- 11-18 August 2025
- 7 Nights /8 Days
- Weather 23 - 31 C
- Fitness - Medium
- Price Range - $
Its more fun in the Philippines!
The Philippines has a lot to offer tourists coming to the region—beautiful beaches, a great climate, and some of the best scuba diving in the world. On top of that, Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality.
Feel as though you are stepping back in time to this relaxed tropical island. And its not just about scuba and snorkelling, we have yoga, art classes, spa treatments, sightseeing, so much on offer for such a great price.
Forget the Maldives, Oriental Negros in the Philippines is where you want to be!
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving in Dumaguete, Philippines
Discover the beautiful Dumaguete City, also known as the City of Gentle People. It was listed by Forbes Magazine as one of the 7 Best Places to Retire Around the World because it offers beachfront living that is relatively cheaper than other places in the world.
Dumaguete is an all-in-one snorkelling/scuba diving destination, offering the perfect mix of everything a water lover would want–great selection of resorts, a nice-sized town, excellent muck diving with lots of rare critters along the Dauin coastline, and good wide-angle opportunities at Apo Island.
Trip Highlights
- Dive Course for Beginners and Certified divers
- Apo Island Fun Dive & Snorkelling
- Dreamy Spa Treatments
- Valencia Jungle Visit
- Try a "Sans Rival" Filipino dessert cake made of layers of buttercream, meringue and chopped cashews
- Dumaguete City Tour
- Morning Beach Meditation Session
- Kookoo's Nest Eco-lodge sheltered white sand beach, with amazing coral reefs, stunning sunsets and great food.
- Ocean Art Workshop
- Two optional yoga classes
Your Snorkelling/Scuba Options
Options 1 - Snorkelling or Beginners Dive Course
For women who love snorkelling or have wanted to try scuba diving, this beginners scuba retreat is for you. We have included an introduction to scuba class in the pool and then you can decide afterwards if you want to try an open ocean dive or to snorkel. No pressure, just a taster. *Please note this course does NOT give you certification as a diver, its a beginners course.
Included:
- Introduction to scuba class
- 3 x fun ocean snorkel or scuba dives
*PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU NEED TO COMPLETE A HEALTH CHECK PRIOR TO BEING ABLE TO DIVE. THERE ARE SOME HEALTH CONDITIONS THAT REQUIRE YOU TO BE SIGNED OFF BY A DOCTOR TO DIVE. PLEASE COMPLETE THE DIVER MEDICAL PARTICPANT QUESTIONNAIRE HERE.
*NOTE there is no requirement for a medical check prior to snorkelling.
Option 2 - Certified Divers
For women who are certified divers, you also have the choice to snorkel or take a few fun ocean dives. A refresher pool class will take place first for all divers, just to be on the safe side as we anticipate people have not been diving during Covid. You can also choose to snorkel instead of dive, its your holiday.
Included:
- Scuba refresher class
- 3 x fun ocean snorkel or scuba dives
*PLEASE NOTE YOU WILL NEED TO BRING YOUR DIVE CERTIFICATION WITH YOU TO BE ABLE TO DIVE. YOU MUST BE ABLE TO PROVE THAT YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE MINIMUM DIVE CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.
Diving conditions
- 1 FOC diver for every 8 full paying divers.
- All-day trips are subject to coast guard approval and weather conditions at the time
- We need to see proof of diver certification either by certification card or logbook
- We ask divers to complete a local check dive prior to going on any day trips
- As a 5* PADI CDC dive resort we follow all PADI standards and will allow divers to dive only to their certification limits
- We use both INT (yoke) and DIN tanks and have DIN adaptors available for rent
- We do not allow decompression diving and have a maximum dive time of between 60-70 minutes unless special arrangements have been made and appropriate
certifications shown - It is possible, for an additional fee, to have a private guide
Our standard diver to guide ratio is 4:1, unless a group states otherwise
Inclusions
- 7 nights accommodation in clean, comfortable rooms
- Breakfast included
- Massage and facial or pedicure
- Scuba/Snorkelling depending on the package your choose and your certification level
- 3 x Trips to explore the local area
- 4 x Snorkelling/Dive classes/trips
- Meditation, Yoga and Art Classes
- Airport transfer to and from the resort
- Tax and service fees of 21%
Exclusions
- Flights to and from Dumaguete Philippines
- Some Lunches and Dinners (budget between $10 to $15 per meal)
- Personal purchases
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory) is not included
- Tipping for hotel staff - we recommend $10 a day = $60AUD to be collected at the end and distributed for all staff, housekeeping, café, receptions etc.
