Holiday Guide Philippines
The Philippines, a cluster of up to 7,000 scenic islands, is a country that draws visitors for its splendid surroundings and laidback atmosphere. Although the country has had to deal with various natural disasters and corrupt ruling powers, it has managed to retain its charm. Vibrant cities and picturesque beaches make it an idyllic holiday destination with some of the world's best dive sites.
Manila, the capital of the republic, is a bustling city with a distinctly cosmopolitan flair. The city is a wonderland for exploration with busy markets, historic monuments and a pleasant cultural mix celebrated in the many museums.
The National Museum features interesting displays outlining the historical routes of the country, with ethnological findings and tribal artefacts making up many interesting displays that offer insight into the country's long and often arduous past.
The museum also houses a Maritime Heritage Gallery which includes artefacts recovered from a Dutch ship known as the San Diego which sank close to the Philippines around the 1600s.
Vigan provides a reminder of Spanish colonization with many striking architectural structures still standing. The town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, draws visitors for its distinctly European feel, with a number of museums offering insight into the history of the area.
The lively city of Cebu offers a slightly less frenetic pace than Manila but still features plenty of historical and cultural sites. The natural surroundings of this city make it one of the most pleasant metropolises in the country.
A trip to the peaks of Busay Hills offers splendid panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. For a great day out in nature, the Sudlon National Park is home to nearly 700 hectares of magical forests, with pleasant picnic areas and natural pools providing the perfect way to cool down from the hot sun.
Palawan Bay is one of the top sites for some of the country's best diving. This untamed island is rich in biodiversity, with stunning reefs and a plethora of underwater creatures. Two great gateways for underwater discovery, Puerto Princesa and El Nido provide access to the island's wild interior and coral reefs.
The remote islands of Dibutonay, Maltatayoc and Horse to the north of Bohol offer the perfect settings for a tranquil escape. These islands, with their pristine beaches and isolation from the rest of the country, allow for uninterrupted exploration, with a number of secluded villages having been largely untouched in hundreds of years.
Most travellers coming from outside the Philippines will arrive at Manila International Airport, where regular shuttle buses and readily available taxis wait to transport you into the city centre.
Travel insurance is an important factor to sort out before arriving in the country, allowing you to enjoy your holiday with peace of mind. Emergency medical care can be expensive, especially if you need to be evacuated, making travel insurance a must.
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