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 Shangri-La Mactan Cebu is a luxurious beach resort featuring an outdoor pool, free WiFi, and nine dining options, along with a CHI spa. Located 15 minutes from the airport, it offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private balconies overlooking the Mactan Sea and tropical gardens. Amenities include a pillow menu, minibar, and cable TV, with Ocean Wing rooms providing a separate entrance and beautiful sunrise views. This is a large resort on impeccably landscaped grounds. This is a perfect resort for a family as there is a lot for kids to do without leaving the grounds.

 Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls in Cebu is an unforgettable adventure through some of the island’s most stunning jungle landscapes. The route takes you over cliffs, through cascading waterfalls, and into natural pools of incredible aqua-blue water, fed by a spring that keeps it refreshingly chilly at every turn. Along the way, you’ll hike, swim, and jump your way through narrow gorges, hidden caves, and rushing streams, surrounded by lush tropical greenery. It’s thrilling, immersive, and absolutely breathtaking—a perfect way to experience Cebu’s natural beauty up close while getting an exhilarating dose of adventure. This is a must do for anyone visiting the Philippines! Perfect for all levels.

ATV riding in the Chocolate Hills of Bohol is an exhilarating way to explore one of the Philippines’ most iconic landscapes. As you navigate the rolling hills, winding trails, and lush countryside, you get a hands-on, adventurous perspective that simply can’t be experienced from a car or viewpoint alone. The ride is scenic, thrilling, and full of surprises, from steep inclines to dusty paths, so don’t be afraid to get a little dirty—it’s all part of the fun! Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a unique way to connect with nature, feel the thrill of the terrain, and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Chocolate Hills up close.

 Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the Loboc River in Bohol is a serene escape into nature, offering a peaceful way to glide along calm, emerald waters. Surrounded by lush jungle, you’ll be accompanied by the gentle sounds of chirping birds, croaking frogs, and distant roosters, creating a soundtrack of pure tropical tranquility. Moving at your own pace, you can take in the beauty of the riverbanks, watch the local wildlife, and feel completely immersed in the rhythm of the jungle. It’s a relaxing, restorative adventure that lets you connect with nature, unwind, and experience the calm magic of Bohol from the water.

 Discover a paradise retreat like no other at Seda Lio. Located along Lio Beach, El Nido, Palawan – a prime destination just five minutes from the airport where they pick you up in a golf cart! A relatively small resort, the 153-room resort-hotel caters to discerning visitors. Set on a secluded beach in El Nido where the waters are calm and clear but you are a short beach stroll to a small shopping and dining village. There was never more than 10 people on the beach at any time, it was so peaceful. The resort offers kayaks, SUP and more to be active in the water. I was lucky enough to visit during turtle hatching season and got to see baby sea turtles make their way back to the sea - a truly incredible experience to witness!

I spent one last night back on Cebo before heading home. This time I stayed at Crimson Mactan, a smaller luxury resort that was more my style. It's a beachfront resort known for its private villas, expansive spa, and signature three-tiered infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Set on sprawling landscaped grounds, it offers multiple restaurants, water sports, and a secluded, high-end island experience. There were more couples and less families at this resort and since I was travelling solo, it was a better fit for me. I wish I had more than one last night. Overall, Philippines was a lifechanging experience and I recommend it to everyone. It's untouched by Americans.