On the island of Luzon, Manila is the bustling capital of the Philippines and gateway to the secluded beach resorts and mountainous north. Manila is characterized by a delightful mix of old and new...the old walled city (called Intramuros) reveals a rich cultural heritage including Fort Santiago and San Augustin Church while the dynamic business district of Makati showcases modern Filipino entrepreneurial spirit and the Ayala Museum. Just one hour from Manila, the town of Tagaytay offers magnificent views of the Taal Volcano...more adventurous types can climb it in a day.

Northern Luzon features adventure and hilltribe treks in the spectacular Banaue Rice Terraces built centuries ago by the ancestors of the Ifugao tribespeople. Walking among these ancient man-made terrace inspires awe and respect for the rice cultivator. Explore the area in more depth by continuing along mountain trails to the villages of Bontoc and Sagada known for their unique burial caves and colorful weavings. Shop for local crafts and forest products in the summer capital Baguio City. Explore the provinces of Ilocos in northwestern Luzon, whose a rugged coastline that still retains many of the Spanish influences particularly in the architecture and religion of these small towns.

The islands of the Philippines feature a wide variety of resorts and accommodation that cater to every traveler's budget and whim. Boracay offers white powder sand beaches with a texture as fine as confectionery sugar and crystal clear waters ideal for all sports and activities...pure leisure and underwater sport are easily combined. It is the stark beauty of this unspoiled 5 mile island that makes for an extra special holiday in Asia. Palawan is a mini-archipelago of virgin islands popular for its water sports and superb diving including the St. Paul Subterranean National Park famous for its 6 mile underground river, the longest in the world.

The thin tropical isle of Cebu is known for its exclusive resorts and as an upcoming business center. Its information links to the rest of the world make for a popular business vacation. Bohol is famous for its "chocolate hills", striking limestone formations that turn a delicious brown in the fall and are home to the world's smallest monkey. Climb Mt. Apo, home to the endangered Philippine eagle, visit the Derling Orchid Farm for the spectacular waling-waling orchid, hike to the tribal villages of Zamboanga, or take a short cruise to the pink coral beaches of Santa Cruz Island...all on the islands of Mindanao, the second largest island group in the archipelago.