- Extra night's accommodation before or after the tour dates = $200AUD (Single) / $150AUD (Twin Share). Includes breakfast and transfers.
Book your Philippines Getaway
- Twinshare – $2695 AUD
- Single Standard Room – $2745 AUD
- Single Deluxe Room – $2995 AUD
*FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
This tour has a $500 deposit and the remainder is due 75 prior to departure.
Enjoy guided travel with our Escorted Tours, fully led by a certified, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for the destination.
For groups of eight or more, a Vibrant Women Travel Host will join the tour to provide additional support and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Program Itinerary
Arrive to Manila, Philippines
If you’re planning to visit Dumaguete, Philippines, we recommend flying via Manila as there are no direct flights available. You can choose between two airlines – Cebu (budget) and Philippines Airlines. However, if you’re travelling from Australia, you may need to depart a day early to arrive in time for your trip. Some flights arrive in Manila during the early evening and have you flying out again 12 hours later to Dumaguete. In such cases, we suggest booking a room at the Belmont Hotel for the night as it is conveniently located and accessible from Terminal 3 via a skybridge on Level 3.
Alternatively, you can book a recliner and a massage for several hours at the lounges located on Level 4 of Terminal 3. However, you cannot book the lounges in advance, and it is first-come, first-served. Another option is to book the Wings airport capsule hotel in advance.
Please keep in mind that Cebu airlines is a budget airline and does not provide entertainment or food service in its pricing. Additionally, only 20 kilos of luggage is included. If you’re arriving at Terminal 2 and have a long layover, you may need to arrange a transfer to a hotel as Terminal 3 and Terminal 2 are not connected. Another option is to fly via Cebu, but we’re unsure about the reliability of these flights.
Overnight if staying at Terminal 3:
Belmont Hotel Manila | Newport Boulevard, Newport City Pasay City 1309, Metro Manila, Philippines
T : (+632) 5318 8888
E : [email protected]
If you are arriving to Terminal 2 and have a long layover (usually up to 12 hours) you may need to arrange a transfer to a hotel. We are not familiar with what is on offer at Terminal 2 or close by. Terminal 3 and Terminal 2 are not connected though.
Another option is to fly via Cebu, we are unsure how reliable these flights are though.
Flight schedules from Manila to Dumaguete are early in the morning.
Arriving in Liquid Dive Resort – Dumaguete City
Oriental Negros is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Upon arrival, we will start our trip with a rejuvenating massage at Hazels Day Spa, and your choice of facial or pedicure which is followed by a refreshing dip in the pool. We will also have lunch at the day spa as we have the whole venue to ourselves it has a bar and pool in addition to the spa rooms. As check-in time is usually at 2 pm, this is an excellent way to maximize the first day of the holiday and get rid of any travel-related stress.
After resetting at the resort, head over to the afternoon cocktail and Marine talk, where you can learn more about the marine life of the island. The day ends with a welcome dinner at Liquid Dive Resort which is included in the package.
Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, this trip is the perfect choice.
Introduction to Dive Course or Certified Dive Refresher Course
7:00am – 8:00am Yoga (included but optional)
9:00 am – Breakfast
10:00am – Introduction to Dive Course for Beginners and Refresher Course for Certified Divers.
Lunch- Liquid Dive Resort *Self-pay
In the afternoon discover and experience the “City of Gentle People” by exploring Dumaguete City. Visit Belfry Tower and Silvanas from Sans Rival Bakery. A famous Filipino dessert that is crunchy, creamy layers of buttercream, meringue, and cashew. Take a stroll along the Boulevard and see some local markets.
Dinner at Hayahay Treehouse Bar and View Deck Dumaguete City.
*Self Pay
Fun Dive and Snorkel
The Fun Dive and Snorkel activity scheduled at 9:00 am is a great opportunity to explore the underwater world and try out your new skills close to the resort. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, this activity is suitable for all levels. You will be accompanied by professional guides who will ensure your safety and provide you with all the necessary equipment. After the dive, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the ocean.
After lunch, we will head to Forest Camp for a relaxing afternoon. This hidden gem is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take a dip in the cool freshwater pools, try out the traditional kawa baths, or simply relax in one of the picnic areas surrounded by lush greenery. Make sure to take a walk on the hanging bridges and enjoy the stunning views of the jungle.
