From the rice terraces of northern Luzon to private islands and limestone lagoons, discover the Philippines at its most varied. View this email in your browser Call us: +1-212-518-1618

THE PHILIPPINES: FROM HIGHLANDS TO HIDDEN SHORES

Besides its warm and welcoming people, one of the Philippines’ greatest strengths is its variety. More than 7,000 islands encompass Spanish colonial cities, mist-shrouded mountains, Indigenous cultures, vibrant coral reefs, and some of Southeast Asia's finest resorts and beaches. A single journey can move from the historic streets of Manila to 2,000-year-old rice terraces, before opening onto limestone islands, hidden lagoons, and the clear waters of the archipelago. The favorable weather patterns also make this an ideal destination for those looking to plan a memorable Festive escape, even at the last minute.
 

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MANILA: LAYERS OF THE CAPITAL

Fort Santiago

Manila tells the tale of the nation vividly, from the imposing stone walls of Intramuros to the gleaming towers of Bonifacio Global City. Within the former lie centuries of colonial history, handsome churches, and landmarks including Fort Santiago, built by the Spanish in 1571. The latter offers a distinctly contemporary perspective, with Michelin-starred restaurants, lively bars, galleries, and public art reflecting the confidence of modern Manila. Raffles and Fairmont Makati are ideally placed for exploring the modern city, while nearby The Peninsula Manila continues to embody the timeless elegance that has made it one of Asia's great hotels. We are especially excited to welcome the opening of the Mandarin Oriental Manila later this year.

INTO THE CORDILLERA

Banaue Rice Terraces

Northern Luzon feels a world apart from Manila. Here, roads climb into the Cordillera Mountains, where the landscape has been shaped not by nature alone but by the hands of the Ifugao people. Their breathtaking rice terraces, carved into the mountainsides more than 2,000 years ago, remain among the Philippines' greatest achievements and one of Asia's most extraordinary cultural landscapes. The finest views await around Batad, where steep terraces rise in sweeping amphitheaters around a traditional village reached only on foot. Beyond Banaue, the mountain town of Sagada offers another fascinating glimpse into highland traditions through its famous hanging coffins, suspended from limestone cliffs according to ancient burial customs. Banaue Grandview Hotel provides a simple but welcoming base for exploring this remarkable corner of the country.

VIGAN: STREETS OF ANOTHER ERA

Vigan’s historic cobblestone streets From the mountains of northern Luzon, the charming town of Vigan offers another change of scene entirely. A UNESCO World Heritage city, its cobblestone streets are lined with remarkably preserved architecture shaped by Filipino, Chinese, and European influences, recalling its history as both a trading port and Spanish colonial settlement. Today it is considered the most romantic town in the Philippines and a honeymoon favorite. Explore the historic center on foot or by traditional kalesa horse drawn carriage, passing ancestral houses, old plazas, and St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral. Browse local antiques and handicrafts, stop at a pottery workshop, and round out the day over the distinctive flavors of Ilocano cuisine. Hotel Luna, itself housed within an ornate colonial building and filled with Philippine art, makes an atmospheric base in the heart of the old city.

AMANPULO: THE ART OF DOING LESS

Amanpulo

Amanpulo is a legendary private-island retreat that has become synonymous with barefoot luxury, where soft white sand, whispering palms, and translucent blue seas set the rhythm of each day.

Sail across calm waters aboard a private yacht. Dive or snorkel coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life including the ever graceful giant sea turtles. Cycle quiet paths shaded under the natural tree canopy or tool around the 90 hectare island in your private golf buggy. The flora and fauna – especially the exotic birdlife – is particularly interesting, and guests can enjoy a guided nature walk through the island’s tropical interior. Others will happily spend hours at the spa or settle beside the sea with a good book.

Amanpulo also features on Remote Lands’ Around the World in Three Continents departing October 2027 and our newest itinerary From Islands to Ancient Worlds departing October 2028.

BORACAY: BEYOND WHITE BEACH

Shangri-La Boracay

Boracay has spent decades on lists of the world's best islands, and White Beach remains one of Southeast Asia's great stretches of sand. Yet there is more to the island than its famous shoreline. Days can be spent sailing between neighboring islands, paddleboarding across calm bays, or seeking out quieter stretches of coast, while sunset brings a livelier rhythm to White Beach and its restaurants and bars.

Occupying a peaceful peninsula away from the busiest crowds, Shangri-La Boracay offers the best of both worlds, pairing secluded beaches with easy access to the island's more social side.

PALAWAN: AMONG THE LIMESTONE ISLANDS

Entalula Island, Palawan

Even in a country blessed with extraordinary scenery, Palawan stands apart. Stretching between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, some of the 1,780 islands have become synonymous with dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, emerald lagoons, and waters of astonishing clarity. El Nido is the natural gateway to this remarkable landscape. Speedboat excursions thread through the spectacular Bacuit Archipelago, where towering karst islands conceal secret coves and deserted beaches accessible only by sea. Kayaking brings visitors into tranquil lagoons beyond the reach of larger boats, while snorkeling and diving reveal coral gardens alive with tropical fish. Set on its own pristine island, Pangulasian Island Resort offers an idyllic base from which to experience one of the Philippines' most beautiful corners.

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