Philippines Travel Guide

Top Destinations in Philippines

• Boracay Islands
• Manila

Philippines Popular Destinations

Manila - The modern Manila has huge towerblocks crowding the few examples of colonial architecture that survived the bombing during the Second World War. Manila does offer vibrant markets, historic buildings and museums, celebrating every aspect of the Philippine's unique cultural mix.

Banaue - The spectacular rice terraces around Banaue in northern Luzon were carved out of the hillside by Ifugao tribes 2000 - 3000 years ago. These remarkable terraces stretch like stepping stones to the sky- some reaching an altitude of 1500m.

Cebu City - This easygoing port town is where Magellan marked the beginning of Christanity in the Philippines by erecting a cross, which can still be seen.

Boracay beaches - Lying off the northwestern tip of Panoy, the famous white beaches of the island of Boracay regularly appear in those, "Best beaches of the World" lists. Although unchecked tourist development did have the authorities declare the beaches contaminated and unsafe, the beaches have since been found to be at acceptable levels of pollution and look pristine.

Kaamulan - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Malaybalay-Bukidnoon, 28February-3March Expect the Bukidnon to go tribal from the first to the second week of March, when the streets of Malaybalay take on that familiar fiesta theme. Banners, banderitas, and beer will be norm, as well as the sweet, haunting sound of native music. An early morning pamuhat ritual kicks off the festivities, to be followed by an ethnic food fest, trade fairs, and a lot of native dancing.

Panagbenga - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Baguio City, 23February-3March Its flower season in the city of Pines - perfect timing for an all-out fiesta in the streets. The Baguio folk take a break on these days to revel in the cool climate and the unique culture of the city. Multi-hued costumes are worn, mimicking the various blooms of the highland region (or any of its 11 ethnic tribes). These are flowerbeds - disguised, of course, as the Panagbenga parade floats.

Moriones - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Marinduque, 13-20February The island of Marinduque prides itself in being the "Lenten Capital of the Philippines", and it is easy to understand why. Come the seven days of Holy Week, the people of the island take part in the age-old ritual of the "Moriones". Colourful warrior costumes are worn topped with finely carved masks depicting the fierce Roman soldiers of Christ's time. All these are done to depict the story of the conversion of Longuinus, the centurion who pierced Jesus' side - and his subsequent beheading.

Dinagyang - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

January 25-26(Iloilo City) Merry mayhem breaks loose in Iloilo City during this weekend, when Ilonggos leave everything behind to join in the fiesta of the year. All inhibitions are dropped: boring everyday clothes are exchanged for "Ati" warrior costumes and black body paint. Shields and "weapons" are held amidst the pounding rhythm of drums, the costumed Ilonggos put their best feet forward in celebration of…..Dinagyang!

Sinulog Festival - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

January 18-19 (Cebu City) Cebu City's fiesta of fiestas. Characterized by its peculiar two-steps-forward-and-one-step-backward shuffle, thus simulating the Holy Child of the shores, the Sinulog is a century-old tradition observed in the part of Visayas region. The prayer-dance is synchronized to the beat of drums and shouts of "Pit Señor! Viva Sto. Niño!" Feel free to dance with the best of them, grooving all the way to the grand final presentation at the Cebu City Sports Centre.

