THE Philippines, a breathtaking archipelago of over 7,000 islands, offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture and historical charm.
With its warm people, stunning landscapes and rich traditions, travellers are invited to discover the wonders of this diverse country by exploring its many attractions. Embark on a journey that captures the vibrant heart of the Philippines with a five-day, four-night adventure from Apple Vacations.
This journey promises an ideal mix of cultural exploration, unique experiences and culinary delights — designed to showcase the very best of the Philippines while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The Chinese Arch of Goodwill welcomes visitors to the bustling enclave of Binondo.-123rf.com
Experience cultural diversity
Immerse yourself in Manila's lively streets with a walking tour from Binondo Chinatown to Divisoria. Binondo, recognised as the world's oldest Chinatown, is an iconic representation of Manila's cultural diversity, where centuries-old Chinese heritage blends seamlessly with Filipino traditions.
Start with a visit to the Santa Cruz Church, built by Jesuits in 1608 to serve the growing Chinese population. The church stands as a reminder of the rich mix of faith and culture in the area. A few blocks away, you’ll find the Binondo Church, originally built in 1596 which symbolises resilience as it was reconstructed numerous times over the years.
The walk is filled with fascinating sights, including the Chinese Arch of Goodwill, which welcomes visitors to this bustling enclave. Moving towards Divisoria, you encounter the true essence of Manila: colourful vendors, bargain hunters and endless rows of stalls. This marketplace offers a vibrant, sensory overload—perfect for those who love the excitement of exploring local treasures.
The Manila City Tour showcases the vibrant history and culture of the capital. Begin at the Cultural Center Complex, a captivating display of Filipino arts, culture and creativity, featuring an opera house, art gallery, library, city hall and museums – all built on reclaimed land in Manila Bay.
Stroll through the expansive Rizal Park, Asia's largest urban park, dedicated to the country's national hero, Jose Rizal. There are three gardens in the park, adorned with flowers of Chinese, Italian and Japanese influence, providing an idyllic escape from bustling city life.
Taal Lake and Volcano, a breathtaking showcase of the Philippines’ stunning natural beauty.-123rf.com
Attractions of heritage and nature
Your journey through the Philippines wouldn't be complete without exploring its most celebrated attractions. Begin in Intramuros, Manila’s oldest neighbourhood and district. The name, which means "inside the walls," in Latin, refers to the historic walled city established by the Spanish in 1571. Inside, you'll walk through cobblestone streets lined with remnants of colonial architecture, offering a glimpse of Manila's storied past. Visit Fort Santiago, once Manila’s key defense fortress, now transformed into a park where you can relax and learn stories of resistance and endurance.
A must-see in Intramuros is the San Agustin Church, recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site in 1993 and the oldest stone church in the Philippines. You can admire the intricate details of this church, which withstood seven devastating earthquakes between 1645 and 1880, earning it the title of a “permanent miracle in stone.” This architectural marvel, built from locally quarried adobe stone and lime mortar, is a nationally recognised Cultural Treasure and Historical Landmark. Its baroque architecture, complete with trompe-l’oeil frescoes, an ornate altar, pulpit and choir seats, is nothing short of breathtaking. Inside, the museum offers a closer look at centuries-old religious artifacts and colonial art.
Next, venture out to Taal Lake and Volcano, one of the Philippines’ most iconic natural wonders. Located in Luzon, Taal Lake is a majestic crater lake with Volcano Island sitting within it. This unique natural formation, essentially a volcano within a lake, offers spectacular views and a calming atmosphere — making it a popular summer retreat.
The adventure continues at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, where the beauty of Spain's colonial era comes to life. This heritage resort features Spanish-Filipino homes that have been meticulously restored, allowing you to step back in time and see the elegance of the Philippines during the Spanish period. The property, developed by avid antique and arts collector Jose L.Acuzar, consists of 63 heritage homes and 34 structures built in the style of old houses or buildings. In November 2021, it was named the Best Historic Hotel in Asia and the Pacific by Historical Hotels of America. Las Casas also holds the honour of being nominated for the 2024 Top 25 Most Romantic Hotels by Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Enjoy the richness of history
One of the highlights of the journey is the Kalesa ride through Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. As you sit in the ornate horse-drawn carriage, you’re transported to a different era, surrounded by restored Spanish colonial homes and historic structures. The ride takes you through beautifully preserved settings that evoke the charm of old Spain in the Philippines. With cobbled streets underfoot and Spanish-era architecture around, it’s a magical way to feel the heartbeat of Filipino history and culture.
For those fascinated by history, a visit to the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) offers an opportunity to pay homage to Filipino and American soldiers who fought against the Japanese during World War II. The monument's towering memorial cross stands as a powerful symbol of courage and patriotism.
Taste a culinary journey
A journey through the Philippines isn’t complete without experiencing the country's delightful cuisine. Throughout your tour, you’ll have a chance to indulge in a wide variety of local dishes that highlight the diverse flavours of Filipino food.
Manila’s local delicacies provide an introduction to Filipino cuisine at its finest. Influenced by Spanish, Chinese and indigenous flavours, each dish tells a story of the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Sample authentic dishes like adobo (a savoury dish of meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce and garlic) and sinigang (a tangy tamarind-based soup), which offer a taste of the country’s flavourful heritage.
In addition to classic Filipino dishes, explore Asian fusion cuisine that draws inspiration from neighbouring countries while retaining a distinctly Filipino twist. And don’t miss the chance to try Filipino-Spanish influence cuisine, where the legacy of Spanish colonialism lives on through hearty dishes like paella and callos.
For those who want to indulge, there’s the “Eat All You Can” grilled and shabu-shabu experience — perfect for food lovers wanting to enjoy a hearty feast. The grilled selections provide a mix of meats, seafood and vegetables cooked over charcoal, while shabu-shabu allows diners to cook fresh ingredients in a flavourful broth, creating a communal, interactive dining experience.
Value for money holiday
This tour is more than a vacation—it's an exploration of the Philippines in all its glory. From the vibrant streets of Binondo to the heritage charm of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, every moment is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Filipino culture and history.
Priced at RM5,199, the Classical of Philippines Tour offers a complete journey. From unforgettable cultural experiences to mouth-watering local dishes, this tour promises an enriching experience filled with lasting memories.
Book your departure on Nov 9, 23, Dec 14, or anytime between January to April 2025 and get ready to create your own Filipino story — one that’s filled with laughter, culture and discovery.
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