With more than 7000 islands nestled in the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines is a warm, sunny country with countless beautiful beaches and unfailingly hospitable people. It is a tropical paradise any serious traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. Here are some of the top reasons to visit the Philippines:
Before you visit, it’s important to book your flight, accommodations and airport parking space in advance. You can score some great deals on flights and hotel rooms if you book early, and booking an airport parking slot online can help save you precious time. You can do this with the help of a service like ParkON, which offers parking spaces in more than 200 lots nationwide.
Each parking lot is strategically located close to all the major airports in the country, including Los Angeles International, LaGuardia, and O’Hare. Airport parking can be notoriously difficult to find, but ParkON makes it a cinch with its easy-to-navigate website. You can search, select and reserve a parking space in less than five minutes, and rest assured that your vehicle will be safe until you return from your trip.
With more than 7000 islands to choose from, you’d be hard pressed to identify the best beach in the Philippines. Each one has its own unique beauty, and offers different sights and attractions to enjoy. Some of the most popular include El Nido, Boracay and Siargao.
Boracay is arguably the most famous beach in the country, and a top tourist destination. It features powder-like fine white sand, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. Until recently, Boracay was known as the country’s ultimate “party beach,” and young, attractive vacationers would flock there every summer to take part in all the hottest parties and events. It has since been “rehabilitated” to restore it to its natural glory, but there are still plenty of outdoor and water activities to be enjoyed, including jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides.
El Nido is a surreal location with breathtaking limestone cliffs towering over sandy coves and turquoise water. It’s the perfect option for those who want to get lost in the wonders of nature.
Lastly, Siargao is a favorite destination for surfers and those who enjoy all kinds of water sports and activities.
Filipinos are some of the friendliest, most welcoming people in the world. From the moment you arrive at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by locals who are eager to make your stay a pleasant one. The Filipino’s friendly nature makes it easy to ask for directions or tips on the best places to eat and sights to see, and you will almost certainly leave the country having made at least one new friend.
Delicious Food
Food is a huge part of the Filipino culture. Filipinos love to eat, and most traditional celebrations involve feasting together with family and friends. The food in the Philippines varies greatly from region to region, and each province offers their own unique specialties and delicacies. Some must-try dishes include chicken inasal (barbecued chicken) from Bacolod, lechon (roast pork) from Cebu, and sweet and juicy fresh mangoes from Guimaras.
Festivals are big in the Philippines, with every province celebrating their own festival once a year. These often feature loud and colorful parades, elaborate dresses and costumes, and again, lots and lots of food. Notable festivals include Panagbenga (flower festival) in Baguio, Sinulog (which celebrates the image of the Santo Nino) in Cebu, and Pintados (where performers paint their bodies with traditional designs from ancient warriors) in Tacloban.
The Philippines is rich in history and culture, having once been a Spanish colony for more than three hundred years, and being a pivotal location during World War II. There are plenty of historical sites all over the country, each with its own unique and compelling story.
Located right in the heart of Manila, the country’s capital city, is Rizal Park. It was named after Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, who was executed by firing squad there after spreading revolutionary ideas against the Spanish rule. Nearby are Fort Santiago and the walled city of Intramuros, where Rizal was imprisoned before his execution. Visitors can go on a guided walking tour to learn more about Manila’s deep and complex history.
In Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, a few hours away from Manila by car, you can find Calle Crisologo. It is one of the most famous streets in the country, and among the best displays of Spanish influence in the Philippines. This cobblestone street stretches across five blocks and more than 1,600 feet, and is lined with the old heritage homes of prominent Filipino-Chinese traders. The houses here are characterised by a distinct architectural style featuring thick walls, red roofs, large imposing doors, and capiz shell windows.
There is definitely plenty to see, do and taste when you visit the Philippines. A week isn’t enough to take in all the sights and sounds, and you will surely return from your trip with plenty of memories to treasure for a lifetime.
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