Bohol rewards an early start. This 8-hour countryside tour packs the island’s best-known sights into one well-planned day, from the Chocolate Hills and Baclayon Church to a quiet Loboc River cruise with lunch. I like the small-group limit of 10, and I like that hotel pickup, transport, admission fees, a guide, and lunch are all … Read more
Taal Volcano is best seen from the water. This roughly seven-hour outing gives you two very different views of the volcano: first from the Tagaytay ridge, then from a government-regulated boat on Taal Lake. I like the door-to-door transport, which removes the stress of Manila traffic, and I like the chance to see fishing nets, … Read more
Cebu’s past fits into one busy day. This seven-hour private tour links Cebu City’s Spanish-era landmarks, family history, hilltop views, a local lunch, and Mactan Island’s best-known sights without making you arrange the transport yourself. I especially like the mix of major sites and smaller stops, including the Yap Ancestral House and a traditional guitar … Read more
Two Palawan icons fit into one long day. I like the Underground River cruise for its unusual cave formations and protected setting, and I like having Ugong Rock’s climb and zipline added without arranging a second excursion. The main drawback is the long road journey, plus some uneven organization caused by government-controlled Underground River scheduling. … Read more
Three islands, one easy-going day. This Siargao boat trip gives you a simple way to reach Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands, with swimming, beach time, lunch, and photo stops built in. I like the reserved cottage and boodle fight lunch on Daku Island, and I also like that boat transport, tourism fees, water, soda, and … Read more
Sun, sea, and a plate of Filipino food make a fine Palawan day. This Honda Bay tour combines small-group boat travel with swimming, snorkeling, and unhurried time on Lu-Li and Cowrie islands. I like the included lunch and the chance to avoid arranging your own boat, especially if you want a simple day outside Puerto … Read more
The sea is Cebu’s best sightseeing route. This full-day Mactan trip combines colorful fish at Hilutungan, clear water around Nalusuan, and white sand at Caohagan. I like the private round-trip boat and the fact that pickup, entrance fees, equipment, and an all-you-can-eat lunch are included. I also like the mix of active snorkeling and easy … Read more
Manila tastes better after dark. This two-hour food walk links Tutuban Night Market and Divisoria with Binondo Chinatown, then finishes beside the Pasig River. I like the mix of quick Filipino bites and ordinary city life, and I especially like that guides Floyd and Venus help you order and move through the busy streets. The … Read more
Silver fish, clear water, and one short swim from shore. The Moalboal Sardines Run puts you beside huge, shifting schools of sardines only about 30 meters from Panagsama Beach. I like the easy access and the fact that snorkeling gear, fins, a local guide, and fees are included. I also like the private-group format, which … Read more
Dolphins start the day. This five-hour Panglao boat trip pairs early morning dolphin watching with snorkeling at Balicasag Island, where you may see coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles. I like the low $34 price and the small shared boat limited to 10 people. The main concern is crowding, especially around the dolphins and turtle … Read more
