Spotlight on… Philippines

With over seven thousand picture perfect islands, rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes and a cultural mix that may surprise you, we’re in the Philippines! This breathtaking destination is quickly becoming the hottest place to visit for travelers looking for a taste of the exotic.

The history of the Philippines gives great insight to how precious this place is. The Spanish claimed the islands in 1521 and it was classed as the Spanish East Indies, then Americans took control of the islands during the Philippine-American War between 1899 and 1902, and the Japanese invaded during WWII. Despite much turmoil in their history, the Filipino people are friendly and hospitable, and have embraced all of these influences to develop a rich and varied culture.

With so much to explore, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start! To help you here are our top five places to visit:

Palawan Island

Often the first taste of the Philippines, and the one that makes travelers fall in love with her in an instant. Crystal clear turquoise waters, powder white beaches, and stunning limestone formations providing the backdrop to incredible seascapes – this is Palawan. Voted ‘The Best Island in the World’ on numerous occasions by multiple travel publications. Add to this world class diving, incredibly friendly locals, and delicious fresh seafood as standard. Accessible to even the most budget conscious traveler, your hard earned dollars will take you far in this magical place.

Banaue

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and known as the stairways to the sky, Banaue Rice Terraces are a stunning sight in complete contrast to the tropical feel of other areas. Covering an area of nearly 400-square-kilometers and taking over 2,000 years to build, they are an example to the world of how humans can live in equilibrium with nature. Take the opportunity to experience the simple life of the Igorots, and enjoy their hospitality. This life changing visit will provide you with a whole new perspective, you’ll take home not just incredible memories, but important lessons too.

Bohol

Home to the world’s smallest primate – the Philippine Tarsier, as well as a haven for several turtle species, whales, dolphins, butterflies, and bees, Bohol is a nature lover’s paradise! Exploring Bohol will take you to the famous Chocolate Hills, and the only man made forest in the country filled with towering mahogany trees. For those that seek adrenaline, canyoneering, ATV tours and swimming with whale sharks are just some of the activities available to enjoy.

Boracay

Calling all beach lovers! Boracay is the ultimate place to enjoy tropical beach life. Awesome watersports, a gorgeous 4km-long beach, shallow turquoise waters perfect for swimming: welcome to your dream beach vacation. After a hard day soaking up the rays, Boracay comes alive with a vibrant nightlife to satisfy even the wildest of party animals, often lasting right through to dawn, and another day of sand, sea and sun.

Manila

‘The Pearl of the Orient’, an example of superhuman resilience and a diamond in the rough for adventurous explorers. Beautiful chaos rules the roost here in all of its glory and tourists love every hyperactive second of it! Bustling streets filled with markets and crumbling shanty towns stand side by side with modern malls and towering skyscrapers. Visit museums, shops, parks, and churches as you explore the 6 cities and 12 towns of metropolitan Manila, if you want to dive head first into Filipino culture, this is the place to be.

Although we’ve barely touched the surface of what the Philippines has to offer, we hope that you’ve been inspired to find out more about this amazing destination!