Cebu has long been explored as a tourist destination among avid travellers, but more than the bustle of the famous sites, the simplicity of rural life may be more fulfilling for some. In the Cebu Highlands Farm-to-Table, Craft, and Wellness Tour, enjoy farming and activity-based experiences that are crafted on a grassroots level by the Adlawon community right in the heart of Cebu city. Various activities await guests like fruit picking, and tuba or coconut wine tasting. After a day’s work, cap off with a traditional hilot or massage that will surely relieve tired and sore muscles.

One of our newest programs, Making Travel Meaningful is our response to the call for creating adventures that matter and promoting responsible travel and creating adventures that matter. This tour features cultural immersion with one of the oldest tribes in the Philippines, the Aetas, where you’ll be able to meet and converse with them as they tour you around the forest of Bataan in Subic Bay. Enjoy a short hike in the forest, and the tea buffet afterwards that will be served by the Aeta community. An optional short trip to Pampanga may also follow after the tour and prior to heading back to Manila, where you’ll experience a gastronomic feast in one of the famous restaurants that serves native dishes.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and Filipinos surely know how to celebrate! Below are some of the Christmas traditions that the country never misses:

Dawn Masses -- Commonly referred to as Misa de Gallo, or Simbang Gabi, this is a tradition introduced by the Spanish friars during the 17th century. Starting December 16, Churches are filled with locals who hear Mass as early as 4:00 AM. The tradition continues for 9 days until it culminates on December 24, Christmas Eve. Filipinos make a special wish, believing that their special intentions will be granted when they complete the 9 dawn masses. Snack vendors usually surround the streets leading to the Church to sell iconic treats after Mass: Bibingka, a popular rice cake topped with shredded coconut and butter, and Puto Bumbong, a delicacy made from glutinous rice steamed in bamboo tubes, are usually accompanied with a warm cup of local hot chocolate.

Noche Buena -- The same term also used in Spain, Noche Buenas are a way for Filipinos to wait for the clock to strike 12 on Christmas Day while doing one of the things they love most: eating! Noche Buenas are long dinners held on December 24 that entail an elaborate banquet spread. The dishes may vary from family to family, but usually contain traditional hits such as ensaymada, a sweet and savoury pastry topped with butter, cheese, and sugar, chicken relleno, queso de bola, a local version of Edam cheese, Christmas Ham, and other family favourites.

The culture of Aguinaldo -- On Christmas Day, children would show off their new clothes as they visit their relatives and godparents to celebrate. Upon seeing them, they usually greet them with the tradition of pagmamano, which is a sign of respect to elders and a way of requesting for their blessings. The gesture is similar to hand-kissing, except the the greeter takes the hand of the elderly person and presses it towards their forehead, asking the elder to bless them. Children are often given an aguinaldo, the local term for Christmas gifts, which may be in the form of a wrapped present or a monetary gift sealed in a red envelope.