Philippines Travel Guide

Literally thousands of shimmering islands make up the Philippines, which – if it were a recipe – would be equal parts Spanish and Mexican, Hollywood and lazy fiestas, pigs blood soup and mad Manila nightlife. There’s so much on offer, and so many different dazzling destinations, a visit is less a question of seeing the country, but picking which part you want to see the most.

Adventure lovers are utterly spoiled for choice, with Donsol’s infamous swim amongst mammoth (and- don’t worry - plankton eating) whale sharks, essential diving at Padre Burgos and dramatic, volc… read moreano-filled Canaguin to choose from. In Siargao you’ll find surf beaches the envy of even Hawaiian residents, while Coron’s wreck diving is as thrilling as it is spooky.

Back in Manila you’ll find a nightlife that at time descends into utter anarchy, while days can be spent exploring the excesses of the Coconut Palace, blasting around the streets on a Jeepney, or slurping guyabano juice from a rustic market stall. Manila’s international reputation is rightly dubious, but finding your way amongst the (at times barely tolerable) bustle is as memorable as any of those arresting tropical beaches.

If you prefer to sip your San Miguel somewhere a little more ‘movie screen tropics’, try the laid back vibes at Sipalay, or the tourist resort haven that is beautiful Boracay. Both offer your fill of palm-fringed beaches and ‘luxury tropical’ experiences. Backward El Nido, meanwhile, provides a gateway to the incredible coral-guarded islands of Palawan, where the seascapes are straight from national geographic, and the dense jungle treks belong on a survival show. Look deeper into the depths of the country, and you’ll find aging Buddhist cultures, rice paddies enveloping entire mountains, festivals teeming with images a photographer would die for, and local communities bustling with (invariably deep fried, mango centered) hospitality.

It’s worth noting that some parts of the Philippines have significant political problems, which can lead to awkward traveling conditions. Heed the government warnings, though, and you’re in for an eclectic island experience that you should stretch as far as possible: The Philippines just doesn’t get dull.