Our to-do list for the Philippines

If there is one place that we both keep dreaming of over and over again it’s the Philippines. Yes, we were lucky enough to go there but two weeks is nothing in a country that consists of over 7,000 islands.  We barely scratched the surface of what the Philippines has to offer and would love to one day got back (and we will) to make the most of everything it has to offer.

So if you’re  lucky enough to be visiting the Philippines and want to make us very jealous here’s a few things to get you started…

Chocolate Hills

A beach holiday in Boracay might be one of the countries most famous options but in close second comes the chocolate hills in Bohol. The popular tourist attraction is a geological formation of over 1,200 hills whose grass turns brown during the dry season making the hills look like they’re made of… you guessed it chocolate.

Banaue Rice Terraces

Much like the chocolate hills the rice terraces are just one of those things you need to see. These giant steps were carved into the mountain side over 200 years ago so the local people could farm the land and they are still used for planting rice and vegetables today. Local guides are available to show you round the terraces and introduce you to the local tribes which, if you feel the need, can also include a visit to the local doctor (Mumbaki) for some spiritual healing rituals.

Vila Escudero Plantations

Although a fully operational coconut plantation Vila Escudero has welcomed guests since 1981 offering accommodation, village & museum tours in an impressive rural setting. Often described as one of the best ways to experience Philippine culture a visit to Vila Escudero is worth it for a nights stay by the lake alone.

Thresher sharks

Monad Shoa, just of Malapascua is the only place in the world you can see thresher sharks at recreational diving limits. This is a must do for anyone who is interested anything to do with the underwater world. Thresher Sharks use the Shoal as a cleaning station to remove parasites from their skin and are seen regularly just before sunrise. It also attracts lots of other fish including Mantas and Hammerheads. Once you have had you fill, Malapascua also has plenty of bars to enjoy a hard earned pint. (So we’ve actually done this one before, but it’s well worth a second visit)

Samal, Davao

It would be pretty impossible (and silly) to go all the way to the Philippines and not make the most of the fantastic beaches on offer.  Everyone enjoys crystal clear waters even if getting sand between your toes isn’t your thing, so how about ending your trip in style on a perfect beach and in the comfort of a nice resort?  The island is one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in the Philippines and it’s easy to see why.

Flights to the Philippines can be found here and as the tourism board proudly says ‘It’s more fun in the Philippines’ so why wouldn’t you go?