Travel destinations: The Philippines – Part 4
September 18, 2009 by LostinManila
Filed under Restaurants
The Philippines: Pearl of the Orient
Where do I begin? There are 7,107 islands last I looked at the count. There are white sand beaches, majestic mountains, mysterious caves, incredible seas and glorious sights. It is the only Asian country with a European culture – Spain ruled over it for over 350 years. It is the only Christian Asian country where it remains over 90% Christian and 81% Roman Catholic. The Philippines in the fifth largest English speaking country by population following the United States, India, Nigeria, and the United Kingdom.
The “Pearl of the Orient” has it all. Great beaches off the coast, springs, caves, waterfalls, wildlife, mountains, ideal diving sights, historical churchesthe list goes on. Vast tracks of sugar plantations have turned the Philippines into Asia’s sugar land, but the Philippines are more than just sugar. It is the land of the hospitablea place filled with colour and joyful spirits. When one experiences the Philippines, they truly will believe that the best things in life are free.
With its native history and Array of colonial influences, Metro Manila has always been the point from which every Philippine journey sets off. The busy, fast-paced lifestyle of the people seen along the walkways and boulevards is in stark contrast to the remains of history contained within the Walled City of Intramuros – one of the world’s best preserved medieval cities. From forts and dungeons, to the restaurants and bars and the massive shopping gallerias, museums and theatres, Manila continues to be a place where the past and the present are entwined.
I attended my first two years of college as an American student in the Philippines. Whilst in the Philippines, I was able to visit the islands of Luzon, Bohol, Cebu, Camiguin, and Cagayan de Oro. The warmest and clearest beaches that I have ever seen in my global travels were Panglao Beach in Bohol, in areas of Cebu, and in other areas of the Philippines including Zambales, and Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. I highly recommend the Adobo in the Philippines and the Gyoza in Japan. The mangoes in the Philippines are the best in the world and you must not pass on a chance to sample the tasty, authentic Filipino spring rolls that Filipinos refer to as “lumpia”.
I enjoyed the Philippines so much that, a few years back, I obtained my Filipino citizenship. February was my most recent trip and was the first trip with my then one year old son. I cannot wait until the next holiday season to sample some more of that delicious, authentic Asian cuisine in the Orient and also see its beautiful sights and people in person once again.
Hotels in Philippines- Confirming Comfortability
April 1, 2009 by LostinManila
Filed under Hotels
Lying between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea and consisting of around 7,107 islands, Philippines is enriched with verdant nature, vibrant culture and various adrenaline pumping activities. Obviously, with all these enticements, this land of beauty has created its niche in the world’s travel map. Keeping a track with the inflow of travelers, the hospitality sector in the country is sprouting day by day. The hotels in Philippines have created a comfort zone for all travelers having different budgets and needs. So, while exploring this amazing archipelago, you will definitely enjoy the caress of comfortability available back at your home.
Mainly, tropical climate is noticed in the country of Philippines, which makes March to May hot, June to October rainy and November to February cold. However, the best time to explore this country is from December to the middle of May. Getting in this country is easier as well. Two major cities, Manila and Cebu have connected Philippines with the rest of the world by air. Even more, it is also possible for travelers to come here by sea from the nearby parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.
As a famous tourist spot, Philippines has so many things to offer to its guests. Beguiling beaches and hair-raising beach activities are the prime attractions to the travelers here. Especially, Boracay Island, Mactan Island, Panglao, Samal Island, Negros Island will entice you to get marooned amidst sun, sand and sea. In addition, the country has been adorned with some unforgettable sights. These are like, Banaue, Chocolate Hills, Hundred Islands National Park, Lake Taal & Taal Volcano, Siquijor Caves and so on. So, your itinerary for Philippines mustn’t miss all these places.
Nonetheless, Philippines houses a wide range of hotels sprawling in different parts of the country. Besides Manila and Cebu, other places including Bacolod, Bohol, Boracay, Butun, Davao, Palawan etc. boast a wide range of hotels. All kinds of accommodation ranging from luxury beach resorts to budget hotels are available here. And definitely, it gives an assurance of accommodation to all travelers having different budgets.
Some renowned hotel groups like Intercontinental, Hyatt, Sofitel, Shangri-La, Holiday-Inn, Pan Pacific, Crowne Plaza, Mercure have possessed a number of hotels in Philippines. Accenting on high-end facilities and services, all these hotels offer sheer comfort and luxury to their guests. On the other hand, the budget hotels in the island have catered to necessary amenities and services, with which budget travelers will enjoy their sojourn without comprising anything with their comfort.
Most of Philippines hotels have their official websites, where the briefs of their locations, rooms and amenities are available. Apart from that, other websites also publish unbiased testimonials and travelers’ reviews on various hotels in the country. All these information will enable you to choose your accommodation during your trip to Philippines.
