With its rich tapestry of history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, the Philippines beckons
adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike to explore its wonders. Whether diving into crystal-clear
waters, hiking through lush jungles, or immersing in vibrant festivals, a journey to the Philippines
promises an unforgettable experience that will leave lasting memories. Plan your trip today and
uncover the treasures of this captivating archipelago.
Beach Resorts:
Boracay, Palawan - Best time to visit: November to May.
Ski Resorts:
N/A
Spa Resorts:
Amanpulo, The Farm at San Benito - Best time to visit: Year-round.
Travel Adventure Locations
Mountain Locations:
Mount Pulag, Mount Mayo - Seaside: Siargao, Coron
Seaside Locations:
Coron and Palawan are perfect for snorkeling,
diving, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Cultural Travel Locations:
Intramuros, Vigan City
Ethnicity and Languages:
Filipinos are predominantly Malay with influences from Spanish,
American, and Chinese cultures. Filipino and English are the
official languages.
Average Weekly Budget for Accommodation:
Hostel: $100 - $150 per week
Hotel: $300 - $500 per week
(Depends on season, location and category)
Average Daily Budget for Food:
Street Food: $5 - $10
Restaurant: $30 - $40
(Depends on season, location and category)
Best Season to Visit:
November to April (dry season) is ideal for beach holidays
and outdoor activities.
Brief Travel Information about Philippines
Drinks
San Miguel Beer: One of the most popular beer brands in the
Philippines, San Miguel Beer comes in various types including Pale
Pilsen, Light, and Super Dry. It's a staple beverage during social
gatherings and celebrations.
Calamansi Juice: Made from the juice of calamansi, a small
citrus fruit native to the Philippines, calamansi juice is typically
mixed with water and sugar to create a refreshing and tangy drink.
Sago't Gulaman: A sweet and refreshing beverage made with
tapioca pearls (sago), agar jelly (gulaman), brown sugar syrup, and
water. It's often served chilled and is a popular street food drink.
Buko Juice: Also known as coconut water, buko juice is the clear
liquid found inside young green coconuts. It's naturally sweet and
hydrating, making it a popular choice for quenching thirst, especially
on hot days.
Barako Coffee: Hailing from the Batangas region, barako coffee
is a strong and bold brew made from liberica beans. It's known for
its rich flavor and high caffeine content, making it a favorite among
coffee enthusiasts.
Taho: A traditional Filipino street food drink, taho consists of soft
tofu topped with sweet syrup made from brown sugar and sago
pearls. It's typically served in the morning by taho vendors who
roam residential neighborhoods.
Mango Shake: With the Philippines being a major producer of
mangoes, mango shake is a popular and refreshing beverage
made by blending ripe mangoes with ice, milk, and sugar. It's
creamy, fruity, and perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
Lambanog: A traditional Filipino alcoholic beverage distilled from
the sap of coconut flowers, lambanog is often referred to as
coconut vodka. It has a high alcohol content and is commonly
consumed during fiestas and celebrations.
Guyabano Juice: Also known as soursop, guyabano is a tropical
fruit with a sweet and tangy flavor. Guyabano juice is made by
blending the fruit with water and sugar, resulting in a refreshing and
nutritious drink packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Buko Pandan: A creamy and aromatic dessert drink made with
buko (young coconut) strips, pandan jelly, and coconut milk. It's
sweetened with condensed milk and often served chilled as a
refreshing treat after a meal.
Foods
Adobo: Considered the national dish of the Philippines, adobo is
a savory stew made with meat (often chicken or pork), simmered in
a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black
peppercorns. It's known for its rich flavor and tender meat.
Sinigang: A sour soup typically made with pork, shrimp, or fish,
sinigang is flavored with tamarind or other souring agents like
calamansi or green mango. It's often loaded with vegetables such
as kangkong (water spinach), radish, eggplant, and tomatoes.
Lechon: A festive centerpiece of Filipino celebrations, lechon is a
whole roasted pig cooked over an open fire or in a pit. The skin is
crispy, while the meat is tender and flavorful. It's often served with
liver sauce or vinegar dip.
Pancit: A noodle dish often served at celebrations and
gatherings, pancit comes in various forms such as pancit canton
(stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat), pancit bihon (rice
noodles with meat and vegetables), and pancit palabok (rice
noodles topped with a shrimp-flavored sauce, boiled eggs, and
crushed chicharron).
Halo-Halo: A popular dessert especially during hot summer
months, halo-halo is a colorful concoction of shaved ice topped with
various ingredients such as sweetened beans, fruits like jackfruit
and banana, jellies, leche flan, ube (purple yam), and a scoop of ice
cream, all drizzled with evaporated milk.
Kare-Kare: A rich and creamy Filipino stew made with oxtail,
tripe, and vegetables such as eggplant, string beans, and banana
blossom, cooked in a peanut sauce. It's often served with bagoong
(fermented shrimp paste) on the side.
