Philippines: the Reasons to love this place are as many as its 7,107 Islands

Philippines, though a tiny country, is made up of  over seven thousand islands to which almost each is idyllic. Some countries might only have seasonal fun, but the Philippines is a delightful place to be at whatever time of the year – perhaps, the reason why its national slogan goes It is More Fun in the Philippines.

So what awaits for you here?

The Cities

Philippine cities might be no New York, but they offer interesting stuffs too! There are luxury hotels, big malls and nightly gaming places. Thrift shops are also everywhere. Restaurants around the cities serve popular local foods like adobo, sinigang, kare-kare and pancit palabok. The charismatic combination of Spanish, Chinese, Malay and American influences will surely get into your taste buds. Liquors are also relatively cheap here. You can buy a can of beer for less than a dollar. The country even has its own version of Oktoberfest to where this particular brewing company does an unlimited beer party. Of course, do not miss to get a closer look of Philippines’ fascinating culture and history by visiting art galleries and museums around the cities. Historical sites such as Intramuros in Manila and Magellan’s Cross in Cebu are also open to the public. As Philippines is majorly a Catholic country, a trip here is incomplete without dropping by to one of its churches. Most of these churches have been around for decades and hold many histories.

Colorful Festivals

Throughout the year, many towns around the country celebrate festivals. These festivals are commonly dedicated for certain causes, most of the time, for honoring a saint. During these festivals there will be street parties so be prepared for a dense crowd and for long walks as cabs are almost impossible during these times. Among the Philippines’ most popular festivals are; Sinulog in Cebu (January), Ati-atihan in Aklan (January), Dinagyang in Ilo-ilo (January), Panagbenga in Bagiou (February),  Paraw Regatta in Ilo-ilo (March), Morionis in Marinduque (April), Lami-lamihan Festival in Basilan (April),  Santa Cruzan all over the Philippines (May), Pahiyas sa Quezon in Quezon (May), Pinyahan sa Daet in Camarines Sur (June),  Sandugo Festival in Tagbilaran City (July), Kadayawan in Davao (August), Feast of Pinafrancia in Camarines Sur (September), Masskara Festival Negros Occidental (October), Grand Cordillera Festival in Bagiou City (November) and Binirayan Festival in Antique (December).

Outdoors and Nature

Love sceneries and outdoors? Perfect. From beaches up to its mountains, you will be surprised by the many things that you can do. Suit yourself in one of its many white sand beaches as you watch the sunset. Boracay in Aklan is the most popular white sand beach and is visited by many tourists. It is also known to the locals as a good diving area. Other diving spots are found in Anilao and Puerto Galera. You must also visit these two places that were once a part of the Seven Wonders of the World – Puerto Princessa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan and the two thousand years old rice terraces in Banaue, Ifugao. The Philippines also has many good trails for trekking.  You can even get the chance to get to know a few of the friendly Philippine tribes. Yes, they still exist! For instance, if you were to trek in Puerto Princess, two hours away from the city, in a mountainous region where the Batak tribe lives. Volcano trail trekking is also a popular outdoor activity in the Philippines. You may join a group of local trekkers or hire a tour guide to walk you through your preferred trails.

Dating in the Philippines

Asian women want to be assured that the person they are dating is interested in a serious relationship. If they think you will bail after the first night, chances are you won’t make it there. We’re not telling you to discuss wedding plans as the first conversation opener, but you need to convince her you are someone thinking about the future and are being mature about it. For Asians, especially Filipina women, family is a core value.

If you prove you can fit into a family picture then you are worth her time. On the plus side a lot of Filipina girls dream of having a half-Caucasian child.

The best way to get to know a Filipina girl is by registering on a Dating site. Dating sites are very common in Asian culture where people are often too shy to openly show their feelings. Try to register there are many completely free like Filipina.net. Afterall is more fun in the Philippines!

About Mary Abe