DAY 1 (BLD) ARRIVE MANILA

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Mabuhay! Welcome to Manila – the Philippines’ hyperactive capital that’s home to a man-made beach, the world’s oldest Chinatown, and shopping malls as huge as cities. We start the day right with a filling and tasty breakfast at Jollibee, the Philippines’ pride and joy. Afterwards we tumble to Pinaglabanan Shrine, a park and monument that commemorates the heroism of the Katipuneros who fought the first battle of the Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire. Underneath the Pinaglabanan Shrine is the cavernous El Deposito. Built in 1882 using volcanic tuff, this underground structure was the main water reservoir for Spanish-era Manila. Then it’s onto the Manila American Memorial to explore the largest American memorial in Asia Pacific, occupying over 150 acres on a prominent plateau with breathtaking views of Manila skyline. After lunch, get major Europe vibes while shopping at Venice Grand Canal Mall – a unique shopping mall inspired by the beautiful Italian city. Check into the hotel then we make our way to Manila’s sweetest museum: The Dessert Museum – an interactive tasting adventure that transforms your favorite sweets into one epic, imaginative wonderland. It's CANDY-licious! Next, go souvenir shopping at Tesoro's Philippine Handicrafts. For dinner, indulge in a spread of mouth-watering Filipino specialties and an engaging performance by The Singing Cooks & Waiters. (Filipinos love to perform and there’s no shortage of talents here. In fact, Canadian musician and record producer David Foster called the Philippines “The Land of Singing Champions” after collaborating with several Filipino singers.) Enjoy your first night in the country and soak up the magnetic local culture.

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Museo El Deposito is close on Mondays.

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DAY 2 (BLD) MANILA-TIAONG-MANILA

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Today, we drive to the countryside to Tiaong. Our destination: Villa Escudero, a massive Coconut plantation that offers a peek into the captivating country life. After you finish gulping your welcome drink of (You guessed it!) fresh Coconut, we tour the estate on a cart drawn by a Carabao (Water buffalo). Go river rafting on a native bamboo raft. Come lunchtime, we head to Labasin Falls. Kick off your Sunday shoes because lunch here involves immersing your feet into the flowing water from the falls. After lunch, witness an award-winning cultural show that features the ethnic and colonial diversity of the country. We then scoot off to Ugu Bigyan’s Pottery Garden – the picturesque home and repository of phenomenal earthenware pieces by Master Potter Ugu Bigyan. The creations of this self-taught artist have found their way into posh resorts and affluent residences not only locally but across the globe. We wouldn’t blame you if you get tempted to bring home a piece of the Philippines with you. We drive back to Manila then swing by The Fountain at Okada Manila. Measuring 37,464 square meters (403,260 square feet) (That’s about 50 Olympic-size swimming pools!), The Fountain will enthrall with its choreographed water, lights, and sounds performances. H2 OH WOW! After dinner, you’re free to check out the lively nightlife around the hotel. One ice-cold San Miguel please!