Luzon - Bohol - Cebu - Palawan
Manila - Loboc - Chocolate Hills - Asin Tibuok - Cebu City - Mactan Island - Puerto Princesa - Subterranean River National Park - El Nido Islands
December 6 - 17, 2025
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| Assorted Photos - Manila to Bohol |
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Assorted Photos - Bohol to Cebu
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| Assorted Photos - Cebu |
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| Assorted Photos - Cebu, El Nido, Manila |
This was my first time in the Philippines. I had always wanted to visit it and I finally got my chance. The Philippines is a great travel destination due to its stunning beaches, diverse nature, rich culture, and friendly locals. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, all while being relatively budget-friendly. I got a wonderful dose of history, nature, and culture while experiencing interesting sights, amazing scenery, decent weather, friendly people, great food, and comfortable accommodations.
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Gate1Travel - 12-Day Philippines Tour
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How Long Was Your Trip? When Did You Go? Where Did You Go? The tour lasted 12 days from December 6-17, 2025. I spent:
- 3 days in Manila (Luzon Island)
- 2 days on Bohol Island
- 2 days on Cebu Island
- 2 days in Puerto Princesa (Palawan Island)
- 2 days in El Nido (Palawan Island)
- 1 day flying back and forth from the US
Did You Do This on Your Own or with a Tour Company? I traveled with
Gate1Travel on its "13-Day Philippines Culture and Adventure" tour. For me, the trip lasted 12 days because I had been in Taiwan beforehand and needed only one day to travel to the Philippines. Considering how much the cost of international travel has increased over the past four years, this tour was quite affordable by any standard. It offered a well-balanced mix of major cities, historic sites, and natural beauty. The itinerary was nicely paced and covered all the country’s major highlights.
I can't express enough how wonderful our tour director
Mellany "Lany" Melendez was, as well as our motorcoach drivers and local guides. The hotels and food were also great. The only issue was all the people we had to tip. I don't mind tipping but they should just add it to the tour price as I was always short on small bills and constantly breaking larger bills.
My tour group consisted of 21 people, all from the United States. Two participants were Filipino and joined the tour to see more of their home country. Overall, we were a seasoned group of travelers, and everyone got along well.
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| Gate1 Tour Group - All 21 of Us |
How Did You Get There and Back? I flew from my home in Milwaukee to Houston, where I stayed with my travel friend for 2 days before traveling to Taipei, Taiwan. I toured
Taiwan for a week before taking a short flight to Manila. My route back home was the same but in reverse.
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| Air Travel Map - 19,300 Miles |
Once on the ground in the Philippines, I traveled another 1,500+ miles between islands by plane, motor coach and ferry boat. The tour had three internal flights lasting one to one-and-a-half hours each, and one long bus travel day towards the end between Puerto Princesa and El Nido.
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| Ground Travel Map - 1,500+ Miles |
Was It Easy Navigating Your Way Around? Yes, because we were largely situated either in the heart of each town within walking distance to most everything, or shuttled by motorcoach to each of our destinations.
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| Gate1 Motor Coach - Comfy with AC, WiFi & Toilet |
The motorcoach was quite comfortable and had more seats than people. The AC worked great, the WiFi was a plus, and it had a toilet nobody used. There were no charging outlets or ports for charging phones so I had to rely on my portable power pack.
Gate1 has a seat rotation policy so that the same people don't always have the coveted front seats. As usual, I sat in the back behind the rotation zone with a few others so we could talk without interrupting others.
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| Gate1 - Daily Motor Coach Seat Rotation |
Where Did You Stay? We stayed in a number of 4-star and 5-star hotels. In the cities, they were always centrally located. In El Nido, which is a bit more more rustic, we enjoyed two resorts located right on on the beach. All hotels were modern, clean, and comfortable, with excellent restaurants, AC, WiFi and fitness centers.
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| Gate1 Hotels - Awesome Accommodations |
In the Philippines,
power plugs and outlets of type A, B and C are used. A and B are the same as the US, and C is the typical European rounded peg plug. Note that the standard voltage is 220V/ 60 Hz. US standard voltage is 110 V so you might need a voltage adapter for US devices that don't operate at 220 V. You will also need a type C plug adapter if you encounter type C outlets, but I only saw one Type C outlet the entire trip.
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| Philippines Electric Outlets - 220V/60Hz |
Meals? Most of our meals were included in the price of the tour since it was a "Small Group Discovery" branded trip. Breakfast was included every morning and most of our lunches and dinners. All meals included healthy options to suit all tastes and dietary needs, as did the options provided when we dined on our own. Philippine food is delicious ranging from hearty stews and grilled meats to flavorful noodle dishes and sweet desserts. Some popular examples include Adobo, Sinigang, Lechon, Kare-Kare, and Pancit. Filipino cuisine is also known for its street food, like lumpia (spring rolls), isaw (grilled chicken intestines), and balut (boiled duck eggs eaten from the shell).
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| Some Popular Food in the Philippines |
How Was the Weather? I traveled in December. The weather was mild at night (mid 70s F) and warm during the day (mid to upper 80's F). The days were mostly sunny. It hardly rained.
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| Philippines Weather in December - Bearable |
What Clothing Did You Pack? I packed very light--about 4 days worth of clothes--mostly shorts and t-shirts, swimsuit, light jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellant. I brought one pair of long pants and a sweatshirt. As usual, shirts, socks and underlayers were all "Dri-Fit" material that could be washed every few days in the hotel sink. On several occasions, particularly at the airports, we had to porter our own bags so it helps to have wheels and pack light. It also pays to pack light since the airlines strictly enforce weight limits.