Unique Filipino culture - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

The Filipino is basically of Malay stock with a sprinkling of Chinese, American, Spanish, and Arab blood. The Philippines has a population of 76.5 million as of May 2000, and it is hard to distinguish accurately the lines between stocks. From a long history of Western colonial rule, interspersed with the visits of merchants and traders, evolved a people of a unique blend of east and west, both in appearance and culture. The Filipino character is actually a little bit of all the cultures put together. The bayanihan or spirit of kinship and camaraderie that Filipinos are famous for is said to be taken from Malay forefathers. The close family relations are said to have been inherited from the Chinese. The piousness comes from the Spaniards who introduced Christianity in the 16th century. Hospitality is a common denominator in the Filipino character and this is what distinguishes the Filipino. Filipinos are probably one of the few, if not the only, English-proficient Oriental people today. Pilipino is the official national language, with English considered as the country's unofficial one. The Filipinos are divided geographically and culturally into regions, and each regional group is recognizable by distinct traits and dialects - the sturdy and frugal llocanos of the north, the industrious Tagalogs of the central plains, the carefree Visayans from the central islands, and the colourful tribesmen and religious Moslems of Mindanao. Tribal communities can be found scattered across the archipelago. The Philippines has more than 111 dialects spoken, owing to the subdivisions of these basic regional and cultural groups. The country is marked by a true blend of cultures; truly in the Philippines, East meets West. The background of the people is Indonesian and Malay. There are Chinese and Spanish elements as well. The history of American rule and contact with merchants and traders culminated in a unique blend of East and West, both in the appearance and culture of the Filipinos, or people of the Philippines. Hospitality, a trait displayed by every Filipino, makes these people legendary in Southeast Asia. Seldom can you find such hospitable people who enjoy the company of their Western visitors. Perhaps due to their long association with Spain, Filipinos are emotional and passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian. The Spaniards introduced Christianity (the Roman Catholic faith) and succeeded in converting the overwhelming majority of Filipinos. At least 83% of the total population belongs to the Roman Catholic faith. The American occupation was responsible for teaching the Filipino people the English language. The Philippines is currently the third-largest English speaking country in the world.

Cutud Lenten rites - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

San Fernando-Pampanga, 16-18April Prayer of a different meaning during the Lenten season, when villagers of San Pedro, Cutud, engage in the act of self-flagellation. This ancient ritual is performed in the morning of Good Friday during the Holy Week. Backs, arms, and legs are cut and then struck with burillo whips. The climax to this occasion happens at midday, when penitents are literally nailed to their waiting crosses.

Pahiyas/Mayon/Agawan - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Quezon, 11-15MayFlowers come out in May, but these aren't the only things flaunted during this merry month. Down south in the town of Lucban, Quezon, there's also the kiping - a colourful, translucent rice tortilla that serves as an edible ornament of sorts. You will see lots of these at the Pahiyas Festival, an annual celebration held to usher in a bountiful harvest, and smashing good times. It's a free-for-all, grab-all-you-can affair with suman-sweet, sticky native rice cakes-as the centre of contention. It is also the grand prize, so feel free to join the fray. Rest assured, whether you get handfuls or just a mere mouthful, the Mayohan sa Tayabas will leave you wanting for more - suman, of course! Sariaya's own version of the San Isidro festival showcases the creativity and ingenuity of the townsfolk in their craft and culinary tradition.

Flores de Mayo / Santacrusan - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Nationwide, May. A parade of the town's loveliest ladies, depicting the search and discovery of Christ's Cross by Queen Helena and Constantine.

Mudpack Festival - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Murcia-Negros Occidental, 24 June. Oneness with nature is the underlying theme behind Murcia's annual mud-moving spectacle. Check on its murky highlight - a lively street dancing parade with the participant wearing nothing but mudpacks (well, almost...). It's a sure fire way to mix our ecological concerns with good, clean, cloddy fun - just be sure to shower afterwards!

Pinyahan sa Daet - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Daet-Camarines Sur, 15-24June. Sweet, succulent pineapple is the fruit of choice for the people of Daet, Camarines Norte. In fact, they loved it so much that they made a festival in its honour. Join the locals as they celebrate the Pineapple Festival featuring a colourful street presentation complemented by art exhibits, trade fair, cultural dances, and sport events. Feel rich when you go for a visit at Paracale Gold Mines, and be acquainted with some Bicol heroes like Vinzon and Panganiban and Lucban.

Parada ng Lechon - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Balayan-Batangas, 24June. A different sight and flavour are introduced in June with a festival in Balayan, Batangas, popularly known as the "Parada Ng Lechon". These succulent roasted pork form the highlight of the occasion, decked out in their platforms with all kinds of décor. Since the festival coincides with the feast of St. John the Baptist, be prepared to get wet as people observe the feast by repeating the ritual of baptism - pouring water.

Pintados - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Tacloban City, 29June. Back during pre-Hispanic years, tattoos signified courage among the natives of Tacloban. These days they symbolize a cultural revival, and a wild, wacky fiesta called the Pintados. Join the town residents as they deck themselves out in body paint, mimicking the warriors of old while dancing to the frenetic beat of drums.

