In the heart of Makati City in Manila lies the capital’s crown jewel, The Peninsula Hotel. For more than 40 years, the hotel has stood as the pillar of decadence and luxury for the discerning traveller. Located less than 10km from the international airport, the hotel is only moments from the Ayala Centre with its famed Greenbelt Mall (500m). Stay in one of the hotel’s 497 rooms where you’ll be treated with the high standard of comfort expected from the Peninsula brand and be sure you treat yourself to one of its six restaurant and bars. Our tip? Don’t leave without trying the classic Filipino dessert halo-halo followed by some people watching in the hotel’s lobby.

After enjoying the Filipino favourite, halo halo, get ready to burn some serious money. The SM Mall of Asia is a haven for shopaholics and it’s hard not to get lost in this colossal retail city. As one of the largest shopping malls in the world, you’ll find all your favourite luxury brand names as well as a treasure trove of jewellery, beauty and technology. Major hotels have shuttle buses running to and from the mall daily or opt for a 30-minute taxi ride from Makati. Want to take a break from all the retail therapy? The mall also includes a cinema, ice rink, science discovery centre, bowling alley and numerous restaurants that line the waterfront of Manila Bay.

As the oldest district in the capital, the ‘Walled City’ is a history lover’s best bet for a day exploring old ruins and monuments, some of which date from the Spanish occupation in the 16th century. Set aside a day to walk and explore the old town by foot, marking off the following sites as must-see destinations: 1. Fort Santiago: the military headquarters of the old Spanish colonial government. Here, it’s also possible to see the extent of the damage caused by the 1945 Battle of Manila during WWII . The main gate of Fort Santiago is a popular tourist spot for photos. 2. Baluarte de San Diego: One of the first stone forts built in the Philippines. Despite being heavily damaged in WWII, it has been completely restored. 3. Manila Cathedral: As the most important church in the Philippines, this is a must-see for architect addicts. The cathedral has been built and re-built more than five times since its initial consecration in 1581. 4. San Agustin Church: Commonly referred to as the Philippines’ oldest church, San Agustin stands today as a reminder of Spanish colonisation with its baroque-style finishes. 5. Casa Manila: Take a step back in time and experience life in the colonial era’s upper class as you walk through a recreation of a typical Intramuros home. 6. Barbara’s (Plaza San Luis, General Luna St): Located just a stone’s throw from San Agustin Church, experience traditional Filipino food overlooking the old city.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Manila as your explore the tropical surrounds of Cebu. Just 45 minutes from Cebu City lies Mactan Island with its pristine, azure waters and tropical reefs. Perfect for both families and couples, the island is littered with luxury resorts and hotels. Looking for cocktails on a white sand beach? This place has it all. Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa: If your idea of a great holiday is one spent poolside, with a sea breeze and tropical sunlight, look no further. The Shangri-La offers all of the usual treats and more. The resort’s Marine Sanctuary is also a winner for families, as you can take an underwater adventure with the local aquatic wildlife. With more than 530 rooms, the resort features contemporary amenities with a Filipino flair and is less than 20 minutes from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Guests staying at the resort also have the option of experiencing CHI, the hotel’s spa. Covering more than 10,000sq m, the spa is more like a village with private villas, pools, gardens and baths. More importantly, the resort features seven restaurants and bars to cater for the needs of the whole family. Movenpick Resort Cebu: Think Mediterranean vibes with a Filipino touch as you enter the Movenpick Resort. With its clean, white lines and natural wood finishes, this is island living at its best. Located 6km from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the hotel has more than 245 rooms and suites with all the modern luxuries you’d expect. The hotel’s Ibiza Beach Club is a must-do. Perched at the end of the marina, the club is the hottest in the area. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled, as the resort has international talent performing regularly. If the cool vibes and dance music isn’t quite your thing, the hotel also offers chic dining spaces in its all-day dining restaurant. Did someone say cocktails?

Going organic has never been easier. Located in Panglao Island, the Bohol Bee Farm is a little less than 15km from Tagbilaran City, accessible by either ferry from Mactan or by air from Manila. With resort-style accommodation, the farm has some of the best agricultural produce in the area – all organically grown. Unwind, disconnect and reconnect with nature, as well as trying some of owner and chef Vicky Wallace’s famous honey. Now, that’s a sweet deal.

The thrill-seekers paradise – Bulabog Beach, Boracay: Looking to raise your adrenalin levels? Known as Asia’s capital of kiteboarding, Bulabog Beach is quieter than its west coast counterpart, White Beach, on Boracay Island. Stay between November and May for calm waters and warm days on the beach. Be sure to visit the Hangin Kite Centre and try your hand at kiteboarding on the pristine waters of Bulabog. Looking for somewhere to stay? Try the Boracay Mandarin Island Hotel with its luxurious rooms and beachfront position.

Paradise on Earth – Coron: Take a step back in time and explore the untouched region of Coron, with its majestic jungles, mystical blue waters, WWII shipwrecks, pristine beaches and walking tracks. Be sure to visit the island’s mangroves, see the picturesque Twin Lagoon, or go snorkelling on Barracuda Lake. Coron is made for island-hopping, so pack your swimming costume and get ready for some of the best beaches in the Philippines. Where to stay – Two Seasons Island Resort & Spa: Despite being only minutes away from Coron Town, you’ll feel a million miles away at this eco-friendly resort. Featuring contemporary Filipino tropical design, the resort is the perfect base for exploring the outer islands and underwater reefs. With 42 bungalows and two separate beaches, the resort also features child-friendly activities. Feast on local, sustainable produce cooked the traditional way for a truly authentic experience. Filipino Safari – Calauit Safari Park: Forget the long-haul to Africa – the Calauit Safari Park is a one-of-a-kind wildlife sanctuary in Asia with giraffes, antelopes and zebras roaming free. It was created in the 1970s by former President Ferdinand Marcos.

Where to stay – Bacuit Bay Lagen Resort: Made up of 45 islands, El Nido is a major tourist destination on the island of Palawan. With its clear waters, limestone cliffs, pristine inlets, and thick jungle, Bacuit Bay makes for the perfect island escape. The resort, Lagen Island, is the definition of private luxury. Located between a forest and a tropical lagoon, the resort has its own library, clinic and villa-style accommodation. From birdwatching to badminton, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Hot tip: Graze on the sustainable, organically grown produce available on the island. For more information on travelling in the Philippines visit, itsmorefuninthephilippines.com or tourismphilippines.com.au