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| Trip Luggage - 4 Days Worth |
What was the Time Difference? The Philippines are 14 hours ahead of my home time zone in Milwaukee (US, Central Time, GMT/UTC −06:00). Fortunately, I had been in nearby Taiwan for several days prior to the trip so had already adjusted to the time difference.
What Was the Currency? What Were Prices Like? The Philippines uses the Philippine Peso as its official currency. In December 2025, the exchange rate was $1 = about 59 PHPs. You can get pesos at a major bank in the US. But I usually tap a bank ATM upon arrival. It seems exchange fees were high everywhere. You'll pay a fee of around 250 PHP ($4.25 US) plus 2-3% from your home bank for overseas withdrawals from a bank ATM. I made two withdrawals totaling $125, which was more than enough for incidentals, tipping and meals. The standard of living in The Philippines is about 30% lower than the US so a little cash goes a long way.
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| Philippine Peso - $1 = 59 Pesos |
What Did This Whole Trip Cost You? I spent $4,058 in total, or about $338 per day. I paid 89% of the trip cost ($3,611) before leaving the US. Once on the ground, I spent another $447 on items not included in the tour cost, such as tips, lunches and dinners on my own, and international mobile phone/internet charges. You can pretty much get by charging everything on a major credit card.
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| Philippines Trip Cost |
Special Trip Considerations.
- Safety. The Philippines are generally safe. The most dangerous areas are not tourist destinations. Petty theft is the most common issue you might encounter, but terrorism and kidnapping, though less frequent, are also concerns. In addition, certain travelers, namely women, may need to take certain precautions during their travels. You can get the latest US Dept of State Travel Advisories here.
- Air Quality. Air quality was generally quite good everywhere. On occasion, diesel fumes irritated my throat, but not enough to warrant wearing a mask.
- Insects. While December might be part of the "dry season" in some areas of the Philippines, mosquitos are a concern due to the country's tropical climate. It's wise to take precautions due to the risk of dengue fever, malaria and other illnesses. You can find health information concerning travel in the Philippines here. Insects really weren't a problem where we traveled though.
- Language Barrier. Not a chance. English is widely spoken and taught in school from an early age. You will encounter children eager to practice their English with you.
- Physical Condition. We did a lot of walking and traversed a lot of steps, uneven surfaces, and steep grades in the heat and humidity. If you have mobility or heat issues, this is probably not the tour for you.
- Customs. When arriving and departing, you are required to compete a separate declaration form card using the official online app and be prepared to show it if requested. However, nobody ever asked to see it.
Any Parting Comments? Travel is an adventure. It’s an opportunity to experience, learn and appreciate how people around the world live. While I’m always happy to come home at the end, I never come back the same person.
Having dispensed with the formalities, let's dive into the amazing things we experienced. Following is a day-by-day account of my trip. Each day starts with an overview of what we did, followed by my daily journal. I stopped giving history lessons in my posts but added links you can click on to read more about the places I visited. You can just read on from here or go back up to the Table of Contents above and jump to a specific day or topic of interest.
Enjoy!
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| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: Welcome to the Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands. Arrive in Manila on the island of Luzon, the vibrant capital city, and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today we flew to Manila, Philippines after a week
Taiwan.
Weather: 85F and dark
We checked out of our Taipei hotel around 9:30 am and headed to the airport very early via the express Metro train, arriving around 11:15 am. The Taipei airport is practically a tourist attraction itself because there are so many interesting things to see and do. Because the inbound flight was late, we left an hour behind schedule at 4:30 pm, arriving at almost 7 pm in Manila rather than 6 pm.
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| Today's Touring Map |
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| Taipei - Our EVA Air Plane to Manila - 2-1/2 Hours |
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| So Long Taiwan! |
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| Hello Manila! |
Upon arrival, and despite being an hour late, we breezed through immigration and customs and were met outside the arrival hall by Gate1 representative, Cleo, and our driver. We drove 30 minutes to the Makati District and our hotel, New World Makati.
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| Manila - New World Hotel Makati |
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| Manila - New World Hotel Makati |
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| Manila - New World Hotel Makati - View from Room |
Once inside, we met our Gate1 tour director, Lany, then explored the hotel. It was a really first class hotel with a gigantic shopping mall right across the street. The Welcome Dinner was held the following day rather than arrival day. Our group had 21 people and we would get to know them the following day while touring Manila.
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Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour
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Itinerary: Begin the day at the lively Legazpi Market, where you can browse fresh local produce, unique crafts, and tempting street food. From there, set out on a city tour to discover Manila’s rich history and cultural heritage. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Rizal Park, dedicated to national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, before continuing to Intramuros, the historic walled city from the Spanish colonial era. Within Intramuros, explore Fort Santiago, a historic citadel that played a key role in the nation’s past, followed by visits to Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest stone church in the Philippines.
After the tour, enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant, sampling traditional Filipino dishes. In the evening, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7:00 PM, followed by dinner. Conclude the day with a visit to the Ayala Museum, where you’ll explore the Philippines’ cultural heritage through its art collections and historical exhibits..
Daily Journal
Summary: Manila tour including visits to Legazpi Market, Rizal Park, Intramuros and Fort Santiago—the city’s historic colonial district—along with Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church. Lunch at a local restaurant followed by the Ayala Museum. Evening Welcome Dinner.
Weather: 80F and overcast
Our first stop was the lively Legazpi Market, known for its fresh local produce, unique crafts, and street food. We strolled the market and neighboring Washington Sycip Park marveling at the abundance of flora and stray cats. The security guard patrolling the park was enamored with our foreign tour group and snapped a lot of pictures of us. Some of the women in the group also posed with him.
