Page 115 - Asian Paradises 2019-20

— Philippines —

PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is divided into Catholic. Muslim communities make Inland, mountainous interiors are the avid
northern, central and southern up around five percent of the population trekker’s and adventurer’s dream.
regions by the three island and most live in Mindanao and the Sulu Boracay is arguably one of the most known
groups of Luzon, the Visayas Islands. beach destinations in the Philippines.
and Mindanao. As many as The two official languages are Filipino During the day, strong winds make for
2500 Philippine islands are and English. Filipino is based on Tagalog, prime kite boarding and windsurfing
not named and the nearest the predominant dialect from the Luzon conditions. Come nightfall, White Beach
neighbours are Taiwan in the mainland, and is used nationally to comes alive with busy restaurants and bars
north, eastern Malaysia and communicate among the ethnic groups. that stay open til late. Away from White
Brunei to the southwest, and There are also seven other widely used Beach, a quieter island beach vibe can be
Indonesia in the south. languages and over 176 local dialects. found for those looking for a more relaxed
The archipelago has a dramatic and varied Nature atmosphere.
landscape, ranging from volcanoes to The Philippines has white sandy beaches, The island province of Cebu is another
narrow coastal plains and waterways, lush green forests, mountain peaks and popular tourism hotspot. In contrast
ancient rice terraces, rugged coastlines clear blue waters teeming with marine life. to the bustle of Cebu City, the rest of
and fine white beaches. In addition to its The islands are a hotbed of life, with nearly Cebu’s 167 islets and islands are lined
natural assets, the Philippines has a rich 200 mammal species, 600 species of birds, with serene beaches, spectacular dive spots
history and unique culture resulting in a and at least 400 coral species. and a diverse mix of wildlife and marine
multitude of festivals and celebrations. ecosystems.
There are only about 100 of the
Capital and major centres magnificent haribon (Philippine Eagles) Amidst lush green forests, Kawasan Falls
The capital and by far the largest city, around Mt Apo, and the once abundant are three waterfalls, the largest cascades
Metro Manila, has a population of more dugong are now rare, however, small from 20 metres. Dip into the inviting blue
than 10 million. Located in the northern gravity-defying geckos can be seen swimming holes or climb up the highest
region of Luzon, it is the capital and everywhere. The tarsier, one of the smallest waterfall to find a more secluded spot.
principal centre of government, commerce primates in the world, can be found in Canyoning trips are also offered.
and education. Baguio City is five hours Corella in Bohol. The island of Bohol is also famous for its
from Manila, in the Cordillera Mountains The yellow flowering narra is the national Chocolate Hills. Bantayan is perfect for
of Luzon. From March to May it tree of the Philippines. The nipa palm is those looking for a solitary beach and some
experiences a population surge, and during seen all over the country and the orchid quiet time and Malapascua, off Cebu’s
Holy Week its population has been known could also stake its claim as the national northern tip has become more and more
to triple.
flower, with almost 1000 endemic species, popular among diving enthusiasts. Monad
Cebu City is the capital of the Visayas, including the Waling- Waling variety of Shoal is home to a thresher shark cleaning
at the centre of the Philippines’ major Mindanao. station, located on a plateau at a depth of
island group of 167 islands. Davao City The sights 25 metres.
on the lush island of Mindanao is one of With more than 7000 tropical islands Palawan and its archipelago boasts more
the largest cities in the world in terms of to choose from, the Philippines has than 1700 islands. In the north, off the
landmass.
something for everyone. The Philippines coastal town of El Nido are majestic
The people boasts some of the best dives sites in the limestone formations, secret lagoons,
The people are mostly of Malay stock with world. Its warm waters are home to wrecks, marble cliffs, hidden caves and waterfalls.
a mix of Chinese, American, Spanish and ocean walls and reefs that are teeming with Take a short boat ride from El Nido to
Arab blood. Most of the population claims coral, small marine life and even whale Bacuit Bay in Palawan. This archipelago
to be Christian, and 80 percent are Roman sharks, thresher sharks and manta rays. will thrill island lovers with imposing

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