Where to Start? Lovely Luzon – Manila and much more!

 A trip to the Philippines starts in Manila, capital and largest city, your gateway to the country. One of the “original 3Ms” which included Madrid, Mexico City and Manila, this was the world’s first connected trade route set up by the Spanish in the 17th century. Spend two days taking in its stately colonial heritage in historic Intramuros, exploring its market madness, and enjoying some of Asia’s most eclectic food traditions (try sisig, a favourite local snack).

Then head out to experience Luzon, an island of tremendous diversity – here are three recommendations that highlight the best of the region.

*Bataan: One hour by ferry to the west of Manila or a 3-hour drive, Bataan is a mix of World War II history and the finest Spanish colonial architecture close to Manila. Escape the city and step into history in Bataan.

*Banaue: Located 260 kilometres (162 miles/5 hour drive) north of Manila, the region of Banaue is home to a series of 5 towering rice terrace systems over 2,000 years old. These are the first natural wonders invested as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1995).

*Puerto Galera: Not part of Luzon but close enough, this idyllic district in the neighbouring province of Oriental Mindoro is the best beach getaway close to Manila. Fine sand beaches, deep blue waters and outstanding snorkeling and diving make this a must visit.

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Next Stop … Cebu and Bohol – Chocolate Hills, Canyoneering and Swimming with Whale Sharks

 Depart Manila and fly 90 minutes south to the Central Visayas region of the Philippine archipelago to visit the island provinces of Cebu and Bohol. Cebu is the centre for active tourism while Bohol is an island of natural wonders – together they are the dynamic duo of the Philippines.

Great resort properties provide fun in the sun but spend another day or two and discover the active side of the island. Discover Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls – this interactive experience includes walking, jumping, swimming, climbing and abseiling through mountain streams and jungle canyons. Or take a day trip to Oslob in the far south of Cebu to swim with Whale Sharks which many say is the best on earth.

Then experience Bohol, next to Cebu but a world apart. Visitors can experience Bohol as a day trip from Cebu or stay for a few days. The island features magnificent landscapes, unusual wildlife, coral reefs and stunning marine life. Here are two “must” visits that should not be missed:

*The Chocolate Hills – Nature’s Hershey Kisses: Bohol’s most popular destination, the striking Chocolate Hills are comprised of 1,000 limestone hill mounds that resemble the popular Hershey’s chocolate candy. During the dry season the hills lose their vegetation and turn a chocolate brown colour.

*Alone on Alona Beach: Called Bohol’s most beautiful beach – sugar white sand, crystal-clear water and no crowds – take a day and get away to Alona Beach.

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Paradise Found on Palawan – Sun, Sand and Sea

 Forests of a deep tropical green and waters of robin’s egg blue – these are the colours of paradise found on the island of Palawan. Comprised of the main island of Palawan and 1,780 smaller islands, a visit offers the traveler private beach hideaways, colourful coral reefs and the clearest ocean waters found anywhere in Asia. If you want to experience Palawan at is best, these will pass the test:

*El Nido: Conde Nast Travel Magazine ranks the beaches of El Nido the 4th best on earth, while CNN’s travel report praised, “its extraordinary natural splendor and ecosystem”. Swim, snorkel, dive, walk the beach, trek in the jungle – it is all here in the paradise that is El Nido.

*Coron and the Calimian Islands: Visitors travel to Coron to marvel at its undersea wonders. Coral reefs painted in a rainbow of colours, school upon school of tropical fish and sugar white beaches to idle the time away on.

*Pamalican Island: The Amanpulo - We would be remiss to resist the stunning beauty of the Amanpulo on Pamalican Island (part of Palawan), the most beautiful of all the Asian Aman Resort properties. Aside from its stylish décor and striking situation, the resort is all about the service, the experience and the hospitality.

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Before You Go – Remember this about the Philippines

1.  Best Time to Visit: November through April – throughout the islands.
2. Weather Wise: Think Costa Rica – tropical all year round with temperatures from 25 C – 31 C (77 F – 86 F).
3. Language: Tagalog is the official national language but English is the unofficial second language spoken by most people.
4. Fun Fact 1: The Philippines is home to the world’s longest underground river, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River at 10 kilometres (6.2 miles)
5. Fun Fact 2: Christmas is the longest celebration in the Philippines – preparations begin in September and end on Christmas Day
6. Fun Fact 3: 3 of the world’s 10 biggest shopping malls are in Manila as the Filipinos LOVE to shop!
7. Final Fact: Forbes Magazine & the Asia Society ranked the Philippines as the friendliest nation in all of Asia.

MARAMING SALAMAT!

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