Philippines Area Guides

Everything you Need to Know about Philippines

The Philippines has almost everything a holidaymaker could desire. It is something of an undiscovered gem, though it is probably the most westernized Asian nation. Malapascua Island lies eight kilometres northeast of Cebu, and is the most tourist-oriented of the Visayas islands, followed closely by Bohol, home to the unforgettable Chocolate Hills. Mactan is particularly geared towards tourism with its many dive centres. The island of Cebu is the place to head for to see cultural attractions and alongside Manila, it is an inevitable port of call for travellers.

Borocay (also in the Visayas) is a lazy place, favoured by divers and backpackers. And one can certainly see why, with its pristine beaches and utterly relaxed atmosphere, it’s the stuff of dreams.

Palawan is the country's largest province, with more than 1,000 islands and islets of its own. Its nearest neighbour is North Borneo and is famous for its superb cliffs and is the habitat of 232 endemic species, existing within the region's tropical forests. This is marketed as the Philippines' hub for eco tourism.

Luzon is the most economically important of all the regions. Home to Metro Manila – the country's capital – tourist attractions include rice terraces and mountain tribes in the northern part of the island and the volcanoes Pinatubo, Taal and Mount Mayon.

Manila

Manila has a certain ‘rough diamond’ quality about it. With over 9.5 million people in the Filipino capital – traffic congestion, pollution and crime are fairly ubiquitous – but nevertheless avoidable. It’s not rocket science – just don’t go wandering off into the suburbs on your own late at night and you'll be alright. Read more...

Boracay Island

Those on holiday and looking for the perfect combination of sun, sand, and sea will not be disappointed in Boracay. The inviting island offers nearly every imaginable beach activity available. Of course, nothing beats relaxing in the sun on its white powdery beaches and swimming in the crystal-clear water – truly paradise on earth! Read more...

Cebu Island

Cebu is the largest island in the Visayas region and is particularly rich in historical significance with regards to the Philippines' colonisation, at the hands of the Spanish. The original capital, until Manila's appointment, it proved stronger against a sea attack, Cebu was demoted during the 17th century.

Cebu City

Also known as Metro Cebu, this is the island's capital and the second city of the Philippines. It’s also the oldest city in the country. Cebu is a city of trade and commerce, reminiscent of Manila but somewhat less chaotic and more endearing with a noticeably slower pace. Read more...

Bohol Island

Bohol is a province in the Central Visayas Region and is the tenth largest island in the Philippines. Situated to the west and northwest is the island of Cebu with the Bohol Strait separating the two island provinces. It is essentially an agricultural province with a terrain consisting of jungle and capricious hills Read more...

Mactan Island

Mactan Island lies across the Mactan Channel, opposite Cebu City in the southeast of Manila. It is modern and yet has retained its greenness and features lovely sandy beaches and good diving spots off the neighboring islets. Mactan has a long history with many stories, the most frequently told being about the Battle of Mactan. Read more...