philippines Winter Escape

Head to your nearest international airport and board your overnight flight for the Philippines.

Once you land in Manila, transfer to your flight to Cauayan where you will be met and taken by private vehicle to Banaue, stopping for lunch en route. Pass through Kiangan village on the banks of the Ibulao River, said to be home of Ifugao ancestors. Upon entering Banaue, visit Barangay Viewpoint to see the UNESCO-listed rice terraces built ingeniously by Ifugao engineers. These terraces span the base to the peaks of the rugged mountains. Dinner and overnight at the Banaue Hotel to rest up for your rice terrace adventures.

Wake early and take a 45-minute mountain jeepney ride to Bangaan Village. Trek downhill through the terraces to see how the villagers do their work and examine the rice paddy structure. Return to Banaue for breakfast then depart, passing Mt. Polis. Stop in Bontoc to visit a museum of Igorot artifacts and headhunting history. Stroll through the market before continuing to Sagada. Admire the hanging coffins and limestone caves, and hike through pine forests. Depart for Bauko, overlooking Mt. Data. Spend the night at the mountain lodge, Masfere Inn, after a day immersed in Cordillera history and nature.

Today you will depart early for Mt. Timbak, the third-highest mountain in Luzon. Embark on a 1.5-hour trek to the summit to take in panoramic views of terraced vegetables and villages. If the caretaker is around you will get the opportunity to visit the cave to see ancient mummies. Trek back down and continue to Baguio City. Enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant before a brief tour of the city. See key sites like Burnham Park and Mines View Park. Overnight in Baguio at El Cielito Inn to rest up before continuing your Cordillera adventure.

Make an early start and transfer to Baguio Loakan Airport for your flight to Cebu. Upon arrival in Cebu, transfer to Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort & Spa in Mactan, where you will stay for one night. The evening is at your leisure.

After breakfast, you will spend the day exploring historic Cebu City, the oldest city in the Philippines founded in 1565. Visit the majestic Taoist Temple and grand Basilica de San Agustin. See Magellan's Cross, symbolizing the spread of Christianity. Tour Fort San Pedro, the country's first military stronghold. Walk through Carbon Market and the historic Parian district. Visit Casa Gorordo, a restored 19th-century home filled with antiques. After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the pier to ferry to Tagbilaran, Bohol. Transfer to your Bohol resort, the Bohol Beach Club, where you will stay for the next three nights.

After breakfast, depart for a full day exploring Bohol's wonders. Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary to observe the world’s smallest primate. Stop at the Blood Compact site commemorating the friendship between Spain and the Datu. Tour the centuries-old Baclayon Church and museum. Pass through the towering mahogany Bilar Forest en route to the Chocolate Hills, aptly named for their color. Hike to the viewpoint for stunning vistas then cruise down Loboc River on a floating restaurant, enjoying lunch onboard. Return to your resort after a day immersed in Bohol’s natural beauty and heritage sites.

Today is yours to explore Bohol and its surrounds at your leisure, or just relax in the resort.

After breakfast, it's time to check out and transfer to the airport for your flight to El Nido, Palawan. Transfer to your resort at El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island, where you will stay for the next three nights.

Start with an early breakfast to catch the sunrise over stunning Bacuit Bay. Visit the breathtaking Small or Big Lagoons, swimming and kayaking in their crystal clear waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. Cruise across the bay to explore another idyllic island, soaking up the natural beauty. Relax on the beach before another day of adventures in paradise.

Spend the day at leisure enjoying your El Nido resort or embark on more island hopping in stunning Bacuit Bay. Opt to revisit the dramatic Small or Big Lagoons, swimming in their pristine waters surrounded by limestone cliffs. Cruise to another island paradise for more beach time, snorkeling, or kayaking. Appreciate the natural beauty of the bay's iconic scenery from a new perspective. Return to your resort to relax on the beach and watch the sunset. With free time in El Nido, soak up the island vibes however you please before departure the next day.

After breakfast, it's time to check out and bid farewell to El Nido. Transfer to the El Nido airport for your flight to Boracay Island. Upon arrival transfer to the Coast Boracay Resort, where you will stay for the next three nights.

The next two days are at your leisure to do as you please around Boracay. Laze on White Beach and enjoy the soft sand, warm waves, and stunning sunsets. Get adventurous with water activities like parasailing, kayaking, or island hopping. Explore beaches beyond White such as peaceful Diniwid Beach. Sample delicious seafood like grilled scallops and shrimp. Visit Mount Luho for panoramic views of the island. Experience Boracay nightlife with live music and fire dancers on the beach. Get a relaxing beach massage. Wander through D'Mall's shops and eateries. With two free days, immerse yourself in Boracay's natural beauty, activities, cuisine, and culture.

After breakfast, its time once again to check out of the resort and head to Caticlan Airport for your onward flight to Cebu or Manila. From there board your international departure to your home destination.

Land back in your home country, refreshed from your escape to the Philippines, ready to start planning your next getaway!