Sandugo Festival - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Tagbilaran City, 1-2July. The Spanish colonization of the Philippines began with a blood-sealed peace treaty on the shores of Bohol. This historic event is remembered today with an all-out fiesta at the island's capital city. Check out the Sandugo street dancing parade featuring ten colourfully-dressed groups dancing to the beat of drums. There's also a traditional Filipino carnival, a martial arts festival, and Miss Bohol Sandugo Beauty Pageant, among the dozen of other exciting activities.

Kinabayo Festival - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Dapitan City, 25July. An exotic and colourful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish wars, particularly the Battle of Covadonga where the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand against Saracan. They were able to reverse the tide through the miraculous apparition of St. James. The addition of local colour and innovation has made this annual revelry a popular attraction which brings thousands of visitors to the city.

Penafrancia viva la virgin - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Naga City, 20September. Bicol Region's biggest celebration is an annual affair that combines religion with culture and tradition, packing it all in a 9-day fiesta of biblical proportions. Stay until sundown for stirring climax: the fluvial parade as it makes its way down the river, surrounded by a sea of glowing candles - a fitting end of this truly spiritual occasion.

Hermosa Festival - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Zamboanga City, 10-12Octpber. All roads in Mindanao lead to Zamboanga, as the "City of Flowers" celebrates its grand, annual Hermosa Festival. The vintas, those colourful native sea boats, once again make their appearance in a fast-paced, race-till-you-drop regatta. There's also a wealth of cultural and flower shows, art exhibits, and trade fairs. It's an all-out celebration of life - Chavacano style!

Masskara - by Adrian from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Bacolod City, 14-21October. The carnival spirit fills the air as masked participants donning fabulous costumes dance there way around the city's main thoroughfares. This annual event reflects Bacolenos' love for fun and gaiety. Coinciding with the city's character day celebration.

Beautiful Beaches - by Cris from Philippines - 2006-02-25

Boracay Island. With its sugary white sand beaches and azure blue waters, is located on the north-western tip of Panay, Western Visayas. The best of the island is the 4 km. White Beach, touted as the “finest beach in the world.” The water surrounding the island is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago. Pagudpud. In the Northern part of the Philippines is a beach reputed to have the longest contiguous white sand with mighty waves and strong winds that can compare to Hawaii. Wind and wave surfing are the outstanding activities that Pagudpud beach offers its very discriminating clientele. Not to mention the inviting views, clear blue waters, and white sand. Pagudpud promises its visitors a magnificent experience in a secluded paradise. Mactan Island. Lying in the heart of Cebu is the island of Mactan. This tropical-island getaway endowed with a variety of colours – from its beach, hotels, resorts, nightlife, music, food, drinks – will guarantee to spice up every tourist. Panglao. Panglao is a perfect for a great dive and beach holiday. It is a small island on the Philippines southwest of the bigger island, Bohol. On the southern beach of Panglao there are several resorts that line up on the beach. Camiguin. Camiguin, which rhymes with “come again,” has been regarded as the most beautiful island in the country. As such, it is also referred to as the Philippines’ “Garden of Eden.” The presence of a number of majestic waterfalls that create both hot and cold springs is only one of the many attractions of this island-paradise. The topography is unmistakably tropical but the ambience is uniquely occidental. A study in contrast, Camiguin is sure to mesmerize anyone who visits with the itch to be back again soon. Dakak. Dakak Park Beach Resort is located on the sunny white beach facing the exotic turquoise Sulu Sea. The 750 meter private beach is blanketed with pure powdery white sand. Natural spring water and tumbling waterfalls feed the resort's two pools, whilst the ultimate hideaway is provided at a private open-air Jacuzzi where you can relax in the sauna and whirlpool amidst an atmosphere of blissful solitary refinement. Honda Bay. Framing the rugged and intriguing coastline of the capital of Palawan, Puerto Princesa City is Honda Bay. Its blue cool waters are dotted with islets that assure one of a pure-pleasure experience. From snorkelling in its clear waters to the more adventurous island hopping within its enclaves to simply having a picnic in the fine sand of its beach areas, Honda Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitor. El Nido. Dominated by towering marble cliffs that are homes to a number of tropical birds, El Nido is the source of one of the most delectable soups specially found in Chinese restaurants – the Nido Soup. This soup consists mainly of the bird nests that abound in the area. But El Nido is more than this. It prides itself in having the most beautiful seascapes in the province of Palawan, known as the country’s last frontier. Because of its utter splendour, it has also been called the island of the gods – heaven on earth that is El Nido. Pearl Farm. Pearl Farm is located in the Samal Island off the coast of Davao City, Southern Philippines. The premier beach resort, which lies in the pristine island of Samal, used to be a pearl farm. There thousands of white-lipped oysters, transported form the Sulu Sea, were once cultivated for their pink, white, and gold pearls. Today, beach lovers all over the world visit this world-class beach resort for its white sand and panoramic landscape and seascape, bringing with them the memory of a lifetime – a relaxing private retreat in a tropical paradise. Siargao. Located in the province of Surigao del Norte, is renowned for its curling waves that soar from nine to twelve feet high. It is frequented by surfers from all over the world. Besides surfing, the island of Siargao is well-known for its unspoiled beaches and its rural charm.

