My recent trip to the Philippines was an unforgettable journey filled with contrasts — from bustling towns to serene beaches, from the comfort of the resorts to the quiet magic of hidden waterfalls. I began my adventure flying with Qatar Airways from Heathrow to Clark. The flight itself was smooth and comfortable, and after a seamless connection in Doha, I arrived in the Philippines ready to immerse myself in everything the country had to offer. Stepping off the plane into the warm, humid air, I felt an immediate sense of excitement; the landscape of lush greenery and distant mountains promised adventures ahead.
My first night was spent in Balibago at the Central Tower Resort. After the long journey, it was the perfect place to settle in. The hotel was modern and comfortable, providing a restful night while still keeping me close to the energetic streets of Balibago. The area was lively in the evening, with street food stalls, neon signs, and welcoming locals. Wandering briefly through the town, I could feel the pulse of Filipino nightlife, but I returned early to rest and recover for the next day’s travel.
The following morning, I travelled to Subic Bay, a coastal region known for its beaches and relaxed atmosphere. I stayed for five nights at Camayan Beach Resort. The resort itself was right on the beach, with turquoise waters, soft sand, and swaying palm trees.
After five days of beach life, I embarked on a bus journey across Luzon to San Jose. Traveling by bus in the Philippines is an experience in itself — the countryside rolled by with lush fields and small villages, punctuated by roadside food stalls and local sights. Arriving in San Jose, I spent the night at Hotel Francesko, which provided a comfortable stopover before the next leg of my journey. The overnight stay allowed me to rest and prepare for an early morning trip to Lupao.
The highlight of my inland adventure was visiting Pinsal Falls in Lupao. This hidden gem felt wonderfully untouched and peaceful, far from crowded tourist spots. Standing beneath the mist and hearing the roar of the falls was both refreshing and humbling — a true reminder of the natural beauty of the Philippines. It was one of those experiences that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and appreciate the world beyond your usual surroundings.
After exploring the falls, I returned to Balibago for one final night. The last evening was a quiet reflection on the journey — enjoying one last Filipino meal, soaking in the tropical air, and taking stock of all the experiences I had collected over just a week. The following day, I flew back to London from Clark, leaving the islands behind with a mixture of satisfaction and longing. The trip had been a perfect combination of city life, beach relaxation, rural adventure, and natural wonders, and it left me with memories that will last a lifetime.
Travelled: February 2026
