23 Jun 2024

Our adventure begins in the Philippines

Our Undiscovered Philippines & Indonesia adventure was off to an exciting start in Manila! After a delicious buffet breakfast at our hotel, we boarded coaches and headed off on tour a through Manila. The focus of our morning was the old walled city of Intramuros. Its beautiful Spanish architecture provided a unique view into the city while our guides shared the heartbreaking stories that a history of war and conquest had left within the walls. To see the people and city thriving now, after such a challenging history, was a blessing. During our visit, there was a mass at the local San Agustin Church. This was a special moment and reinforced by the beautiful feeling in the air as song and organ rang out from the church into the streets. 

It was then a short flight to Legazpi, where we were met by a colourful welcome from the happy locals. We drove out to a beautiful lake where the majesty of Mt Mayon, the most active volcano in the Philippines, could be fully appreciated. It was a captivating moment with the clouds parted and this powerful giant towering in the sky looking down upon us.

Another highlight was a visit to a local artisanal fair, where we met a joy-filled crowd. Dance and culture flowed, and many of us were caught up in a special moment of dancing and crafting with these beautiful people. After the festivities, and as the sun began to kiss the horizon, we boarded our new home for the upcoming adventure, Heritage Adventurer. After settling in, we were welcomed by cold drinks and the warm smiles of the crew. To end an amazing day, Mt Mayon waved us farewell as we ate and drank the evening away.

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions