Iloilo

Nestled in the very heart of the Philippine archipelago, the city of Iloilo represents one of Philippines’ more endearing and accessible provincial centres. Guests typically breeze through town on their way to the sandy white beaches of Guimaras Island, or the iconic bays of Boracay to the north. Those who chose to linger are invited to lose themselves between the old vestiges of Spanish colonialism that still pepper the streets of the old city in clusters of crumbling churches and overgrown cemeteries. There is also the city’s laid back vibe to indulge in, between unwinding at its sandy beaches, long walks along the riverside esplanade or relaxed Ilonggo meals of Pancit Molo and Batchoy broths to boot. Come January though, and the Dinagyang festival transforms the city into a cultural and religious extravaganza of street performances and merrymaking. Iloilo is also a university town, which means it packs a real punch in the nightlife department; to make the most of that, be sure to quiz your Iloilo tour guide on the wealth of themed clubs that coalesce around the Smallville district for a night of unadulterated fun.