Philippines famous for

The most popular Philippines tourist attractions can be found in the following places:

Boracay

Boracay is a small island famous for its white beach. The four-kilometre stretch of white sand is divided into three stations. Station One is famous for resorts, station two for entertainment hubs, and the third for natural beauty. Another famous beach here is Yapak, which is noted for its puka shells.

If you are in Boracay between November and April, visit Bulabog Beach for kiteboarding and windsurfing. You may also trek to Mount Luho to experience this island’s beauty from the top.

Manila

Manila is the capital of the Philippines. When here, you must visit Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park. This place is the execution site of the national hero, Jose Rizal. Another famous venue is Fort Santiago, a citadel once the seat of Spanish rule.

For marine lovers, Manila Ocean Park is a great place to go. You can see various sea creatures, stunning exhibits, and interactive activities here. Manila also has a UNESCO World Heritage Site — San Agustin Church. This one is the oldest stone church in the Philippines and has survived wars and earthquakes.

If you want to spend time in nature, visit Arroceros Forest Park, also known as the ‘last lung of Manila.’

Cebu

Cebu is an island province famous for its cultural heritage. Here, Fort San Pedro is the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines. The Spanish built this triangular bastion in the 16th century.

You must also visit Casa Gorordo Museum. This place will take you back to the 1800s by showcasing the lifestyle of a Filipino family during the Spanish colonial period.

Cebu is also famous for Canyoneering trips. So, if you are an adventure seeker, head to Kawasan Falls through many waterfalls and canyons. Other must-visit places on this island are the Temple of Leah, the Taoist Temple, and the Sirao Flower Garden.

Puerto Princesa

This place is known as the urbanised gateway to the Palawan archipelago. Visit Honda Bay to relax under the sun at Cowrie Island, go snorkelling in the Pambato Reef, and experience peace at Starfish Island.

If you love adventure, head to Ugong Rock. This place is ideal for zip-lining through cave chambers. Go horseback riding at Mitra's Ranch to enjoy the city's view from the top.

Baker's Hill, Palawan Heritage Centre, Plaza Cuartel, and Baywalk Park are other places that Philippines is famous for.

El Nido

This place is at the northern tip of Palawan. The major attraction is Big Lagoon, where the turquoise waters are framed by limestone formations. You can also go kayaking there. Next, visit Nacpan Beach. It is a four-kilometre stretch of golden sand and is ideal for swimming.

For the city's view, climb to Taraw Cliff. This spot also offers a breathtaking view of the Bacuit Archipelago. Snake Island is another must-visit place in this city.

Bohol

It is a gem in the Central Visayas region. Here, visit the Chocolate Hills, spread across a 50-square-kilometre area. These hills are over 1000 in number, and each one is cone-shaped. Bohol is home to one of the world's smallest primates, and you can find them at the Tarsier Sanctuary.

Nothing can beat the Loboc River Cruise if you want to go on a dinner date with your spouse. It offers a scenic view of the river's nipa palm-lined banks. For beach lovers, Alona Beach is perfect.

History buffs should not miss the oldest stone church. Bohol is also a great spot for adrenaline junkies. Stalactites, stalagmites, and the cool waters of the lagoon adorn the Hinagdanan Cave here.

Davao City

Davao is in the southern part of the Philippines. You should start your trip here from the Philippine Eagle Centre, an 8.4-hectare sanctuary at the foothills of Mt. Apo. Next, explore the Davao Crocodile Park, which has a modern crocodile farming system.

Samal Island is a short boat ride from the city. It is ideal for those who want to spend some peaceful time.

The best Philippines thing to do as a traveller is to try local cuisine.

Adobo

This traditional dish starts by marinating meat, typically chicken or pork, in soy sauce and vinegar. Garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns are added to give it an aromatic essence.

Adobo is served with steamed rice. This dish's origin dates back to the pre-colonial era.

**Lechon **

Lechon is renowned for its meat and crispy skin. This dish is prepared by roasting a whole pig over an open flame. The pig is stuffed with a flavourful mix of lemongrass, tamarind, garlic, onions, and chives.

Leftovers, if any, are transformed into Lechon Paksiw. This transformation is a dish where the meat is simmered in vinegar and liver sauce.

Sinigang

Sinigang is a soup that can be made with pork, beef, shrimp, fish, or chicken. Its sourness comes from tamarind (Sampaloc). However, other souring agents like guava or bilimbi (kamias) can also be used.

The soup base is prepared with vegetables like water spinach, eggplant, tomatoes, and green beans. You may also add fish sauce and salt to season the broth.

Balut

Balut is prepared using a fertilised duck egg that has been incubated for about 14 to 21 days before being hard-boiled. Once boiled, it is eaten directly from the shell. To improve its flavour, you may season it with a pinch of salt, chilli, garlic, or vinegar.

The origins of balut are traced back to Chinese traders who introduced it to the Philippines.