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| Today's Touring Map |
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| Today's Gate1 Itinerary |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Legazpi Market |
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| Manila - Washington Sycip Park |
After the park, we got on our bus, er, motor coach, and went across town. Along the way, we saw an ambulance vs Jeepney (small passenger bus) accident with the Jeepney on its side and the ambulance's front end in pieces on the ground. Jeepneys are the cheapest transportation in Manila. They reminded me of the chicken buses in Central America.
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| Manila - Jeepney vs Ambulance Accident |
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| Manila - Different Transportation Options |
We also passed by the slums of Manila. Depressing but vibrant.
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| Manila Slums |
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| Manila Slums |
Reaching the Central City, we disembarked the motorcoach and enjoyed a tour of Manila's historic district to enjoy the rich history and cultural treasures of Manila. Our first stop was Rizal Park, dedicated to national hero
Dr. Jose Rizal (1861–1896), who was a Filipino writer, doctor, and national hero whose ideas helped inspire the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. He wrote two famous novels—Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo—which exposed social injustices and abuses under Spanish rule. We saw statues and the site where the Spanish executed him by firing squad for sedition. I also ran into a group of 7th graders who were eager to practice their English, which is widely spoken in the Philippines. I never had a language barrier on the trip.
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park - 7th Graders Eager to Practice English |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park - Rizal's Final Speech |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park |
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| Manila - Rizal Memorial Park - The Spot Where Rizal Was Executed by Firing Squad |
We then went to the heart of the historic
Intramuros, the walled city built during the Spanish colonial era and home to
Fort Santiago. We toured the grounds and visited the dungeon of Fort Santiago where 600 Filipinos were found following a massacre by the Spanish, and commemorated with a marble cross.
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago - Commemorative Marble Cross |
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| Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago - Dungeon of Fort Santiago |
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Manila - Intramuros & Fort Santiago - Dungeon of Fort Santiago
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We then walked down the street to the
Manila Cathedral. Since the Philippines happened to be celebrating the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the church specially decorated and quite busy.
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| Manila Cathedral |
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| Manila Cathedral |
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| Manila Cathedral |
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| Manila Cathedral |
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| Manila Cathedral - Feast of the Immaculate Conception Decorations |
Just before lunch, we explored the ancient
San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the oldest stone church in the Philippines. It is surrounded by beautiful Spanish colonial buildings.
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| Manila - San Agustin Church |
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| Manila - San Agustin Church |
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| Manila - San Agustin Church |
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| Manila - San Agustin Church |
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| Manila - San Agustin Church |
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| Manila - San Agustin Church |
We then took a break for lunch where we sampled traditional Filipino dishes at a local restaurant called
Ilustrado. Wonderful.
Our last stop was the
Ayala Museum, where we explored the cultural heritage of the Philippines through its art collections and historical exhibits. We toured the enormous gold exhibit containing artifacts created by indigenous Filipino tribes hundreds of years ago. We then went to the fourth floor where we walked through 60 dioramas depicting the history of the Philippines. The Ayalas are a wealthy Filipino family.
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| Manila - Ayala Museum |
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| Manila - Ayala Museum |
One of the main attractions at the museum is its stunning pre-colonial Philippine gold collection featuring over a thousand pieces dating mainly from the 10th to 13th centuries, including jewelry, ceremonial regalia, funerary masks, chains, bangles, and other finely crafted ornaments that reflect the sophisticated craftsmanship, wealth, and complex social structures of ancient Philippine societies long before Spanish colonization. The collection not only showcases stunning artistry but also helps tell the story of extensive trade networks and cultural exchange across Southeast Asia.
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| Manila - Ayala Museum - Gold Collection |
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| Manila - Ayala Museum - Gold Collection |
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| Manila - Ayala Museum - Gold Collection |
After viewing the gold collection, we headed to the fourth floor to see the Diorama Experience exhibition, which contains 60 chronological dioramas that visually narrate key moments and themes in Philippine history, from prehistoric times through colonial eras and up to the post-World War II period and the People Power Revolution.
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Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour
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Itinerary: This morning, head to the airport for your flight to the island of Bohol, known for its stunning natural beauty.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today we were supposed to have an early morning flight to the island of Bohol 1-1/2 hours south of Manila by plane. Unfortunately, the flight was canceled and we had to return to our hotel and spend most of the day in Manila. However, we had a lively lunch, got rebooked on an afternoon flight, and made it to our hotel in Bohol by 7:00 pm. We made up for all the sites we missed in Bohol today the following day, starting very early and ending later than usual.
Weather: 85F and partly sunny
I got up early around 5 am. I showered, packed my suitcase, and at 5:30 am, I went downstairs for breakfast. The hotel was nice enough to open at 5:45 am so we could have a full breakfast.
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| Today's Tour Map |
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| Gate1 Itinerary (Not) |
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| Gate1 - Breakfast at New World Makati Hotel |
At 6:30 am, we loaded up the motorcoach and made the 20-minute drive to the airport. Upon arrival, we learned that our flight was canceled and that we were being rebooked on at 4:00 flight.
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| Manila - Typical Telephone Pole |
Before going back to the hotel, we stopped at a local restaurant called The Singing Cooks & Waiters for another traditional Philippine meal, but this time it came with singing cooks and waiters who put on a rather impressive floor show while we had lunch.
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| Manila - The Singing Cooks & Waiters Restaurant - Fun! |
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| Manila - The Singing Cooks & Waiters Restaurant - Fun! |
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| Manila - The Singing Cooks & Waiters Restaurant - Pam Joins In |
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| Manila - The Singing Cooks & Waiters Restaurant - Fun! |
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| Manila - The Singing Cooks & Waiters Restaurant - Tour Group |
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| Manila - The Singing Cooks & Waiters Restaurant - I Need to Work Out More |
We went back to the hotel for a few hours and returned to the airport around 2:00 pm. Before going back to the airport, I ran over to the wonderful Greenbelt Mall across from the hotel to browse and get some cat food and treats for all the strays. Little did I know, stray cats are well cared for by the public and didn't need my help.
