The Philippines' archipelago structure, with over 7,600 islands, is suitable for 'island resort + island-hopping experiences'. Under the premise of this visa-free policy with 'limited entry via NAIA/MCIA', it is recommended to design itineraries based on the 'Manila hub' or 'Cebu hub'.
A) Using Cebu (MCIA) as a hub: More aligned with visa-free ports
- Cebu: Transportation and supply center, can serve as a starting point for island-hopping; nearby diving spots, waterfalls, and marine activities
- Bohol: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and island resorts, suitable for combination with Cebu
- (Optional) Siargao: Surfing and slow-paced lifestyle, more suitable for experienced travelers
B) Using Manila (NAIA) as a hub: More suitable for 'city stays + shopping and supplies + flying to islands'
- Manila: High flight frequency and convenient transfers; suitable for 1-2 days of city stay and supplies
- Boracay: Mature resort destination, suitable for first-time Philippine island experiences
- Palawan: Known for natural landscapes (marine karst/lagoons/diving), more suitable for nature and photography enthusiasts
14-day sample (more conservative, including buffer):
- Option 1 (Cebu-Bohol loop): Cebu 4-5 days + Bohol 5-6 days + Cebu/Manila 1-2 days buffer
- Option 2 (Manila-Boracay/Palawan): Manila 2 days + island 9-10 days + Manila 1-2 days buffer
AIAIG reminder: Island transportation is more affected by weather; it is recommended to schedule cross-island/return flights in the early to middle part of the itinerary, and keep the last 1-2 days in the hub city to reduce the risk of 'getting stuck on day 14'.