Philippines

Considered by Filipinos as the eighth natural wonder of the world, Luzon island is home to the 2,000-year-old Banaue rice terraces, believed to be hand carved out of the Ifuago mountains. Soaring to 1,500 metres, the verdant stepped vista is an unforgettable sight. Greens give way to browns in Bohol where a viewing deck opens onto a 360° perspective of the province’s famed Chocolate Hills, dotting the landscape as far as the eye can see. The quintessential island-hopping destination, Hundred Islands National Park in the Lingayen Gulf is a snorkelling paradise or, for more remote relaxation, drop anchor off the idyllic Batanes Islands where cooling winds and pristine white sands make this a yachting favourite. Back in the capital, Manila Ocean Park offers calming aquatic respite from the city’s hustle and bustle across 8,000 square metres of oceanarium.
Cool off with a guided boat tour through the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. Part of a national park, this extensive cave system takes adventurers deep into the heart of the mountains and out to sea. Thrills of another kind are found atop Bicol’s Mount Mayon, an active volcano known for its conical symmetry and looming presence over Legazpi City.

Good food is found on every street corner and at the tables of a growing community of world-class restaurants. With Spanish, Chinese and American culinary influences, Filipino cuisine is deliciously eclectic. For upscale dining, Manila is the place to visit. Named the country’s best restaurant in 2023, Toyo Eatery offers a playful and innovative take on Filipino cuisine under the helm of Chef Jordy Navarra, who trained with the UK’s Heston Blumenthal. Balai Palm in trendy Makati is another hotspot for inventive tasting menus. Bohol bound diners should venture to Bohol Bee Farm’s eco-resort restaurant for a unique take on local flavours including the signature cassava taco and malunggay ice cream.