Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao are the three main islands in the archipelago of the Philippines among a stunning 7,107 islands - 300,000 square kilometers that comprise of the Philippines in Southeast Asia. Manila, the capital of the Philippines is in Luzon. The climate in general is from hot to humid to tropical and has three seasons that have nothing to do with the rest of the world: summer, rainy and cold. The total population of the Philippines is 86 million people which is the 12th most populated location in the world, with approximately 10 million residents in the capital alone. At this point, it must be noted that in order to understand the Philippines, it is necessary to look at the nature and the character of its people. The Filipino personality is a positive one in general, and there is great unity amongst Filipinos at all times. Due to their ability to smile during difficult times, they are able to persevere, meet challenges head-on and achieve their goals. They are also survivors. The Philippine Islands are violent, dramatic and peaceful all at the same time, with the “ring of fire” on the Pacific side offering a variety of dangers in the form of active volcanoes and seismic activity as well as giving the Philippines 36,289 kilometers of sandy beaches, beautiful skies and serene coastlines. English and Filipino are the main languages in the Philippines with Tagalong being the National Language which owes many of its roots to the Spanish language. In fact, Filipino is a de facto version of Tagalog, spoken mainly in Metro Manila and other urban regions. Both Tagalog and English are used in government, education, print, broadcast media, and business. Major languages recognized in the constitution include Bicolano, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Kapampangan, Pangasinan, and Waray-Waray. Spanish and Arabic are recognized as voluntary and optional languages. Other international languages are also present. The Philippines is largely Roman Catholic with numerous other religions also represented, including Islam. The capital Manila is a vibrant cosmopolitan and metropolitan city where the very old and the ultra new mix in rich reality for the entire world to experience and enjoy. The city is an overwhelming tourist attraction to visitors coming from all parts of the globe. Manila City offers quality shopping in malls, excellent restaurants and entertainment. Manila Ocean Park, China Town, Malacanang Palace (the Presidential Palace) are all popular and excellent tourist hospots. Night life in Manila is also a unique and a special treat for tourists. Makati City and Malate district are filled with fun places for every taste as tourist intermingle with the local population and with those looking for excitement and something different. Rizal Park offers relaxation and beauty while Fort Santiago and the University of Santo Tomas complete a memorable first outing in the city. No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. “Adobo” is one such famous Filipino dish - made with marinated meat or fish seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, vinegar and other spices - as well as “kare-kare” the Filipino stew. This mouthwatering stew is made from peanut sauce with a variety of vegetables and meat of choice. Getting around in the Philippines is also not much of a problem. taxis, buses, trains and rentals are all readily available, and if all else fails, perhaps visitors might like to give the “jeepneys” a try. Jeepneys are the most popular means of public transportation in the Philippines.They were originally made from US military jeeps left over from World War II and are well known for their flamboyant decoration and crowded seating. They have also become a symbol of Philippine culture. The word “Jeepney” is a mixture of “jeep” and “Jitney”. Outside of Manila, tourists traditionally flock to holiday hubs like Baguio City in Luzon, which is known as the summer capital of the Philippines. Likewise, Banaue is famous for its stunning rice terraces, while Boracay offers stunning and unparalleled beaches and Cebu offers magnificent hilltops to enjoy picnics and walks on.
