Iain if I were you Id just forget about coming here for a quiet holiday..Even if you persuade her to do it your way she will give you constant grief knowing that her family are so close but yet so very far away..
Most filipino`s idea of vacation/holiday is nothing like ours and most of them simply don't go on holiday unless its to visit relatives,eat and drink a lot and blow their cash.(so that the neighbours can see)
The Philippine holiday experience is for young single people ...
not for those married to a Filipino.
Go to Spain nalang!!
Viva Espana.