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Manila - Greenbelt Mall - Christmas Decorations
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| Manila - Greenbelt Mall - Stocking Up on Cat Food and Treats |
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| Manila - Greenbelt Mall - Don't Feed the Cats |
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| Manila - Greenbelt Mall - Philippines Answer to McDonald's |
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| Manila - Greenbelt Mall |
At 4:20 pm, our Philippines Air A320-200 jet departed Manila for the island of Bohol. We arrived around 6:20 pm, collected our bags and headed to our waiting motor coach and local guide Jojie ("Georgy").
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| Manila Airport - Heading to Bohol Island |
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| Manila Airport - Our Plane to Bohol |
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| Bohol Airport - Made It |
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| Bohol Island - Our Gate1 Local Guide - Jojie |
We learned that the Philippines has over 7,600 islands. Bohol is 10th largest and most religious. Bohol also has the most tourists in all of the Philippines.
We checked into our fabulous beach front resort hotel around 7 pm, had a late buffet dinner at 730 pm by the beach, and then it was straight to bed.
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| Bohol - Tagbilaran City - Bluewater Panglao Hotel |
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| Bohol - Tagbilaran City - Bluewater Panglao Hotel - Outdoors Dinner |
Tomorrow we would be starting at 6 am to make up for all of the things we missed today due to the flight cancellation.
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| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: Start the day by traveling to the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation comprising over 1,200 conical mounts. These hills are covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season, giving them their name. Stroll along the viewing deck for panoramic vistas. Experience the beauty of the hills during sunset. Continue to Tarsier Sanctuary, where you'll encounter the world's smallest primates in the natural habitat, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these creatures. Afterwards, experience the serene beauty of Bohol with a scenic lunch cruise along the Loboc River. After lunch, visit the village of Loboc, nestled along the Loboc River. The village is home to traditional bamboo houses and offers a glimpse into local life and culture. Finally, take a tour of Asin Tibuok Manufacturing facility and discover the traditional methods behind salt production. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Summary: Today we combined two days of touring into one because of yesterday's flight cancellation and late arrival in Bohol. We visited the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Primate Sanctuary, a traditional Loboc Village, and Asin Tibuok salt-making facility. In between we enjoyed a lunch cruise down emerald waters of Loboc River with lively entertainment.
Weather: 85F and sunny
After a quick and delicious breakfast at the hotel restaurant overlooking the beach and ocean, we boarded the motor coach and headed out for a full day of sightseeing.
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| Today's Tour Map |
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| Gate1 Itinerary |
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| Bohol - Bluewater Panglao Resort - Lovely Dining and Pool by the Beach |
We drove to the Kinaiyahan Forest Park to visit the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, a breathtaking geological wonder made up of 1,776 perfectly rounded limestone mounds and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The hills turn a rich brown color during the dry season, giving them the signature “chocolate” look that makes the landscape feel almost otherworldly. We climbed a couple hundred steps to an observation platform for some breathtaking pictures.
The Chocolate Hills were once an underwater coral reef. When the water dropped they turned to limestone and were then carved by the wind and rain into what we see today. The mountain road to get to the Chocolate Hills was just as breathtaking with numerous switchbacks and steep hills winding through lush palm tree forests dotted with small villages and rice paddies. It was early dry season so the hills were more green than brown but stunning nonetheless.
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| Bohol - On Way to Chocolate Hills - Low Tide |
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| Bohol - On Way to Chocolate Hills - Up, Up We Go! |
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| Bohol - On Way to Chocolate Hills - Rice Paddy |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills - UNESCO World Heritage Site |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills - UNESCO World Heritage Site |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills - Got to Climb Steps for the Best View |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills - Got to Climb Steps for the Best View |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills |
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| Bohol - Chocolate Hills - I Do! |
After Chocolate Hills, we visited a Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the world's smallest primate, about the size of a fist. They only live here in the Philippines and are protected because they are threatened with extinction. We took a golf cart from the parking area up to the sanctuary. Along the way we were greeted by the sanctuary founder, the "tarsier guy" Carlito Pizarras. A unique Gate1 experience. We split up into smaller groups to walk through the sanctuary. Our guides pointed out the tarsiers hiding up in the trees and helped us take pictures. They are nocturnal so difficult to find during the day.
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| Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary |
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| Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary |
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| Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary - Able-Bodied Walked Up to Entrance |
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| Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary |
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| Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary - Nocturnal Critters Hard to Find in Daytime |
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| Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary - Nocturnal Critters Hard to Find in Daytime |
For lunch, we boarded a boat, more like a barge, and cruised down the emerald waters of the Loboc River enjoying the scenery and floor show, both on the boat and on stages along the river banks. Some group members were brave enough to join the singers and dancers. That would not be me.
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise with Lunch |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise with Lunch |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise - Welcoming Committee |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise with Lunch |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise with Lunch |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise with Lunch |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise with Lunch |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise Onboard Entertainment |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise Entertainment on the River Bank |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - River Cruise Onboard Entertainment |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - Definitely NOT for Hire |
After the boat ride, we walked over to St. Peter Apostle Church, one of Bohol’s oldest and most historic churches known for its centuries-old stone architecture and beautifully preserved interior. Located beside the Loboc River, it reflects the town’s deep Catholic heritage and resilience, having been rebuilt after significant earthquake and flood damage.
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - St Peter Apostle Church |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - St Peter Apostle Church |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - St Peter Apostle Church |
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| Bohol - Loboc Town - St Peter Apostle Church - Recent Flood |
We then drove to a native Loboc Village to explore the region's rich history, traditions, and local way of life. As we strolled through the small village, we witnessed how coconut wine is made, how leaves are woven into a variety of products, and how rice is crushed and sifted to produce pink rice. At the end, we enjoyed a coconut milk refreshment. Despite earthquakes, flooding, and financial hardship, the people are still very happy.
