Manila

Your Philippine journey begins in the capital city of Manila. After arriving at the airport, you’ll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day settling in or heading out to explore at your own pace. Manila is a lively city made up of several districts, each offering something different. You’ll find colonial architecture, buzzing street food stalls, shopping malls, and museums. It’s a great place to experience the energy of the Philippines and get a feel for the culture before heading off to the quieter parts of the country.

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Fairmont Makati

WHY WE LOVE THIS HOTEL

Fairmont Makati, nestled in the heart of Manila's prestigious business and shopping district, stands as a modern testament to luxury and sophistication. The architecture of this five-star hotel combines contemporary design with tropical elegance, showcasing a stunning façade of glass and steel that mirrors the dynamic skyline of the city. The interior continues this theme of modernity, featuring a spacious, airy lobby with high ceilings and artistic installations that reflect Filipino culture.

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Manila

Explore Intramuros, the oldest part of Manila, built by the Spanish in the 16th century. This walled city has been beautifully preserved and is full of history. You’ll visit churches, courtyards, and cobbled streets lined with stone buildings that tell stories from the colonial period. Learn how the Spanish shaped the culture, religion, and architecture of the Philippines. Walk at a relaxed pace, stopping for photos or a coffee in one of the heritage cafés. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to shop, explore nearby museums, or unwind at your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Manila

Kalibo

After breakfast, take a short flight to Kalibo, a coastal town known for its crafts and culture. On arrival, you’ll check in and start exploring local life. One of Kalibo’s oldest traditions is pina-weaving—making fabric from pineapple fibres. Visit workshops where artisans still use handlooms to create this unique cloth, known for its beauty and durability. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy fresh seafood and local specialities, as Kalibo is home to many small restaurants and food markets. The town’s relaxed pace offers a nice change after the busy streets of Manila.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kalibo

Today, you may witness one of the Philippines' most exciting cultural events—the Ati-Atihan Festival. Held every January, this colourful street celebration features locals in painted faces and vibrant costumes dancing to drums and chants. It’s known as the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals” and honours Santo Niño, the child Jesus. Even if you’re not visiting during festival week, you’ll still sense the local pride in this event. Visit cultural centres and markets to see how locals prepare for the big day, and soak in the atmosphere of this town full of rhythm, colour, and community spirit.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kalibo

Continue experiencing Kalibo’s cultural energy during Aklan Day, if your visit aligns with the local calendar. The streets come alive with food stalls, music, and parades. This day celebrates the province’s foundation and often includes grand processions and religious activities. Taste local dishes like chicken inasal and seafood cooked with coconut milk, or simply explore the festive streets full of music and smiling faces. If you’re visiting outside festival dates, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside or visit mangrove parks and eco-tourism sites nearby. Kalibo blends tradition and nature, offering something unique year-round.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Iloilo

After breakfast, journey to Iloilo, a city known for its elegant Spanish-style buildings, wide boulevards, and colonial-era churches. Visit the impressive Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique Baroque architecture. Continue exploring sites such as Molo Church and the old provincial Capitol Building. The city’s heritage homes and plazas reflect Iloilo’s historical role as a trade and religious centre. In the afternoon, enjoy a stroll along the river promenade or explore the local markets selling crafts and regional delicacies. Iloilo is calm and welcoming, offering a graceful look at the Philippines’ colonial past.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Iloilo

Take a day trip to the nearby island of Guimaras, famous for producing the sweetest mangoes in the Philippines. Travel by boat to reach this peaceful island, where you’ll visit a Trappist monastery where monks make fruit jams, pastries, and craft beers. Walk through mango orchards and enjoy tropical fruits fresh from the farm. Stop at the Guisi Lighthouse for beautiful views of the coast and learn about the island’s maritime history. There’s also time to relax on one of Guimaras’ quiet beaches or take a short forest walk before heading back to Iloilo in the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bacolod

This morning, take a ferry across the sea to Bacolod, known as the “City of Smiles” and the heart of the sugar industry in Negros, located on Negros Island. After checking in, begin exploring this friendly city. Walk around the Capitol Park and Lagoon, visit San Sebastian Cathedral, and see The Pope John Paul II Tower, which offers panoramic views. Later, head to the nearby city of Silay, often called the “Paris of Negros,” where you'’ll find beautiful heritage houses and charming streets. Negros Oriental, the neighbouring province, is home to Dumaguete and the historic Silliman University, the oldest American university in Asia. Return to Bacolod in the evening and perhaps enjoy dinner at one of the city'’s well-loved cafés.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bacolod

Spend the day learning about the sugar industry that helped shape Bacolod and its people. Visit a working sugarcane plantation and see how sugar is grown and processed. Meet locals who have worked in the industry for generations and hear their stories. Try freshly made sugar-based treats, such as piaya and napoleones, and learn how important sugar is to both the economy and the local identity. There may also be time to stop by the Negros Museum, which provides a deeper look into the history, culture, and industry of the region. Return to your hotel in the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bulata

Today, take a scenic drive south along the coast to the quiet town of Bulata. Located in Negros Occidental, Bulata is known for its soft white sand beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Check into your beach resort and spend the rest of the day relaxing. Go for a swim in the clear waters, lie under the palm trees with a book, or simply enjoy the views of the sea. This slower pace offers a perfect opportunity to rest after the cultural highlights of the previous days. Dinner can be enjoyed at your resort, with fresh seafood on the menu.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bulata

Take a boat to Danjugan Island, a protected marine sanctuary known for its incredible biodiversity. Spend the day snorkelling over coral reefs, spotting tropical fish and colourful sea life. On land, go for a short hike through the forest to see rare birds and butterflies. Danjugan is run by a local conservation group, so your visit supports sustainable tourism. You’ll learn about the island’s marine ecosystems and conservation efforts. After a full day of nature and adventure, return to Bulata and spend your final evening enjoying a quiet beachfront sunset.

Meals Included: Breakfast

MANILA - DEPARTURE

After breakfast, travel back to Bacolod for your flight to Manila. Once you arrive, connect to your international flight or spend a final few hours reflecting on your trip. From the history of Manila and Iloilo to the lively festivals of Kalibo, the food of Bacolod, and the beauty of Danjugan, this journey offers a well-rounded view of the Philippines. Take home memories of warm hospitality, colourful traditions, and unspoiled coastlines—leaving you refreshed, inspired, and perhaps planning your return.

Meals Included: Breakfast