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The Philippines, located in Southeast Asia, is a stunning archipelago made up of more than 7,000 islands. This diverse nation offers everything from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush mountains and vibrant cities.
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Why is Philippines a popular luxury travel destination?
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The capital, Manila, is not only the most populous city in the country but also a central cultural, economic, and political hub, blending the old and new with landmarks like Intramuros alongside modern shopping malls and bustling markets.
One of the standout features of the Philippines is its incredibly warm and welcoming people. Filipinos are known for their hospitality, making visitors feel like part of the family. Whether you’re exploring the busy streets of Manila or visiting more remote areas, the friendliness of the locals is something that stands out. It’s no surprise that the country has gained a reputation for being one of the most hospitable places in the world.
Filipinos also have an affinity for social media, earning the country the title of the “selfie capital of the world.” With beautiful backdrops like pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant cityscapes, it’s no wonder that Filipinos are avid users of platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Their love for documenting and sharing every moment of their lives creates a sense of community and connection across the globe.
Beyond its culture, the Philippines is also home to one of the most intriguing historical figures—Imelda Marcos, the former first lady known for amassing the world’s largest shoe collection. With over 3,000 pairs of shoes, her extravagant collection remains a symbol of the excesses of the Marcos era, highlighting the country’s complex history.
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Island Hopping In The Philippines
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Discover the Philippines as you island hop your way from Manila to Bohol. You’ll visit the historic walled city of Manila, built by the Spanish empire. In Bohol, you’ll see the iconic Chocolate Hills and also the smallest primate on...
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Travel Information for Philippines
General Information
Known as the largest Catholic country in Asia, The Philippines is an archipelago with many areas of great natural beauty. It’s islands are separated into three distinct island groups: Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon.
The islands came under the sway of the Spanish empire from 1521 until 1899, when the United States took over. Japan brutally took over the island from 1941 until 1945. It gained independance after the war and, after some difficulties, caught up economically with its neighbourhoods.
Its culture is very diverse. English is widely spoken. So much so that most Philippine authors write in English. The culture is vibrant and outward-looking: people love to drink, sing, eat and enjoy the good life.
Philippines LGBTQ+ Rights
The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country with a complex relationship to LGBTQ+ rights. While same-sex marriage is not legally recognized and there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws that specifically protect LGBTQ+ individuals, the country has seen significant cultural shifts toward greater acceptance. Homosexuality is not criminalized, and LGBTQ+ individuals generally enjoy a degree of social visibility, particularly in urban areas.
In recent years, the Philippines has made progress in LGBTQ+ rights, with local governments in some areas introducing ordinances that protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, though these are not yet nationwide. The country has also seen growing advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly from organizations such as the Babaylanes, which work to improve social and legal protections for LGBTQ+ people.
The Philippines is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, particularly in cities like Manila and Cebu, where there is an active gay nightlife scene, Pride events, and a growing number of LGBTQ+-friendly establishments. Manila’s annual Pride march, though still facing challenges, has become an important symbol of the community’s resilience and visibility.
While legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals remain limited, the cultural climate in the Philippines is more accepting compared to many other countries in Asia. LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy the country’s rich history, warm hospitality, and dynamic culture, particularly in its more cosmopolitan cities, though they should remain aware of conservative attitudes in rural areas. Despite challenges, the Philippines continues to be a welcoming destination with a vibrant and growing LGBTQ+ presence.
What Everyone Does In The Philippines
You’ll want to go island hopping on a bamboo boat. On your travels you must visit the limestone islands of Bacuit Bay. Here you’ll fine stunning landscapes and world class beaches.
What Some People Do In The Philippines
Go do some karaoke and hang out in shopping malls. Seriously, people here love to eat junk food, hang out in malls and sing like crazy on the karaoke.
What No One Else Does In The Philippines
Climb the volcanoes of Camiguin. It’s less visited by tourists and relatively unspoiled. You’ll also find hot and cold springs.
Getting to Philippines
Getting to Manila from the UK is easy, with one-stop flights available from major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City. Airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad Airways offer convenient layovers, and flights typically take around 16 to 18 hours. Booking in advance and traveling during off-peak months like November or February can help secure the best flight options.
For US travelers, major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco provide one-stop flights to Manila with airlines like Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and ANA. Flights take about 20 to 22 hours, and booking early is key to finding the most convenient schedules and routes. Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport is well-connected to the city, offering easy access via taxis or airport shuttles.
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