Philippines

Mabuhay

Location

Republic of Philippines consists of 7107 Islands located North of the Borneo Island.

It is about 299,764 Sq.km  in Size. The Largest and most economically important Island is Mindanao. The Capital City Manila is located here. It is straddling right in the Pacific Ring of fire. Earthquakes regularly rattle the Islands.

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Manila

Boracay Beach

Makati

Luzon

Cebu

Davao

Subic Bay

History

The earliest known mention of these islands is during the Sri-Vijaya Empire. Due to its Maritime nature it was exposed to the influence of Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam at a later Stage..
The Spanish colonial rule lasted for AD1525 till AD 1821. Roman Catholicism was introduced by the Spanish and Philippines is the only country in south East Asia where the majority of the population about 90% are Christians. The main economic activity is agriculture.. It became an independent Republic on 4th.July 1946.In the early 50's and 60's it had the highest per-capita GDP outside of Japan. Successive misrule, corruption and dictatorship has brought the country to near bankruptcy but recent political and democratic reforms are positively encouraging. More than 11 million Filipinos are migrant workers the world over and send back substantial money back home.
 

Climate

The climate is primarily Tropical with seasonal Monsoon rains. Due to its location there are major Typhoons  that cause extensive damage every few years. Temperature is between 23C to 35C.

Getting there

Almost all international airlines fly into Manila Ninoy Aquino International airport. The Public transportation system in Manila can be extremely crowded. There is a new network of LRT (Light Rail transit) trains, Buses and taxis. Inter Island travel is by Ferry and Air. The most Iconic is the Jeepney-modified and gaily decorated WW2 Jeeps. The Best time to visit Philippines is from December to May where there is low risk of Typhoons.

What Philippines offers the Visitor

Because of its geographic location and its maritime history it has a very diverse mix of Asian culture. The country is a bustling melting pot of religions and races -exotic looks and happy people in general and other indigenous ethnic groups live together in harmony and at peace for most part. Philippines has produced many International beauty queens. English is widely spoken and is the unofficial national Language. Tagalog is the main language spoken by everybody. This multiculturalism has brought about exotic cuisines and it is a gastronomical paradise. Depending on the time of year there are my festivals that are celebrated. These are colorful and fun occasions.

Quick Facts

Temperature: 30 deg C and high humidity.

Cell phone: Extensive coverage with full roaming. No-SIM LOCK. GSM,3-G, EDGE. voice calls are expensive so SMS or Texting as is locally called is very popular due to low cost.
Internet: Cafes, hotels, Public areas and plenty of Free WiFi Hot Spots.

Electricity: 220V AC 60Hz.

Currency: Philippine  Peso

Credit cards      

Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels, shops and restaurants.
Automated teller machines allow travelers to withdraw money from their overseas savings accounts or credit cards.

Most EU Countries and ASEAN countries Visitors do not require a Visa but need to produce a Return Ticket.
 

Important Phone numbers:
Embassies:    

USA: (63) 2-528 300

Australia :(63) 2-2757 8100

Canada: (63) 2-857 9000

UK:(63) 2-816 7116

France:(63) 2-810 1981

Germany:(63) 2-872 0101

For other countries please check their respective websites.

Emergency:
Police: 166

Ambulance:  117

Fire:160

Where to Stay

Philippines has such an abundance of Hotels, resorts and Hostel at prices to suit every possible budget.

If you are planning a Philippine Vacation you will not be disappointed. For the more adventurous there are numerous diving and snorkeling spots. It is generally safe, friendly and easy going place. In the South there is an ongoing insurgency so exercise caution.

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