{"id":16679523,"date":"2026-02-26T10:00:26","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T09:00:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/?p=16679523"},"modified":"2026-02-26T10:01:22","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T09:01:22","slug":"what-to-do-in-the-philippines","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/us\/what-to-do-in-the-philippines\/","title":{"rendered":"The Philippines: 7 invitations to travel"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201d67498989-fe43-4cc1-80eb-d194df7858f4\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dcenter\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d38px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|\u201d header_2_font_size_tablet=\u201d28px\u201d header_2_font_size_phone=\u201d22px\u201d header_2_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

From Hispanic heritage to the lagoons of Palawan<\/strong><\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d33px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||40px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

With over seven thousand islands<\/strong> dotted along the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines<\/a><\/u> are at the crossroads of a unique set of influences shaped by an encounter between Asia<\/a><\/u> and Spain<\/a><\/u>, then America. Guided by Sylviane de Tracy, Research & Development Director at PONANT EXPLORATIONS,<\/strong> who has just returned from a reconnaissance trip to the archipelago, we invite you to explore the natural and cultural treasures of this generous nation.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 quote V2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201dRGBA(255,255,255,0)\u201d background_enable_image=\u201doff\u201d background_size=\u201dcustom\u201d background_image_width=\u201d20%\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d max_width=\u201d1000px\u201d custom_margin=\u201d50px||||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|50px|60px|50px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|false|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|false|true\u201d background_image_width_tablet=\u201d20%\u201d background_image_width_phone=\u201d40%\u201d background_position_tablet=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_horizontal_offset_tablet=\u201d-4%\u201d background_horizontal_offset_phone=\u201d-10%\u201d background_vertical_offset_tablet=\u201d50%\u201d background_vertical_offset_phone=\u201d35%\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201dRGBA(255,255,255,0)\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/picto-quote.png\u201d alt=\u201dpicto-quote\u201d title_text=\u201dpicto-quote\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d55px\u201d module_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||40px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#000000\u2033 text_font_size=\u201d26px\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dcenter\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.5em\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d text_orientation=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d20px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d18px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_tablet=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_phone=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]The Philippines combines the warmth of human connection with the raw beauty of nature.<\/em>
\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#000000\u2033 text_font_size=\u201d22px\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dcenter\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.5em\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d text_orientation=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|20px|30px|20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d|0px||0px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d text_font_size_tablet=\u201d20px\u201d text_font_size_phone=\u201d18px\u201d text_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_tablet=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_phone=\u201d\u201d header_2_letter_spacing_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]Sylviane de Tracy, Cruise Research & Development Director at PONANT EXPLORATIONS
\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Travel back in time in the streets of Vigan<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/IMG_2349-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201da horse-drawn carriage in the streets of Vigan in the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||14px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px||51px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The town of Vigan<\/strong> emerges like a mirage of stone and history in the north of the vast island of Luzon,<\/strong> transporting you from the tropical heat of the archipelago to 16th\u00a0century Spain<\/strong>. The silence of its cobbled streets is broken only by the gentle clip-clop of its horse-drawn carriages from another era, known as kalesas.<\/em><\/strong> Through windows in Capiz mother-of-pearl, Asia\u2019s<\/strong> oldest<\/strong> colonial city<\/strong> offers you a miraculously well-preserved theatrical setting.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Ride through the history of Currimao on a tuk-tuk<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/IMG_7423-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dan ancient site near Currimao in the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||14px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d22px||21px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Some unexpected discoveries await close to Currimao<\/a><\/u><\/strong>, where an entire site facing the sea has been rebuilt, stone by stone, from historic monuments that have been saved from ruin. Hopping aboard a tuk-tuk<\/strong> is the best way to explore this maze of memories. \u201cChoosing local operators offers a privileged moment of connection,\u201d<\/em> highlights Sylviane de Tracy. It also provides a rare and intimate glimpse of the country<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d48px||72px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|62.8%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d header_2_font_size_tablet=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_phone=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The Philippines: an archipelago of over 7,000 islands<\/h2>\n

