Shangri-la, Mactan © bingbing

The Philippines Travel Guide

The island archipelago collectively known as the Philippines is one of Southeast Asia's lesser-visited tourist jewels. Although in the past safety concerns and faltering infrastructure have kept tourists at bay, a concerted effort at revitalising the tourism industry on the part of the Filipino government has seen a dramatic increase in the number of annual visitors in recent years. The gorgeous island chain offers plenty to see and do, from lazing on palm-fringed beaches to world-class scuba diving and snorkelling sites, and a wealth of great cultural attractions in between.

Visitors to the Philippines can generally be grouped into two categories: package-tour holidaymakers, visiting one of the Philippines' excellent beach resorts (found in Bohol, Boracay or Puerto Galera); and independent travellers, keen on criss-crossing the archipelago in search of adventure and excitement.

Whichever way you decide to visit the Philippines, there are several tourist sights and activities that you simply can't afford to miss out on. Manila, the capital, is a chaotic yet compelling city, with plenty to keep travellers occupied with. Visit Intramuros, the historic walled enclave full of Spanish-colonial architecture, and Binondo, the oldest and one of the most vibrant 'Chinatowns' of any city in the world.

In terms of natural wonders, the Philippines abounds with unforgettable excursions: from the marvellous Chocolate Hills of Bohol to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (one of the New 7 Wonders of the World), nature-lovers will delight in the Philippines' lush and interesting landscape.

Best time to visit the Philippines

The Philippines has a tropical marine climate characterised by distinct rainy and dry seasons. Weather-wise, the best time to visit the Philippines is between January and May; however, be warned that this is also peak tourist season, and so accommodation and flight prices will be higher. Read more on the Philippines' Climate and Weather.

What to see in the Philippines

-The Banaue Rice Terraces offer a breathtaking glimpse into the agricultural practices of the ancient Ifugao people of the region.

-The Chocolate Hills, a vast plain consisting of 1,776 conical hills formed from grass-covered limestone, is a geological marvel.

-The Taal Volcano is a must-see natural attraction, and is accessed from the holiday hotspot of Tagaytay City.

-Explore the enclave of Intramuros, Manila's oldest district, and be amazed by the thick walls surrounding Fort Santiago. Read more about Philippines Attractions.

What to do in the Philippines

-A trip to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, located just outside Palawan, is a must for visitors to the Philippines.

-Explore the archipelago's incredible coral reefs and rich marine life by going diving at world-class sites in Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, Mindoro or Palawan.

-Go shopping in Binondo, Manila's 'Chinatown' area, before eating in one of the district's famous converted-movie-theatre restaurants.

-Head to the cobble-stoned streets of Vigan, a charming Spanish colonial town on the island of Luzon. Read more about Philippines Activities.

Getting to the Philippines

Cheap flights to the Philippines are easy to find from American and European destinations. Direct flights to the Philippines are widely available from US cities, while visitors from the UK might have to book a connecting flight to the Philippines. Visitors who plan to visit the central or southern Filipino islands (such as Palawan, Bohol, Borocay and Mindanao) should think about purchasing an 'open jaw' ticket, which will see them fly into Manila and then out of Cebu. Get more information on Philippines Airports.

Read

Dusk by F. Sionil Jose, Dogeaters by Jessica Hagedorn, and Cebu by Peter Bacho.

Watch

Amigo (2010)

Eat

Lechon (whole-roasted suckling pig), puchero (beef prepared with banana and tomato), kare-kare (oxtail cooked in peanut sauce) and abodo (chicken, pork or squid stewed in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaves).

Drink

Tanduay Rhum, mixed with fresh fruit juice.

What to buy

Hand-woven bags, baskets and mats, embroidered shirts and skirts, hammocks and bamboo flutes.

What to pack

Pack sunscreen and lightweight clothing, as well as a small backpack you can take with you on day excursions to hold necessary items (such as bottled water, antibacterial hand-soap, toilet paper, etc.).

What's on in the Philippines

The nine-day Sinulog Festival, held in January in Cebu City, is a colourful celebration featuring traditional dance performances, processions, street music and more. Visit the island of Marinduque for the 200-year-old Moriones Festival (April), where locals recreate the story of Saint Longinus. Cebu's Fête de la Musique (June) is a fantastic event, featuring 150 bands playing on seven different stages. More information on Philippines Events.

Did you know?

-The Filipino flag is the only flag in the world which is flown upside-down during times of war.

-About 350 to 400 million text messages are sent every day in the Philippines, which is more than the US and Europe put together.

A final word

An archipelago blessed with great weather and astounding natural scenery, the Philippines is emerging as a great destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, as well as an all-action stop on the southeast Asian backpacking circuit.