At the end of the day, you can treat yourself to a delicious dinner before retiring to your comfortable accommodation. This Fun Dive and Snorkel adventure is not only a great way to explore the beauty of Negros Oriental but also a chance to unwind and connect with nature.
Meals:
Apo Island Fun Dive and Snorkel Day
After a fun-filled day at Apo Island, it’s time to unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner at Liquid. There’s sure to be something on the menu to satisfy your cravings. So sit back, relax, and indulge in a tasty meal while enjoying the company of your fellow travellers. After all, what better way to end an exciting day than with good food and good company?
Dinner – Liquid *self pay
Meals – Breakfast
Fun Dive / Snorkel Day
Looking for a unique and fun way to spend your day? Look no further than this Fun Snorkel Day. Start your day off with an optional yoga session, followed by a delicious breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. Then, get ready to dive into the ocean and explore the vibrant marine life with a snorkelling adventure. After your underwater experience, take part in a Mandala Ocean Art Workshop where you can create your own personal ocean-inspired mandala.
For lunch, head over to Koo Koo Nest, a hidden cove with a beautiful sandy beach. Take a relaxing stroll on the beach or go snorkeling around the peninsular and coral reefs. Just keep in mind that there are approximately 100 stairs to get down to the cove. Your lunch will be included and prepared by the village, using only the freshest ingredients.
*Please note there are approx. 100 stairs to get down to this cove.
End the day with dinner at Lokal Restaurant Dauin, where you can choose from a variety of delicious dishes. This is a fun day filled with adventure and creativity, food for the soul.
Dinner at Lokal Restaurant Dauin *self pay
Meals – Breakfast and Lunch
Apo Island Fun Dive and Snorkel Day
9:00 am – Fun Dive / Snorkel Activity at Apo Island
After a fun-filled day at Apo Island, it’s time to unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner. At the resort, you can indulge in a variety of culinary delights at Liquid, the on-site restaurant. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. The best part? You can enjoy your meal in the Alfresco Restaurant by the pool.
Dinner – Liquid *Self-pay
Free Day
Breakfast at your leisure.
As the day progresses, guests at the Resort can take advantage of the various amenities available while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Whether it’s a relaxing swim in the pool or a soothing massage at the spa, there’s something for everyone. For those who want to stay active, there are options for snorkeling or diving, but it’s important to remember not to dive up to 36 hours before flying, as it can lead to decompression sickness.
Later in the day, guests can enjoy a delicious lunch at their own expense. There are many options to choose from, with something to suit every taste and preference.
In the evening, the Resort will host a farewell dinner at the Liquid Resort. Guests can indulge in a traditional lechon (roast pork), along with a buffet and vegetarian options. It’s the perfect way to end the day, surrounded by good food and good company, while taking in the beauty of the Resort’s surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Departure Day
Breakfast at your leisure
Check out after breakfast at Liquid and transfer to Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport (DGT) for final departure.
*Please note that sometimes when booking things so far in advance that itineraries must change. Also some of the activities in the schedule are weather dependent which means we may need to swap days around.
Accommodation Liquid Dive Resort
“Eat, Sleep, Dive, Live!”
Liquid Dive Resort is situated in a secluded beach in Dauin, home of the best diving in the Philippines. Just 20 minutes from the commotion of Dumaguete city, Liquid is tranquil yet accessible, providing a pleasant escape into nature. Scuba divers of all experience and certification levels, devoted underwater photographers, and people seeking a pleasant beach holiday can enjoy this little piece of paradise.
✈ Dumaguete, Philippines
Deluxe Rooms
Each room has king or twin beds, split air conditioning, ceiling fan, working desk, hanging unit, hairdryer, flat screen TV with satellite, mini bar and private balcony with comfortable bamboo furniture and a side sea view.
Standard Rooms
Standard rooms are small and basic and really only suitable for one person or to share with someone you know due to the compact nature. Each room has king or twin beds, split air con, ceiling fan, hanging unit and a private balcony with comfortable bamboo furniture and a sea view.
Rooms have fly screens so you can keep the louvres open at night and hear the ocean lapping on the shore.
*Note there are no tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms. If you need this please bring your own element and tea and coffee. The shower has warm water which is provided by a natural spring so can be a little bit yellow in colour and slightly sulphur smelling. The water pressure is low. Please remember this is a developing island and even though it is idyllic some of the facilities are basic. Drinking water is provided in the room and can be refilled for free at the bar. *The mattresses are firm, like other Asian countries.
