If you’re a fellow avid traveler, chances are you have a whole bucket list of places you want to visit around the world. Well, I’m about to tell you why you need to add one more incredible place to that list — preferably at the top.
Here are five of the many reasons why you should visit the Philippines.
1. The culture
The Philippines is very proud of its extremely unique culture and diversity. Did you know, for example, that there are over 170 languages spoken in the Philippines? Due to colonization over the centuries, there are also plenty of different influences in this country — mainly hailing from Spain, the United States, and Asia.
These cultures all come together in one mixing pot of diversity, that makes it a real pleasure to visit the Philippines. Some people say it’s a bit like visiting a South American Asia, which has to be seen to be believed. If you’re looking for a totally unique culture, then this is your place.
2. The festivals
The Filipinos are very proud of their heritage and culture so it only makes sense that we celebrate it as often as we can! For this reason, festivals are pretty commonplace around the country throughout the year. The Kaamulan Festival, for instance, is a month-long celebration which sees seven tribes come together for an annual gathering that is unlike any other.
The whole of March this year was dedicated to all things Filipino, including street food and fairs, the beautiful Bukidnon tribal dance, and finally, the Ethnic Street Dancing Competition to finish it all off. If you love a party atmosphere, you have to visit the Philippines during a festival. There are festivals all year round!
3. The food
Thanks to the various influences over the centuries, food in the Philippines is as diverse as the culture. From the way we cook meat adobo style through to the colorful dessert of halo-halo, you can be sure to experience a whole lot of culinary treats in the Philippines. Of course, there are some also slightly weird and wonderful foods to try if you’re feeling brave. Balut, for example, is a fertilized duck egg and one that made it onto a list of the most challenging foods according to 1Cover. But hey, you have to try everything at least once, right?
4. The beaches
People sometimes forget about the Philippines when planning a beach holiday, as they’re too busy considering places like the Caribbean. However, the beaches of the Philippines won’t let you down!
You can expect clear blue waters and white sand, with breathtaking scenery surrounding you. El Nido, Boracay, Camiguin Island, and Cebu are just some of the places where you can enjoy surf, sand, sea and sun!
Photo source: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki
5. The people
Okay, so I may be a little biased here, but I promise that Filipino people are some of the friendliest you will ever meet in your life. Having traveled extensively around the world, including the US, Singapore, China, Malaysia, and Japan, I feel as though my home of Mindanao is where I feel most at peace. Sure, it has sometimes to do with the culture, the festivals, the food, and the beaches. But mostly it’s to do with the people. If you’re ever stuck for whatever reason and need a helping hand, you can bet anyone from the Philippines will be there to help you out.
So, are you convinced yet? The next time you want a trip that’s filled with fantastic food, culture, festivals, beaches, and people — head to the Philippines.
Have you ever been before? What do you love most about the Philippines? Let me know in the comments!
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Mindanaoan is a multi-awarded blogger, content creator, seasoned social media strategist and publicist with undeniably successful track record. 2012 International Visitor Leadership Program (for global leaders) alumnus and O visa grantee (for people with extraordinary skills and who have risen to the top of their field). Avid traveler and a proud relief operations volunteer. Regular resource person for social media, blogging and content creation. Available for work and travel – [email protected]