Sisig: Originating from Pampanga province, sisig is a sizzling
dish made from chopped pig's face and ears, seasoned with
calamansi, onions, and chili peppers. It's often served on a hot
plate and topped with a raw egg.
Tinola: A comforting chicken soup flavored with ginger, garlic,
and fish sauce, tinola often includes green papaya or chayote and
chili leaves. It's a popular dish served with rice, especially during
rainy days or when someone is feeling under the weather.
Balut: A unique and somewhat controversial Filipino delicacy,
balut is a boiled fertilized duck egg containing a partially developed
embryo. It's typically seasoned with salt, vinegar, or chili and is
believed to be an aphrodisiac and a good source of protein.
Bicol Express: A spicy dish originating from the Bicol region,
Bicol Express is made with pork cooked in coconut milk and
flavored with shrimp paste, garlic, onions, and plenty of chili
peppers. It's known for its fiery kick and creamy sauce.
Check some of the most popular typical local
foods and drinks in the Philippines
Philippines Cusine and Beverages
Boracay Island. Boracay Island, situated in the Philippines, is
renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
The island offers a plethora of water sports activities such as
snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing, making it a haven for
adventure seekers. Its breathtaking sunsets and crystal-clear
waters attract tourists from around the globe, seeking relaxation
and natural beauty.
Palawan. Palawan, often hailed as the "last frontier" of the
Philippines, boasts unparalleled natural wonders such as the
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. With its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise
waters, and diverse marine life, Palawan offers an idyllic retreat for
nature enthusiasts and eco-adventurers alike. El Nido and Coron,
two popular destinations in Palawan, captivate visitors with their
mesmerizing lagoons, hidden beaches, and enchanting dive sites.
Chocolate Hills in Bohol. Bohol's Chocolate Hills are a
geological marvel, consisting of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills that
turn chocolate brown during the dry season, hence the name.
These unique formations offer a mesmerizing sight, particularly
when viewed from the Chocolate Hills Complex viewpoint. Legend
has it that the hills formed from the tears of a heartbroken giant,
adding a touch of enchantment to this natural wonder that draws
tourists seeking both beauty and folklore.
Banaue Rice Terraces. The Banaue Rice Terraces, dubbed as
the "Eighth Wonder of the World," showcase the ingenuity of
ancient Filipino tribes who carved these terraces into the Cordillera
Mountains over 2,000 years ago. Stretching across the Ifugao
province, these terraces not only serve as a breathtaking
agricultural landscape but also as a testament to the indigenous
peoples' sustainable farming practices. Visitors can hike through
the terraces, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage and
breathtaking panoramas of this UNESCO-listed site.
Mayon Volcano. Mayon Volcano, located in the Bicol region, is
renowned for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape and breathtaking
beauty. Despite its picturesque appearance, Mayon is one of the
most active volcanoes in the Philippines, with numerous eruptions
recorded throughout history. The volcano's allure lies not only in its
geological significance but also in the surrounding landscape,
which includes lush forests, rivers, and quaint villages.
Vigan City. Vigan City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
transports visitors back in time with its well-preserved Spanish
colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Known for its
ancestral houses, such as the iconic Calle Crisologo, Vigan offers a
glimpse into the Philippines' colonial past. Travelers can also
indulge in traditional cuisines and experience the city's vibrant
cultural heritage through dance performances and artisanal crafts.
Intramuros in Manila. Intramuros, meaning "within the walls," is
a historic district in Manila that dates back to the Spanish colonial
period. Enclosed by thick stone walls, this cultural enclave
preserves Spanish-era architecture, including forts, churches, and
cobblestone streets. Visitors can explore landmarks such as Fort
Santiago and San Agustin Church, immersing themselves in
Manila's colonial past while enjoying modern amenities such as
horse-drawn carriage tours and charming cafes.
Siargao Island. Siargao Island, often referred to as the "Surfing
Capital of the Philippines," attracts wave riders from around the
world with its legendary Cloud 9 surf break. Beyond surfing,
Siargao offers pristine beaches, lush mangrove forests, and vibrant
coral reefs, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can
explore the island's laid-back vibe, indulge in fresh seafood, and
discover hidden gems like the enchanting Sugba Lagoon and the
picturesque Magpupungko Rock Pools.
Sagada. Nestled in the Cordillera Mountains, Sagada is a tranquil
retreat renowned for its stunning landscapes, ancient burial caves,
and vibrant indigenous culture. Travelers flock to Sagada to hike
through its lush forests, explore centuries-old hanging coffins, and
marvel at the majestic Bomod-Ok Falls. The town's relaxed
atmosphere, coupled with its rich heritage and breathtaking
scenery, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city
life.
