Falling in love with the Philippines

Until last summer I knew next to nothing about the Philippines. Then I went on a diving holiday in the Philippines –  a chain of around 7,000 beautiful islands and the Republic is the only predominantly Christian country in Asia. Unfortunately, the country’s history is plagued by various natural disasters, martial law and corruption, so it has struggled to attract tourists. However, most of the Philippines are relaxed, stable and relatively safe. The bustling cities and idyllic white-sand beaches make a visit here worthwhile.

The capital, Manila, is a cosmopolitan city which most tourists only see in passing on their way to the beaches or other islands. However, if you look, you’ll fine thriving markets, interesting historic buildings and museums celebrating every aspect of the country’s unique cultural mix.

Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a good place to see remnants of the architectural legacy of the Spaniards. The colonial structures here are well preserved and provide a surreal 17th century European atmosphere, and there are several good museums.

Cebu City is another vibrant metropolis offering a rich history and many attractions, including historic monuments and natural scenery. Busay Hills provides panoramic views of Cebu City and the surrounding area; while Sudlon National Park is comprised of 696 hectares of woods, with picnic grounds and swimming pools.

Palawan Island is a completely untamed island with rich biodiversity. You can stay at some amazing resorts in Bacuit Bay, but the real reason for being here is under the water. The reefs in the area are stunning and a scuba diver’s dream. Puerto Princesa and El Nido are excellent gateways to the island’s interior and its offshore reefs.

If you are looking to get away from it all should try the islands north of Bohol, including Dibutonay, Maltatayoc and Horse islands. The Batanes Islands in the north are pristine and differ from other Philippine islands because of their isolation and they also provide the opportunity to visit remote villages.

Boracay, off the north-western tip of Panay, is popular for its famous white-sand beaches. Despite rapid development of the area, the beaches still look pristine – so this is the place for  overseas property investment in Philippines real estate.  Another scenic natural area is Lake Sebu, an inland sea on the island of Mindanao, at an altitude of almost 300m. There are no modern attractions here, but rather an opportunity for insight into the traditional culture of the local tribal people, the Tboli. Alternatively, you should not miss Banaue, with its magnificent rice terraces which were carved out of the hillside by Ifugao tribal people 2,000 to 3,000 years ago.

Due to religious and ethnic violence, travellers are advised to avoid going to most of Mindanao, an island in the southern Philippines, especially the Zamboanga peninsula, Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and the Sulu archipelago. Boat safety is also a concern throughout the country.