A 7-Day Adventure in the Philippines

Friday January 5: Arriving in Manila

Welcome to the bustling capital city of Manila! Start your trip by exploring the historic district of Intramuros in the morning. Wander through Spanish colonial architecture and visit landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church. In the afternoon, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Divisoria, one of the largest flea markets in Asia, for shopping bargains. As the evening sets in, head to Baywalk along Manila Bay to catch a beautiful sunset.

• Intramuros: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Divisoria: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Baywalk: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday January 6: Experiencing the Beauty of Palawan

Fly to the stunning island of Palawan in the morning and make your way to El Nido. Spend the morning exploring the towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters of the Small Lagoon. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to the Big Lagoon for snorkeling and swimming amidst picturesque landscapes. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the beach in the evening.

• Small Lagoon: Estimated Cost - Boat Tour: $20-30, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Big Lagoon: Estimated Cost - Boat Tour: $20-30, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Estimated Cost - $10-20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday January 7: Island Hopping in Coron

Take a flight to Coron and embark on an unforgettable island hopping adventure. Start your day by exploring the mesmerizing Kayangan Lake in the morning. After lunch, visit the enchanting Twin Lagoon with its stunning rock formations. End the day by snorkeling around the majestic Siete Pecados Marine Park to witness the vibrant marine life.

• Kayangan Lake: Estimated Cost - Boat Tour: $40-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Twin Lagoon: Estimated Cost - Boat Tour: $40-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Siete Pecados Marine Park: Estimated Cost - Boat Tour: $40-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Monday January 8: Discovering the Chocolate Hills in Bohol

Fly to the province of Bohol and prepare to be amazed by its unique landscapes. In the morning, witness the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation consisting of over 1,000 conical hills. After lunch, visit the adorable tarsiers at the Tarsier Conservation Area. End the day with a relaxing river cruise along the Loboc River while enjoying a delicious buffet dinner.

• Chocolate Hills: Estimated Cost - Entrance Fee: $2-4, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Tarsier Conservation Area: Estimated Cost - Entrance Fee: $2-4, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Loboc River Cruise: Estimated Cost - $15-20, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday January 9: Exploring Banaue Rice Terraces

Fly to Banaue and witness the captivating beauty of the Banaue Rice Terraces. Marvel at the stunning terraced landscapes carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people. In the afternoon, hike to the Tappiya Falls for a refreshing swim. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the indigenous people by enjoying a traditional dinner and cultural show in the evening.

• Banaue Rice Terraces: Estimated Cost - Entrance Fee: $5-10, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Tappiya Falls: Estimated Cost - Guide Fee: $5-10, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Traditional Dinner and Cultural Show: Estimated Cost - $20-30, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday January 10: Unwinding in Siargao

Fly to the tropical paradise of Siargao and embrace its laid-back island vibes. Start your day with a visit to Cloud 9, known for its world-class surfing waves. In the afternoon, explore the pristine beaches of Magpupungko Rock Pools and enjoy a relaxing swim. End the day by watching a mesmerizing sunset at Maasin Bridge.

• Cloud 9: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Magpupungko Rock Pools: Estimated Cost - Entrance Fee: $2-4, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Maasin Bridge: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday January 11: Last Day in Manila

Spend your final day in Manila exploring the vibrant district of Makati. Shop for souvenirs at Greenbelt Mall in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the Ayala Museum to delve into the country's rich history and art. End your trip with a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline.

• Greenbelt Mall: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ayala Museum: Estimated Cost - Entrance Fee: $5-10, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Rooftop Dinner: Estimated Cost - $20-30, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Discover the off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals in the Philippines. Make sure to explore the enchanting Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, go island hopping in the lesser-known islands of Romblon, and indulge in the delicious cuisines of Iloilo City's food markets.