Philippines for families: City and island escape

Today you will join your local guide for an alternative tour around one of most historical parts of Manila. You will saddle a bamboo bike for a cycling trip around Intramuros, a well preserved fortified area in the heart of the capital. You will learn about the early beginnings of the Philippines and such heroes such as Jose Rizal. At the end of your tour you will be taken back to your hotel where you will have the rest of the day at leisure.

This morning is free to relax or explore at your own leisure. You may wish to make use of the hotel's large pool area or perhaps take a walk to nearby Rizal Park and the National Museum. This afternoon you will accompany your guide to the Chinatown district, otherwise known as Binondo. This area is famed for its variety of cuisine and many popular local eateries. Your guide will introduce you to many of the staple Filipino dishes as well as a few exotic foods. Having the chance to walk around and dine in the local restaurants is both an informative and authentic experience. If you are still hungry, later on you may wish to try out one of Manila's many top restaurants some of which we can confidently recommend.

After breakfast you will be collected from your hotel and taken to the airport in time for your flight to Bohol. Upon arrival on Bohol you will be met by your local guide and taken to your hotel. On route your guide will give you a short introduction to the island and detail your arrangements for the coming days. After checking in to your beachside accommodation you will have the rest of the day free to relax or explore at your own leisure. The day can be spent sunbathing on the beach or enjoying some drinks in the open air bar and restaurant.

Today you will spend your time exploring the highlights of Bohol including the beautiful Chocolate Hills, local markets and Tarsier Sanctuary. Time permitting you will have the chance to meet the man behind the Tariser project, Carlito the Tariser man. He will explain the idea behind the sanctuary and guide you on a short trek through the forest the world's smallest primates call home. Lunch today will be had at the bee farm on Panglao Island where fresh organic cuisine is offered. After a refreshing lunch and short tour you will make your last stop at the Chocolate Hills surrounding Carmen for sunset. This evening is free to relax after a long day touring.

Enjoy a full day trip to nearby Pamilacan Island where you will have the opportunity to swim, snorkel and enjoy a beach front BBQ. During the boat journey you will have the chance to spot dolphins or even whales during the correct season. This evening is free to relax at your hotel.

You will have the full day to relax or explore Panglao Island. This evening it is recommended you dine out at the Tarsier Paprika restaurant, one of the finest in the area.

This morning you will be collected from your hotel and taken to the ferry terminal in time for your boat journey across to Cebu. From the ferry terminal you will be transferred to Mactan Island, home to your five star resort the Shangri-La. Here you will have a few days to relax and enjoy the many facilities on offer including the resident marine park.

Enjoy an unforgettable Cessna flight over Cebu and the surrounding islands before relaxing again at the hotel.

Spend your last full day relaxing or exploring at your own leisure. This evening you may want to try out one of our recommended restaurants for a special meal.

This morning you will bid farewell to the Philippines and transfer to the airport in time for your onward flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.