Journey to The Philippines: The Cherished Archipelago
Somewhere in Southeast Asia in between the Philippine Sea and the East China Sea, east
of Vietnam, south of Taiwan and just north of Indonesia, sits a much neglected but
historically and ecologically valued archipelago known as the Philippines. This modest
cluster of 7,107 islands is the perfect exotic getaway nicely balanced with just enough
colonial cultural intrigue and undulating urban vitality to keep you going. Regardless of the
country's somewhat turbulent recent history, the Philippines has reached a level of stability
making no better time as compared to now to travel the charms of the island-nation.
Colonial Heritage, Indigenous Heritage
The very first western encounter with the Philippines happened when Spain's Ferdinand
Magellan came in 1521, commencing over 300 years of Spanish colonization. A
tremendous amount of the current Filipino citizenry is a fraction Spanish, although a
negligible number of residents are totally Spanish. The United States took over colonization
in 1899 until the Japanese invasion of the strategic islands throughout World War II. Right
after Japanese defeat, the Philippines acquired its independence in 1946. American cultural
and military influence still permeates via island culture, even though the last U.S. military
base has finally been closed. Original human settlement within the region started about
thirty thousand years ago when people entered the then-existing land bridges from Asia.
Malaysian and Indonesian settlers joined the fray a few thousand years after, to make up a
most fascinating blend of semi-indigenous cultures nevertheless present within the
Philippines these days. Direct descendents of the very first arrivals currently live within the
northern province of Zambales.
A Pocketful of Paradise
The nation is divided into three major goud of islands, each with its personal city hub and
specific points of interest. Luzon to the north is the most brimming region, using the
expansive capital city Manila as its main destination. Travel further north to Banaue where a
scene of rice terraces had been etched up along the hillside by the Ifugao tribespeople more
than 2000 years ago. Also, don't miss the truly isolating beauty of Hundred Islands National
Park where you may just discover a beach all to yourself, as there are literally hundreds to
choose from. The central area of Visayas is mostly smaller island clusters and famous for
Boracay Island's White Beach and surrounding resort and aquatic activity areas. Make
certain to explore the island's less crowded, but just as white-and-turquoise beaches. The
southernmost region of Mindanao is home to Davao, the largest city in the globe by land
area, and also the stately Mount Apo, the Philippine's tallest mountain. Appreciate a thrilling
river rafting trip in Cagayan de Oro or get back to fundamental Filipino life within the Tiruray
Highlands exactly where the remote shores of Lake Sebu are peacefully inhabited by the
T'boli tribe.
See more here: Archipelago