With its 7107 islands and numerous ports of call, the Philippines has long been treasured as a crucial entry point and trading hub of the Pacific. As a result, the nation of 87 million is a vibrant mix of various cultures and traditions, stemming from its colourful history as a colony, commonwealth and finally independent sovereign state. Today, it is considered one of the many eclectic travel destinations of Southeast Asia, bursting at the seams with fantastic people, fabulous culture and cuisine – not to mention coconuts!
Landscape & Climate
The Philippines islands are an archipelago consisting of 7107 islands. Most of the largest islands are fairly mountainous and covered with beautiful tropical rainforest. Temperatures average about 27 ⁰ C and the climate is always fairly hot and humid throughout the year. The Philippines, like much of the region, is prone to typhoons, with torrential rains blanketing the islands from July to October.
History
The Philippines were originally inhabited by the Negritos who travelled to the islands some seven thousand years earlier. As international trade ventures throughout Asia began, the Chinese, Japanese, Indonesians and Indians brought their own goods and traditions that were subsequently immersed into Filipino customs.
Among the first western explorers that came to the region was Ferdinand Magellan on his around-the-world voyage in 1521. The Spanish eventually laid claim to the islands in honour of Prince Philip of Spain and maintained colonial control over them for over 300 years, thus having substantial influence over their development. The colonists eventually fought for their independence, but the uprising only resulted in the transfer of the Islands to US control. In 1946, the Philippines finally became their own sovereign nation and the first democracy in the region with the election of their first president, Manuel A. Roxas y Acuña.
Getting There, Around and Enjoying your Stay
Most international travellers start their journeys through the Philippines at Manila, the official capital and international hub of the islands, although flying to the international airport at Cebu City is highly recommended by seasoned travellers as it is said to be more inviting and the processes more streamlined. Flight Centre offers some of the best deals in cheap flights to the Philippines from Australia.
Once there, visitors will find it easy to hop between the various islands with a medley of boat and ferry services available. Bus services will take you around the islands cheaply and dependably, usually in the form of a Jeepney – a bus/jeep hybrid. Bicycle powered rickshaws are also common ways to get around.
Travellers will also be able to visit neighbouring countries by sea, including parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.
Culture & Cuisine
The most prominent influence in modern Filipino culture is derived from the Spanish, with much of the food, traditions and religious practices adapted from their former colonizers. About 90% of the population is Catholic and most of the national holidays are religiously based; local barrio festivals celebrating a patron saint are quite common. Meanwhile, trade and globalisation have created a unique fusion of many eclectic cultures that is reflected in the Philippines amazing local cuisine - you’ll find semblances of Chinese, American, Spanish and other nearby Asian influences. There’s an element of spiciness in the local dishes, but certainly not as much as some neighbouring nations. The best way to get a real taste of the diversity of Filipino culture is to sample just about everything!
Travel to the Philippines: Fast Facts
Population: 87 million, 12th largest in the world
Capital: Manila, largest city Quezon City
Language: English, (Filipino) Tagalog with over 170 regional dialects
Currency: Philippine peso
Economy: GNP: US$430 billion
Did You Know?
The Philippines are the world’s largest exporters of coconuts. It established the first University in Asia and was the first democratic nation in Asia.
Wai Chim writes for FlightCentre in Australia, specializing in cheap flights worldwide.