This tadpole-shaped island lying at the entrance of Manila Bay, 25 miles west of Manila, is a symbol of determined resistance of Filipino and American soldiers against Japanese invaders during World War II. “The Rock,” as it is often referred to, is accessible by an hour’s fast ferry ride from Manila. A guided tour of Corregidor on board a tranvia is a trip down memory lane for war veterans and history buffs. The island is strewn with rusty gun batteries and battle-scarred buildings – each with poignant stories to tell.

The highlights of the tour are the Topside, which was the nucleus of the complex containing the Army headquarters, parade ground, and cinema; the Mile Long Barracks which once housed 8,000 men; and the Middleside, which has more barracks and the hospital. There’s Suicide Cliff where Japanese soldiers jumped to their deaths to avoid surrender; there’s also the Pacific War Memorial, a museum displaying war relics and photos. The Light and Sound Show shouldn’t be missed. It is a multi-vision show where moving moments of the war are shown within the confines of Malinta Tunnel. Lunch follows before returning to the ferry for the ride back to Manila.

Inclusions: round-trip air-conditioned car, van, coach city transfers with English-speaking guide, round-trip ferry boat transfers (Manila-Corregidor), welcome drink on board the vessel, shrine & terminal fee, guided island tour by tranvia bus, and lunch, plus light and sound show.