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With a total of 7,641 islands<\/strong>, the archipelago is divided into three main regions: Luzon <\/strong>in the north, the<\/strong> Visayas<\/strong> in the centre and Mindanao<\/strong> in the south. On the western flank, a string of islands links Luzon to the province of Palawan<\/strong>, a wild spit of land that stretches towards the South China Sea.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Stroll around an old American military base in Corregidor<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/photo_philippines_soldat-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201da statue of soldiers at the old American military base in Corregidor, the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||14px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d1_2,1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d46px||46px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Once a quarantine station on the legendary Acapulco-Manila<\/strong> trade route, Corregidor<\/a><\/u><\/strong> is located at the entrance to Manila<\/a><\/u> Bay<\/strong> and was once the stage of a tragic Second World War blockade. Now, the jungle is slowly colonising the old American military base, its rusty cannons providing welcome perches for birds. Here, the forest is healing the wounds of history in undisturbed quietude.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d48px||72px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|62.8%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d header_2_font_size_tablet=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_phone=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Acapulco-Manila: the galleon route<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d50px|||-17.9%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d0px|||0%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px|43px|40px|43px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

For over two centuries, this was one of the world\u2019s longest and most important shipping routes<\/strong>. Spanish galleons carried silver from the Americas to Manila, where it was exchanged for silks, porcelain and spices from Asia<\/strong>. This transpacific conveyance<\/strong> transformed the archipelago into a leading hub of globalisation and forged its unique identity as an Asian nation<\/strong> steeped in Hispanic culture<\/strong> and Catholicism.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Dive into dizzying Manila<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/iStock-1196930302-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dthe harbour and skyscrapers in Manila, the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||23px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Manila is the capital of the Philippines and a sprawling megalopolis <\/strong>that draws you into its dizzying explosion of life. Behind the modern facade of its skyscrapers<\/strong> lingers the city\u2019s Hispanic soul, sheltered by the walled fortifications in the Intramuros district<\/strong>. Another unexpected sanctuary is the American cemetery<\/strong>: with its vast lawns peppered with trees, it is a haven of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d48px||72px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|62.8%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d header_2_font_size_tablet=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_phone=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Roads are the vibrant theatres of everyday life<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d50px|||-17.9%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d0px|||0%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px|43px|40px|43px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Roads in the Philippines<\/a><\/u> set their own pace. Here, the tarmac isn\u2019t just for going from point A to point B: it\u2019s an extension of Filipino homes. \u201cThere\u2019s always something going on there,\u201d<\/em> explains Sylviane de Tracy. Colourful stalls, sleepy dogs and giggling children<\/strong> vie for a place on the road, while whole families pile onto motorbikes and defy the laws of gravity!<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Swim in the turquoise waters of Palawan<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/iStock-1488194093-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dthe cliffs and turquoise waters of the island of Palawan in the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||23px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d36px||55px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Head for the island of Palawan<\/strong>, and Coron in particular, where black limestone cliffs stand out against the horizon before joining the sea that glitters with a thousand shades of blue. In the depths of this fascinating mineral labyrinth, lakes and lagoons <\/strong>reveal crystal-clear waters<\/strong> that are ideal for a spot of undisturbed snorkelling. <\/strong>Picture yourself: a tiny speck swimming weightlessly at the foot of some truly vertiginous stone cathedrals!<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Explore a secret river in Puerto Princesa<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/iStock-1031893646-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dthe underground river in Puerto Princesa, the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||23px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Make sure you don\u2019t miss another Filipino treasure located further south and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the underground river of <\/strong>Puerto Princesa<\/a><\/u><\/strong>.<\/a><\/u> Accessing it is a challenging expedition in its own right! After crossing the jungle<\/strong>, you board a bangka <\/em><\/strong>to glide beneath the rock. In the silence of the cave<\/strong>, the pirogue reveals an imposing natural cathedral<\/strong> sculpted by water and time.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d48px||37px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|62.8%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d header_2_font_size_tablet=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_phone=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Dive around a cemetery of Japanese ships in Coron<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d50px|||-17.9%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d0px|||0%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px|43px|40px|43px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

The waters of <\/strong>Coron<\/a><\/u> <\/strong>are the grail of divers everywhere! In September 1944, a Japanese fleet was sunk in Coron by American aircraft and today, a dozen ships lie at shallow depths. Marine life has taken over the steel: soft corals and schools of tropical fish<\/strong> dance around the ghostly structures of the Okikawa Maru<\/em><\/strong> and Irako<\/em><\/strong>. This underwater exploration reveals a piece of history at every turn.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|600|||||||\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.2em\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||18px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Sample the enthusiasm of the Filipino people<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

