The Philippinesis a nation of some 7,641 islands. That’s not an opinion, it’s a fact. A truly dreadful fact, if you’re trying to plan a holiday. The sheer scale of the place is less an opportunity and more a logistical nightmare, a tropical torment of endless possibilities.
You can spend weeks poring over maps, trying to chart a course through the archipelago, only to discover that the ferry you need runs once a fortnight, or the one flight is at 3 a.m., requiring a five-hour bus journey to get to the airport.
It’s enough to make you give up and just go to Spainagain.
After a few days of staring blankly at Google Maps and muttering to ourselves, we finally landed on an itinerary that felt more like a coherent plan and less like an elaborate obstacle course.
We settled on the Central Visayas, focusing on two of its gems: Cebu and Bohol. It seemed to tick all the boxes: a decent mix of beaches, a bit of jungle, and enough local culture to make it feel like a proper trip, not just a sunbathing marathon.
Moalboal, the Philippines
This is why we came to Moalboal: To relax in a secluded location with great snorkeling plus tasty local fish and exotic fruit.
Philippines Beaches - Fifty Shades of Pink
If suntans and decent swimming are high on your priority list, you'll need to choose your Philippines beach destinations carefully.
Moalboal Cebu Snorkeling
... you're unlucky if you don't see a turtle. Snorkeling in Moalboal was a highlight of our Philippines trip. The sheer drop-off to the depths on the reef edge is weirdly hypnotic.
Philippines Trikes & Taxis
Since we'd read a lot about people being ripped off, we were initially wary when using Philippines trikes taxis or other transport options.
Manila Airport Terminal Transits
Having read negative reports about Manila Nasay International, I was apprehensive about our 6-hour transit thru the Manila airport terminals
Colorful Filipino Currency
Keep a stash of lower denomination notes.. Newer notes are brightly colored like Euros - though the equivalent amount goes a lot further...
Bohol Ferry From Cebu To Tubigon
Although the ticket office is a bit grotty, the Bohol ferry departure lounge is impressively clean and modern: well organized with plenty of security.
Too touristy? or worth a visit?
Alona beach in the Philippines came as quite a surprise: If you read up about it online, you get the impression that this is an overcrowded tourist magnet.
Philippines Tokay Gecko
Catchphrase or Mating Call? Short of David Walliams hiding in the rafters, the Philippines Tokay Gecko lullaby had us confused and amused.
Philippines Buses & Jeepneys
If you're going to be using the Philippines buses & jeepneys to get around, check out these tips we picked up on the road.
Griller in Manila - Shabu Shabu
Eat and drink as much as you want - including beer - at a Manila Shabu Shabu restaurant. Cook your soup and grill food at your own table.
Cebu city reasonably-priced guesthouse
Our Pension in Cebu city was located in a typical poor & congested Fillipino street area, with chickens & children dodging between the cars
Cebu city to Moalboal by Bus
An hour just to get out of Cebu city. Transport in Cebu city moves at a snails pace. Walking would be quicker, though less safe due to the traffic.
Fox & Firefly Cottages Loboc
Don't expect anything fancy at the Fox & Firefly Cottages Loboc. This is a pure backpackers place with the smallest dormitory I've ever seen.
Rome - Inexpensive start for your trip
You can find cheap long haul flights departing from large air traffic hubs in Europe - such as Rome - with reasonable prices to the Far East.
Easy-access Snorkeling
If you enjoy exploring the scenery below the waterline then checkout our favorite easy-access snorkeling locations, most of which are accessible straight off the beach.
Dumaluan Beach, Philippines
A good alternative to Alona, but bring your own picnic to Dumaluan beach. Food options at the snack bar are limited and the service is slow.
Booze in Bohol, Philippines
Drinking booze in the Philippines can seriously damage your holiday budget - Especially if you happen to be a wine drinker.
Philippines Impressions?
We went with open minds, while anticipating white sand beaches, relaxed swimming and tasty local food…
In the Philippines, Karaoke is King
Its not just fun - in the Philippines Karaoke is a serious business. If you're planning on walking away in one piece, don't choose "My Way"
SandSpice Tri-blend T-Shirt
Vintage feel, so soft, probably your new favorite t-shirt. Regular fit. Model shown is 6'1" / 186 cm tall and wearing size 'Large'.
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Travel memories you'll never forget
2013 Loboc Earthquake
No wonder the Filipinos are a God-fearing nation: This area suffered catastrophic damage in the 2013 Loboc earthquake and flooding.
Philippines Central Visayas, Cebu & Bohol
The biggest problem planning a trip around the Philippines Central Visayas is the amount of choice available. You have to be extremely selective in order to put together a practical, enjoyable plan.
Habal-Habal - Filipino Motorcycle Taxis
When travelling by motorbike how many people could you take? One? Two? If you're travelling Habal-Habal through the Philippines, try ten.
Loboc Bohol in the Philippines
Famous for its lunch cruises along the river, Loboc Bohol is also one of the few locations where you can observe the Tarsier monkey.
Pangangan, Philippines
... not quite an Island, but certainly deserted, except during weekends and holidays, when locals rent beach huts and participate in the ubiquitous Karaoke competitions.
Philippines Travel Plan - Central Visayas
Desperately seeking sandy beaches, good food & inexpensive accommodation. Will your Philippines travel plan deliver? Take a look at ours
Bland Filipino Food
On menus everywhere, pork and chicken barbecued in a sweet marinade. This bland Filipino food is usually accompanied by heaps of plain white rice.
Snorkeling at Alona Beach
Alona, Philippines is best known for its white sand and weekend animations, but the snorkeling at Alona beach is also worth checking out
And so, the journey began. From the urban chaos of Cebu City to the serene coastlines of Bohol, we found ourselves a good combination of the sublime and the frankly bizarre.
One minute, you’re on a pristine beach, the next you’re navigating a bustling market with a chicken under one arm and a vague sense of dread under the other.
It was an adventure, certainly.
We’ve done all the hard work for you, so you don’t have to endure the misery of planning.
If you fancy a similar expedition without the logistical headaches, be sure to first check out our Plan, Maps and Budgetfor a 20-day round trip.
More Travel Itineraries
Looking for more Travel Plans? Take a look at these other extended, low-cost itineraries:
