|
|
About Philippines
Click here to see a map of the Philippines.The 7000 islands that comprise the Philippines are the forgotten islands of South-East Asia. Off the main overland route and with a recent history of martial law and endemic corruption, the country has struggled to attract tourists in the numbers many of its southeast Asian neighbours have. Some of the most magnificent scenery in the Philippines can be found in the Central Cordillera mountain range in North Luzon. The journey from Baguio to Banaue via Sagada, although not the easiest, is unforgettable. And then you have the absolute highlight: the rice terraces of Banaue and Barad. The impressive countryside around Mt Pinatubo was created by the forces of nature. The active, cone-shaped Mayon volcano at Legaspi, in South Luzon, is considered to be one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the world. Despite signs it is moving in the direction of upmarket tourism, the little island of Boracay still has that certain something. On Palawan, St Paul Subterranean National Park and Underground River as well as El Niclo and Bacult Archipelago are attractive places worth visiting. The colourful Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, on the island of Panay, is the most spectacular in the country. Although, the quieter, less 'wild' local town fiestas have an attraction of their own.
|
Culture
The Philippines has developed a mixed culture from the blending of foreign influences with native elements. Today, the Muslims, and a few of the isolated tribes, are the only people whose culture remains unadulterated by Spanish and American influences.The Philippines is the only Christian country in Asia. Over 90% of the population claim to follow Christian faiths. The largest of the minority religious groups is the Muslims. There is also a Philippine Independence Church, some Buddhists, and a small number of animists. Due to the geography and history of the Philippines, about 80 different dialects have been produced. The concept of a national language developed after the Spanish-American War in 1898 and Tagalog was declared the national language in 1936. There were several other contenders for this role, including Cebuano, Hiligaynon and Ilocano. A compromise reached in 1973 confirmed Pilipino as the national language. This is based on Tagalog, but has linguistic elements of other Philippine languages. Despite this, English remains the language of commerce and politics in the Philippines. Filipino cuisine has Chinese, Malay and Spanish influences. Popular morning and afternoon snacks are called merienda, and pulutan are served with alcoholic drinks. Barbecued sticks of meat or seafood are popular evening snacks. Standard dishes, always served with rice, include meat and vegetables cooked with vinegar and garlic, grilled grouper, meat stews and a huge variety of soups - rice, noodle, beef, chicken, liver, kneecap, offal and sour vegetable. Side dishes include strips of unripened papaya, fermented fish or shrimp paste and bite-sized pieces of crispy pig skin. Halo-halo is a dessert made from crushed ice mixed with sweets and fruits and smothered in evaporated milk.
|
Local_Currency
The Philippine currency is called the peso, divided into 100 centavos. Most foreign currencies can be easily changed at banks, hotels, and authorised dealers. Foreign currency is not readily taken by the establishments in Cebu. Major foreign credit cards may be accepted only at major hotels, resorts, shops and restaurants. Visitors are advised to bring sufficient amount of change in small bills or coins.
|
Transport
Flying is pretty much the only way to get to the Philippines. Manila and Cebu are the only major entry points. There are flights between the Philippines and plenty of Asian cities, Australia, New Zealand and the USA. There are also flights between Davao in Mindanao and Manado on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi.There are several airlines offering internal flights between Philippine cities. There is only one operating railway line, from Manila to Naga in southern Luzon, so long-distance buses are the main overland alternative. There are plenty of ferries and boats operating between islands, though the safety and quality of services vary. You can also rent a car, and international agencies have offices in most major cities. Local transport includes jeepneys, metered taxis, PU-Cabs (small taxis without metres), tricycles and trishaws.
|
Visa_Information
Visa regulations vary with your intended length of stay. The easiest procedure is to arrive without a visa, in which case you will be permitted to stay for up to 21 days. However, your passport has to be valid at least six months beyond the 21 day period you intend to stay.If you obtain a visa overseas it will usually allow a 59 day stay. This is free of charge in Australia and New Zealand, and usually about US$35 elsewhere. If you already have a visa on arrival make sure the immigration officers know this or your passport will still be stamped for just 21 days.
|
|
