The Philippines on a Budget: Beaches, Cities, and Adventure
Discover the Philippines: Culture, Nature, and Travel Tips
The Philippines is made up of more than 7,000 islands, each ready to explore Original culture Vultures: If you’re hungry for something culturally unique, this is your perfect destination. The Philippine archipelago is made up of more than 7,000 islands, each ready to explore. The country has survived a hellish history, dating back to its discovery in the 16th century by imperial Spain, and later conquered by the US in 1898. Scars of colonialism remain evident wherever you go. The Spanish left their legacy in pipe organs and Baroque theatres, as well as their pre-Christian colonial, and Chinese heritage. Spaniards and Chinese colonisers mixes to form the ‘Mestizos’, descendants of the Spanish mobility intermarrying with the dark-skinned Indigenous population, who speaks a Spanish-based creolised language. Meanwhile, the US left behind a thriving democracy, the English language, lollipops with American flags, and Coca Cola. The devastating consequences of war are also very apparent. Not-to-be-missed spots include the well-known war memorial Corregidor Island, and Manila’s National Museum, showcasing photography from the Spanish-American War. Those more interested in nature than history can take a boat from Manila to the Pearl Farm Beach (yes, this place boasts a watery farm producing pearls, especially the famous golden South Sea pearl). On the island of Palawan in southwest Philippines, you’ll find El Nido and Tienga. With an interior jungle to delight nature lovers and a coastline brimming with beaches and incredible rock formations, this is a paradise for hikers and divers.
A Glimpse into Filipino Culture
This country’s culture is a heady mélange of Asian, Spanish and American influences all swirled into one because of its complicated history; you’ll see it from the old colonial architecture in its towns to the way families are often central to its way of life. Filipino people are also incredibly hospitable, known for being friendly to tourists and often going out of their way to help out.
Festivals: Filipino culture is best enjoyed through its many festivals The best time to visit them is January when big celebrations such as Sinulog in Cebu and Ati-Atihan in Aklan burst with colour during the parades, music and dancing that characterise Filipino culture.
Languages: The official languages are Filipino (Tagalog) and English but expect to hear almost any regional language ranging from Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon and more. Fortunately, English is widely spoken so travellers should be just fine.
Nature at Its Finest
The Philippines. For a nature lover, it is heaven on Earth with its white sand beaches and vast mountain ranges.
Beaches and Islands: The country’s coastlines are renowned. Pristine white sand beaches like Boracay have rightfully secured a place in the canons of world tourism, but the nation’s waters and islands are among the world’s most spectacular. Palawan, for instance, is a global destination for affordable island hopping, while Siargao offers a quieter, surfing-centric experience.
Mountains and Volcanoes: For hiking enthusiasts, a trek on the Mt Pulag in Luzon will bring you face-to-face with the captivating spectacle of a sea of clouds at the summit. For a more volcanic adventure, you can trek on the Mount Mayon in Albay (Bicol), which is known as one of the most perfect volcanic cones in the world. You can also visit the Taal Volcano in Batangas, which is known for seismic activities and its beautiful caldera lake set against a backdrop of viewpoints that offer easier trails.
Phil: Another thing. I know the Philippines has wildlife. Do they have animals? The national bird, the Philippine eagle, is found only there. Also tarsiers, which are like little primates. They have them in Bohol, way south, where there’s a tarsier sanctuary. Traveler: That’ll be another thing to see.
Travel Tips: Shopping and Sights
Shopping: Bargain hunters will not be disappointed in the Philippines. Manila is home to two of the biggest shopping malls in Asia: SM Mall of Asia and Greenhills Shopping Center. Divisoria (in Manila) is a well-known local market where you can haggle for almost anything, from apparel to electronic accessories.
Unique souvenirs you may want to consider buying are the handicrafts: woven bags, carvings, and jeepney replicas are sought-after items. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the oldest city in the Philippines prides itself in superior crafts, particularly traditional handicrafts like pottery and weaving, and colonial Spanish architecture. Walking down Calle Crisologo feels like traveling back in time, with cobblestone streets that are lined per side with centuries-old houses.
Sights: A trip to the Philippines would be incomplete without visiting its natural and historical sights the beaches and islands are nothing in comparison to the Banaue Rice Terraces: 2,000-year-old terraces carved into the side of the mountains by the indigenous people, and often referred to as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’.
History aficionados may be interested in Intramuros in the capital city of Manila where native Filipinos still defend the Spanish colonial walled city containing Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, which had been used as a prison during the Philippine Revolution.
When to Go
The Philippines has two seasons – wet, which runs from June to November with a hot and humid climate, and dry, between December and May. The best time to visit is during the dry season, particularly during December to February, since it is cooler during this period and there is a wide range of outdoor activities to pursue during this time. On the other hand, if you want to do island hopping or hit the beaches, consider going March to May – that way, it’s much hotter, perfect for beach bumming and water sports.
Things to Consider
1. Typhoon Season: The rainy season is at the same time as typhoon season, which is from June to November. Some travellers will venture out at this time, but there is a potential for rain all day and cancelled flight or boat schedules.
2. Local Transportation: Transport within the Philippines can be an adventure on its own right. Jeepneys, tricycles and buses are the traditional and common methods of local transport. Flights remain the easiest and fastest way to get between islands. Ferry services are also available but slower.
3. Money: The local currency is the Philippine peso (PHP) and cash is king, in particular in the countryside. While credit cards are widely accepted in malls and in hotels, carry cash when going to smaller towns or markets.
4. Respect for Local Customs: Respect and politeness is highly regarded by the Filipinos. Keep in mind to use “po”, “opo”, salutation address to elders and modest attire when visiting religious sites.
Conclusion
A little bit of everything exists in the Philippines: gorgeous natural attractions, exotic festivals, and the most unique markets. From the white sands of a remote beach, to the Spanish ruins of an old colonial city, this incredible archipelago will leave you craving for more. Take in as much as you can. I dare you to empty out your bags – there’s still more!
