Comprising more than 7000 beautiful islands, the Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, located in between the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea. It is home to many active volcanoes, green rice terraces, mountain peaks with rich valleys crossed by rivers, miles of beautiful coastline with crystal blue waters and white sand beaches, coral wonderlands and a staggering amount of biodiversity.
Wander the streets of Intramuros, the historic walled city in Manila. Be amazed by the rice terraces of Banaue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Go island hopping in Palawan, a collection of picture postcard islands with white sand beaches, crystal clear lagoons and towering karst cliffs and enjoy world class snorkeling and diving in coral lagoons of El Nido. Explore the natural wonders of Chocolate Hills in Bohol Island and meet the tarsier, world’s smallest primate. Snorkel with whale sharks in Donsol. Ascend to the summit of Mount Apo. Relax on the beaches of world-famous islands of Borocay and Siargao, also the surfing capital of the Philippines.
A melting pot of West and East, the local culture is a glorious mix of native and many external influences. While the vestiges of Spanish and American colonialism are visible in Catholicism, centuries old churches, local cuisine, lively colorful Fiestas, fast food chains, widely spoken English, love of Pop music and rainbow-colored jeepneys, Filipinos have their own unique identity with friendly, warm and welcoming demeanor.
The best time to visit the Philippines is from December to April with coolest, most pleasant months till February. March and April are also dry months but the temperatures can go up to 34°C. May, October and November are the shoulder season months. June to September is low season due to possible typhoons and rains, surfers though are attracted to the islands during this time as it brings the biggest waves.
