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Introduction
Mabuhay! Let me take you to a breathtaking trip to my country, the
Philippines.
I was raised in a country filled with natural resources, surrounded by
aquatic life, and greeted by people who always wear a smile. There are
many reasons to love and enjoy the Philippines. a few clicks away
through pages and you’ll definitely want to spend a holiday in the
Philippines, “Pearl of the Orient Seas.”
The Philippines – the Basics
I live in an archipelago with 7,107 islands, surrounded by marine life
and resources. Loads of beautiful and exotic beaches that are just
perfect for working on a glorious tan is just one of the reasons
tourists flock to the Philippines in droves.
The Philippine archipelago is made up of 7,107 islands each hosting
attractions both natural and man-made. With an extended coastline
boasting both of black and white sand beaches, a highly diverse marine
life, lush mountain forests filled with rich flora and fauna, every
island has something special to offer its visitors.
Natural wonders like the perfectly shaped Mayon volcano, the tiny Taal
volcano, the picturesque Banaue Rice Terraces, and the powdery white
sands of Boracay are just a few of the top tourist draws the country has
to offer.
Being in the tropics, we enjoy balmy weather all year round with the
exception of months June to August which is the monsoon season. Either
way, tourists in the country will find that they will never be lacking
for things to do on any of the Philippines’ many islands.
But don’t get me wrong. The country is not just about nature trips and
sunny beaches. Towering skyscrapers, humongous shopping malls, and
numerous bargain centers called "tiangge" may be found in the major
cities and outlying towns. Tourists out for a bit of shopping usually
find themselves overwhelmed by the wealth of bargains and smorgasbord of
commodities ranging from original designer clothes to cheaper knock-offs
which may be bought at unbelievably low prices.
People and Traditions
 Originally
of Malay stock, the typical Filipino is brown skinned, compactly built,
and sports thick, curly hair and a flat nose. However, occupation by
different foreign colonists have resulted in inter-racial unions from
which sprung the “mestizos” or mixed-race offspring. Don’t be too
surprised to meet fair-skinned tribal Ifugaos who took after their
Japanese ancestors or Filipinos with Spanish, Chinese, or American
features.
The country is also blessed with many different customs and traditions
that are still being practiced in today’s modern world. You would still
see indigenous tribes living in the mountains and tropical forests,
practicing their old beliefs which was passed on from generation to
generation. Tourists are lucky if they chance upon native wedding
rituals, feasts, and farming rites.
Our country is also host to hundreds of local dialects such as "Tagalog",
"Bisaya" and "Chavacano." Tourists, however, should not worry about
communication difficulties as most Filipinos are taught to speak English
starting at very young ages.
Filipinos are very fond of commemorating things through fiestas.
Be it religious, regional, or citywide, people will always find reasons
to deck the streets with streamers and hold street parties and parades
that often last for days. Some of the more popular fiestas are the
“Ati-Atihan” in Kalibo, Aklan; the Sinulog Festival in Davao, Panagbenga
Flower Festival in Baguio City, and the Pahiyas in Quezon Province.
Visit the Beautiful Philippine Islands today! A great vacation for the entire
family... |