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut Wine Making (Tubâ) |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Nicer Home |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut Wine Making |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Small Store |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Weaving |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Weaving |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Another Typical Home |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut & Rice Harvesting |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut & Rice Harvesting |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut & Rice Harvesting |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Making Pink Rice |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Rice Paddy |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Some Skinny Strays |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut Milk Refreshment |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut Milk Refreshment |
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| Bohol - Loboc Community - Cultural Immersion - Coconut Milk Refreshment |
Our last stop was the Asin Tibuok manufacturing facility to learn how this rare and very expensive Bohol sea salt is made. Asin Tibuok is known for its round “dinosaur egg” shape and smoky flavor, and only a few families still practice this traditional, labor-intensive craft. Coconut husks are soaked in seawater then dried in firepits. The salt embedded in the dried husks is then separated from the husk through a 3-step filtering process that produces a salty brine that is them poured layer by layer into rounded clay pots over a slow fire. The end product looks like a snow globe and sells for a hefty price. We learned a day later that the site was just approve to become a UNESCO World Heritage site!
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Salt Making Facility |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Saltwater Soaked Coconuts |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Burning Soaked Coconuts (Infuses Smoky Flavor) |
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Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Filtering Salt Brine from Coconut Husks
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Distilling Salt from Brine Over Heat in Clay Vessels |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Pouring Brine in Layers over Heat in Clay Vessels |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Clay Vessels |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Pouring Brine in Layers over Heat in Clay Vessels |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Finished Salt Product |
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| Bohol - Asin Tibuok - Ready for Sale |
We then went back to the hotel for a break. Some of the group went into town on 3-wheeled tricycles to nearby Alona Beach, a touristy area by the beach with shops, restaurants, clubs and a nice vibe. It had been a long day for me so I stayed back at the hotel and enjoyed the pool bar with a nice view of the ocean.
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| Bohol - Bluewater Panglao Resort - Our Room on Ground Level |
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| Bohol - Bluewater Panglao Resort - Long Walk to Dining and Beach |
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| Bohol - Bluewater Panglao Resort - Enjoying a Beer at the Bar |
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| Bohol - Bluewater Panglao Resort - Walking Back to the Room |
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| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: This morning head to the port to board the ferry to Cebu Island. Along the way,stop at the Bohol History Museum. After arrival in Cebu and after lunch, visit the Alegre Guitar Factory, a family-owned workshop producing handmade guitars. Learn about the history of Cebu's guitar making industry. Next, tour the historic Mactan Shrine, a tribute to the battle of Mactan (where Magellan met his fate) and the legendary warrior Lapu-Lapu. Afterward, transfer to the hotel and check into your room. Tonight, savor a barbecue dinner set on the beach.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today, we took the jet ferry about 2 hours from the island of Bohol to the neighboring island of Cebu. We visited the National History Museum of Bohol on our way out of town. Once reaching Cebu, we visited the Alegre Guitar factory and the Mactan Shrine before settling in to our hotel for the rest of the day.
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| Our Talented Gate1 Tour Manager Lany Plays Guitar |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Alegre Guitars |
We then drove a short distance to Mactan Shrine commemorating the victory of tribal chieftain Lapu-Lapu and his army over the Spanish army led by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan on April 27, 1521. Magellan was working for the Spanish, who were attempting to colonize Southeast Asia, and was killed in the clash. The battle put an immediate end to colonization but the Spanish would ultimately colonize the islands and control it for 300 years. Lapu-Lapu is a national symbol of courage and independence, with monuments, cities, and even currency honoring his legacy. Lapu-Lapu made a strategic decision to confront the Spanish in the water, where their soaked uniforms and heavy weaponry put them at a clear disadvantage and eventual slaughter.
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Mactan Shrine |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Mactan Shrine - Magellan Died in Battle Here |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Mactan Shrine - Magellan Died in Battle Here |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Mactan Shrine - Magellan Died in Battle Here |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Mactan Shrine - Magellan Died in Battle Here |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Mactan Shrine - Lapu-Lapu |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - I Do! |
We then proceeded to our fantastic seaside resort hotel where we were treated to a great sunset and dinner on the ocean front.
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hotel Dusit Thani - Wow! |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hotel Dusit Thani - Wow! |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hotel Dusit Thani - Wow! |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hotel Dusit Thani - Wow! |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hotel Dusit Thani - Wow! |
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Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour
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Itinerary: Embark on a tour of Cebu City that takes you through its iconic landmarks. View Fort San Pedro, built by the Spanish to defend against pirate attacks, and Plaza Independencia. Continue to the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, home to the revered Santo Nino de Cebu statue, and admire the historic Magellan's Cross, marking the arrival of Christianity. Proceed to the Heritage of Cebu Monument and nearby Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, a beautifully preserved Chinese Filipino heritage home. For lunch, savor delectable Filipino cuisine. After lunch, tour the Carbon Market, Cebu's oldest and largest public market. Wander through stalls filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. Take a 2-hour catamaran cruise from Cebu City back to the hotel on Mactan Island and spend the balance of the day at leisure.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today we took a morning tour of Cebu City to visit a number of famous landmarks. In the afternoon, we visited the Carbon Market, Cebu's largest and oldest market. In the late afternoon, we took a 2-hour boat cruise across the Cebu City bay back to our hotel at Mactan Island.
