Information about Philippines

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Philippines

The Philippines is located right at a unique meeting point between the Western world and the traditions of the East. This massive archipelago stretches across more than 1840 kilometers in the very heart of Southeast Asia and is made up of exactly 7107 islands. When you look at the map, the two largest islands, Luzon and Mindanao, actually account for about two-thirds of the total land area of the entire country.

Even though there are thousands of islands, only about one-third of them are actually lived on by people today. The physical layout of these islands is mostly defined by rugged mountains, though you will find narrow or wide coastal plains depending on which island you happen to be visiting. The country is generally split into three main geographic regions known as Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

In these regions, you will see high mountain peaks looking down on wide river plains and fertile valleys. If you travel to the northern part of Luzon, you will encounter the Cordillera and Caraballo mountain ranges. This area is also home to the Sierra Madre, which is actually the longest mountain range in the Philippines.

The highest point in the country is Mount Apo, which stands at an impressive 2954 meters above sea level on the island of Mindanao. The second highest peak is Mount Pulag, located on Luzon, reaching up to 2842 meters. These mountains are not just geographical markers but are central to the local climate and the way people live in those areas.

Manila is the capital city and serves as the main heartbeat of the country's economy, finance, and government administration. It is also the primary industrial base where most of the nation's business takes place. The city is a dense mix of modern skyscrapers and historical sites that reflect the long history of the islands.

The original inhabitants of the Philippines were a group of people known as the Negritos, who arrived on these shores thousands of years ago. Later on, Polynesian groups migrated to the islands, leading to the development of tribal societies. These communities were typically led by local chiefs who were known as datus.

European history in the islands began in 1521 when Ferdinand Magellan arrived from Portugal. Spain eventually colonized the country and maintained control for centuries until the Spanish-American War in 1898. During that conflict, the American fleet defeated the Spanish in Manila Bay, which changed the course of history for the islands.

That same year, a revolutionary leader named Emilio Aguinaldo tried to declare the country's independence from Spanish rule. However, the United States took official control of the Philippines following the Treaty of Paris. A conflict between the Filipinos and the Americans broke out shortly after, though it eventually quieted down as the new administration took hold.

By 1935, the United States helped establish the Philippines as a self-governing territory led by President Manuel Quezon. During the years of World War II, the islands were occupied by Japanese forces for a period of time. With the help of the American military, the Japanese were eventually pushed out of the territory. Finally, in 1946, the Philippines became a completely independent and sovereign nation.

Regions and resorts Philippines

Nature Philippines

The tropical climate found throughout the Philippines makes it a truly amazing place for all sorts of flowers and greenery to grow. Scientists have identified over two million different types of plants across the islands. Many of these species are very rare and cannot be found anywhere else on the planet outside of this archipelago.

If you are looking to see the best examples of tropical rainforests, you should head to the islands of Bohol, Mindanao, or Palawan. These specific islands have managed to keep most of their original jungle growth intact over the years. These forests are filled with massive banyan trees and various types of palms that create a thick green canopy.

You will also find many local trees that are famous for having incredibly hard and durable wood. Along the edges of the islands in the swampy coastal areas, you will see plenty of mangrove trees and nipa palms growing in the water. These plants play a huge role in protecting the coastline from erosion and providing a home for small sea creatures.

The islands are also a paradise for anyone who loves flowering plants and ferns. There are literally hundreds of different types of orchids that grow here, adding bright colors to the forest floor. Some of the most interesting plants you might see include the jade vine, the large fan palm, and the unique kabantigi plant.

When it comes to wildlife, the Philippines is home to some of the most exotic animals you can imagine. One strange creature is the flying lemur, which actually looks a bit like a sloth hanging from the trees. These animals are nocturnal and have a special way of gliding through the air to move from one branch to another.

In total, there are more than 200 different kinds of mammals living in the country. This includes various monkeys, squirrels, and tiny lemurs, as well as mice and pangolins. You might also come across chevrotains, mongooses, and civets if you go deep enough into the wilder parts of the islands.

