Philippines Experience: Basic Expat Training Manual
Philippines is the second largest archipelago in the world with around 7000 tropical islands. Most of the fun loving travelers often overlook this area because it is located in the ‘wrong’ side of south China. However, if you are able to finally reach Philippines, you will be amply rewarded with the natural beauties. You can enjoy the fabulous string of coral islands across the vast expanse on the west of the Pacific. Philippines boast of some excellent snorkeling, diving, swimming and wreck diving locations around Donsol and Coron below sea level. Above sea level, the land is full of stunning landscapes. Given below are some of the most interesting places to visit in Philippines.
1. Siquijor:
Siquijor is a land of magic and mystery. The mountainous interiors house a number of ‘healers’ or ‘mangkukulam’ who practice using a lot of soothing oils and herbs. The tiny island has a lot of laid-back resorts.
2. Banaue and the Rice Terraces:
Banaue is a World Heritage site and is known for its Ifugao rice terraces. The hillsides use some primitive tools and irrigation system for over 2000 years. The Ifugao is famous for its wooden carvings. There are a lot of craft shops to visit.
3. Malapascua Island:
The little island is more known for its great food, white beaches and a low-key approach to tourism. The land is mostly covered with walking tracks. There are some good resorts that add charm to the island. Beach bums would definitely love to visit this island.
4. Sagada:
The best thing about Sagada is its noise and pollution free environment. It is a tranquil mountain top town where you can peacefully walk in the middle of the road with very little traffic. Backpackers can enjoy some incredible mountain scenery and cheap dope here.
5. Boracay:
The nine kilometer long and one kilometer wide Boracay is an intoxicating mix of sun and non-sobriety. There are about 300 hotels and resorts on this land. Travelers can also enjoy a lot of other activities including sports, tanning and parties.
6. Donsol:
Donsol is one of the most popular tourist locations in Philippines. Swimming and snorkeling can be enjoyed greatly along with some shark sightings too. You can see about 15 sharks if you are lucky. The best of the year to see the sharks is from November to June.
7. Camiguin:
The landscape of Camiguin is lush unlike other islands. The island is just about 33 km in length and 14 km wide. Other interesting things you can do here apart from diving are sandy beaches, snorkeling, hot and cold springs, waterfalls etc. People here are mostly the fishing folk and very friendly to the tourists.
8. Manila:
The metropolis of Manila is becoming bigger day-by-day. It is also a collection of small towns. Some of the interesting places to visit here are Malate, Ermita, Quiapo and Binondo. In every place you can thoroughly enjoy your food and drink. Most of the locals usually visit Manila for playing, relaxing or working.
Apart from these beautiful locations, you can also enjoy some dramatic scenery, wild life and of course, the pretty faces and warmth of the locals. If you wish to enjoy the crystal blue seas and gorgeous beaches, Philippines is the place to go.
This post was written for philippineairlines.asia by Karien Jones
About the author: Karien is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on luxury and technology. Beside this she is fond of automobiles. These days she is busy in writing an article on green living.