Important Note: The Philippines experiences fluctuations in prices during holiday seasons and surcharges will apply for travel that falls within the following periods (dates vary by hotel and will be advised at the time of booking): Chinese New Year | Holy Week | Chinese Golden Week | Japanese Golden Week | Korean Chuseok | All Saints Day | Christmas/New Year
Independent Holiday
8 Days - Manila to Manila
Departs Daily
Manila (2) | Villa Escudero (2) | Manila-Maktai City (3)
Discover the vibrant city of Manila and the surrounding area with an immersive itinerary that includes a walking tour of historic Intramuros (also known as Old Manila), a visit to the presidential Malacañang Palace, an embroidery class in Lumban, the exquisite wood carvings of Paete, and the rustic charm of Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort, a working coconut plantation.
Highlights:
- Explore the renowned walled city of Intramuros
- A visit to Malacañang Palace
- Embroidery display and class
- Two nights on a working coconut plantation with a carabao drawn cart-ride
- Three nights in the lively regenerated area of Makatai city, Manila
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Manila (D)
Welcome to The Philippines. On arrival at Manila Airport, you will be met by a representative of our local operator and transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for two nights. Remainder of the day at leisure. Dinner is included this evening at the Café Rizal. Overnight Manila.
Day 2: Manila (BLD)
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.
Day 3: Manila - Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort, Quezon (BL)
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.
Day 4: Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort (BL)
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.
Day 5: Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort - Manila (B)
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.
Days 6 & 7: Manila (B)
Two free days in Manila to explore and experience this vibrant city on your own.
A must in Manila is to hop on an iconic jeepney! These vibrant open-air vehicles are a cultural emblem, reflecting the country's rich history and artistry. Dive into the diverse array of museums covering history, arts, science, optical illusions, travel, and even desserts. Manila is a culinary haven, offering everything from street food delights to top-rated restaurants serving iconic Filipino dishes. As night falls, catch the breathtaking sunset before venturing out to popular resto-bars and pubs.
Day 8: Manila (B)
This morning you will be transferred to Manila Airport for your onward flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 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
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- 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
Accommodation based on the following (3* & 4* hotels) (or similar):
Manila
First Class: Henry Hotel
Quezon
Special Category: Villa Escudero Plantation and Resort
Manila (Makatai City)
Boutique Style: Hotel Celeste
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Holiday Period Surchages Apply
The Philippines experiences fluctuations in prices during holiday seasons and surcharges will apply for travel that falls on the following periods (dates vary by hotel and will be advised at the time of booking):
Holy Week
Chinese New Year
Japanese Golden Week
Korean Chuseok
Christmas / New Year Period
Sightseeing
Activites are subject to weather conditions and may change without prior notice
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
