MAIN Travel South & Southeast Asia Philippines

Spread out over 7,107 islands, the Philippines evokes visions of long streches of white sandy beaches, volcanic mountains and fertile valleys, populated by warm and welcoming Filipinos who are truly happy you've come.

As it is located to the north of the Malay Peninsula, the major ethnic group throughout the islands is Malaysian, with influence still felt by the Chinese and, more strongly, the Spanish who named the islands in 1565 after King Philip II.

Spanish rule lasted until the Philippine Revolution of 1896.

Today, a trip to the Philippines usually begins in the capital city of Manila, where visitors head straight for Rizal Park, surrounded by sophisticated shops & restaurants, bustling and colorful markets, and historic museums. The Intramuros, or old town, is another must see for a trip back to the city's colonial past.

For outdoor adventure, Mindoro Island lies just south of Manila, offering crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, as well as a colorful coral reef on the northern coast, perhaps bested only by the famed diving and snorkeling spots found on Palawan Island.

Cebu Island, vying as one of the most popular overall tourist destination in the Philippines, also offers world class diving as well as history (here is where Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magallen first landed in the 16th century), and nearby attractions including the Chocolate Hills, so named for their chocolate drop shape and color.

Of course, no visit to the Philippines would be complete without a trip up north to Luzon where lies the chiselled, centuries-old rice terraces of Banaue (pictured above right.)

Elsewhere on the Web, discover more information on the best times to go, what to see, where to eat and stay, colorful facts on annual fairs and fiestas, along with stunning photos that only give a hint of what awaits on a visit to the Philippines ...

WOW Philippines - The official government tourism site with an extensive guide to top historic, cultural, natural & wildlife attractions, hotels & restaurants, event & festival calendar, tour packages including honeymoon and wedding, general travel tips, statistics and trivia.

Philippines Tourist Guides - Multi-part guide covering vital stats and brief overview, with more on the country's top attractions & activities, festivals & events, maps & pictures, thumbnails descriptions of history, culture & religion.

Philippines - Lonely Planet - Practical help with brief overview, information on weather, health & safety tips, best times to go, how to get there, travel highlights including Banaue rice terraces, Boracay Beaches, Lake Sebu, Viriato.

Filipino.com - Colorful online brochure offering looks at top island attractions including best beaches and diving spots, practical travel tips including currency converter, weather.

Manila - A brief look at the city's best places for shopping, with more on top tourist attractions including museums, scenic views, and looks at Rizal Park and the old walled city of Intramuros.

Also see -> Cambodia | India | Indonesia | Malaysia

Myanmar | Philippines | Singapore | Thailand | Vietnam

in Wines of the World -> Wines of Southeast Asia