10 Reasons to Visit the Philippines
A relatively unknown country to many, the Philippines is fast becoming one of the most
sought after tourist destinations in the world.
There’s a bit of mystery surrounding the country since it is not yet as heavily promoted
as other neighbouring ones, so travelers generally don’t know what to expect.
Here we go over 10 reasons why it’s a great idea to visit the Philippines.
Number one: Opposites definitely attract in Manila.
Don’t be surprised to see some glaring opposites peacefully coexisting in the Philippines,
especially in Manila.
Where else can you find an area where there is a huge church surrounded by plenty of stalls
selling potions, amulets, and other supposedly supernatural items?
Or modern buildings and infrastructure surrounding the oldest and most preserved area of Manila
established centuries ago?
Or posh restaurants with small eateries nearby?
Number two: The beaches are to die for.
Hands down, some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are found in the Philippines.
Because it is an archipelago, you have so many to choose from.
While Boracay is probably the most famous, there are other equally amazing beaches here.
Ask any local and they’ll tell you their favourite spot.
Number three: The Filipino cuisine is a feast for the senses.
A local dessert and favourite of many would be the “halo-halo”.
“Halo” means mixed and the Filipino cuisine is just like that, it’s like a wonderful
explosion of taste in your mouth.
There is no single taste that would describe it and this is why eating their cuisine can
be an adventure.
If you are up for the challenge, go out and get “balut”.
Number four: Adrenaline junkies will find so many things to do.
You can never run out of activities to participate in no matter which part of the Philippines
you go to.
Filipinos are big sports aficionados, especially when it comes to basketball, and you’ll
see a basketball court in almost all parts of the country.
Surfing is also big in the Philippines and provinces like La Union, Baler, and Siargao
are a favourite.
Other popular activities include hiking, whitewater rafting, parasailing, skydiving, water skiing,
and sandboarding.
Number five: Nothing beats Filipino hospitality.
One of the best things about the Philippines is how warm and welcoming the people are.
Language won’t be a problem as most can speak and understand basic English.
And if you need help, they’ll even go the extra mile to assist you.
If you visit a Filipino household, which happens fairly often when you make friends with the
locals, expect them to bring out the best food and tableware that they only use for
special occasions just for you.
This comes naturally to them.
Number six: Their rich culture.
Diverse can best describe the culture.
This is because of their rich history, having traded with and placed under the rule of several
countries over the years, combined with their native culture ingrained even before all those
transpired.
So many parts of the Philippines give off a vibe that makes you feel like you’re currently
in the time of the Spanish colonization.
The oldest Chinatown in the world is in Manila, specifically Binondo.
Remnants of the American time can be seen in the art deco buildings of Escolta, as well
as the gigantic statues of General Douglas MacArthur with Filipino and American officials
in Leyte.
Japanese memorials are scattered all over the country.
Go further south in Mindanao and you’ll experience even more diversity like never
before.
And don’t forget to take part in their numerous festivities that are distinctly Filipino.
Number seven: It’s a paradise for nature lovers.
The Philippines is packed with an abundance of natural scenery that will leave you breathless.
This is the reason why many travelers keep coming back.
A week-long stay is never enough to see all the wonderful sights the Philippines has to
offer on land, up high in the mountains, and under the sea.
In fact, many parts of the country, like Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu, have consistently placed
in various “world’s best” or “most beautiful” lists by various international
organizations and media outlets throughout the years.
Number eight: Their unique modes of transportation.
If you’re from a place where the only means to get around is by car, train, bus, or walking,
you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the abundance of options in the Philippines.
Probably the most famous is the jeepney, which you can find all over the country.
Tricycles, or motorbikes with sidecars, are also common, especially in the rural areas.
For hard-to-reach places, you’ll get to ride on the back of a motorcycle.
Horse-drawn calash, called “kalesa”, are a sight to see and an interesting way to get
around the area.
And for a unique experience, you can try hitching a ride with the farmers’ carts pulled by
carabaos in the provinces.
Number nine: It’s teeming with amazing wildlife.
The Philippines is an ecologically diverse country and this is why it has so many different
kinds of wildlife.
What’s great about it is you can even see them in their natural habitats.
Go to Bohol to see the tarsiers, to Batangas to swim with underwater creatures, and to
Apo Island to see turtles swimming around.
Number ten: Festivals are held in different parts all year round.
Filipinos are such fun-loving people that they make sure their festivals are also fun.
Locally known as “fiesta”, these festivals are something that everyone looks forward
to.
Expect a lot of merrymaking here, and strangers are definitely welcome to join in.
Your trip to the Philippines will undoubtedly exceed your expectations.
To quote one of the viral tourism videos about the Philippines by a group of anonymous Twitter
users, “sometimes, it’s hard to fall in love with the Philippines.
But most of the time it’s harder not to.”
Go visit the country and you’ll understand why.