a spot for your inner explorer to shine
Bio-diverse, bright, sunny and tropical can all aptly describe the Philippine islands. Just shy of 2,000 kilometers long from the top of Luzon to the foot of Mindanao, this 7,107-island nation accommodates various demographics, with broad mountain ranges to hike, caves to explore, flat plains to rummage through, underwater landscapes to dive in and rock faces, rivers and lakes to discover. Impressive food and entertainment aren’t lacking, either.
Tourist Visa for US Citizens: Not required for stays under 30 days. You will be required to have a return ticket to the United States or an onward ticket to another country.
US Department of State Philippines Information
Medications:
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of the Philippines to ensure the medication is legal in the Philippines and to obtain clearance to enter the country with it. Carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
Traveler’s Medical Insurance is highly advised:
Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Medicare and other standard Healthcare coverage does not extend to basic medical care or emergency care outside of the USA.
Palawan, Philippines
Simply sublime is the view from Amanpulo, set on a serene private island — in fact, the name Amanpulo means “peaceful island.” Lovebirds flock here for the remoteness and lavish yet discreet service, hallmarks of an outstanding romantic retreat. There are 18 villas and 42 casitas (beach, hillside and treetop), each with a spacious wooden deck with lounge chairs and a raised Cebu marble bathtub. For the best views, ask for the deluxe hillside casita with a full,expansive view of the ocean. Feeling active? The surrounding seas and fish-filled reef are a snorkeler’s and diver’s dream.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
PART OF MY AMAN PREFERRED PARTNER PORTFOLIO
Manila
Your best option in Manila if you are spending a few days.
In 2019, The Peninsula Manila was named a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star hotel, the only hotel in the principal central business districts of Makati and Bonifacio Global City to receive the coveted ranking in the publisher’s annual announcement of the world’s finest luxury hotels. With the latest addition of Manila in the portfolio of Forbes-rated destinations, The Peninsula Manila’s Five-Star Rating marks The Peninsula Hotel’s unprecedented achievement of being the first and only hotel brand to achieve the highest possible Forbes Travel Guide rating for all its ten hotels, making it a Perfect Ten.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
A VIRTUOSO PREFERRED PARTNER
PART OF MY PENINSULA PEN CLUB PORTFOLIO
Manila Bay
I like this hotel for those who need to overnight in Manila. A very good business hotel as well. Ninoy Aquino International Airport is 15 minutes away.
Of note: I am a Preferred Partner with this hotel. Enjoy complimentary VIP amenities when booking with me (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, Food or Spa Credit).
PART OF MY HYATT PREFERRED PARTNER PRIVÉ PORTFOLIO
Announced to open 2023
An Ultra-Luxury Private Island Sanctuary in the Philippines
Rosewood Hermana Mayor will be composed of 128 spacious keys of thoughtfully appointed villas and pavilions as well as branded residences, each boasting spectacular sea views and open vistas, and each also seamlessly blended into the lush tropical forest to showcase the natural setting of the island. Every building will be positioned to maximize stunning sunset views of the South China Sea.
Conveniently located just ten kilometers from the mainland and under two hours from Hong Kong, Rosewood Hermana Mayor is easily accessible by boat or plane. The stunning 500-hectare uninhabited island is home to several distinct microenvironments and has become a natural sanctuary for the area’s distinct flora and fauna.
go to: Rosewood Hermana Mayor Website
Philippines is definitely a place we would work with a Destination Specialist, especially on your first visit. Island hoppping can be a bit challenging to coordiante. I have several I prefer, depending on the type of adventure you are looking for.
A few good resources for easy tours, advance tickets & activities planning:
GET YOUR GUIDE
A curated source of Tickets, Tours and Activities.
VIATOR
A wide variety Tickets and Tours from the folks who bring you Trip Advisor.
My Philippines Information Page at Virtuoso
Here is a good place to start for some additional information on quality Hotels and Activities.
Need a bit of help planning a trip?
Let me know.
page updated: April 2020
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