Philippines Vacations — 7,641 Islands of Extraordinary Beauty
Philippines
The Philippines is one of Southeast Asia's most extraordinary travel destinations — an archipelago of 7,641 islands with some of the world's most beautiful beaches, world-class diving, extraordinary marine biodiversity, and the warmest hospitality in Asia. Palawan's El Nido, Boracay's White Beach, and the extraordinary Tubbataha Reef make the Philippines one of the world's great beach and diving destinations.
Why Visit Philippines?
- ✓Palawan — consistently ranked the world's most beautiful island, with extraordinary El Nido and Coron
- ✓Boracay — White Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches
- ✓Tubbataha Reef — a UNESCO World Heritage marine reserve with extraordinary diving
- ✓Chocolate Hills, Bohol — an extraordinary geological formation of 1,268 conical hills
- ✓Whale sharks, Oslob — swim with the world's largest fish in Cebu
Things to Do in Philippines
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
El Nido Island Hopping, Palawan
Take an island hopping tour through the extraordinary El Nido archipelago — limestone karsts, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches.
Boracay White Beach
Relax on the extraordinary White Beach in Boracay — one of the world's most beautiful beaches, with fine white sand and crystal-clear water.
Whale Shark Snorkelling, Oslob
Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu — an extraordinary experience, though controversial due to the feeding of wild animals.
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Visit the extraordinary Chocolate Hills — 1,268 conical hills that turn chocolate brown in the dry season, a UNESCO tentative World Heritage Site.
Tubbataha Reef Diving
Dive the extraordinary Tubbataha Reef — a UNESCO World Heritage marine reserve accessible only by liveaboard, with extraordinary marine biodiversity.
Intramuros, Manila
Explore the extraordinary Intramuros — the walled city of Manila, with extraordinary Spanish colonial architecture and history.
Ready to book your Philippines trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Philippines
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Fine Dining
Gallery by Chele, Manila
The Philippines' most celebrated restaurant — extraordinary modern Filipino cuisine by chef Chele González.
Filipino Cuisine
Lechon de Cebu
The most celebrated dish in the Philippines — extraordinary whole roast pig, a must-eat in Cebu.
Seafood
Dampa Seaside Market, Manila
Manila's most extraordinary seafood experience — choose your fresh seafood from the market and have it cooked to order.
Where to Stay in Philippines
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
El Nido Resorts, Palawan
LuxuryThe most celebrated resorts in Palawan — four extraordinary eco-resorts on pristine islands, with exceptional service and world-class diving.
Shangri-La Boracay
LuxuryBoracay's finest resort — beautiful beach, exceptional spa, and world-class service on the extraordinary Punta Bunga Cove.
Amanpulo, Pamalican Island
LuxuryOne of the world's most extraordinary private island resorts — 40 casitas on a pristine island in the Sulu Sea, exceptional service.
Planning Your Philippines Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
November through April — the dry season with the best weather for beaches and diving. May through October is the wet season and typhoon season.
🌤️ Climate
Tropical with a wet season (June–October) and a dry season (November–May). Temperatures are warm year-round (27–32°C).
✈️ Getting There
Connecting flights from Calgary to Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) via Tokyo, Seoul, or Hong Kong. Total travel time approximately 16–20 hours.
Wendy's Take on Philippines
35+ years of travel expertise
After 35+ years in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of exploring countless island nations, but the Philippines truly stands out. With its staggering 7,641 islands, it's a destination that promises an adventure for every kind of traveler. My clients often ask me where to find the most pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, and I always point them towards this incredible archipelago. From the turquoise lagoons of Palawan to the world-renowned dive sites of Coron and Malapascua, the natural beauty here is simply breathtaking. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise, whether you're seeking serene relaxation or thrilling underwater exploration.
What makes the Philippines so special, beyond its stunning landscapes, is the warmth and genuine hospitality of its people. I've seen firsthand how visitors are welcomed with open arms, making every interaction a memorable part of their journey. When planning a trip, I always advise my clients to consider the dry season, typically from November to May, for the best weather, though certain regions offer fantastic experiences year-round. Don't shy away from exploring beyond the main tourist hubs; some of the most authentic experiences are found in smaller, less-traveled islands. For accommodation, you'll find everything from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels and eco-friendly guesthouses, catering to all preferences and budgets.
Beyond the beaches and diving, the Philippines offers a rich tapestry of culture and cuisine. I always tell people to embrace the local flavors, from the savory adobo to the sweet halo-halo. Exploring bustling markets, historic churches, and vibrant festivals adds another layer to the travel experience. For those who love adventure, consider island-hopping tours, volcano treks, or even learning to surf. My clients who have visited the Philippines consistently rave about the unforgettable memories they've made, often planning return trips to discover more of its hidden gems. It's a destination that truly captures the heart, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and unparalleled kindness.
Insider Tips — Philippines
To truly experience Palawan's magic, book a multi-day expedition boat tour from El Nido to Coron (or vice versa) rather than just day trips; it offers a more immersive and less crowded experience.
When in Boracay, venture beyond White Beach to Diniwid Beach for a quieter, more secluded atmosphere, or explore the kitesurfing scene at Bulabog Beach.
Always carry enough cash, especially on smaller islands or remote areas, as ATMs can be scarce or unreliable, and many local establishments prefer cash.
Pack a dry bag! It's indispensable for protecting your electronics and valuables during island hopping, boat tours, and unexpected downpours.
For the best diving experiences, aim for the dry season (December to May) when visibility is at its peak, especially in world-renowned spots like Tubbataha Reefs or Apo Island.
Frequently Asked Questions — Philippines
Do Canadians need a visa for the Philippines?
No — Canadian citizens can visit the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days with a valid passport. This can be extended to 59 days at immigration offices.
Which island is best in the Philippines?
Palawan (El Nido, Coron) is the most beautiful; Boracay has the best beach; Cebu has the best diving and whale sharks; Siargao is the best surfing destination.
Is the Philippines safe for tourists?
The main tourist areas of the Philippines (Palawan, Boracay, Cebu, Bohol) are generally safe for tourists. The southern Philippines (Mindanao) has some security concerns — Wendy will advise on safe itineraries.
More Asia & Southeast Asia Destinations
Book Your Philippines Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Philippines vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Philippines Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Philippines travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.