Halo-Halo

Halo-Halo is a dessert that translates to 'mix-mix.' In this dish, a base of shaved ice forms the canvas upon which a kaleidoscope of ingredients is artfully layered.

You can also find sweetened beans, fruits, and chewy jellies in this dish. You will find Leche flan and purple yam jam for toppings.

Kare-Kare Kare-Kare is a stew dish made with a thick peanut sauce. It is cooked with meats like oxtail or pork. Vegetables like green beans and eggplant are also included. The stew gets its thickness from ground rice.

People in the Philippines like to eat Kare-Kare with a salty shrimp paste called 'bagoong' for extra flavour.

The preparation method for this dish is unique as it is cooked in a clay pot.

Pancit

The term 'Pancit' is derived from the Hokkien phrase 'pian I sit', which means 'something conveniently cooked.'

Pancit is made with thin rice noodles called 'Bihon' or sometimes wheat noodles called 'canton.' The noodles are sauteed with soy sauce and a little bit of broth. The dish is then mixed with an assortment of meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp and carrots, cabbage, and celery.

Lumpia

Lumpia is similar to spring rolls. It is made with a thin wrapper of ground meat and chopped veggies like carrots and cabbage. After mixing the meat and veggies, the wrapper is wrapped and fried until crispy.

When you eat lumpia, you usually dip it in a sweet and spicy sauce, making it even more delicious.

Lumpia represents the fusion of indigenous and Chinese influences in Filipino cuisine. It has also found variations across Southeast Asia, but the Filipino version holds a special place.

Bibingka

Bibingka is a popular cake made with rice flour and coconut milk mixed together and then baked in a special clay oven. The oven has banana leaves, giving the dish a distinct taste.

When trying this cake, you can top it with butter, sugar, grated coconut, and sometimes slices of salted duck egg or cheese, adding layers of flavour.

Taho

Taho is a traditional snack made with silken tofu. The tofu provides a soft and smooth base, similar to warm custard. The tofu is then layered with sago pearls, similar to tapioca and often found in bubble teas.

The final touch to this dish is provided by Arnibal, a sweet syrup made from brown sugar.

Sinulog Festival

The Sinulog Festival is celebrated annually in Cebu City. Held every third Sunday of January, it honours Santo Niño or the Child Jesus. It symbolises the Filipinos' acceptance of Christianity. The festival is famous for its grand parade and costume dances.

Ati-Atihan Festival

This festival occurs in Kalibo, Aklan, during the third week of January. Known as the 'Mother of All Philippine Festivals,' it celebrates Santo Niño and the indigenous Ati people. Participants paint their faces black and dance to the beat of drums.

Dinagyang Festival

The Dinagyang Festival is held every fourth Sunday of January. Its roots date back to 1967 when a Santo Niño replica arrived from Cebu to the San Jose de Placer Parish.

The Dinagyang festival has earned the title 'Queen of All Philippine Festivals.'

Panagbenga Festival

The Panagbenga Festival is celebrated in Baguio City. It is a colourful month-long event that takes place every February. Known as the 'season of blooming,' it honours the city's beautiful flowers and its resilience following the 1990 Luzon earthquake. The festival's highlight is the Grand Float Parade.

Pahiyas Festival

The Pahiyas Festival celebration is held annually in Lucban, Quezon: every May 15th, the town honours San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.

During the Pahiyas, houses are decorated with kipping, leaf-shaped wafers made of rice dough that come in many bright colours. These decorations often include various fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts, turning the town into a living art gallery.

Moriones Festival

The Moriones Festival is celebrated during Holy Week, from Holy Monday to Easter Sunday. This unique festival takes place on the island of Marinduque and is rooted in the story of Saint Longinus, a Roman centurion who participated in the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

According to legend, Longinus was blind in one eye, and upon piercing Jesus' side, his sight was miraculously restored when Christ's blood touched his eye.

Whether you are seeking adventure, calmness, or cultural immersion, the Philippines has a place that will capture your heart and leave you longing for more. However, before packing your bags for this country, get travel insurance.

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What natural landscapes is the Philippines known for?

The Philippines has many natural landscapes, including the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, the stunning Banaue Rice Terraces, and numerous volcanoes and forests.

How many islands comprise the Philippines?

The Philippines is the world's second-largest archipelago, with 7,641 islands. However, not all are inhabited; people live in about 5,500 of them, and many remain unnamed, adding to the country's charm.

What cultural diversity can be found in the Philippines?

The Philippines is a mix pot of cultures influenced by Malays, Spanish, Japanese, and Americans. This rich culture is reflected in the country's traditions, cuisine, and languages.

What are the Philippines' main island groups?

The Philippines is distributed into three main island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Luzon is the largest and includes the capital, Manila, while Visayas and Mindanao offer a mix of urban centres.

What unique geological feature does the Philippines have?

The Philippines is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which means it has numerous active volcanoes.