Best of the Philippines

Depart from your hotel for a walking tour of Intramuros (also known as Old Manila) and its surroundings. This historic walled city was the nerve center of Spanish colonial Manila, built on the ruins of a Malay settlement. Conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established it as the capital in 1571. For 400 years, Intramuros was the hub of Spanish political, religious, and military power in the region, suffering extensive damage during World War II with only San Agustin Church remaining intact.

Next, proceed to San Miguel for lunch at Casa Roces. Located near Malacañang Palace, this restaurant, housed in a historic home, offers a blend of classic and contemporary cuisine, inspired by the Roces family’s legacy.

After lunch, visit Malacañang Palace. The Presidential Museum and Library within the palace preserve the history and heritage of the Philippine Presidency.

End your day with cocktails and dinner at Café Ilang-Ilang in the Manila Hotel, renowned for its history, elegance, and exceptional service.

This morning, depart to Lumban, Laguna, dubbed the “embroidery capital of the Philippines”. Experience an embroidery class with a local artist, witnessing the “burda” technique for transferring designs to fabric. Visit the town’s renowned Barong Tagalog and see traditional dresses designed from pineapple and banana fibers. Lunch will be served in a Heritage House.

Afterward, journey to Paete, known as the “Carving Capital of the Philippines”, where the tradition of pagukit dates back centuries. Discover the exquisite craftsmanship, with its works displayed internationally, including in the Vatican and the United States. Legend has it that the town got its name from a misunderstanding between a Franciscan priest and a local, resulting in “Paete” meaning chisel.

Continue to Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort for a two-night stay.

Experience the allure of Philippine country life at Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort, a self-contained working coconut plantation. It has a worldwide reputation as a showcase for the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage. A carabao drawn cart-ride takes you around the plantation. For lunch, traditional Filipino cuisine is served beneath a man-made dam with your feet immersed in cool rushing waters. Remainder of the day at leisure.

Morning at leisure. This afternoon you will be transferred back to the lively regenerated Makatai City area, Manila where accommodation is reserved for three nights, at the special category boutique Celeste Hotel.

This morning you will be transferred to Manila Airport for your onward flight.

• Arrival and departure transfers from/to Manila Airport
• Services of an English-speaking Airport Co-ordinator during transfers
• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle for transfers and specified sightseeing
• 7-nights’ accommodation
• Meals as indicated on the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Sightseeing tours in Manila and Laguna (inclusive of English-speaking guide, entrance fees, private transportation)
• Carabao drawn cart ride
• 24/7 local operator support
• Philippines Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Airport Terminal fees (where applicable)
• Drinks during meals
• Optional tours and excursions
• Environmental fees
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Departure taxes
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above