Bird lovers will have plenty to see as well, since hundreds of species live here at different times of the year. You can spot colorful peacocks, pheasants, and many types of parrots or pigeons. Other interesting birds include kingfishers, sunbirds, and the distinct hornbills that are often seen flying over the forest.

The warm waters of the Pacific Ocean that surround the islands are just as full of life as the land. There are over 2,000 types of fish living in some of the most stunning coral reefs found anywhere in the world. These reefs are home to rare sights like the orange clownfish, massive whale sharks, and graceful manta rays.

You might even see a moray eel peeking out from the rocks while you are exploring the water. The Philippines is also a home for many unique reptiles and amphibians that are endemic to specific islands. This includes various frogs, geckos, and sea turtles, along with the Philippine crocodile and many types of snakes and lizards.

Climate Philippines

The weather in the Philippines is defined by a tropical marine climate, which basically means it stays warm all year but shifts between wet and dry seasons. The summer monsoon is responsible for bringing heavy rains to most of the islands starting in May and lasting through October. On the other hand, the winter monsoon brings a much cooler and drier breeze from December to February.

In places like Manila and other low-lying areas, things can get quite hot and dusty between March and May. Even during these peak heat months, the temperature usually stays below 37 degrees Celsius. On average, the temperature at sea level rarely drops below 27 degrees Celsius, so you can expect a warm environment no matter when you visit.

Rainfall is definitely the most important part of the climate here and it changes depending on where you are in the country. The amount of rain a region gets often depends on the direction of the wind and how the mountains are situated. You will notice that tropical rain often comes in the form of quick, heavy showers or thunderstorms in the late afternoon.

Sometimes, however, the islands experience tropical storms or typhoons that can bring wind and rain for several days straight. Humidity is another big factor, usually hovering around 80% on average throughout the year. If you go up into the mountains, you will find that the air is much thinner and the humidity levels are lower.

From October to February, the northeast monsoon brings in those cooler winds from the north, which makes for very pleasant, dry weather. This is a big contrast to the months of March through May, which are considered the height of summer. During this time, the heat can feel quite intense, especially in the crowded city areas.

The altitude of a place makes a huge difference in how the weather feels. While it might be 32 degrees Celsius in the middle of Manila in May, the mountain city of Baguio will be significantly cooler. The Cordillera region in Northern Luzon is famous for this cooler weather because of its high elevation.

If you are planning a trip, the period from November to April is usually the most popular time to go. This is when there is very little rain, making it much easier to travel to the more remote islands in the archipelago. The roads are easier to navigate and the boat trips between islands are generally much smoother during these months.

The weather is particularly nice between December and February because the temperatures are mild and the skies are usually bright blue. You get plenty of sunshine without the overwhelming heat of the later summer months. It is the ideal time for anyone who wants to spend their days outdoors exploring the beaches or hiking through the hills.

Transport in Philippines

Getting around the Philippines can be a real adventure, and the experience can vary from being very fast to quite slow and traditional. There are so many different ways to travel that you will likely see things you have never seen anywhere else. Depending on your budget and how much time you have, you can choose the option that fits your trip best.

If you are planning to travel between different cities on the same island, the bus system is usually your best bet. Buses are affordable and cover a lot of ground, connecting major hubs and smaller towns. For those who want more privacy, you can find car rental services in almost every large city across the country.

Often, these rental companies provide a limited number of cars, and many people choose to rent them with a professional driver included. One of the most common sights on the road is the tricycle, which looks a bit like the rickshaws you see in India. The main difference is that the passenger cabin is attached to the side of the motorcycle rather than the back.

These tricycles are everywhere except for the main highways and can take you almost anywhere within a local area. If you are in Manila, you might use the train system, which consists of the light rail and the metro rail lines. Outside of the capital, trains are not a common way to get around the islands.

In more mountainous or remote areas, the roads can be very steep and are often made of dirt rather than pavement. In these places, the only way to get around is often by using a habal-habal, which is essentially a motorcycle taxi. In the bigger cities, you will find yellow taxis that use meters to determine the fare at the airport.