Weather: 87F and sunny
Before leaving the hotel, I decided to visit Hello Kitty Beach, located just down the road. It was nothing like what I had expected. The road there and back was rough, lined with shacks, people loitering, stray animals, and obvious poverty. To enter, I passed through a gate marked with a foreboding “No Trespassing” sign, where a woman collected a 25¢ fee.
Just before reaching the beach, I noticed a field stacked high with discarded pink boards and a partially hidden “Hello Kitty Beach” sign. Beyond the entrance were several pink buildings with picnic tables and scattered Hello Kitty decorations, leading to a stairway down to the beach. Trash, broken bottles, and stray animals wandering the grounds made it immediately clear that this was more of a local hangout—where kids and adults came to drink and spend time by the water—than a tourist destination.
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| Today's Tour Map |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hello Kitty Beach |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hello Kitty Beach |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hello Kitty Beach |
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Hello Kitty Beach - Roosters Raised for Cockfighting |
We left the hotel around 8:45 am for a Cebu City Tour that took us to iconic landmarks.
Our first stop was the triangular Fort San Pedro, built by the Spanish to defend against pirate attacks, and Plaza Independencia. It is the oldest triangular bastion fort in the Philippines, first built in 1565 under Miguel López de Legazpi as a wooden defensive structure. It was later rebuilt in stone, with the present fort completed around 1738 to protect the early Spanish settlement from coastal attacks and local uprisings. During the Spanish colonial period, it served as a military garrison, prison, and administrative hub. The Americans, and later the Japanese during World War II, repurposed the fort as barracks, a prison camp, and even a temporary hospital. We walked the perimeter of the fortress walls. I even saw a plant that curls up when you touch it.
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| Cebu - Mactan Island - Heading to Cebu City Via Mactan Island Bridge |
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| Cebu - Cebu City from Mactan Island Bridge |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro - Up on the Fort Walls |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro - Up on the Fort Walls |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro - Up on the Fort Walls |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro - Up on the Fort Walls |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro - Up on the Fort Walls |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Fort San Pedro - Mary Shrine |
After Fort San Pedro, we drove to Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, home to the revered Santo Nino de Cebu statue and the historic Magellan's Cross, marking the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines.
Magellan’s Cross marks the spot where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan ordered a wooden cross planted in 1521 to symbolize the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. The cross on display today is encased in a protective wood shell to preserve the original relic inside. It sits beneath a colorful ceiling mural depicting the first Catholic baptism and the introduction of the new faith to the island. Our guide purchased candles from an older women who then performed a prayerful dance ritual in front of the cross to wish our tour group safe travels and success in all that we aspire to.
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Magellan's Cross |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Magellan's Cross |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Magellan's Cross - Lady Saying Prayer for Group |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - City Hall Opposite Magellan's Cross |
After visiting Magellan's Cross, we toured the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines, founded in 1565 on the very site where the image of the Santo Niño was discovered. The basilica houses the Santo Niño de Cebu, a baby Jesus statue gifted by Magellan, which is the country’s oldest Christian relic and a powerful symbol of the birth of Christianity in the Philippines. The current stone church, constructed between 1735 and 1740, reflects a harmonious blend of Baroque and Spanish colonial architecture. Despite centuries of fires, reconstructions, and unwavering devotion, the basilica has remained the spiritual heart of Cebu.
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino - Strict Dress Code |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Basilica Minore del Santo Nino |
Our next stop was the Cebu Heritage Monument, a dramatic visual timeline in stone, brass, and steel sculptures that narrate key events in Cebu’s history, from pre-colonial times to the Spanish era and beyond. Created by local artist Eduardo Castrillo, it features dynamic figures of explorers, defenders, saints, and historical landmarks intertwined in a single sweeping structure.
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Cebu Heritage Monument - I Do! |
After the Cebu Heritage Monument, we crossed the street to visit the Yap-Sandiego Heritage House, a beautifully preserved Chinese Filipino heritage home and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the oldest surviving residential homes in the Philippines, dating back to the late 17th century. The coral stone and hardwood structure reflects the traditional Spanish style blended. The house belongs to the affluent Yap and Sandiego families, prominent Chinese-Filipino merchants during the Spanish colonial period. Inside, it is filled with antique furniture, religious icons, and heirlooms that offer a glimpse into Cebu’s domestic life centuries ago. Today, it operates as a museum and cultural treasure, carefully preserved by the Sandiego family for public viewing. The 11th generation owner of the house, Val Sandiego, happened to be visiting that day and I posed for a picture with him on the way out.
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Yap-Sandiego Heritage House - Birthing Chair Not Rocking Chair |
For lunch, we went to a local restaurant, La Casa Vieja, to savor more Filipino cuisine. Although it was pretty much the same fare we had had at all the other places, it was quite nice. As we approached the restaurant, we turned down a really sketchy road, drove through a rundown neighborhood, and eventually came to the restaurant about a quarter mile down the road across from a church. Like usual, I was asking myself how Gate1 finds these places.
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| Cebu - Cebu City - On Way to La Casa Vieja for Lunch |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - La Casa Vieja |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - La Casa Vieja |
After lunch, we toured the Carbon Market, Cebu's oldest and largest public market. The market is believed to date back over a century — originally named after a coal depot (from the old railway system) that once stood in that area. It has long been a bustling hub of commerce, with thousands of vendors selling a wide variety of goods: fresh produce, seafood, meat, fruits, handicrafts, household items, clothing, and more. Despite modernization efforts, Carbon Market continues to retain its vibrant local-market atmosphere and remains a vital part of Cebu’s daily life and culture.
We got dropped off at street level across from the two-story indoor market building. The area was teaming with people hawking everything under the sun and stretching as far as the eye could see. We wandered through the stalls and into the market building. The first floor had fruits and vegetables and a variety of flowers. Upstairs is where all the crafts were, including a lot of wicker.
