12 Mar 2025
Fantastic Philippines
Hop aboard a comfy Qantas A330 and head to the Philippines for a truly memorable vacation. Boasting a huge array of attractions across its 7,641 islands, there are literally thousands of reasons to visit this traveler-friendly destination.
Are you ready to enjoy the ultimate mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery? The Philippines is much more than a global economic powerhouse. It’s also a nature lover's dream, with lush forests, tropical islands, pristine beaches, tranquil lakes, winding rivers and towering mountains. Combine that with the friendliness and hospitality of its friendly, hardworking people and you have the ideal holiday destination.
Getting there from Christchurch is easy with Qantas flying to Manila via Sydney or Brisbane.
Whether you’re travelling for a short visit or a longer stay, there are heaps of amazing activities on offer. We’ve whittled them down to ten absolute-must-do’s to help make your trip truly memorable. Up for a challenge? See if you can fit in all 10!
Reason #1: Diving on in 🐠
Dive into the sparkling waters of the Philippines to discover a colourful underwater kingdom. Key dive sites include Cebu Island where you can see thresher sharks, manta rays and large fish weaving their way through caverns and World War II wrecks. Anilao, just three hours south of Manila, is home to beautiful marine life and the stunning giant sea horse. For additional ecologically-rich waters, head to Bohol which boasts a vibrant array of exotic wildlife.
Reason #2: Breathtaking Beaches 🏝️
The Philippines are home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, including the powdery white sands of Boracay (rated the second-best island in the world by Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards!), the dramatic limestone cliffs of Palawan, and a whole lot more. With over 7,000 islands to explore, there’s no shortage of hidden coves, turquoise waters and idyllic beaches waiting to be discovered.
Reason #3: Catching a break 🏄♂️
Surfing the Philippines? Yes you can! Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, famous for its world-class waves and featuring lagoons, mangroves, rock pools and caves begging to be explored. After a day in the water, mingle with locals and fellow travellers in laid-back nightlife hangouts like RumBar or the Jungle Shack. A range of eco-friendly accommodation and sustainable tourism activities make Siargao a favourite for environmentally-minded travellers.
Reason #4: Exploring by foot 🥾
Whether you’re an experienced tramper or casual ambler, there’s a trail for everyone. Memorable walks include the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site which provides breathtaking views of hand-carved terraces, showcasing the traditional farming practices of the Ifugao people. For a more immersive adventure climb up to Mount Pinatubo's crater lake, a stunning blue lake encircled by high cliffs, or summit Mount Kalawitan or Mount Sicapoo to walk amidst a sea of clouds.
Reason #5: Adrenalin-fueled adventures ⛰️
One of the most exciting adventures in the Philippines is an ATV ride at the foot of Mt. Mayon, the country’s most iconic volcano known for its near-perfect conical shape. Journey through rugged terrain and see up-close views of the volcano's majestic slopes. Or, try Biking in the Air, where you pedal across a bridge or cable soaring high above the lush landscape below – the perfect combo of adrenalin-packed thrill-seeking and unforgettable sight-seeing rolled into one!
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Mt. Pulag
Reason #6: Snorkelling the shallows 🥽
Exploring the Philippines’ stunning marine world doesn’t require a dive certificate. A wide range of snorkelling sites are perfect for nature lovers of every age and level of experience. Discover coral reefs teeming with marine life in destinations like Tubbataha Reef and Apo Island. You can also try once in a lifetime experience of swimming with gentle whale sharks in Donsol in Sorsogon Province. The sea’s the limit!
Reason #7: Cliff diving 🌊
If the adrenaline hasn’t kicked in yet, try your hand at cliff diving. Boracay is one of the prime destinations for this exciting sport, with five cliff diving platforms. Other popular spots include Kawasan Falls in Cebu and Taal Volcano in Batangas, where you can leap into crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush landscapes, or Siquijor Island for a more challenging dive into deep blue waters. Whether you're diving from heights of 10 to 50 feet, you’re in for a heart-racing experience matched by exceptional scenery.
Reason #8: History and culture 🌇
The Philippines’ unique blend of indigenous traditions, colonial influences and modern vibrancy creates a human landscape highly worth exploring. Step back in time with a visit to Spanish colonial landmarks like Intramuros in Manila or the cobblestone streets of Vigan (another UNESCO World Heritage Site). Wherever you go you’ll feel welcomed by the local Filipino “Bayanihan” spirit, where a tradition of communal unity ensures travellers are treated like family.
Reason #9: Food crawl 🍵
Worked up an appetite yet? A delectable way to discover the Philippines is to go on a food crawl. The Philippines serves up a delectable menu of flavours waiting to be enjoyed, from the delicious street food of Manila to the lively marketplaces of Cebu. Must-try foods include adobo (the nation's favourite savoury stew), sinigang (a delightfully sour soup), kare-kare (oxtail stew) or lechon (roasted pig). Top off your feast with halo-halo, a vibrant combination of crushed ice and fruits, and some sweet leche flan.
Reason #10: Festivals 💃
The Philippines is known for vibrant festivals which showcase the country's rich culture. Key festivals include the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, featuring grand parades and colorful costumes. Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo is famous for elaborate warrior-like costumes and street performances, while the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City is a month-long flower festival, known for its stunning floats. These and other festivals are a fantastic way to experience the warmth, creativity and deep spirituality of the Filipino people.
The Philippines are an amazing destination and the journey there from Te Waipounamu is easy, simply fly with Qantas from Christchurch to Manila (via Sydney or Brisbane) on their A330*. When you fly with Qantas you’ll enjoy warm friendly service, plus food and beverage, inflight entertainment and 30kg baggage included in every flight.
- Via Brisbane:
Brisbane to Manila operates four times per week, departing on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. - Via Sydney:
Sydney to Manila operates daily.
*The A330 aircraft operates from Brisbane/Sydney to Manila. Connecting flights between Christchurch and Brisbane/Sydney will be operated by a different aircraft. All aircraft is subject to change.
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Metro Manila