You can also use ride-sharing apps in major cities, which is a very convenient way to book a ride from your phone. Another interesting local transport method is the water pedal bike that has a small motor attached to the side. These are mostly found in smaller coastal towns and villages where people live near the water.

Of course, you cannot talk about Philippine transport without mentioning the jeepney. These started out as old military jeeps left behind by the US after the war and have been turned into colorful, unique buses. They are very cheap, run almost everywhere, and are easily the most famous way to get around the country.

Since the Philippines is an archipelago, the islands are connected by a massive network of ferry routes. The prices for these trips are usually quite fair, and you can choose from different types of boats. You might ride on a traditional motorized bangka, a high-speed craft, or even a large multi-story passenger ship for longer journeys.

For those who need to get across the country quickly, there are airports in all the major cities and tourist spots. There are now more than 13 international airports along with many smaller ones for domestic flights. This makes it possible to hop between distant islands in just an hour or two instead of spending days on a boat.

Money and shopping in Philippines

The local currency in the Philippines is the peso, and you will find that carrying cash is the most common way to pay for things. While you can use credit cards in many hotels and larger stores in the cities, cash is still king in smaller towns and markets. You can easily exchange your money at banks or at exchange booths located inside shopping malls.

Many hotels and resorts also offer currency exchange services for their guests. If you need to withdraw more cash, you will find plenty of ATMs in the bigger cities that work with international cards. When it comes to shopping, the Philippines is a fantastic place to find unique items that you won't see anywhere else.

The country is famous for its intricate handmade goods, including things like home decor, jewelry, and beautiful embroidery. If you are looking for something truly local, the markets in Manila and on the other islands are filled with high-quality crafts. You can find everything from hand-woven baskets to specialty footwear like Kaycee shoes from Boracay.

One of the most impressive things produced here is the variety of natural fabrics. A particularly beautiful one is called pina, which is actually made from pineapple fibers. This fabric is traditionally created from a specific type of Spanish red pineapple, resulting in a material that is very thin and clear. It gives the finished cloth a soft and flowing look that is very elegant.

Coffee lovers might be surprised to learn that the Philippines grows several different types of coffee beans. You can find varieties like Arabica and Robusta, as well as the more rare Excelsa and Liberica. The Liberica coffee is known locally as Barako and has a very strong and distinct flavor that many people enjoy.

Since the jeepney is such an iconic part of the local culture, you can often find small toy versions of these vehicles. These make for a great souvenir for kids or for anyone who collects unique items from their travels. If you are looking for a local drink to try, you might want to look for Lambanog.

This is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from coconuts that has a very high alcohol content, often between 30 and 50 percent. It is somewhat similar to whiskey or rum in its strength. Because the islands are surrounded by water, you will also find a lot of jewelry made from treasures found in the sea.

The Philippines is known for producing beautiful pearls in colors ranging from classic white to a rich golden shade. You can buy pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets for much lower prices than you would find in other parts of the world. No matter where you go, you will also see vendors selling small trinkets like keychains.

These often feature tropical designs like dolphins, sea turtles, or surfboards, making them easy gifts to bring home. Finally, if you visit places like Cebu, you can find incredible musical instruments made by hand. The local craftsmen are famous for their guitars, mandolins, and ukuleles, which are known for their high quality and beautiful sound.

Main attractions Philippines

Sitting right on the edge of the Asian continent, the Philippines is an incredible archipelago made up of over seven thousand different islands. This part of the world is famous for its warm and welcoming locals and a rich tapestry of indigenous tribes that have called these lands home for generations. Visitors can find almost everything here, from untouched stretches of white sand and jaw-dropping natural wonders to deep historical roots and experiences you just cannot find anywhere else.

The local landscape is truly a sight to behold, defined by a massive variety of geological features that seem to change with every island you visit. You can spend one day staring at an active volcano and the next wandering through ancient rice terraces carved into the mountainsides. There are even hidden underground rivers and complex systems of limestone caves waiting to be explored by those who love a bit of adventure.