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
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| Cebu - Cebu City - Carbon Market |
After visiting the Carbon Market, we headed to the city pier—the same pier where we had arrived from Bohol the day before—and boarded a small cruise boat with a seven-man crew for a leisurely two-hour journey across Cebu Harbor to our hotel on Mactan Island. The tour, expertly run by Jokai Marine, was a delight. We enjoyed snacks, beverages, and a lively soundtrack of classic American hits from the '70s and '80s. I was impressed by how much energy this group had, dancing enthusiastically throughout the cruise.
Everything went smoothly until the end, when it was time to disembark. The floating docks we had to walk on to get off the boat were rocking up and down and swaying with the waves, making many people nervous about stepping off safely. With the crew’s guidance—and me nominated to go first—everyone managed to get off without incident.
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise - Typhoon Casualty |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise - Our Hotel |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise - Our Hotel |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise - Rough Seas Getting Off |
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| Cebu - Cebu City to Hotel on Mactan Island Cruise - Rough Seas Getting Off |
After the boat ride we went back to the room and donned our swimming gear and went down to the pool for an hour. It was our last night at the hotel and we wanted to make use of the fabulous amenities at least once.
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Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour
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Itinerary: Head to the airport this morning for your flight to Palawan Island, a tropical paradise, often called "the Last Frontier." Arrive in Puerto Princesa, the gateway to Palawan's natural wonders and enjoy an authentic home-hosted "merienda" experience. Savor traditional Filipino snacks, while connecting with your hosts and learning about local customs. Afterward, transfer to your resort hotel and check into your room with free time to settle in before dinner.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today we flew from Cebu City to Palawan Island. After arrival, drove to Puerto Princess and enjoyed a midday gathering with a local family to learn more about life on the island before checking into our fantastic resort hotel.
Weather: 88F and sunny
We had the morning to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and poke around the hotel. At 11 am, we headed to the airport for our flight to Palawan Island, a tropical paradise, often called "The Last Frontier."
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| Today's Tour Map |
Our Philippine Airlines A320-200 took off at 2:35 pm for the 1-1/2 hour flight to Palawan.
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| Cebu - Airport - Jollibee Dining Experience |
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| Cebu - Airport - Our Plane to Palawan Island |
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| Cebu - Leaving Cebu City - There's the Hotel |
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| Palawan - Arriving in Palawan - My Luggage Arrives Intact (Red Strap) |
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| Palawan - Welcome to Puerto Princesa |
Upon arrival in Puerto Princesa, we visited a B&B called The Lokal Hut to enjoy an authentic home-hosted "merienda" experience. We learned how to make and enjoy banana spring rolls (Turon),a traditional Filipino snacks, while connecting with our hosts and learning about local customs.
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| Palawan - Puerto Princesa - The Lokal Hut "Merienda" Experience |
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| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: Today we had an unforgettable journey through the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The underground river, stretching over 5 miles beneath a dramatic limestone karst landscape, is among the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. Board a small boat and venture into the mystical cave. Marvel at towering stalactites and stalagmites, unique rock formations, and cathedral-like chambers. As you navigate the calm waters, learn about the cave's geology, ecology, and history. Next, head to the Cacaoyan Forest Park for lunch at the open-air restaurant. Have a delicious meal of regional dishes, prepared using locally sourced fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, head back to the hotel and unwind with free time before dinner.
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About Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park from Lonely Planet
Daily Journal
Summary: Visit to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, one of the longest navigable underground waterways in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: Today, travel north toward El Nido, a tropical paradise renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and marine biodiversity. Along the way, stop in Roxas to visit a cashew nut production site, where you can observe the harvesting, drying, and processing of cashews. Next, proceed to Taytay and have lunch at a local restaurant offering scenic views of the Fort of Taytay. Afterward, continue the drive to El Nido. On arrival, check into the hotel with time to settle in. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today we made the 5-hour drive from our hotel in the middle of Palawan Island to El Nido in the very northern tip of Palawan Island. Along the way, we stopped to tour a cashew nut factory in the town Roxas and lunch in the town of Taytay with its stellar view of the ocean and Fort Santa Isabella.
Weather: 92F and sunny
Today, we traveled north to El Nido, a tropical paradise renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and marine biodiversity. It was the longest driving day of the tour. We departed around 9 am and made a few stops along the way.
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| Today's Tour Map |
Our first stop was the small town of Roxas where we visited a
cashew nut production facility where we learned how cashews are harvested, dried and processed for market. The Philippines are one of the largest exporters of cashews. The whole process was very interesting.
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| Palawan - Roxas - Cashew Facility |
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| Palawan - Roxas - Cashew Facility |
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| Palawan - Roxas - Cashew Facility |
We then proceeded to the town of Taytay where we had lunch at a local restaurant called
Casa Rosa with scenic views of the fort of Taytay.
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| Palawan - Taytay - Lunch Stop |
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| Palawan - Taytay - Lunch Stop - Casa Rosa |
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| Palawan - Taytay - View of Town and Fort from Casa Rosa |
I skipped dessert and ran 5 minutes down to
Fort Santa Isabella to take a few pictures. It is a 17th-century Spanish fort built to protect the area from raids and foreign threats. It later served as a colonial administrative center and today stands as a historic landmark overlooking Taytay Bay.
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| Palawan - Taytay - View of Town and Fort from Casa Rosa |
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| Palawan - Taytay - Fort Santa Isabella |
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| Palawan - Taytay - Fort Santa Isabella |
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| Palawan - Taytay - Fort Santa Isabella |
Afterward, we continued to El Nido and checked into our hotel, the Seda Lio. The motorcoach was too big so the hotel met us and transported us to the hotel in open air electric cars. The hotel was right on the beach with a nice pool and outdoor bar and restaurant. Very nice.
