The Philippines is one of those countries that steals your heart the minute you arrive. With over 7,000 islands to discover, it is really no surprise that travelers, both domestic and abroad, continue to come back to the country for its turquoise water, warm people, and rich traditions. So, if you are planning your next adventure, here is a guide to the three things you must not miss in the Philippines: its beaches, food, and culture.
Stunning Beaches that Feel Like Heaven
When people mention the Philippines, the first image that comes to mind is its famous beaches. If this is your first-time visit to the Philippines, Boracay, known for its powdery white sand beaches and nightlife, is often rated as the top beach for first-time visitors.
If you want a more secluded, quieter getaway, head to Palawan to check out El Nido and Coron, both known for their stunning limestone cliffs along beautiful turquoise lagoons. If you are someone that enjoys a more action-packed getaway or adventure, Siargao has you covered as the surfing capital of the Philippines, known for surfing the best waves and finding hidden lagoons. No matter which island beach you visit, you will understand quickly why the Philippines is rated as one of the best beach countries in the world!
A Gastronomic Exploration to Local Tastes
Your travels in the Philippines would not be complete without enjoying its flavors and cuisine. Start your mornings off with a plate of silog meals (friends rice, egg, and a meat of your choice) or perhaps enjoy some taho, a warm soy product snack sold by street vendors.
For lunch, you may want to sample adobo (a savory dish of protein braised in vinegar and soy sauce) or the national comfort food, sinigang (a sour soup featuring tamarind as a primary ingredient).
Street food lovers will enjoy isaw (grilled chicken intestines), and if you have a sweet tooth, try halo-halo, a colorful dessert of shaved ice with fruits, beans, and ice cream. Each of these dishes offers a taste of the history and mixture of influences from Spanish, American and Asian to the Filipino experience.
A Culture that Treats You Like Family
When you think of the Philippines, it will be hard for you to forget the culture in addition to the islands’ beaches and food. To be explicit, Filipinos are known for being hospitable to everyone. You may realize that you are treated like family even if you just introduced yourself. The Philippines is full of local festivals, or fiestas, where there are music, dancing, and vibrant parades.
Many of these festivals are either honoring saints or celebrating harvests. One of the most famous festivals in the Philippines is the Sinulog Festival in Cebu when the streets are filled with performers who wear bright costumes.
The Philippines has a rich artistic culture stemming from its traditional weavings and crafts, to art scenes in the modern city of Manila.
Conclusion
The Philippines isn’t just a place to escape to for a tropical vacation; it’s a beautiful marriage of natural wonders, a great culinary scene, and a rich tradition. You will leave the Philippines with memories of a quiet day in a hammock, feasting on adobo, and dancing with locals in celebration of a fiesta. The Philippines offers a bit of adventure for everyone, as well as an authentic experience.