If you head out into the Sulu Sea, you will find the Tubbataha Reef, which is a massive marine sanctuary protected as a national park. This area consists of two distinct coral atolls, known simply as the North and South sections, and it is a paradise for anyone interested in marine life. On the other hand, if you prefer staying on solid ground, the Banaue rice terraces are an absolute must-see, often described as a masterpiece of ancient engineering.

For those who love a bit of history, walking down the streets of Calle Crisologo in Vigan feels exactly like stepping back into the sixteenth century. The town is full of old-world charm, with its preserved Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone paths that tell stories of a bygone era. It is a quiet contrast to the energy of Manila, which is a massive and fast-paced metropolis that still holds onto its colonial past.

In the heart of Manila, you can find the Intramuros walled city, which houses landmarks like the San Agustin Church and Fort Santiago. These places sit right next to modern developments, creating a unique mix of the old and the new. Just a short walk away is Rizal Park, a place where locals and tourists alike go to relax and soak in the history of the capital city.

Iligan is another fascinating spot, often called the city of majestic waterfalls because it is home to so many impressive cascades. Tinago Falls is particularly famous for its hidden blue-green pool tucked away in a lush tropical forest, while Maria Cristina Falls is a massive power-house of a waterfall. For those willing to travel a bit further, Limunsudan Falls stands as the tallest two-tiered waterfall in the entire country.

No trip to the province of Albay would be complete without getting a good look at the Mayon Volcano on Luzon island. This is an active stratovolcano that rises more than twenty-four hundred meters into the sky, dominating the local skyline. What makes it so famous is its almost perfectly symmetrical cone shape, which looks like something pulled straight out of a painting.

Finally, you have to visit the island of Bohol to see the geological mystery known as the Chocolate Hills. During the rainy season, these hills are covered in bright green grass, but when the dry months hit, they turn a deep shade of brown. This transformation is what gave them their delicious-sounding name, and seeing hundreds of these uniform mounds stretching across the horizon is a memory that stays with you forever.

Tourism in Philippines

The Philippines has earned a reputation as a top-tier destination for anyone who lives for a good adrenaline rush and outdoor discovery. The country offers a bit of everything, ranging from deep cave explorations and mountain trekking to high-speed water sports on the open ocean. If you have ever looked up at the sky and wondered what it feels like to fly, this is probably one of the best places to make that happen.

Just outside the busy streets of Manila, there are plenty of spots where you can try skydiving or hop into an ultralight plane for a bird's-eye view of the landscape. Hot air balloons are also a popular choice for those who want a slightly more peaceful way to see the islands from above. These activities give you a completely different perspective on the natural beauty that covers the archipelago.

Sea kayaking is another sport that has really started to take off lately, and it is easy to see why with so much coastline to explore. With thousands of kilometers of crystal-clear water, you can paddle past quiet exotic villages and find beaches that feel like they have never been touched. Along the way, you are likely to glide over vibrant coral reefs and through mysterious mangrove forests that line the shore.

If you are more of a hiker, trekking is often the only way to reach some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the country. These trails can lead you to hidden rivers that crash into massive waterfalls or to villages where local tribes still live much like their ancestors did centuries ago. You will see towering cliffs, ancient forests, and mossy jungles that feel like a world away from modern life.

Surfing is also a huge part of the local culture now, especially in places like eastern Bicol and the famous Siargao Island. The waves in these areas are world-class, attracting surfers from all over the globe who want to test their skills on the Pacific swells. Whether you are a pro or a complete beginner, there is a beach and a wave waiting for you somewhere on the coast.

Diving remains one of the most popular things to do here because the underwater world is just as diverse as the one on land. You can expect to see incredible marine life, from tiny colorful fish to massive sea creatures, all living among stunning coral gardens. Some spots even have unique thermal lagoons where the water temperature changes as you move through different layers.

For those who do not mind getting a bit wet and wild, white-water rafting on the Cagayan River is an experience you will not forget. It is a fast-paced and exciting activity that works well even for people who have never stepped foot on a raft before. Navigating the rapids and floating down the river is a great way to bond with friends while taking in the surrounding scenery.

