Manila Economic and Cultural Office Philippine Representative Office in Taiwan
Thank you for considering our the Philippines as your destination of choice!
Blessed with a wealth of natural resources, a rich history, and a unique culture - you will find that as a travel destination, the Philippines stands out from the rest of our South East Asian neighbors. With 7,641 islands, the Philippines offers varied options to the selective traveler. Whether you are looking for a sunny beach to chill out on, a non-stop shopping trip, or a cultural immersion unlike any other, the Philippines offers all these (and more!). That's why we say "it's more fun in the Philippines”.
Whether you are traveling to the Philippines for business or pleasure, there are a number of things to consider in preparation for your trip.
For your visa application, please refer to the visa guidelines available here.
For currency exchange, local banks and accredited money changers are available in city centers around the country. Please make sure to bring your passport for verification.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5vX8ZqkHaY
For more information, visit the website http://www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com.tw/
1. Banaue Rice Terraces
Because of its high altitude, Banaue is often described as "where land merges with the clouds to meet the heavens" with the rice terraces as "the stairway to the sky."
Banaue is a place for nature adventures and cultural immersion. Days are for indulging in such activities as strolling, biking, and trekking. Evenings are for campfire chats at a village or warm indoor cosseting at the lodges and inns.
2. Chocolate Hills
Chocolate Hills is a series of 1,268 perfectly symmetrical, haycock-shaped hills that rise some 30 meters above the ground. A National Geologic Monument, these unique, rock formations were cast after million years of evolution.
Spread out in the towns of Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan, the hills are so-called because they resemble chocolate bonbons when their grass cover turns to brown at the onset of summer. Two of the hills have been developed and provided with facilities, including a viewdeck, a youth hostel and a restaurant.
Other hills with a commanding view of the surrounding islands include Banat-I and Elly in the capital city of Tagbilaran, Himontagon in the town of Loay, Sampoangan in Calape and Ilihan in Jagna.
3. Boracay
The code in Boracay is strictly informal.
There is an undeniable easy atmosphere in Boracay where walking barefoot than shod is the rule rather than the exception. White Beach is so, soooo fine, it feels like treading on miles of baby powder! No wonder, even swinging discos have the beach for a floor, giving dance a new twist.
There are no hang-ups either in this island. At daytime, tourists having a soothing massage under the shade of a coconut tree beside the shoreline is a common sight. And from dusk to dawn, Boracay turns into one big party place where everyone is welcome to join in…But first, let's toast that sunset cocktail!
4. Secret Beach
Unique to Palawan is its mega-diversity.
For a long time, Palawan's bountiful resources, abundant wildlife and extraordinary natural beauty are known only to the many ethnic communities that thrive in these islands and a few other daring settlers who wanted to live in unpolluted surroundings.
The island-province first attracted foreign attention in the 1970's when it became a United Nations Vietnamese Refugee Center. At this time, a disturbance in Kenya also saw the transport of endangered animals from its savannas to the plains of Calauit Island.
5. Vigan
Vigan, with its centuries-old edifices, is a breathing reminder of what was once a royal city.
One of the earliest Spanish settlements in the country, Vigan was founded in 1572 by Juan de Salcedo who patterned its design to that of Intramuros (Old Manila). It became the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and was called Ciudad Fernandina in honor of King Ferdinand.
Today, Vigan retains much of the patina of 18th century Castillan architecture as seen in some 150 stone houses which stand in the town's Mestizo District, notably Mena Crisologo Street. Many of these ancestral homes are still in good condition and some have been turned into cozy inns, museums, and souvenir shops.
6. Baguio City
Hailed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio is the top destination to go to if you want to take a break from the tropical heat in the lowlands. With average temperatures ranging from 15-23°C, the city rarely experiences temperatures higher than 26°C even during the warmest parts of the year. Because of this climate, Baguio is also home to beautiful plants that wouldn’t usually survive elsewhere in the county. Also nicknamed the City of Pines, you’ll be in for a treat with all the beautiful flowers and lush vegetation as you enter the vicinity. It will truly feel as if you’re entering a different world.
(Source from: Department of Tourism website)
7. Bangui Windmills
Marvel across these giant wind turbines. Built in 1996, the windfarm still provides a significant amount of energy to Ilocos Norte. Each of the 20 windmills towers 70 meters above the shoreline of Bangui Bay.
(Source from: Department of Tourism website)
8. OSLOB Whale Shark
Get up close with these gentle giants and swim with the whale sharks — or opt for just whale shark watching — in this town of Oslob, Cebu in Barangay Tan-awan. This wild life tourism attraction is one of Cebu’s sought after tourism activity and has generated significant revenue which changed the perspective of the locals about whalesharks. Aside from that, this has greatly led to stronger efforts for the protection of the marine ecosystem in Oslob. Over the years, the number of whalesh
(Source from: Department of Tourism website)
9. Mountain Province
Mountain Province is most known for its hanging coffins where mummified remains of the local ancestors are found. Other points of interest are the different historical sites like the Dap-ay or Ato, an ancient practice of tribal elders still coming together to this day to decide issues and concerns, and the many tribal celebrations where one can participate in, such as the Lang-ay Cultural Festival. Improve your craft and skills and learn how to weave local baskets and fabric.