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| Palawan - El Nido - Seda Lio Hotel |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Seda Lio Hotel |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Seda Lio Hotel |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Seda Lio Hotel |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Seda Lio Hotel |
In the evening, we enjoyed dinner at the hotel.
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| Palawan - El Nido - Seda Lio Hotel |
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| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: Embark on an unforgettable island hopping tour in El Nido. Explore pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. Visit iconic spots like Bacuit Bay, Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Beach, each offering breathtaking scenery and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing. Midway through your adventure, savor a delectable farm-to-table lunch. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and spend the evening at leisure.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today we did a daylong island hopping cruise on a catamaran out of El Nido to several islands with lunch on the beach.
Weather: 84F and sunny
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Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour
|
Itinerary: Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight back to Manila. On arrival, head to your hotel, and spend the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager.
Daily Journal
Summary: Today, we flew back to Manila from Palawan. Upon arrival, we transferred to our hotel with a stop at the Manila American Cemetery. Before the evening Farewell Dinner, we shopped at the nearby Bonifacio High Street mall.
Weather: 84F and partly cloudy
Today our trip came to a close as we took an 11:45 am flight from El Nido back to Manila.
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| Today's Tour Map |
We went down for breakfast early, came back to the room and finished packing our bags, and met the group at 9:45 am for the 10:00 am departure for the airport.
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| Palawan - El Nido - Breakfast at Seda Lio |
The hotel shuttle dropped us off at El Nido Airport around 10:15 a.m. As we passed through security, we were struck by several large boxes filled with confiscated shells and coral—reminders that nature’s treasures aren’t souvenirs you can take home.
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| Palawan - El Nido - Hotel Shuttle to Airport - 5 Minute Trip |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Don't Try to Smuggle Shells & Coral Out of Philippines |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Our Plane Back to Manila |
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| Palawan - El Nido - Flying Out - Bye Palawan |
By 11:45 am, our Cebu Pacific ATR 72-600 turboprop was on its way to Manila 1-1/2 hours away.
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| Manila - Back Where It All Began |
We landed on time at 1:20 pm and went to our hotel for the night in the Bonifacio High Street district of Manila. I preferred this neighborhood much more than the Makati neighborhood we stayed in at the beginning of the tour since the neighborhood was far more vibrant.
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| Manila - Seda Bonifacio Global City |
On the way to the hotel, we stopped at the Manila America Cemetery, which is the largest American military cemetery outside of the United States. This World War II cemetery contains the graves of nearly 17,100 war dead, and nearly 36,300 names on the Walls of the Missing.
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| Manila - Manila American Cemetery |
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| Manila - Manila American Cemetery |
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| Manila - Manila American Cemetery |
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| Manila - Manila American Cemetery |
After checking into our hotel, we went across the street to shop at Bonifacio High Street, which is a huge indoor and outdoor shopping mall stretching for several blocks. It was a madhouse with all the Christmas shoppers.
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Luzon - Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
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| Manila - Bonifacio High Street Shopping |
At 6 pm, we gathered at the hotel for a farewell dinner. Our guide gave each member of the tour group a small gift. The women got a pair of Philippine pearl earrings and the men received a set of mother of pearl coasters. One of the group members had a birthday (Nancy from Phoenix), so we had birthday cake for dessert. I have to say that this was one of the best Gate1 groups I have travelled with.
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| Manila - Farewell Dinner |
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| Manila - Farewell Dinner |
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| Manila - Farewell Dinner - Bye Philippines, I'll Miss You |
After dinner, we returned to our room and packed our bags for the trip home the following day.
Go to Table of Contents |
| Gate1Travel - 13-Day Philippines Tour |
Itinerary: Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Daily Journal
Summary: Fly Manila to Houston USA via Taipei
Weather: 84F and sunny.
Today we made the long journey home.
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| Today's Travel Map |
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| Souvenir's I Left Behind - No Room in Suitcase |
After breakfast, we hopped on the Gate1 shuttle van for the short 15-minute ride to Manila airport. By 9:15 am, we found ourselves in a long line, waiting over an hour to get our boarding passes. I had tried to download them ahead of time, but Manila airport doesn’t support mobile boarding passes just yet. Thankfully, once we finally had our passes in hand, moving through passport control and immigration was quick and hassle-free.
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| Manila - Our Plane from Manila to Taipei |
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| Manila - Flying Out - Bigger Than I Thought |
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| The Route from Manila to Taipei - 2-1/2 Hours |
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| Hello Taipei, I'm Back! |
Our EVA Air 777-300ER departed Manila on time at 12:50 pm and arrived in Taipei 2 hours and 25 minutes later around 3:15 pm. We then had roughly a 6-hour layover until our next flight.
Our EVA Air 777-300ER departed Taipei on schedule at 9:20 pm. We arrived early at 8:10 pm, 50 minutes before we left Taipei. Got to love that International Dateline. I slept quite a bit.
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| Our Plane from Taipei to Houston - Scheduled 14 Hour Flight |
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| Route Taipei to Houston |
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| Massive Tailwind - Almost Broke Sound Barrier - Arrived in Houston 50 Minutes Early |
I stayed overnight at a hotel near the airport in Houston and caught my noon flight back to Milwaukee the following day. While I was gone, Milwaukee got a ton of snow and experienced several days where temperatures never cracked 0°F. By contrast, I experienced summerlike whether in Taiwan and the Philippines for almost three weeks.
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| My Plane from Houston to Milwaukee |
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| Arriving in Milwaukee - Wishing I Was Back in The Philippines and Taiwan |
Well, another overseas trip has come to successful conclusion. I always enjoy coming home but yearn for more travel after a few days back. I'll have the winter to contemplate my next destination. Until next time.
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