Philippines Holiday
The Philippines has had something of an image battering of late, garnering a reputation of being corrupt and chaotic - but the tide is changing.
This Asian destination has one of the most scenic surroundings in all of Southeast Asia - splendid beaches of white sands, crystal-clear waters and phenomenal wildlife.
The Philippines is comprised of a staggering 7,000-odd islands and is nestled comfortably in the western Pacific Ocean, bordering countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Palau and the Republic of China. However, the Philippines has the enviable epithet as being the only Southeast Asian country to share no land borders with any of its neighbours.
Traditions and culture
Filipinos are mostly of Austronesian descent but there are significant Chinese, Hispanic, American, Indian and Arab minorities.
The culture of the Philippines owes a large part to Spanish cultural influences, as the country became a Spanish colony through Mexico in the 16th century. The Philippines was also colonised by the United States, from which it gained independence in 1946.
Spanish cultural influences have left the biggest imprint and legacy on the Philippines - Roman Catholicism remains the predominant religion and many family names that you will encounter will betray a Spanish past.
The names of countless streets, provinces and towns also demonstrate Spanish influences, as does the local architecture. Many of the country's government buildings, universities, and churches display Spanish artistic references.
Houses and buildings in Hispanic styles are currently being preserved, especially in the old Spanish colonial town in Vigan City.
Hispanic traditions are also evident in literature, folk music, language, dance, food and in the creative arts.
In terms of cuisine, the Philippines is best known for its half-hatched duck eggs - known locally as balut and the local fast food franchise Jollibee.
The chilli-laced and coconut-rich fare of the Bicol region is a must-eat for hungry travellers. It is served at a stall by Tita Cely, who is said to have invented a dish known as Bicol Express, an explosive concoction of pork and long green chillies cooked in rich coconut milk.
Recommended
Hundred Islands National Park, off the coast of Alaminos comes highly recommended. Containing 123 separate islets, this small national park is a welcome getaway from the hustle and bustle of busy city centres like Manila and offers some breathtaking scenic views.
In a similar vein, stunning natural vistas abound at Chocolate Hills, a mountain range that was formed either from the teardrops of a heartbroken giant or the debris from a vicious battle between two ogres, according to legend.
The hillocks were formed by the weathering of marine limestone sitting on impermeable clay stone. Trekking across this region is best during the dry season, when the hills are at their most chocolate-like.
Weather
Sun lovers will be delighted to learn that the Philippines is hot and humid all-year-round.
There is little seasonal variation across the islands although their weather patterns can be broadly categorised.
The best time to visit is during the typhoon off-season from December to around the middle of May, when temperatures are slightly cooler, while between June and November, you are likely to encounter rainfall.
Destination checklist
English is widely spoken in the Philippines and locals are very friendly and eager to help.
Visitors are warned to stay away from most of Mindanao, an island group in the southern Philippines, where violence sparked by ethnic and religious differences is rife.
The currency in use is the Philippine Peso, the international dialling code is +63 and the country is eight hours ahead of GMT.
