Picturesque Philippines

The Philippines is your ultimate destination for a great vacation. An archipelago of 7,107 islands, it is located between the Philippine Sea in the east, the South China Sea in the west and the Celebes Sea in the south. It lies in the region called the Ring of Fire, characterized by a number of active volcanoes, including the Taal in the middle of Taal Lake, the Mayon in Legaspi City and the dormant Mount Apo in Davao.

Boracay, a butterfly-shaped island at the tip of Panay’s north-eastern coast, is home to White Beach - a 4-km strip of beautiful white sand rated as ‘the finest beach in the world’. On this beautiful island, you could pamper yourself with a luxurious massage at the spa or on the beach, or opt for spa therapy and yoga lessons at Mandala Spa and Villas, located just 5 minutes from the beach. Experience the thrill of the Banana Boat ride, explore the boutique shops around the island, check out the exciting nightlife or simply relax amidst the tropical atmosphere of sun, sea and sand.

Cebu is another fabulous island that boasts of rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges. Experience Mactan, a coral island in the heart of Cebu, home to the most pulsating nightlife in Asia. Easily accessible is Bohol, a unique island blessed with marvellous white beaches, colourful underwater marine life, dense forests, rich wildlife and a fascinating touch of Spanish influence. Visit a manmade mahogany forest and be introduced to the Tarsier – the world’s smallest monkey. Another must-see in Bohol is the famous Chocolate Hills - a collection of over 1,250 uniformly shaped hills between 30 and 50 meters high.

El Nido in the province of Palawan, the island of the Gods, is home to hidden lagoons, a palm forest, orchids and secluded, incredibly romantic resorts. A luxury kayaking safari is the best way to explore the El Nido and Bacuit Bay area. It is one of the most beautiful parts of Asia, where sheer karst rock formations drop down into the deep blue surrounding waters. Stunning white beaches and coves compete with mangroves, jungle, spectacular reefs and corals for attention. Spend your days kayaking, snorkelling, photographing and experiencing the amazing bio-diversity, including rare and unusual marine life, flora and flora.

Another must-see destination is Caluit Island, where you could explore numerous species of exotic African and Palawan endemic flora and fauna at the Games Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary. Coron Island with its pristine Banol Beach and picturesque Cayangan Lake is truly inviting. Sink your feet into the powdered sugar-like sand. Take a dip in the invigorating Maquinit Hot Springs. Another amazing experience is the Tubbataha Reef, home to one of the best corals in the world. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and diving or snorkelling amidst the colourful corals reefs is a truly breathtaking experience.

The gateway to the Philippines is through Manila, the capital city with a Spanish body but a truly Philippino heart. Check out the old part of the city; take in the picturesque city of Tagaytay and the magnificent Taal Lake with its active island volcano. Shop to your heart’s content...from bargain basement finds to haute couture, Metro Manila is undisputedly a shoppers’ paradise. The shopping malls are one-stop centres where you can shop, dine and check out the recreation facilities. Native arts and crafts are among the best buys, and ready-to-wear clothes, embroidered apparel, women’s accessories, household furnishings and uniquely Filipino souvenirs are tempting.

Be it beaches, wildlife, marine life, shopping, dining or nightlife, the Philippines has it all. Come and experience the islands - a dozen holidays rolled into one.

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