Beyond the landscapes<\/strong>, a trip to the Philippines promises \u201ca lesson in life\u201d<\/em> according to Sylviane de Tracy. Every remote village offers the same smiles and warm welcome. The children\u2019s initial shyness quickly gives way to curiosity and bursts of laughter in testimony to the country\u2019s deeply rooted culture of hospitality<\/strong>. This warmth is fuelled by their active faith<\/strong> that is also evident in the country\u2019s places of worship \u2013 real hubs of life that act as an invisible cement that binds communities in a shared sense of dignity.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/philippines-ambiance-de-rue.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dTuk Tuk in the Philipiines\u201d title_text=\u201dphilippines ambiance de rue\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d2_5,3_5\u2033 admin_label=\u201dMEA \u2013 decalage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d48px||37px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|on||||||\u201d header_2_text_align=\u201dleft\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#ffffff\u201d header_2_font_size=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_line_height=\u201d1.4em\u201d background_color=\u201d#307f90\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|-30%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d|0%|||false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|62.8%|30px|20px|true|false\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px|||true|false\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d header_2_font_size_tablet=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_phone=\u201d23px\u201d header_2_font_size_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

A Catholic exception in Asia<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_enable_color=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d background_color=\u201d#f7f7f7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d50px|||-17.9%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_tablet=\u201d0px|||0%|false|false\u201d custom_margin_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_margin_last_edited=\u201don|desktop\u201d custom_padding=\u201d40px|43px|40px|43px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_tablet=\u201d|20px||20px|true|true\u201d custom_padding_phone=\u201d\u201d custom_padding_last_edited=\u201don|tablet\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

With over 80% practising Catholics, the Philippines is the only major country in Asia to have a mainly Catholic population<\/strong> (alongside Timor-Leste). This unique spiritual profile is the legacy of three centuries of Spanish presence and is embodied by a guiding icon: the Santo Ni\u00f1o<\/strong>. Gifted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 for the first baptisms in Cebu, this statuette of the Infant Jesus is the country\u2019s oldest religious relic and remains the subject of huge popular devotion. It is also a protective symbol that watches over the entire archipelago.<\/p>\n

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Sylviane de Tracy\u2019s favourites<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=\u201doff\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d width=\u201d15%\u201d width_tablet=\u201d150px\u201d width_phone=\u201d150px\u201d width_last_edited=\u201don|phone\u201d module_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||40px||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||||false|false\u201d border_width_bottom=\u201d4px\u201d border_color_bottom=\u201d#26afc2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n

\u201cDuring my reconnaissance trip, I visited some ports of call that are still largely unknown to tourists. One such gem was my stopover at Claveria, <\/strong>a fishing village that boasts a paradisiacal bay<\/strong> with turquoise waters, a forest of coconut trees in the background and a beach with a hundred or so outrigger canoes used for fishing. It\u2019s extraordinary! <\/em>The Batanes<\/strong>, which are closer to Taiwan than the Philippines, are also remarkable. With their green meadows, <\/strong>cows and rolling hills, you\u2019d be forgiven for thinking you were in Scotland!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/escales.ponant.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/iStock-1077229464-1.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dChamantad-Ti\u00f1an cove, Sabtang Island in the Province of Batanes, the Philippines\u201d title_text=\u201ddecouverte-philippines\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||23px|||\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d max_width=\u201d900px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||0px||true|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font_size=\u201d12px\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|300|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#334556\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d30px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px||108px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]\u00a0<\/p>\n

Photo credits: Sylviane de Tracy; iStock<\/p>\n

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Let PONANT take you there<\/p>\n

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Cruise along the most beautiful coastlines in the Philippines<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=\u201dhttps:\/\/us.ponant.com\/destinations\/asia\u201d url_new_window=\u201don\u201d button_text=\u201dSee all our Asian cruises \u201d button_alignment=\u201dleft\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_margin=\u201d20px||20px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

From Hispanic heritage to the lagoons of Palawan<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":16658066,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_sitemap_exclude":false,"_sitemap_priority":"","_sitemap_frequency":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1189],"tags":[],"thematique":[1463,1479,1488],"class_list":["post-16679523","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-get-inspired-us","thematique-asia-us","thematique-islands-us","thematique-oceania-and-pacific-us"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nThe Philippines: 7 experiences to enjoy | PONANT Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover the Philippines: from Vigan with its colonial streets to Palawan with its turquoise lagoons, the country offers a mix of Hispanic heritage and natural treasures.\" \/>\n<meta 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