Tagaytay is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in the Philippines, famous for the Taal Volcano. The volcano is unique in that it sits on an island in a lake, and has another lake within its vast crater. The views from the ridge on the access highway to the volcano are legendary and breathtaking. As Tagaytay itself is the favoured 'summer capital' for Filipinos wishing to escape the capital during the unpleasant summer heat, the area provides plenty of recreation opportunities and good hotels and restaurants. Other sights in Tagaytay are the 'Palace in the Sky', an unfinished complex originally meant to be a home for former president Marcos and now used as a viewpoint and park; and the huge flower farm, abloom all year round, on a slope at Barngay Guinhawa.

Website: www.tagaytay.com

Transport: Bus from the centre of Manila (about 45 minutes)