Live Your Best Lives
The Philippines is a beautiful archipelago with over 7,000 islands, large and small. Dotted across the vast expanse of the western Pacific Ocean, these islands, some volcanic, some lagoon, and some coral, are diverse and beautiful.
The Philippines is divided into three major regions: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, comprising 73 provinces, two sub-provinces, and 60 municipalities. Manila, the capital of the Philippines, sits on the shores of Manila Bay. A renowned commercial port dating back to the 16th century, it remains the nation's largest port city. The Philippines boasts abundant natural resources, a rich history, and a unique and diverse culture, overflowing with attractions. Visitors are guaranteed to discover something new on each island, a journey that never disappoints.
The Philippines is located in the tropics, making it suitable for travel year-round. However, most areas have distinct seasonal differences, generally divided into three seasons: cool season, dry season, and rainy season.
Cool Season (December-February): This season is cooler and less rainy, making it a popular tourist season. However, the vegetation during these months, lacking sufficient moisture from the rain, can appear dry, yellow, and sparse. Peak season also sees higher crowds, leading to higher travel costs.
Dry season (March-May): This season is also the time when local Filipinos spend their summer vacation. Many holiday spots are sparsely populated with tourists, making them suitable for a quiet vacation.
Rainy Season (June-September): The Philippines isn't all that terrible during the rainy season. Rainfall occurs regularly in different regions (e.g., morning, midday, or dusk) and doesn't last long. The air after the rain is incredibly comfortable, and the sun shines brightly. Most importantly, the number of tourists is low during this period, making accommodations very affordable and negotiable.
White Sand Beach
The world-famous white sands, formed from crushed coral, are gently stretched out, their white, fine sand refreshing even under the scorching midday sun. At night, the area transforms into a vast bar, where lights and music fill the day with new experiences.
Puka Beach
The second largest beach in Boracay, famous for its shiny Puka shells, which can be picked up on the beach after the tide goes out.
city within the city
Originally built by the Spanish to rule the Philippines, this fortress, known as the "city within a city," is Manila's oldest district. The fortress walls, official residences, and churches within exude a Spanish atmosphere, preserving architectural features from the era. Riding through the streets in a vintage horse-drawn carriage is like stepping back in time, allowing you to explore the 400-year-old history of Old Manila.
Balicasag Island
Balicasag Island is a 45-minute flight from Bohol Island. It has the famous Balicasag Fault, which is said to have a 3,000-foot drop to the seabed. It has been listed as a protected underwater area by the United Nations and the scenery is quite magnificent.
Balicasag Island is a top diving paradise, rich in corals and fish. Various coral fish swim around in groups, and large fish over 50 cm long can be seen everywhere a few meters underwater, making it a prime spot for snorkeling.
Recommended travel time: 5-10 days
The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands with a rich history of Spanish colonization, followed by American rule, and finally, independence. The country is known for its diverse culture, vibrant festivals, and historical landmarks. It played a significant role in world history, including the Philippine Revolution against Spain and the EDSA People Power Revolution against Marcos dictatorship.
The Philippines is located in Southeast Asia, in the western Pacific Ocean. Most international flights arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, and other major airports are in Cebu, Davao, and Clark. Within the country, taxis, buses, jeepneys, and walking are common modes of transportation, depending on the region.
The Philippines is open year-round for tourism, though the best time to visit is from December to May, during the dry season. The rainy season, from June to November, can bring heavy monsoons, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions.
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, visiting the Underground River in Palawan costs around $20 for a day pass, while fees for popular parks and attractions like the Banaue Rice Terraces may be around $5 to $10. Tickets can typically be bought online for larger attractions or purchased on-site at the entrance.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Underground River and Boracay, especially during peak seasons (December to April). For other attractions, tickets can generally be bought on the spot, though booking a few days ahead is a good idea for convenience.
The Philippines offers a wide range of experiences, so the amount of time you need depends on the destinations you choose. A week could be enough to explore one or two islands or cities, while a more extensive trip to multiple islands might require two to three weeks.
Yes, guided tours are widely available for many attractions. Tours are usually available in English, and some tours offer options in Spanish, French, and other languages, depending on the region.
A popular route is to start in Manila for historical exploration, then head to Tagaytay for views of Taal Volcano, followed by a visit to the white beaches of Boracay. Afterward, a trip to Palawan for the Underground River, then end with the Banaue Rice Terraces or Bohol for a more nature-based experience.
Some attractions offer night visits or special evening tours, such as the cultural shows in Boracay or the evening boat tours in Puerto Princesa. Certain areas, like the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati, also have light shows during the holiday season.
The Philippines can be crowded during the peak tourist season from December to April, especially in popular destinations like Boracay and Palawan. The least crowded times to visit are during the off-peak rainy season (June to September) when fewer tourists travel, though some areas may experience storms.
Many attractions are accessible for elderly and children, but some more remote or natural destinations like Banaue or certain hiking spots may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Resorts and urban areas tend to have better accessibility.
Cash is widely accepted in the Philippines, especially in rural areas. In larger cities and tourist hubs, credit cards and mobile payments like GCash and PayMaya are often accepted. It's a good idea to carry cash, particularly when traveling to remote areas.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are widely available, especially in urban areas like Manila and Cebu. Halal food can be found in larger cities with Muslim communities, such as parts of Mindanao and areas with many foreign tourists.
Accommodations vary from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Popular destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu offer a wide range of options, including beachfront resorts, eco-lodges, and guesthouses.
Souvenir shops are common in popular tourist destinations. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts like woven baskets, wooden carvings, jewelry, and clothing items. In Boracay, you can find beach-themed trinkets, while in Bohol, you can buy items made from local materials like coconut shells.