If you want something a bit more mysterious, the underground river in Puerto Princesa is one of the most impressive natural tours you can take. You get to ride a small boat through a massive cave system, seeing incredible rock formations along the way. It is a quiet, eerie, and beautiful experience that shows off the power of nature over millions of years.

Back on land, horseback riding is a classic way to see the sights in places like Cebu, Baguio, or the scenic ridges of Tagaytay. If you prefer two wheels, mountain biking is incredibly common and a great way to navigate the rougher backroads of the provinces. Riding through the uneven terrain and breathing in the fresh island air is the perfect way to cap off an adventurous trip.

Accommodation in Philippines

Finding a place to stay in the Philippines is quite easy because there is something to fit every budget and personal preference. You can choose anything from a high-end five-star hotel in the city to a simple bamboo hut right on the edge of the sand. The variety is huge, and the prices can range from very cheap for a basic room to quite expensive for total luxury.

In the capital city of Manila, specifically in the business district of Makati, you will find some of the most luxurious hotels in the country. These places offer all the comforts you would expect from a world-class city, including top-tier service and incredible views. Other popular tourist hubs like Palawan, Boracay, and the mountain city of Baguio also have a wide range of hotels to choose from.

Beach resorts come in all shapes and sizes, from ultra-exclusive private islands with personal butlers to tiny cottages on islands that feel completely deserted. There are also many resort hotels that fall somewhere in the middle, offering a mix of comfort and privacy. Many of these places have their own little section of the beach, so you can walk straight from your room to the ocean.

One of the most common sights in almost any Philippine city is the presence of condominium buildings rising into the sky. These are very popular for travelers who want a more residential feel, as they are usually located right next to malls and restaurants. Staying in a condo often means you get access to great security and private facilities like swimming pools and gyms.

Many of these residential buildings also feature basketball courts, beautiful gardens, and even halls where events are held regularly. It is a very convenient way to live because everything you need for daily life is just a short elevator ride away. This type of accommodation is perfect for those who want to stay a bit longer and feel more like a local.

If you are looking for something a bit more personal, you might want to look into a bed and breakfast, often called a B&B. These are usually private family homes where the owners open up their rooms to guests and provide a home-cooked meal in the morning. It is a great way to experience real Filipino hospitality and get some tips on the best local spots to visit.

For those traveling on a tight budget, motels and hostels are the way to go. Motels are generally structured like hotels but offer much lower rates for people who just need a place to sleep for the night. Hostels are even more affordable and are often found near the best beaches, making them a favorite for younger travelers and backpackers.

If you really want to get close to nature, camping is widely available in many of the more scenic parts of the country. You can find campsites in the mountains, deep in the forests, or on isolated islands where there are no hotels at all. These spots are usually pretty basic, often without electricity, but they provide a real escape from the noise of the city.

Most of these camping areas will still have basic public bathrooms or washrooms, so you are not completely roughing it. There is something special about waking up to the sound of the ocean or the birds in the forest with no one else around. Whether you want a penthouse or a tent, the islands have a spot that will feel just right for your journey.

Kitchen and dishes Philippines

Filipino food is often described as the original fusion cuisine because it blends so many different cultural influences into one pot. You can taste the history of the islands in every bite, with hints of Spanish, Western, Chinese, and even Japanese flavors coming through. This mix of traditions has created a food culture that is both familiar and completely unique at the same time.

Meat is a big part of the local diet, with chicken, pork, and beef being the most common choices for main dishes. Because the country is surrounded by water, seafood is incredibly abundant and plays a major role in the daily meals of many families. You will find everything from tilapia and catfish to more premium catches like blue marlin and swordfish in the local markets.

Shellfish like prawns, crabs, oysters, and mussels are also very popular and are often prepared very simply to let the fresh flavors shine. It is not uncommon to see large platters of grilled fish and crabs served at big family gatherings or celebrations. The variety of seafood available is one of the best things about eating your way through the different islands.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are used constantly in the kitchen to add color and nutrition to every meal. Bananas, especially the local variety called saba, are a staple, along with calamansi, which is a small citrus fruit used for seasoning. Mangoes from the Philippines are world-famous for being incredibly sweet, and they are often served alongside pineapples and papayas.

