Su’ao, Taiwan
Arrive in Su’ao on Taiwan’s east coast. Choose to take on a challenging 5 km (3.1-mile) round-trip hike along the Qixing Mountain Trail, taking approximately 2.5 hours. Visit Yilan Xing Yuan Tea Farm for a hands-on tea-picking and tea-tasting experience. This family-run farm combines the names of its first- and third-generation owners. Enjoy a local buffet lunch at the National Center for Traditional Arts and connect with artisans to explore how Taiwanese art reflects cultural influences. Conclude the day at the Kavalan Whisky Distillery with a behind-the-scenes look at its pioneering single malt production in Yilan County, followed by a tasting and shopping opportunity.
Hike Advisory: The Qixing Mountain Trail consists mostly of well-spaced stairs with no handrails. This is a difficult hike.
Sea Day
Spend the day relaxing at sea while sailing across the South China Sea en route to the Philippines.
Claveria, Luzon
Located on the north coast of Luzon and directly south of Taiwan, Claveria is known as the “Paradise of the North.” Cross the hanging bridge at Barangay Nagsabaran and sample regional cuisine. Discover the area’s rich biodiversity, try traditional catch fishing, and visit the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to learn about local fish hatchery practices. See a heritage house, the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, and a historic 948-pound church bell at Sta. Maria Eco Park.
Palaui Island
Explore the historic Cabo Engaño Lighthouse, a decommissioned 19th-century structure built during the Spanish colonial era and now recognized as a National Cultural Treasure. Hike to the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Dos Hermanos Islands.
Lighthouse Walk: From the Xplorer landing, walk 140 meters across the sand to reach the start of a 300-step path leading to the lighthouse. The trail includes shaded dirt paths and exposed concrete stairs with handrails. Moderate difficulty.
Sea Day & Maculabo Island
Enjoy sunset beach drinks and leisure time on Maculabo Island, part of the Calaguas group in Camarines Norte. The next day, explore the island’s sandy beach and fishing village. Spend the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing in this unspoiled setting.
Palumbanes
Spend the morning snorkeling or diving in the pristine waters around Bitoag and Tignob Islands. If tides allow, explore the remote headland trails.
Biri & La Laguna Eco Park
Visit the village of Danggit to learn about its namesake dried fish industry. Travel by local transport to experience the process firsthand. At La Laguna Eco Park, explore 300 hectares of mangrove forests, clear waters, and wildlife including fish, crabs, sea urchins, fruit bats, monkeys, and birds. Meet with local women’s group leaders to learn about conservation efforts and community-driven management. Follow boardwalks through the mangroves to understand the program’s ecological impact.
Higatangan Island
Receive a warm welcome on this remote island and learn about traditional medicine, fishing net-making, shipbuilding, and local artistry. Travel by local transport to the island’s highest point for sweeping views of the Visayan Sea. Enjoy a local seafood boodle lunch beneath aged beechwood trees, then snorkel from the Xplorer at a nearby reef.
Mambajao & Mantigue Island
On Camiguin, known as the “Island Born of Fire,” explore volcanic landscapes shaped by seven volcanoes. Visit the well-preserved Chen Heritage House and sample traditional cuisine. Cool off at the 70-meter-high Katibawasan Falls before heading to Mantigue Island for an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, or diving in crystal-clear waters.
Bohol
Cruise along the scenic Loboc River aboard a riverboat while enjoying a buffet lunch of local specialties, accompanied by live music. Stop at a floating platform to watch a traditional song and dance performance. Visit the Tarsier Conservatory to observe one of the world’s smallest primates, and admire the iconic Chocolate Hills from a scenic overlook.
Cuatro Islas
Named after the Spanish word for “four islands,” Cuatro Islas includes three inhabited islands rarely visited by tourists. Spend a full day snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and cruising around this idyllic tropical destination.
Maripipi
Explore the towns of Agutay and Casibang for an immersive cultural experience. Sample regional treats and observe traditional vine weaving and centuries-old pottery techniques. On nearby Sambawan Island, enjoy snorkeling and a light hike to a 360-degree viewpoint.
Tiaco
Stroll through the historic streets of San Jacinto and learn about local cacao processing, followed by a tasting of rich hot chocolate made with coconut milk. Visit the fish market to observe the local catch. In the afternoon, swim, snorkel, kayak, or relax under coconut palms at a nearby resort. Divers and snorkelers can explore the marine life at Halea Nature Resort.
Marinduque
Discover Marinduque’s unique cultural traditions, including the Moriones Festival, where locals wear wooden masks and armor to reenact the Passion of Christ. Visit the craftsman who creates these intricate pieces. Later, explore the island’s cathedral and 1930s-style town square before ending the day with a final swim near Natangco Island before sailing on to Manila.
