Philippines

What You Should Know More About Philippines

• About the destination

  Philippines is defined by its graffiti-splashed jeepneys, emerald rice fields, fuzzy water buffalo, smoldering volcanoes, teeming mega-cities, happy-go-lucky people and bug-eyed tarsiers.

  With its more than 7000 islands, Philippines is a dream land for every beach lover. One can actually find an island to cater to every taste. Right from the sprawling mega-islands such as the Mindanao and Luzon to marooned slicks of sand amidst the ocean, there is something ideally for everyone. Those who relish basking in the glory of the sun and those who enjoy water sports like diving can head to the Visayas where you can find a bountiful of the island hopping opportunities. The beach really does take a variety of forms here. For those of you, who are adventure enthusiasts, go ahead and pitch a tent in one of those secluded stretch of the coastline and be your own survivor for the days you live there.

  Philippines largely is a land away from the mainland Southeast Asia not just geographically but rather culturally and spiritually too. Catholicism is the major practice here and that too is prevalent because of the Spanish rule that has been in existence here for more than 350 years. This beautiful city rich of beaches and cultural history, definitely deserves a visit.
  

• Travel advice:

  • Avoid carrying too much cash in your pockets.

  • Never flash your jewelry or valuables in a crowded place.

  • Avoid leaving any valuables in your hotel room.

  • Do not take a room or a resort in any secluded place.

  • If possible stay in a hotel that offers a room safe. Place all your valuables and jewelry in the room safe.

  • Carry with you a first aid box with medicines that may be needed during the trip.

  • True that people in Philippines are humble and lovely, but never roam around alone post the sunset.

  • Girls must walk around in groups if going in a place or trail that is secluded.

  • Do not photograph in the sacred or religious places. If you want to click a picture in the religious site, seek permission regarding the same from the person in charge.

  • Learn some of the common words of language prevalent here. This will help you in communicating with the local people.  

  • Always greet the locals with a smile.

  • Keep a copy of license or an ID proof with you always.

  • Avoid the touts.

  • When eating at street stalls, check for the quality.

  • Be alert whenever you are at a new destination.

  • Dress appropriately and maintain the decorum of the place.

  • Nudity is not an option here.

  • You can shoot a film or a video without any legal permission.

  • Never get involved in any form of fights or verbal spats with the tourists.

  • Keep a medicine to relieve you from motion sickness.

  • Never indulge in any form of drugs.

• Drinking laws

  The legal age for drinking in Philippines is 18 years.

  
  

• Our Recommendations: What You Can’t Afford To Miss?

  Puerto Galera

  Lying south of Manila, is the magnificent coastal town of Puerto Galera. The town is immensely popular for its wide diversity of marine species, alluring beaches and excellent diving spots. Most popular beaches here are the Sabang Beach and White Beach that assure excellent options for nightlife, shopping, dining and hotel and stay accommodation. Muelle Bay is another popular attraction here. Tourists can go snorkeling here to see the best coral reefs of Asia. Diving is another great activity here.  

  
  

  Puerto Princesa underground river

  Puerto Princesa underground river lies at the northern coast of the island of Palawa. It is a beautiful island which is every nature lover’s paradise. The island is a home to some rich wildlife. This beautiful town also boasts of the world’s most unique natural phenomena which is an underground river - Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. Tucked within a national park, it is the longest navigable underground river of the world. You can take a guided tour to explore it well.  

  
  

  Donsol

  Donsol is a sleepy fishing village that is nestled in the province of Sorsogon. It is a beautiful place embellished with breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches, and unexplored caves. You can find some attractive whale sharks here. The ocean giants of Donsol can be seen in the months of November and June with the numbers at peak during the month of February and May. Boat cruising along the River Donsol is one important thing to do here across the palm and the mangrove trees.  

  
  

  The Chocolate Hills

  The Chocolate Hills are a great tourist attraction here. These are the unusual geological formations that comprise of more than 1,268 individual mounds that are dispersed across the interior of the Bohol island. Most of the same sized and the symmetrical formations here range from 98 to 164 feet and are usually covered in lush green grass. In the dry season, the green grass turns brow and this is how it gets its name. Even today, there is no consensus on how these giant mole hills came into formation.

  
  

  Boracay

  Boracay is a small island but is filled with several award winning beaches, exquisite resorts and an array of adventure activities such as horse riding, cliff diving, snorkeling, parasailing, kite surfing, motor biking and scuba diving. Not enough? You can take a boat tour and explore the magnificent sunsets and remote coves of azure lagoons and the volcanic caves. Nightlife of Boracay is pulsated with many restaurants that serve authentic food and drinks till dawn.  

  
  

• What you will like here?