Cebu City. Cebu City, the oldest city in the Philippines, blends a
rich historical legacy with modern urban amenities. Visitors can
explore landmarks such as Magellan's Cross, Basilica Minore del
Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro, which reflect the city's colonial
past. Beyond its historical sites, Cebu offers vibrant markets,
bustling nightlife, and stunning natural attractions like the Kawasan
Falls and Oslob's whale shark watching, ensuring a diverse and
memorable experience for travelers.
Interesting Places to Visit Philippines
The Etymology of the Philippines. The name "Philippines"
carries a weighty historical significance, harking back to the reign of
King Philip II of Spain, whose colonial ambitions shaped the destiny
of the archipelago. This etymology serves as a poignant reminder
of the deep-seated connections between the Philippines and
Spanish colonialism, influencing everything from language to
cultural practices.
Centuries of Colonial Rule. The Philippines endured centuries
of foreign domination, first under Spanish rule for over three
hundred years, and later under American colonization. The scars of
colonialism run deep, leaving an indelible mark on Filipino society
evident in its language, religion, and political structures. Despite the
challenges, this legacy has contributed to shaping the unique
identity and worldview of the Filipino people.
Manila: A Historical Jewel. Manila, the vibrant capital of the
Philippines, embodies a rich tapestry of history and cultural
evolution. From its origins as a bustling trading post in pre-colonial
times to its pivotal role in the Spanish galleon trade and subsequent
American colonial period, Manila's streets and architecture echo
with the whispers of centuries past, bearing witness to resilience
and adaptation in the face of change.
Magellan's Legacy. Ferdinand Magellan's historic voyage, which
commenced in the Philippines and marked the beginning of the first
circumnavigation of the globe, holds profound significance in global
history. The Philippines' strategic location as a maritime crossroads
facilitated this monumental journey, linking distant lands and
cultures in a pioneering feat of exploration. Magellan's legacy
endures, serving as a testament to the nation's pivotal role in
shaping the course of world history.
Baroque Churches: Icons of Faith and Heritage. The Baroque
Churches of the Philippines, recognized as UNESCO World
Heritage Sites, transcend mere architectural marvels, embodying
the enduring faith and cultural heritage of the Filipino people. These
majestic structures, with their intricate designs and ornate
embellishments, stand as tangible manifestations of the country's
deep-rooted Catholic legacy. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they
symbolize the Philippines' contributions to global heritage, serving
as cherished landmarks of spiritual devotion and cultural pride.
Banaue Rice Terraces: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering.
Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of the Cordillera mountain
range in the Philippines, the Banaue Rice Terraces unfold like
stairways to the heavens, captivating observers with their intricate
beauty. Carved into the mountainsides over 2,000 years ago by the
indigenous Ifugao people, these terraces exemplify the profound
engineering skills and agricultural knowledge of ancient Filipino
civilizations. Their existence not only sustains the livelihoods of
local communities but also serves as a living testament to the
sustainable farming practices that have been passed down through
generations.
University of Santo Tomas: A Beacon of Learning. As the
venerable cornerstone of Philippine education, the University of
Santo Tomas stands as a symbol of intellectual enlightenment and
academic tradition. Founded by Dominican friars in 1611, it holds
the distinction of being the oldest university in Asia, fostering a
legacy of scholastic excellence for over four centuries. With its
majestic architecture and esteemed faculty, UST continues to
inspire generations of scholars, embodying the nation's unwavering
commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the nurturing of
intellectual curiosity.
Tubbataha Reefs: A Marine Sanctuary of Global Significance.
Submerged beneath the azure waters of the Sulu Sea lies the
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a pristine marine sanctuary teeming
with vibrant coral reefs and diverse aquatic life. Designated as a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remote atoll serves as a vital
refuge for endangered species and a living laboratory for marine
conservation research. Its protected status underscores the
Philippines' dedication to preserving its natural heritage and
promoting sustainable ecotourism, ensuring that future generations
can continue to marvel at its unparalleled beauty.
Independence Day: A Historic Milestone. June 12, 1898,
stands as an indelible marker in the annals of Philippine history,
commemorating the nation's proclamation of independence from
centuries of Spanish colonial rule. Amidst the jubilant cries of
"Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!" (Long live the Philippines!), Filipino
revolutionaries heralded a new era of self-governance and national
identity, igniting the flames of freedom that continue to burn brightly
today. Independence Day serves as a poignant reminder of the
sacrifices made by countless patriots and the enduring spirit of
resilience that defines the Filipino people.
Interesting Historical Facts about Philippines
Situated in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is an enchanting
archipelago comprised of over 7,000 islands, each with its own
unique charm and allure. Boasting a melting pot of cultures
influenced by centuries of colonization, the country is a tapestry of
Spanish, American, and indigenous traditions.
Philippines
