The Philippines is a country of islands in Southeast Asia, set in the western Pacific Ocean. Its archipelago is made up of more than 7,000 islands, so a visit can be as varied as the coastline itself. The country is also known by its formal name, the Republic of the Philippines.
What draws visitors
The islands are known for their beaches and their coral reefs, which bring many travellers to the water. The surrounding seas hold a wide range of marine life, so snorkelling and diving are natural choices for anyone who enjoys being in the ocean. Between island stops, the sea is never far away.
Towns, cities and architecture
Alongside its coastal scenery, the Philippines offers a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern cities. Older streets and buildings stand beside contemporary urban areas, giving a visitor both a sense of the country's past and a view of how it lives today.
Planning a trip
- Choose an island or region. With so many islands, it helps to pick a few areas rather than trying to see everything.
- Balance city and coast. A stay in a modern city can be paired with time on the beaches and reefs.
- Plan for the water. Coral reefs and marine life are a major part of the experience, so allow time for them.
Whether you come for the sea, the colonial-era buildings or the contrast between the two, the Philippines rewards a visitor who is willing to move between islands and cities at an unhurried pace.