Pool Bar and Restaurant
The pool bar is situated within a lush tropical garden nestled in between our 2 swimming pools and offers a wide selection of cocktails, local beers, fruit smoothies and soft drinks as well as daily happy hour specials. With plenty of comfortable seating, a pool table and dart board area, good music and chill vibes the pool bar is a central part of Liquid.
The garden restaurant is located at the pool bar and offers a selection of Philippine, Asian and European meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. All produce is locally sourced and we strive to make every dish memorable. Daily specials and a wide selection of vegetarian meals are offered and group meals or special dinners can be arranged at any time.
What our guests are saying about our Philippines Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Cover-More travel insurance covers scuba diving and snorkelling as standard in their policies if you are scuba diving up to 30 metres, if diving with a diving school or qualified instructor.
Additional Adventure Activities coverage is required to cover scuba diving where the maximum depth is between 30 – 50 metres, and you must be diving with a qualified guide and have the appropriate dive qualifications. It is not anticipated you will be diving beyond 30 metres on this retreat.
If you take travel insurance with another company you will need to check they cover you for snorkelling and scuba diving.
View our recommended Travel insurance provider Cover-More HERE
Pre-Arrival
There are no direct flights to Dumaguete. We suggest flying via Manilla. There are two airlines Cebu (budget) and Philippines Airlines. You will need to depart a day early if travelling from Australia to arrive by the 10th of August 2025. Some flights arrive early evening into Manila and have you flying out again 12 hours later to Dumaguete. In this case for example from Sydney, we suggest booking a room at the Belmont Hotel for the night. Because you can just walk over the skybridge from Level 3 of Terminal 3 airport making it easy to come back again for your early morning flight. There are escalators from the arrivals hall if you go to the right after arriving. If coming from Melbourne however on the 10th of August there is just a short 2.45hr stopover in Manila. In this case you will require an extra nights accommodation at Liquid Dumaguete. We can arrange this for you.
*Please note Cebu airlines is a budget airline and does not have entertainment or include food service in its pricing. Also only 20 kilos luggage is included.
Overnight if staying at Terminal 3:
Belmont Hotel Manila | Newport Boulevard, Newport City Pasay City 1309, Metro Manila, Philippines
T : (+632) 5318 8888
E : [email protected]
If you are arriving to Terminal 2 and have a long layover (usually up to 12 hours) you may need to arrange a transfer to a hotel. There are no overnight options in Terminal 2 or close by. Terminal 3 and Terminal 2 are not connected.
Phone: +63-035-400-3244
Deluxe – $150 AUD per room per night
Standard – $120 AUD per room per night
Includes accommodation, airport transfers, breakfast and taxes
If you have chosen a twinshare room, and have not nominated someone to share with, we will do our best to find you a roommate. Please note however that if this is not possible, the single room rate will apply. We hope you understand and will keep you informed of the rooming situation as we allocate people. For people who have booked for a twinshare room with a friend please also know that if that if for some reason your roommate cancels and we are unable to find you a suitable replacement, the single room rate will apply. Again, we hope you understand as the accommodation price can no longer be shared. If for some reason the twinshare arrangement is not suitable to one or both parties once the tour has commenced then both parties will be responsible to pay a single room excess to be negotiated with the hotel and only on possible on availability
*If you have chosen to twinshare and have not divulged the necessary information to be a suitable sharing person (such as snoring, cpap machines, smoking, sleeping with the TV on etc) then during the tour you may need to move to a single room at your own expense if your roommate complains.
**In regard to the above mentioned, if you are sharing with someone and find yourselves incompatible for some reason and you would like to move to a single room you will need to also pay the single supplement for said room. This is to be negotiated with the hotel and only on possible on availability.
- Swimmers, sarongs, sunscreen, hat and Aqua shoes
- Adapters so you can use your electronic devices
- Tea, coffee, travel mug and an element of travel kettle if you wish make to make tea or coffee in your room.
You need to be a strong swimmer to attend this retreat. There is also some walking involved.
Vibrant Women with a heart ♥
Please know that $25 of your booking goes towards supporting the charity of Danielle our admin – towards the amazing work they do in supporting children living in geographically isolated and former insurgency areas in Davao, Philippines.
so THANK YOU!
