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Discover Philippines
A country of seven thousand islands, picturesque nature, and extreme entertainments
The Philippines is a large island state that unites more than seven thousand islands within a single republic

General information

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Territory:

Manila102 921 200Filipino, EnglishPeso299 764 km²

Geography

The Republic of the Philippines is located in Southeast Asia, in the western part of the Pacific Ocean. The country consists of more than 7,000 islands, only one-third of which are inhabited. However, even the wild islands can be reached on a guided tour. Taiwan, Indonesia (Sulawesi Island), and Malaysia (Sabah Island) are the nearest neighbors of the Philippines. The Philippine archipelago stretches for 3000 km from north to south and 900 km from east to west. There are four large islands within the republic, the most famous of which is Luzon.

Map Philippines

What to see and where?

Luzon

Luzon is the most densely populated island in the Philippines, located in the northern part of the country. It is worth getting acquainted with the capital, Manila, which has a fantastic ancient district of Intramuros. Churches and temples, monasteries, and palaces, as well as just beautiful buildings, constructed more than 200 years — all of this is certainly worth seeing. A visit to Fort Santiago where all kinds of galleries, restaurants, shops, and even an aquarium are located will give you an equally vibrant experience. Tourists will also enjoy all the fascinating places outside of Manila. Here you can dive, swim with whale sharks, swim in the crater of the volcano, see the remains of warships, visit national parks, and rice terraces.

Mindanao

Mindanao is located in the southern Philippines and is the second-largest island in the republic. Its main peculiarity is the unique untouched nature that civilization has had minimal impact on. Different cultures and nationalities blend here, giving tourists the opportunity to enjoy the unique flavor. Cozy beaches with black volcanic sand, exotic fruits, national parks, mountains, extreme entertainment — all this turn a vacation on the island into a bright and memorable experience. 

Mindoro

Mindoro is another big island in the Philippines. The majority of the entertainment here is related to water. Snorkeling and scuba diving, boat or jet skiing, fishing, as well as excursions to the neighboring small islands and picturesque waterfalls — these activities are quite affordable. Moreover, you can bargain.

Palawan

People often call Palawan a protected island paradise. Complete solitude, serenity, and peace — here, you can feel the harmony with the world and with yourself. The island has several attractions, including an abandoned monastery, a waterfall, and a lake with mountain water. You can also dive into the unique Barracuda Lake, visit the complex of the Tabon caves or climb to the top of Mount Mantalingajan. 

Bohol

Bohol is one of the unique islands in the Philippines, as here you can find the renowned Chocolate Hills and the smallest monkeys. Tourists can take a walk on bamboo boats, admire the beautiful waterfall, explore the caves, and dive. 

Boracay

Boracay is a popular island, famous for its picturesque White Beach. You can also walk around the vibrant village of the locals, see the famous Willy's Rock, check out the Butterfly Garden, climb to the top of Mount Luho, and admire unique live corals. 

Cebu

Cebu is another small island with the city of the same name, the oldest in the Philippines. It was here that the famous traveler Ferdinand Magellan landed and set a cross that everyone today can see. Cebu Island offers quite a diverse holiday options. Here you can enjoy the picturesque beaches and live in comfortable hotels, or you can organize an educational vacation with a visit to the basilica, fort, temples, and waterfalls. For the lovers of active pastime, the island offers diving, jet-skiing, and walks to neighboring islands.

National peculiarities

The Philippines is an amazingly hospitable country where modern civilization coexists with wild nature and native tribes. Local residents are notable for their openness and friendliness. We want to highlight the following national peculiarities of the republic:

  • The most important holiday for every Filipino is Independence Day, which is celebrated here on June 12. In addition, there are many other different holidays throughout the year that are celebrated in a noisy and fun way with exhibitions, fairs, and street festivities.
  • Cockfighting is the most popular local sport here. The roosters are grown directly for competitions; then, they are trained and thoroughly prepared. Quite large money bets accompany battles.
  • Davao and some other resorts in the Philippines prohibit smoking in public places. In addition, the local authorities monitor the safety of locals and holidaymakers, so you may be asked to show your bag at the entrance to the mall or the subway.
  • The locals are loyal and friendly to tourists, but tourists should not break cultural traditions. It's best to choose modest clothing for visiting temples and cult monuments and follow standard rules of conduct: no noise, no smoking, no eating, and no drinking.
  • Philippians are very open people, even when it comes to communicating with strangers. They often expect the same from their companions, so do not be surprised by direct questions about anything, including quite intimate topics.

What's the best time to come to the Philippines?

The islands have a tropical climate, which turns into a subequatorial climate in the southern part of the country. This means that it's always hot and humid enough. One can distinguish two seasons in the Philippines: dry and wet. The dry season lasts from January to June, when there is practically no rain, the air temperature stays within 28-30 °C, and the water is warmed up to 27 °C. When summer comes, the rainy season begins on the islands. The air temperature does not drop and humidity peaks. In late July and August, a visit to the Philippines can even be called dangerous, as, during this period, mudflows and even typhoons frequently occur. The ideal period for a vacation in the islands lasts from November to April-May.

Hotels in Philippines