Philippines bucket list: Island thrills and Chocolate Hills!

This is the moment when dreams become reality. Bags packed, favourite playlist on repeat and off you go on your plane to the Philippines! Countless stars twinkle in the sky with the promise that this adventure is gonna be next level! Island vibes, white beaches, crystal-clear water – and it's all a flight away. You lean back, close your eyes and dream one last time about everything to come... because it's about to get real!

Bristling with excitement, your legs bounce up and down as you let your gaze wander over the clouds. Your plane starts to descend, and you discover the many green spots between the blue sea.
It's happening! Your adventure starts NOW! The second you set foot on Mactan Island, the excitement kicks in. Waterfalls, whale sharks, beach days? Oh yeah! Off to the city: 'Cebu, I'm ready!'
When you make it to where you're staying, you toss your bags in your room then head right out. There's no time to lose – Mactan’s ready to be explored! After the ride in, your stomach’s on a mission, so you set off in search of the nearest beachside restaurant, where the fresh seafood melts in your mouth and the views are absolutely mad. When you're done, you kick back on Mactan Newtown Beach or Tambuli Beach and ring out the day with a spot of sunbathing and swimming and simply enjoy life.
Stuffed and happy, you then lie in your cosy hotel bed, looking forward to all the adventures that await you along your journey. Sweet dreams!

'Good morning, Mactan!' You've barely rolled out of bed, and you already know exactly what you want to do today. After fuelling up on a hearty breakfast, there's nothing keeping you at the hotel, and the beach is calling your name! So with your towel over your shoulder, you stroll purposefully to the nearest shore. Mactan is surrounded by white, sandy coasts, and the only thing that outshines them is its turquoise waters, which boast a beautiful undersea world of colourful corals and dazzling fish that you can explore from above. And if you want an even closer look, just grab some snorkelling gear (optional, payable on site), dive in and lose yourself beneath the waves as schools of small fish swim all around you and 'Under the Sea' rings in your ears. When you finish your underwater discovery tour, there's still enough time to explore Lapu-Lapu City's historic Old Town. So, how about a selfie with the monument to the national hero after whom the city was named?

Cebu Island is full of waterfalls. Just listen carefully and the sound of rushing water will lead you straight to the first highlight of the day! You can start your self-made tour on your own, but deciding where to go won't be easy. From Bocaue, Balisong and Igutan Falls to Himbabawod and Dakit Falls, exhilarating views await!
If you'd prefer exploring the islands surrounding Mactan instead of the main island, then here's a little insider travel tip: head to Olango Island! Just catch one of the ferries that head there from Mactan daily (optional, payable on site). Pack your swimsuit, board the next ferry and in the blink of an eye, you'll be standing in the middle of a gorgeous island with endless possibilities. What'll it be: a bike ride along the beach, a visit to the bird sanctuary or a snorkelling trip in the beautiful reefs (all optional, payable onsite)?