  Arguably the cheapest beer in the world

  Ever since the year 1890, Philippines has been the home to San Miguel. A bottle of beer here costs no more than 50p. The Spanish brewery was once an affiliate however today it has become an independent brewer. Be assured of finding the cheapest yet quality beer in Philippines. It tastes even better when chilled by a beach.  

  
  

  There are 7,107 islands to choose from

  Philippines is a home to 7,107 islands. 7,107 is huge? Well, HUGEeee! The majestic archipelago is ringed by teeming coral reefs and pristine beaches. Tourists visiting here can actually have a hard time deciding which one to head to first. Makes for an ideal holiday, No?  

  
  

  You can play bingo on the plane over

  As evident from the Cebu Pacific’s mid-air passenger bingo and quizzes, Filipinos indeed has a great sense of humor. You’ll indeed be chuckling all the way and might even win a cuddly toy. It is the lax and laid back demeanor of the locals here that assures a happy experience to the tourists. Philippines very well stands by its tourist board slogan, - "It's more fun in the Philippines. This very well makes Philippines a great tourist destination.  

  
  

  It has the world's longest subterranean river

  The PP Underground River of Philippines is the longest underground river in the world. This 8.2 km navigable river runs through a cave system before finally flowing in to the South China Sea. There is a lagoon that is framed by the archaic trees and marks the mouth of the cave. This is also one of the seven wonders of the natural world.

  
  

  You can eat quirky purple desserts

  How would it be to hog on a bowl of cornflakes in ice? Yes, that’s one of the many quirky desserts that are served in Philippines. Do try out the interesting Halo Halo dessert of Philippines which is made using a significant purple ice cream. Trying out this dessert is one important thing to do in Philippines.  

  
  

  You can cringe at one of the world’s weirdest snack foods

  Balut is one of the most favorite yet a slightly weird snack in Philippines. It is a slightly developed embryo of duck that is boiled and eaten in shell. You definitely must try this weirdest snack of Philippines.

  
  

  Rice terraces to make you swoon

  One significant thing about the Banaue is its rice terraces which are simply majestic. Situated at an elevation of 3000 meters, the North Luzon’s Cordillera Central mountains are indeed one of the most tranquil alternative for the hikers seeking some adventure fun. Undoubtedly, Banaue is one of the most significant attraction of this region so much so that it has been listed in the UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. Some of the terraces here are even 2000 years old.

  
  

  Tarsiers are the world’s cutest animal

  Tarsiers are the smallest primates of the world. These are nocturnal malls with bulbous eyes and rotating heads. Most of the Tarsiers live in Bohol and can be found in their conservation center. Sized a little less than 6 inches, Tarsiers are furry beings that are endangered and shy.  

  
  

  Some of the world's most colourful festivals

  Love wild and crazy costumes, dancing in the streets and bizarre folklore then you must plan a visit that coincides with a celebration like Panagbenga in the Baguio City. Other important festivals here are Sinulog and Ati-Atihan.   

  
  

  The beauty of El Nido
  

  El Nido known for its golden sand and the limestone stacks is definitely best explored via a sailing trip. You can find picturesque lagoons to swim here. This indeed is a beautiful sightseeing attraction of Philippines.

  
  

  Some of the world’s best diving

  Enjoy diving? Now, you can enjoy this incredible water sport and explore the marine life at the Tubbataha Reefs National Park which is a Unesco World Heritage site. The park has a perpendicular wall, 2 coral islands and lagoons. You can take a boat ride to see the black coral at the Black Forest dive site off Panglao Island.  

  
  

  Karaoke
  

  On of the most fun thing to do in Philippines is Karaoke. There are several spots here where you can enjoy this fun game with the locals.

  
  

  Boxing

  For people who enjoying boxing, it is quite possible that you may have heard about Manny Pacquiao who was recently in the news for a brawl with the Floyd Mayweather JNR in the Vegas. Undeniably, Floyd Mayweather is boorish and Pacquiao is sheer class. So, if you want to watch some quick punches, Philippines has great stuff on offer.

  
  

  Hospitality

  People and the hospitality of Philippines is second to know. This Asian country indeed has some of the friendliest people of the world. People here are not only welcoming but they indeed have a genuine concern about you, your culture and traditions. Locals here are super sociable. You’ll always find them smiling and happy. Most importantly they all love to single, dance and party! Be assured to be greeted with a ‘Hello Sir’ or ‘Hello Ma’am.’

  
  

  Products are cheaper

  Most export quality products like food, accessories, furniture and jewelry here is way cheaper. So, shopping can be a real fun here.

  
  

• Recommended Reads For The Destination

  Website: Experience Phillipines

  Forum: Trip Advisor