Hong Kong - Ho Chi Minh City Philippines – island magic up close

Hong Kong, a former British colony, has grown into one of the world’s biggest and most dynamic metropolises. The city is a global financial centre and an important trading hub for the Asian market. With its impressive skyline, lively street markets, luxury shopping centres and exquisite restaurants, Hong Kong offers a rich variety of experiences. The city is a melting pot of cultures, where tradition and modernity meet. These days, Hong Kong plays a major role in international business – in particular, in the areas of finance, trade and technology.

Scattered green dots on turquoise-blue water: over 100 small limestone islands from the Hundred Islands National Park in Lingayen Gulf, a place for explorers and dreamers. Only a few of the islands are accessible and are ideal for peaceful boat trips, short hikes or relaxing hours on the beach. Those who wish can snorkel through the clear bay with its beds of seagrass and coral or enjoy the view over the vast sea of islands from one of the viewpoints.

Manila, the lively capital of the Philippines, was founded by the Spanish in 1571 and was long the centre of colonial administration. Even today, the mighty walls, old churches and museums in the historic district of Intramuros bear witness to the city’s eventful history. Impressive skyscrapers tower over this magnificent heritage, awaiting you with state-of-the-art shopping centres for some retail therapy. During your explorations, be sure to take a detour to the colourful markets or sample the Filipino specialities at the numerous food stalls.

The lively town of Coron awaits you on Busuanga Island: motorcycles buzz through narrow streets, the smell of grilled fish wafts from street stalls and music drifts from small shops. A fascinating island world with secluded bays, green hills and dazzling marine life is found around the city. From here, the paradise of Coron is not far away – a natural wonder with tranquil lagoons, crystal-clear lakes and green cliffs. Snorkel along colourful reefs to a vibrant underwater world or hike to viewpoints overlooking the tranquil sea of islands.

Romblon Island has developed from an insider tip to a small idyll for expats. No wonder, as the island attracts visitors with its unspoilt nature, turquoise waters and the unique Bonbon Beach. Its white sandbank divides the sea at low tide and is perfect for an almost magical walk across the water. Romblon is also famous for its traditional marble production – you can watch the artists carving and polishing masterful sculptures in the small workshops. Following historical traces, the trail leads you to the old fortress of San Andres, which offers insights into Spanish colonial heritage as well as magnificent views.

Fine white sandy beaches, a turquoise-blue lagoon and dense jungle – Boracay is the most famous island in the Philippines and its enchanting scenery makes it a unique dream destination. Tourists are mainly attracted to the charming resorts of Balabag, Manoc-Manoc and Yapak, but the true gem of the island is White Beach, which, at almost 4 km (2.5 mi.) long, offers endless space for relaxing. Boracay is also famous for the beguiling scent of ylang-ylang, the flowers of which are used to make essential oil of ylang-ylang. The island is a combination of idyllic natural scenery and exotic charm, making it a paradise for sun worshippers and nature lovers.

Look forward to a very special experience on the fine white sandy beach of the idyllic island of Malcapuya. Virtually pristine and far away from the tourist crowds, it offers pure nature, sun-drenched coastlines and crystal-clear, turquoise-blue water. The on-board Zodiacs take you directly to the beach, where you can enjoy the peace and quiet, relax in the sun or simply soak up the breathtaking surroundings. As the day draws to a close, Malcapuya Island becomes the idyllic setting of a postcard: the sunset bathes the beach and sea in warm golden tones, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Palawan is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world. It features impressive white beaches, emerald-green lagoons and dense jungles that overgrow the imposing limestone cliffs. The capital Puerto Princesa enjoys a scenic location on a peninsula in Puerto Princesa Bay. The scenery of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a particular highlight. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will amaze you with the Sabang Underground River, which winds its way for 7 km (4.3 mi.) through bizarre caves with stalactites and stalagmites, while the enchanting unspoilt nature features butterflies, parrots, monkeys and bats. Sun worshippers will be drawn to Cowrie Bay, where gentle waves and the rustling of palm trees invite you to relax.

Con Dao is an archipelago off the southern coast of Vietnam, known for its unspoilt nature and rich history. The islands have beautiful beaches, dense jungle with hiking trails through green valleys, over steep ridges and to hidden waterfalls as well as fascinating marine life: the protected waters of Con Dao National Park are home to colourful coral gardens, rare dugongs, sea turtles, colourful reef fish and occasionally reef sharks. Con Dao was once notorious for its prisons, but today memorials bear witness to this past.

The economic heart of Vietnam beats in Ho Chi Minh City, a metropolis located in the south of the country at the mouth of the Saigon River. Formerly known as Saigon, it was renamed after the reunification of north and south Vietnam in 1976 in honour of the former president, Ho Chi Minh. The city’s skyline features buildings that can be seen from miles away, including the 461 m (1,512 ft) high skyscraper Landmark 81 and the Bitexco Financial Tower at a height of around 260 m (853 ft). As well as its economic importance, Ho Chi Minh City is also a culinary centre with a variety of Vietnamese and international restaurants. Chinatown, also known as Cho Lon, in the busy city centre is an inviting place to spend time browsing and admiring the curiosities on offer at the markets. The overnight lay time allows you to relax and unwind at the end of the day.