Manilla, Philippines - Far East Cruises

Modern Manila is fast growing in importance as the arts and financial life stream of the country. Drive through the fountain-adorned Cultural Centre of the Philippines Complex, reminiscent of the glorious years of the Marcoses.

Continue onto the Philippine International Convention Centre and Folk Arts Theatre, which is a favourite venue for both local and international events, concerts and performances. Opposite you will find the Coconut Palace, a building made mostly of coconut materials and the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, a deluxe hotel which gives a magnificent view of the Manila Bay.

Proceed to the financial and commercial centre of Makati to visit the famous Ayala Museum. Forming the core of the museum’s historical collections are 60 handcrafted dioramas that chronicle the rich tapestry of Philippine history. It also features a one-of-a-kind boat gallery, archaeological and ethnographic objects from the country’s northern and southern communities and a fine arts collection.

The last stop is the American Memorial Cemetery, the largest outside continental US, before the return drive down Roxas Boulevard by the fabled Manila Bay.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour over mostly paved surfaces.

Your scenic drive will take you through the countryside passing coastal villages, ricefields, fruit orchards and coconut plantations to give you a real taste of this incredible country.

Arrive at Tagaytay, a popular summer retreat for the local people. Boasting a cooling climate and nestled in a secluded corner of Tagaytay Ridge is the Tagaytay Highlands, 2,250 feet above sea level. This highly exclusive country club is the venue for refreshments and the playground to Manila’s elite with two world-class golf courses, a fully equipped sports complex, a unique animal farm and breathtaking gardens.

Continue onto Taal Vista where you can view the smallest known volcano in the world, the Taal Volcano. The volcano has to be seen to be believed, but is best described as a volcano within a lake within a larger volcano. After luncheon at the Taal Vista Hotel enjoy some free time to take in Tagaytay’s natural beautiful views, dramatic terrain and cool mountain climate.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour with several steps at the venues. The drive to Tagaytay is 1½ hours each way.

Your scenic drive will take you to the home of Carlito Ortega in San Pablo City, which is also known as the ‘City of Seven Lakes’. Carlito Ortega is a sculptor who works with welded steel and brass as well as with old hardwood. He creates figurative works on an intimate and monumental scale inspired by Laguna folk art and lore. As an avid art collector, he has a striking collection of contemporary art. Inspired by the American Southern-style plantation homes, he had his house built on a 1½ hectare property, his stunning garden boasts of a collection of palm trees and rare plants. Relax with a coffee and local delicacies during your visit.

The next stop is the Patis Tito Garden Café, opened in October 2004. This Garden Café features an enchanting ambiance and showcases the unique preparation of modern Filipino cuisine by the talented chef and his team. After enjoying traditional Filipino buffet luncheon, continue your drive to the town of Tiaong in Quezon to visit the residence of potter and clay artist Ugo Bigyan.

Bigyan’s property is in fact a cluster of houses, which include a showroom, workshop and several huts as well as his own home. As you explore, you will discover that the whole property is a sight to behold and a work of art with different detail and stories at every turn. Take in the artistic surroundings whilst enjoying a refreshment of Pandan iced tea and local delicacies before your return drive.


This excursion will operate by coach and the drive is two hours each way. There is approximately two hours of walking on this tour including some inclines and rough ground at each of the properties.

SOS Children’s Villages are independent, non-governmental social development organisations that work to meet the needs and to protect the rights of children without parental care, providing a family-based care system that continues until adulthood. Families are built for children in need, so every child can belong to a family, where they can grow up loved and sheltered.

Located at Mindanao Drive, Ayala Alabang Village, Muntinlupa City, the Village is approximately an hour’s drive through the South Superhighway. Currently, it has 8 family houses and one youth facility built for the young boys. There are about 85 children whose ages are from 2 to 12 years old and about 33 youths aged 13 to 21 years old.

As well as gaining an insight into the lives of these young residents, a highlight of this trip will be giving gifts to the children, which are funded from the proceeds of sales from this tour.


This excursion will operate by minibus and on foot. There is minimal walking on the tour around the Village over paved surfaces. For more information on the organisation, please visit www.sos-childrensvillages.org

Visit historic Rizal Park, where the remains of the country’s national hero, Dr Jose Rizal, lie within the cornerstone of the Rizal Monument. This wide expanse of manicured lawns and spouting fountains leads to the walled city of Intramuros, a medieval Spanish fortress that has become Spain’s most durable monument in the East.

Continue on to Fort Santiago which served as headquarters to the military might of the Spanish, American and Japanese colonizers until its destruction in 1945. Experience Mardi Gras as locals dress in costume and make up to perform traditional dances.

Proceed to Manila Cathedral, a magnificent architectural feat with its intricate stone carvings, stained glass mosaics and rosette windows.

The next stop is Casa Manila, a reconstructed 19th century mansion complete with 16th to 19th century furniture and furnishings. Finally, walk across the street to San Agustin Church, the oldest structure in the Philippines which dates back to 1571 before returning to the ship.


This excursions will operate by coach and on foot. There are approximately 30 steps at Casa Manila. Traffic conditions within the city centre are unpredictable and this may affect the duration of the tour and increase the time spent on the coach. The order of highlights may vary to avoid congestion..