Travel destinations: The Philippines – Part 13

Here are the reasons why you should visit the Philippines:

1. The Place: It is so unique. The Philippines, also called the Pearl of the Orient Seas, consists of 7,107 islands. Far from being a mere cluster of islands on the southeastern corner of Asia, the Philippines is an archipelago blessed with an endless Array of landscapes. It brims with unspoilt white beaches, virgin forests & mountains, cascading waterfalls, endless plains, breathtaking cliffs, marvelous caves, wild marshes, unpolluted lakes and rivers, centuries all churches and other buildings, all, set amidst a stunning backdrop of clear blue skies and emerald seas. Go scuba diving, surfing, or swimming in Boracay, Cebu, Davao, La Union, or Ilocos Norte. Go hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, or bird watching in Mountain Province or Baguio. Explore the caves and the waterfalls in Pagsanjan or Cagayan. Visit the almost 400-hundred year old churches in Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte. Stop by the “mansion” full-house-sized mausoleums at the Chinese cemetery in Manila. The list of things to do and see is endless.

2. The People: The Philippines is home to multi-ethnic people – a varied blend of races, beliefs and customs borne from centuries of foreign influence. We are a mixture of Malay, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, American, Arab and European ancestry. Despite this diverse background, we have managed to produce an identity of our own. We call ourselves “Filipinos”. We are a fun-loving and gentle people. And when you come visit our country, you will find that we are courteous, friendly, and we put your needs and interest above ours. Almost everyone speaks English.

3. The Food: Food, glorious food! Filipinos love to eat! We eat four or more times a day! Majority eat breakfast, then a segundo almuerzo (second breakfast) around 10:30, lunch at around midday, followed by a merienda, or afternoon snack between 2-3 p.m., then dinner, and sometimes a midnight snacks. Sample our delectable and tempting delicacies which is a unique mixture of eastern and western cuisine. With nearly 400 years of outside influences, the Philippine cuisine is a fascinating blend of Malay, Spanish, Western, and Chinese cultures. Rice is served in almost every meal. We have abundant shrimps, lobsters, crabs, fish and shells- perhaps the freshest and biggest! And when you happen to attend a party or a festivity, try our whole roasted pig and an Array of meat, vegetable, seafood, and pasta dishes. Sample