As I celebrate the first year of marriage with my husband, I can’t help but reflect on our unforgettable wedding trip to the Philippines. It was more than just a wedding—it was a celebration of love, culture, and a great way to kick off the start of a beautiful chapter in our lives. From the vibrant city of Cebu to the tranquil beaches of Boracay, our wedding trip was filled with unforgettable moments, laughter, and new memories. In this post, I’ll share all the details of our 6 week trip, including where we went, what we did, and why the Philippines was the perfect destination for our celebration.

Why We Chose The Philippines

The Philippines was an easy choice for us—it holds such a special place in my heart. With my family being from there, I knew I wanted to share this beautiful country with Jake, who has grown to love it just as much as I do. The Philippines offers so much: stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its people, which made it the perfect setting for our wedding.

The Philippines allowed us to enjoy both luxury and local experiences without the heavy price tag, making it accessible for our friends and family who joined us on this special trip. It was a dream come true to share my culture, favorite spots, and the beauty of the Philippines with those closest to us.

Part 1: Cebu City and Pre-Wedding Activities

I grew up going to The Philippines almost every year for my whole life and Jake had visited several times prior to this trip, but this is the first time most of our wedding party had been to Asia. So we wanted to show them some of our favorite spots around Cebu to give them a introduction into the culture and what the country has to offer.

Our Family Tradition at Ayala Mall

The Sodusta Family tradition for every trip back to the Philippines is to get our Filipino food fix as soon as we get off the plane! We make our first stop at Ayala Mall and head straight to Cafe Laguna for lunch. We also go here to exchange money and buy anything we know we need for the rest of the trip!

Cebu Mountain Tour

As our guests arrived into Cebu, we wanted to take them beyond the usual beach spots and show them the island’s stunning mountain scenery. We set off on a Cebu Mountain Tour, stopping at some of the most picturesque locations along the way. The tour was filled with vibrant flower gardens, unique photo spots, and peaceful retreats tucked away in the hills. The day ended at a cozy hillside restaurant, where we enjoyed wood-fired pizza and drinks while taking in breathtaking views of Cebu city and ocean below.

A Night on the Town

Part 2: The Wedding Weekend

Our wedding was set at Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa, the perfect tropical escape for our special day. We chose Shangri-La because it’s my favorite resort on the island and my parents had their wedding here many years ago, it holds a very special place in my heart. We arrived a couple of days before the wedding to enjoy the resort and spend time with our guests as they trickled in.

The Night Before

We spent our days before the wedding lounging by the beach, playing volleyball in the pool, and indulging in some of the incredible food (the buffets here were next level).

The night before the wedding, we gathered for our Welcome Cocktail Party in the garden, a laid-back evening filled with good food, drinks, and our closest family and friends. With twinkling lights overhead and the warm Cebu breeze, it was the perfect way to kick off the the big day!

The Big Day

The wedding day was an extraordinary experience, starting with a busy morning of makeup and preparations. Surrounded by supportive friends and family, we exchanged vows overlooking the ocean, feeling immense gratitude. The reception featured stunning decor, abundant food, and joyous celebrations typical of Filipino weddings, with lively entertainment and a memorable atmosphere, marking the day as truly unforgettable.

The best part of the day was how effortless everything felt. It was like attending my own wedding instead of planning it. From the moment I woke up, I didn’t have to worry about anything. My bridal party, wedding planner, and vendors ensured every detail was flawless, allowing me to be present.

I was able to enjoy every moment without stress over logistics, which is rare for a wedding! I soaked in the beauty of the ceremony, laughed with guests at the reception, and savored my time with Jake, knowing everything was perfectly arranged. It felt like a dream.

Part 3: Post-Wedding Adventures

After our beautiful wedding, we couldn’t wait to celebrate as newly weds with our closest friends by showing our wedding party more of the Philippines! Our post-wedding adventures took us through the stunning landscapes of Southern Cebu, filled with thrilling activities and breathtaking views.

Exploring Southern Cebu

Afterward, we explored more nearby waterfalls, each with its own natural beauty. The lush surroundings and the sound of cascading water made for a serene and picturesque experience.

By evening, we arrived in Badian, ready to rest and prepare for another adventure-packed day.

Day 3: Kawasan Falls, Sardine Run, Sea Turtles, and Mantayupan Falls
We kicked off the day with canyoneering to Kawasan Falls, starting with an exhilarating zip line ride. The adventure included trekking through turquoise pools, cliff jumps, and swimming beneath cascading falls – the perfect adrenaline rush.

Finally, we drove to Mantayupan Falls, the tallest waterfall in Cebu at 98 meters. The breathtaking cascade and refreshing mist marked the end of our adventurous day. With full hearts and cameras full of memories, we journeyed back to Cebu City, grateful for our Southern Cebu experiences.

Fun in Boracay

After our adventure-filled days in Southern Cebu, we flew to Boracay for some well-deserved relaxation. Known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it was the perfect place to unwind and celebrate. We soaked in the amazing sunsets each evening, watching the sky burst into shades of orange and pink.

Our days were filled with island hopping, exploring hidden beaches and snorkeling in turquoise waters. At night, we hit the beachfront bars, enjoying the lively music, tropical drinks, and dancing under the stars.

The Adventure Continues…

Before heading home, we made a quick stop in Tokyo, Japan for a little adventure of our own. We had gone to Tokyo once before, we fell in love instantly and knew we had to go back again. It was a short trip but we made the most of our time exploring the vibrant streets, indulging in delicious food, and soaking in the unique culture. It was the perfect way to wrap up our amazing wedding trip!

A Trip To Remember

Reflecting on this trip fills me with so much joy. From the magic of our wedding day to the adventures we shared exploring, every moment felt unforgettable. It’s a beautiful reminder of the joy that comes from love, adventure, and togetherness.