"perla del mar de oriente" Philippines by asiantraveler

The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,107 islands ...just think about it

...that's 7,000 more different views of the sun
...7,000 more of island coves and secluded beaches
...7,000 more surprises waiting for you to enjoy and experience

You can travel the Philippines either by boat or by air.
- depend upon your preference.

Ferry travel is a cheap means of transportation (if you want to go island hopping) and it can also be rewarding ...as for me its like cruising in paradise.

HAPPY TRAVELS!!!

manila

This island nation is a fusion of different cultures ...It's east meet west
...a melting pot ...it's chaotic, diverse, colorful, crazy, lively ...it's everything beyond your expectations ...something that surprises you more and more ...an endless beauty ...a great country that you will never forget ...i bet ...you will love it.

Colonized by Spain for more than 300 years so don't be surprise if you have the odd feeling like you are somewhere in Latin America. Nope! you are in Asia ...Great Buddhist Temples? ...you cannot find it here but hey we have lots of Churches comparable to Europe...old stone churches ...lots of it.

Under the mighty USA for 40 years ...thus, english signs everywhere especially in cities ...american fast food in every corner ....english speaking people with american accent ...yes! you are still in Asia

Blend everything together like cooking a delicious meal
the end result is amazing...

Filipinos

Most Filipinos are Catholics and their names are more likely the names of Catholic Saints. They love fiestas and festivals honoring the saints ...lots of dancing, eating etc.

Then there's the Chinese ... the tsinoy as we call them ...mostly concentrated in Binondo, the chinese district ...the oldest china town in the world ...yes! they are Filipinos ...but dont surprise yourself ...they speak chinese.

The Moslems ...mostly resides in Mindanao ...simple, ambitious, la rasa valiente (a brave race) who never succumb to foreign domination ...love them

The Tribal Minorities ...Ifugaos, maranaos, ivatans, eatas, mangyans etc ...like salt and pepper ...they add up flavor to cultural mix.

• Pros:beautiful beaches, awesome sunsets, friendly people, people can speak english, diverse wildlife
• Cons:typhoon
• In a nutshell:you have 7000 more reasons to return