Nature and heritage from the Philippines to Taiwan

On first sight, the Philippines' capital shows its highly Americanised Asian megalopolis side, with ultramodern skyscrapers set all along the waterfront. But when you stroll through the cobbled streets of the Intramuros district, you'll discover a different side of Manila, one that's full of old-world charm. An enchanted pause in the middle of urban bustle, Rizal Park's 60 hectares of magnificent green parkland is perfect for recharging your batteries. To see the city from a different angle, take a walk along Roxas boulevard, a popular seaside promenade.

Located at the entrance to Manila Bay, Corregidor Island blends wild nature and historical remnants, offering an atmosphere that is at once peaceful and fascinating. Once the gateway to the transpacific trade facilitated by the Spanish, connecting Acapulco to Manila, it has become a strong symbol of the Second World War. Plunge into this historic sanctuary by discovering its fortifications, the ruins of its barracks and gun batteries, its tunnels and its impressive miliary memorial devoted to Filipino, American and Japanese soldiers.

A protected area created in 1940, the Hundred Islands National Park is a designated natural site that brings together 124 beautiful tropical islands and islets, scattered across the crystal-clear waters of the Lingayen Gulf. It is an iconic attraction in the Philippines, offering visitors charming white sandy beaches, abundant vegetation and marine life. This preserved site also has limestone cliffs and coral reefs, making it a veritable corner of paradise for nature fans.

San Fernando is a coastal component city serving as the official capital of La Union province and the regional administrative center of the Ilocos Region (Region 1) in the Philippines. Geographically positioned in the mid-section of the province along the West Philippine Sea, it acts as the primary hub for finance, culture, and commerce in northern Luzon. As of recent demographic data, it hosts a growing population of approximately 125,000 residents distributed across 59 local barangays.

A small coastal town located in the province of Ilocos Norte, Currimao is a privileged gateway to Vigan, a former Chinese trading port and one of the best preserved Spanish colonial towns in Asia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, you will discover a unique architectural blend and remarkably well-preserved heritage treasures, such as the baroque Cathedral of Saint Paul and the traditional stone houses on Calle Crisologo. A real journey back into time!

Located in the charming municipality of Claveria in Cagayan, Claveria Beach is a hidden jewel offering visitors a real coastal experience. It is characterised by its natural beauty, and its inhabitants live onfishing and farming, mainly rice. You will be able to watch the fishermen return with their catch and discover the local traditions of this community, which is home to 32,000 inhabitants. A genuinely lush destination, the scenic route to Sentinella Hill affords stunning views over the mountains and the coast. In the heart of the Santa Maria Chapel, children playing guitar and dancers will set the rhythm of this tranquil escape. Featuring relaxation and a change of scenery, the port of call in Claveria promises to be idyllic.

In the north of the Philippines, the unspoilt Batanes archipelago reveals landscapes of striking beauty, with wind-beaten cliffs and verdant hills. From Basco, the province’s emblematic lighthouse, roads lined with flowers lead to the villages of the Ivatan people, whose stone houses are designed to withstand typhoons. This remote and peaceful archipelago offers an atmosphere where nature is ever-present, shaping a unique and still little-known part of the world.

South of Taiwan, Kaohsiung reveals an attractive port of call featuring both modernity and tradition. A large port opening onto the South China Sea, the town has transformed into a dynamic metropolis, renowned for its sunny atmosphere and its gentle way of life. During your discovery, you will be able to admire the lively banks of the Love River. Between cultural heritage, contemporary spaces and views of the sea, Kaohsiung offers a port of call that is perfect for both exploring and strolling, revealing an authentic and resolutely modern aspect of Taiwan.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

On the north-east tip of Taiwan, the harbour city of Keelung stands on one of the most beautiful coasts on the island. Nearby is the spectacular natural park of Yehliu, famed for its striking rock formations. It's easy to tour the city's historical sites on trails that cross the lush green hills surrounding the harbour from Chung Cheng Park to Fort Ershawan, you can enjoy superb views of Keelung and the coastline. But the main attraction is the Miaokou night market, where you can taste some typically Taiwanese culinary delights.