Philippines Beaches

Boracay Beaches - These perfectly white beaches are particularly beautiful HOWEVER, the waters off Boracay are contaminated thus leaving the water unsafe to swim in. You can look, but don't touch.

On a more positive note, with over 7000 islands, what can you expect - the beach capital of Asia. Plenty of long white beaches with both the China Sea and the Pacific Ocean to swim in. Boracay Beaches - These perfectly white beaches are particularly beautiful HOWEVER, the waters off Boracay are contaminated thus leaving the water unsafe to swim in. You can look, but don't touch.

On a more positive note, with over 7000 islands, what can you expect - the beach capital of Asia. Plenty of long white beaches with both the China Sea and the Pacific Ocean to swim in.

Moving Around Philippines

Domestic flights are available between Philippine cities. The railway line (the one and only) has a route from Manila to Naga in southern Luzon. Buses are therefore the best overland alternative. Car rentals are available as well as jeepneys, metered taxis, small taxis without meters, vans and tricycles (motorbikes with sidecars). There are loads of ferries available for island hopping, but be careful, safety is an issue. Please be patient and wait for a healthy looking ferry that is not overloaded. Domestic flights are available between Philippine cities. The railway line (the one and only) has a route from Manila to Naga in southern Luzon. Buses are therefore the best overland alternative. Car rentals are available as well as jeepneys, metered taxis, small taxis without meters, vans and tricycles (motorbikes with sidecars). There are loads of ferries available for island hopping, but be careful, safety is an issue. Please be patient and wait for a healthy looking ferry that is not overloaded.

Philippines Festivals

the Black Nazarene Procession - 9 January. The largest procession in the country, a life-size, blackwood statue of Jesus is carried through the streets of Manila. The same procession happens again the week preceeding Easter.

Ati - Atihan - Celebrated in Kaliboin Panoy in the third week of January, it is the Filipino version of the Mardi Gras.

All Saint's day - 1 November. The week preceeding this, the Christian cemeteries are spruced up and given a fresh coat of whitewash, with a huge party on the day, at the Chinese cemetery in Manila. the Black Nazarene Procession - 9 January. The largest procession in the country, a life-size, blackwood statue of Jesus is carried through the streets of Manila. The same procession happens again the week preceeding Easter.

Ati - Atihan - Celebrated in Kaliboin Panoy in the third week of January, it is the Filipino version of the Mardi Gras.

All Saint's day - 1 November. The week preceeding this, the Christian cemeteries are spruced up and given a fresh coat of whitewash, with a huge party on the day, at the Chinese cemetery in Manila.

Useful Philippines Links

WoW Philippines
Discover Philippines and Experience 7,107 islands for holidays..

Philippines Travel Guide
Travellers guide to the Philippines.

MyCam Asia - World's First Real Time Interactive Webcam Travel Guide
MyCam Asia - World's First Real Time Interactive Webcam Travel Guide