Philippines Travel Guide

The Philippines comprise the second-largest archipelago in the world, with over 7000 tropical islands, and is one of the great treasures of SE Asia. Often overlooked by tourists and travellers due to its location, the Philippines rewards those who make the extra effort to reach it. It's comparative lack of tourists means the Philippines is a great place to escape the hordes who descend on other parts of SE Asia.

The startling realisation of this country is that the Philippines is a place of natural wonders – a string of coral-fringed islands strewn across a vast expanse of the W Pacific. The Philippines boasts some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling, including wreck diving around Coron and swimming with the whale sharks off Donsol. On land, it has a fantastic landscape with wonders enough to stagger even the most jaded traveller: the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, Banaue & the Rice Terraces and fascinating reminders of the islands’ history in places such as Samar & Leyte and Vigan. And if you’re a fan of the beach scene, then its white-sand beaches will not disappoint at places such as the laidback Sipalay. There's also the flat-out party town Boracay for something a little more upbeat.

Despite its significant positives, The Philippines is not all good news. The county is struggling to brush off its turbulent political reputation and poor infrastructure, dilapidated roads and unsafe ferries, have also all played a role in deterring potential travellers. The country is also far from gaining a reputation as an eco-tourist destination because of local disregard for the natural resources.

On the other hand, the local tradition and culture is a treat in waiting. Shaped by its position at the centre of SE Asian trade and colonised by a succession of world powers, the Philippines is a vivid tapestry that reflects its varied cultural inheritance. And despite the poverty that afflicts much of the nation, the Filipinos themselves are among the most easygoing people anywhere. For those looking at a relatively none-cultured experience, there are some superb all-inclusive luxury resorts spread around the islands which cushion visitors from the general degradation and safety-risks of the cities and towns, and a major plus is that the country is amazingly good-value with English well spoken.

The country is one of the few places left in the world where adventurers can wander through tribal lands, unfettered by modern interferences. Travellers are however advised to follow the current safety advice on areas to avoid. The Philippines truly qualifies as one of the last great frontiers in SE Asian travel.