Holland America Line: 14 nights from Hong Kong with Westerdam (Feb 1, 2026)

Puerto Princesa

Boracay

Manila

Located in Manila Bay, at the mouth of the Pasig River, which divides the city in two parts, it is one of the most populated nations in the world. Its colonial history has left deep traces that are still visible today in its beautiful 17th century architecture. The capital of the Philippines, Manila is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with 43,079 inhabitants per km2. Located on the west coast of the island of Luzon, the country was colonised by the Spaniards, this presence is still visible in the monumental remains of colonial architecture. The name Manila, of Spanish origin, derived from the mangrove plant called Nilad. Some famous sites can be found in the historical centre such as the famous Rizal Park, damaged during World War II. This agglomeration, inhabited by some ten million people, now seems to have redeemed itself from its turbulent past. The climate is idyllic, with an average temperature of 30° C and throughout the year one can relax by the sea. Heavy rainfall occurs between July and November. The best time for a trip to Manila is between the end of December and March.Colonial houses and 17th century architecture await you in the centre of Manila. Take a stroll along the coast and visit its port. You can also visit the Binondo area, Chinatown, or its unique cemetery, Catholic Church, beaches and market. As the city is divided by the river, the city is consequently full of bridges crossing the river. In the old city, there are numerous clubs where you can have fun. Manila is renowned worldwide for having the largest cultural and festive life in the region. For a fun day out, you can visit Cowboy grill in Edsa or even the pleasant showbar Stardust. Here, gourmets can seek out the best restaurants and traditional food the city has to offer. Populated by a variety of bars, restaurants and colourful nightlife, the Intramuros district offers much more western luxury. Tourists appreciate the endless sandy beaches. Surfers love the coast more than the city because of its beaches that provide sensational waves. The local currency is the Philippine Peso. For 1 € you will get about 60 pesos. No visa is required if your trip to Manila does not exceed 21 days.

Kaohsiung

Keelung

Keelung is an important port city in Taiwan, the second after Kaohsiung. The name means “rooster's cage” and it is said to come from the local mountain whose shape resembles that of a rooster's cage or from the early inhabitants of the region.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the city in all its glory and taste the local cuisine inside the famous Miaokou night market. If you are a nature lover and you want to enjoy breathtaking views, Heping Island GeoPark is the place for you! Located on the Keelung seashore and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts of a wide range of unique flora and fauna. Choose a cruise that stops in Keelung and enjoy the visit of this beautiful city thanks to one of the many excursions available.

Ishigaki

Ishigaki is a city in Japan known worldwide for the beauty of its beaches and the crystal clear sea. There are many must-see attractions, visiting the Shinto shrines of Gongen Do and Fuzaki Kannon Do is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and culture. On the other hand, if you want to relax and enjoy a day at the beach, Kabira Bay is the place for you! Not only will you be able to relax and take lots of pictures to update your social profiles, but also enjoy a variety of activities including snorkeling!

Choose a cruise that stops in Ishigaki and do not miss the opportunity to take part in one of the many excursions available.

Naha

Naha is a city in Japan, known worldwide as the “blue zone” of longevity for its natural environment and peaceful lifestyle. There are many must-see attractions, Shurijo Castle is undoubtedly one of them.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the ancient residence of the rulers as well as theancient religious seat of the kingdom stands in the hills east of the city center. A visit to the castle offersthe opportunity to take a walk surrounded by nature and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Also not tobe missed are the various food markets and typical restaurants where you can taste various local dishes.
Very beautiful destinations are the various gardens that include all the characteristic elements of Japanese gardens. There it is possible to immerse oneself in a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere.

Osaka

Yokohama

Yokohama, located along the coast of Japan's Pacific Ocean, is a port city where history, typical cuisine, culture and entertainment are perfectly mixed together. With a population of 3.7 inhabitants, Yokohama is the second largest city after Tokyo. If you are looking for an alternative holiday away from the hectic life of large metropolises, Yokohama is the best choice for you! The port has played a crucial role for the city since its opening in 1859. Its relevance is mainly related to its proximity to the Japanese capital. Even though centuries ago the country had a policy of isolation, the port has been the gateway to international trade.

The presence of foreign people is still visible today in the various neighborhoods scattered around the city in which the descendants of the ancient communities that reached these places decided to settle. A perfect example of this is the presence of one of the world's largest Chinatowns and an entire area that resembles typical Western metropolises in its architecture and buildings.

If you want to admire the typical Japanese style, a visit to the Sankeien Garden is the best choice for you! Here there are several historic buildings, paths surrounded by green areas and unique vegetation and you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions.

If you wanto to relax, one of the most interesting destinations is also Yamashita Park. Located in an area once destroyed by one of the devastating earthquakes that have repeatedly struck the country over the years, it is the ideal place to take a walk or sit on one of the many benches. Near the park there is the Yokohama Marine Tower, a tower more than 100 meters high from which you can enjoy a unique view of the entire city. After spending a few hours there, due to its proximity, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Yokohama waterfront.

The area, which is constantly changing, is reknown worldwide for its skyline in which huge skyscrapers and the Cosmo World amusement park with its huge Ferris wheel stand out.

Relaxation, fun but also lots of culture! In the city, there are many museums such as: the Museum of Contemporary Art that holds works of art by internationally renowned artists such as Cézanne and Picasso, the Museum that traces the history of the port, and finally an entire museum dedicated to the history of instant noodles.

In addition to the museums, you will have the opportunity to try local cuisine at the various typical restaurants and stalls in the cities. Considering that this is just a taste of what the city has to offer, what are you waiting for? Choose a cruise that departs from Yokohama or that has the city as a stopover in order to enjoy its beautiful sights or discover Japan and South Korea!