Map Of The World Philippines Travel Guide
Introduction
The Philippines is a beautiful country located in Southeast Asia. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly people. The country is made up of over 7,000 islands, each with its unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re a budget traveler or a luxury seeker, the Philippines has something to offer everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and much more.
Top Attractions
Boracay Island
Boracay Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. It’s known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is also a great place for water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing.
Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills are a natural wonder located in the Bohol province. The hills are named after their brown color during the dry season, which resembles chocolate. Visitors can climb to the top of the hills for a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Mayon Volcano
Mayon Volcano is an active volcano located in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It’s known for its perfect cone shape and is a popular hiking destination for adventure seekers.
Hidden Gems
Tubbataha Reef
Tubbataha Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sulu Sea. The reef is home to over 600 species of fish and marine life, making it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers.
Sagada
Sagada is a small town located in the Mountain Province of the Philippines. It’s known for its stunning rice terraces and underground caves. Visitors can also experience the local culture by attending a traditional Sagada burial ceremony.
Calaguas Islands
The Calaguas Islands are a group of islands located in the Camarines Norte province. The islands are known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also go island hopping and explore the nearby islands.
Food Scene
The Philippines is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a fusion of Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American influences. Some must-try dishes include adobo, sinigang, lechon, and sisig. Visitors can also try street food like balut, isaw, and kwek-kwek.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The Philippines is a budget-friendly destination, and visitors can save money by staying in budget accommodations like guesthouses or hostels. Local transportation like jeepneys and tricycles is also affordable. Visitors can also eat in local eateries known as carinderias, where they can try authentic Filipino dishes at a fraction of the cost of restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures
The Philippines is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can go hiking in the mountains or explore the underground caves. Water activities like surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are also popular. Visitors can also go island hopping and explore the nearby islands.
Historical Landmarks
Fort Santiago
Fort Santiago is a historical landmark located in Manila. It was built in the 16th century and served as a military fortress during the Spanish colonial period. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.
Intramuros
Intramuros is a walled city located in Manila. It was built by the Spanish in the 16th century and served as the center of government and religion during the colonial period. Visitors can explore the city’s historical landmarks like the San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Philippines is a great destination for families. Visitors can go to amusement parks like Enchanted Kingdom or visit zoos and aquariums like Manila Ocean Park and Zoobic Safari. Beaches like Boracay and Palawan are also great for families.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
Banaue Rice Terraces
The Banaue Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Cordillera Mountains. The terraces were built over 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people and are still in use today. Visitors can hike to the terraces and learn about their history.
Siargao Island
Siargao Island is located in the Surigao del Norte province. It’s known for its surfing spots and laidback vibe. Visitors can also explore the nearby islands and lagoons.
Natural Wonders
Palawan Island
Palawan Island is known for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Underground River, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They can also go island hopping and explore the nearby islands and lagoons.
Taal Volcano
Taal Volcano is located in the Batangas province. It’s known for its stunning view of the surrounding lake and mountains. Visitors can hike to the top of the volcano and take a boat tour of the lake.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Philippines has a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can go to bars and clubs in cities like Manila and Cebu. They can also attend music festivals like the Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival.
Local Markets
The Philippines is known for its local markets, where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products. Some popular markets include the Greenhills Shopping Center in Manila and the Legazpi Sunday Market in Makati.
Beaches and Mountains
The Philippines is a great destination for both beach and mountain lovers. Visitors can go to beaches like Boracay and Palawan or hike in the mountains like the Cordillera Mountains.
Cultural Immersion
The Philippines has a rich culture that visitors can experience through various activities. They can attend cultural festivals like the Ati-Atihan Festival or visit local communities like the Ifugao Rice Terraces.
Art and Music Scene
The Philippines has a thriving art and music scene. Visitors can attend art exhibits at museums like the National Museum of the Philippines or attend music festivals like the Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities of the Philippines. Visitors can join guided tours or explore on their own. Some popular walking tours include the Intramuros Walking Tour and the Binondo Food Walk.
Architectural Marvels
San Agustin Church
San Agustin Church is a historical landmark located in Manila. It was built in the 16th century and is the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Visitors can explore the church’s stunning architecture and learn about its history.
Basilica del Santo Niño
Basilica del Santo Niño is a historical landmark located in Cebu. It’s the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country and is home to the Santo Niño de Cebu, a statue of the Infant Jesus.
Historical Sites
The Philippines has a rich history that visitors can explore through various historical sites. They can visit museums like the National Museum of the Philippines or explore historical landmarks like Fort Santiago and Intramuros.
Biking Routes
The Philippines has some great biking routes that visitors can explore. They can go to places like the Cordillera Mountains or the Chocolate Hills and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Wellness Retreats
The Philippines is a great destination for wellness retreats. Visitors can go to places like The Farm at San Benito and enjoy yoga, meditation, and spa treatments.
Adventure Sports
The Philippines is a great destination for adventure sports. Visitors can go surfing in Siargao Island or go hiking in the Cordillera Mountains. They can also go scuba diving in Tubbataha Reef or kayaking in Palawan.