Your Personal Guide to Traveling the Philippines

For a traveler to the Philippines, finding the perfect spot with a choice of 7,000 plus islands can be a daunting task. To narrow down your search, we’ve provided this guide for you so you can match your destination to your personal needs – whether you prefer the beach, natural wonders, historical architecture, local culture or shopping and nightlife.

If you’re happy where there’s sun, sea and sand, the Philippines is home to some of the world’s best beaches. One of the most renowned is Boracay Island – famous for its powdery white sand beach. Here you can enjoy a variety of water sports or if you’re not the sporty type, you can just laze around the beach and get yourself a tan. Palawan Island is also a highly recommended spot for water lovers. It boasts well-preserved coral reefs where you can view an exotic array of underwater wildlife.

Should your preference be for old world charm and historical architecture, pack your bags and visit Vigan City, a UNESCO world heritage site. Visit old colonial houses, St. Paul’s cathedral and the Palacio Arzobispado that dates back to the 1700’s. Or you can walk around the city streets of Manila, Cebu or Davao where Spanish-era cathedrals are not an uncommon site.

For those who take pleasure in a bit of nature tripping and sightseeing, the Banaue Rice Terraces is a highly recommended travel destination. Carved into the side of a mountain by the Ifugao people 2000 years ago, marvel at how the terraces reach like steps to the sky. Travel to Albay where you can stare and gawk at the beauty of Mayon Volcano and its perfect cone. Or take a trip to the island of Bohol and admire the Chocolate Hills. You would be sure to enjoy watching the world’s smallest primate – the Tarsier.

If you enjoy festivals and immersing yourself in the local culture, you will be delighted by the almost daily fiestas all over the country. Time your visit during specific months where you’re sure to drop in on local festivals. Some of the more popular ones are the Dinagyang, Ati-Atihan and Sinulog festivals where revelers masquerade as Negritos and take to the streets dancing in honor of the Sto. Niño.
 
Finally, if it’s shopping and nightlife you want, Manila is one of the most happening places. Visit the famous SM Mall of Asia, the 7th largest shopping mall in the world. You will truly shop till you drop. You will also enjoy the numerous clubs, discotheques and bars in the city.
 
When you travel the Philippines, go with the destination that meets your needs. If it’s beaches, scenic spots, architecture, culture or the nightlife you want, you’re sure to find that perfect travel destination.