Vegetables like water spinach, eggplant, and various types of beans are usually tossed into stews or sautéed with garlic. Coconuts are everywhere, and every part of the fruit is used, from the meat in desserts to the milk in savory sauces. You will also find plenty of root crops like sweet potatoes, cassava, and the famous purple yam known as ube.

A lot of Filipino cooking starts with a simple base of sautéed garlic, onions, and tomatoes, which gives the food its hearty foundation. Dishes can range from very simple meals, like fried salted fish served with white rice, to incredibly complex recipes like paella. These more elaborate dishes are usually saved for big holidays or special family events where everyone gathers to eat.

Adobo is perhaps the most famous dish, usually made with chicken or pork simmered in vinegar, soy sauce, and plenty of garlic. Another favorite is tapa, which is dried or cured beef that is often served for breakfast with an egg and rice. For those who love stews, mechado and puchero offer rich flavors with beef and vegetables slow-cooked in tomato-based sauces.

If you are looking for something healthy, pinakbet is a great choice, as it is a hearty stew of squash, eggplant, and okra flavored with shrimp paste. The combination of textures and the savory-salty flavor makes it a favorite across the islands. Every region seems to have its own slightly different version of these classic recipes, depending on what grows locally.

Desserts in the Philippines are often made using rice, coconut, and tropical fruits, reflecting the natural abundance of the land. Leche flan is a creamy caramel custard that is a must-have at any party, while buko pie is a delicious pastry filled with young coconut meat. For something a bit crunchier, silvanas are frozen cookies that offer a sweet and creamy finish to any meal.

Culture and traditions Philippines

The culture of the Philippines is a fascinating blend where the traditions of the East meet the influences of the West. Most people have an Asian heritage that has been shaped by centuries of interaction with Chinese traders and Spanish explorers. Later on, American influence also left a big mark, creating a modern society that feels very global while staying true to its roots.

One of the first things you will notice when you arrive is how incredibly hospitable the people are. Filipinos are known for their warmth and their willingness to help out visitors, often treating strangers like members of their own family. This friendly nature is a big part of why so many people fall in love with the country and keep coming back.

While there are over a hundred different languages and dialects spoken across the islands, English and Filipino are the two official ones. Filipino is mostly based on Tagalog, which has picked up a lot of Spanish words over the years, making it sound quite unique. Because so many people speak English well, it is very easy for travelers to get around and communicate with the locals.

Faith plays a huge role in daily life, and the vast majority of the population identifies as Christian, specifically Catholic. You can see this influence in the beautiful old churches that sit at the center of many towns and the way people celebrate life. Family is also at the very heart of the culture, and there is a deep respect for parents and grandparents.

Children are taught from a very young age to show respect to their elders by using specific polite words and gestures. This sense of community and family tie is what keeps the social fabric of the country so strong. You will often see multiple generations of a family living together or gathering every weekend to share a meal and catch up.

Music is another thing that Filipinos absolutely love, and it seems to be part of almost every social gathering. People use all sorts of instruments, sometimes even handmade ones, to create rhythms for singing and dancing in groups. Whether it is a professional performance or just a casual karaoke night at home, music is a way for people to express joy.

The calendar is packed with festivals, or fiestas, which are essentially giant parties that happen all year round. Every single town and province has its own special day to celebrate, and usually, the whole community is invited to join in. These events often have a religious background, meant to give thanks for a good harvest or to honor a local patron saint.

Some of the biggest celebrations include the Sinulog festival in Cebu and the colorful Ati-Atihan in Aklan during the month of January. Later in the year, you might see the Panagbenga flower festival in Baguio or the massive Kadayawan celebration in Davao. These festivals are full of street dancing, bright costumes, and a general feeling of gratitude and happiness.

When it comes to sports, the national martial art is called Arnis, which involves skillful fighting with sticks. However, you will also see a massive love for games like basketball and football in almost every neighborhood. Boxing is another huge sport that put the country on the map, thanks to legends like Manny Pacquiao who became icons of Filipino strength and determination.