(Source from: Department of Tourism website)
10. Villa Escudero
Experience the allure of Philippine country life at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort. Walk through their museum which houses one of the country’s largest private collections of world antiquities. Enjoy the ‘Philippine Experience Show’ and watch the country’s cultural legacy come to life. Paddle a native bamboo raft on still waters of the river. Explore the lush surroundings and see many resident bird species along the way. Or take a dip in our pool and relax.
(Source from: Department of Tourism website)
1. Boracay, Aklan
Boracay Island, with its sugary white sand beaches and azure blue waters, is located on the northwestern tip of Panay, Western Visayas. The best of the island is the 4 km. White Beach, touted as the “finest beach in the world.” The water surrounding the island is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago.
2. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
In the Northern part of the Philippines is a beach reputed to have the longest contiguous white sand with mighty waves and strong winds that can compare to Hawaii. Wind and wave surfing are the outstanding activities that Pagudpud beach offers its very discriminating clientele. Not to mention the inviting views, clear blue waters, and white sand. Pagudpud promises its visitors a magnificent experience in a secluded paradise.
3. Mactan Island, Cebu
Lying in the heart of Cebu is the island of Mactan. This tropical-island getaway endowed with a variety of colors – from its beach, hotels, resorts, nightlife, music, food, drinks – will guarantee to spice up every tourist.
4. Panglao, Bohol
Panglao is a perfect for a great dive and beach holiday. It is a small island on the Philippines southwest of the bigger island, Bohol. On the southern beach of Panglao there are several resorts that line up on the beach.
5. Camiguin
Camiguin, which rhymes with “come again,” has been regarded as the most beautiful island in the country. As such, it is also referred to as the Philippines’ “Garden of Eden.” The presence of a number of majestic waterfalls that create both hot and cold springs is only one of the many attractions of this island-paradise. The topography is unmistakably tropical but the ambience is uniquely occidental. A study in contrast, Camiguin is sure to mesmerize anyone who visits with the itch to be back again soon.
6. Honda Bay, Palawan
Framing the rugged and intriguing coastline of the capital of Palawan, Puerto Princesa City is Honda Bay. Its blue cool waters are dotted with islets that assure one of a pure-pleasure experience. From snorkeling in its clear waters to the more adventurous island hopping within its enclaves to simply having a picnic in the fine sand of its beach areas, Honda Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression on the visitor.
7. El Nido, Palawan
Dominated by towering marble cliffs that are homes to a number of tropical birds, El Nido is the source of one of the most delectable soups specially found in Chinese restaurants – the Nido Soup. This soup consists mainly of the birdnests that abound in the area. But El Nido is more than this. It prides itself in having the most beautiful seascapes in the province of Palawan, known as the country’s last frontier. Because of its utter splendor, it has also been called the island of the gods – heaven on earth, that is El Nido.
8. Pearl Farm, Davao
Pearl Farm is located in the Samal Island off the coast of Davao City, Southern Philippines. The premier beach resort, which lies in the pristine island of Samal, used to be a pearl farm. There thousands of white-lipped oysters, transported form the Sulu Sea, were once cultivated for their pink, white, and gold pearls. Today, beach lovers all over the world visit this world-class beach resort for its white sand and panoramic landscape and seascape, bringing with them the memory of a lifetime – a relaxing private retreat in a tropical paradise.
9. Siargao
Siargao, located in the province of Surigao del Norte, is renowned for its curling waves that soar from nine to twelve feet high. It is frequented by surfers from all over the world. Besides surfing, the island of Siargao is well-known for its unspoiled beaches and its rural charm.
1. Anilao, Batangas
Anilao is brimming with marine life which makes it a world-class diving destination. But aside from diving, visitors can do snorkeling, island hopping, and hiking at Mount Gulugod Baboy. Experience the rich marine world for yourself. Meet our underwater residents, it’s more fun here.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
2. Verde Island, Batangas
Descend into the “Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity of the World” found at the eponymous Verde Island with its pristine clear waters and nice underwater view considered one of best diving spots in the Philippines.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
3. Tubbataha Reefs, Palawan
Tubbataha is home to no less than 600 species of fish, 360 species of corals (about 50% of the coral species in the world), 11 species of sharks (including tiger sharks, whale sharks, and whitetips), 13 species of dolphins, and whales, nesting hawksbill and green sea turtles. You can also see manta rays, schools of barracuda and tuna, and smaller marine life like nudibranchs, ornate ghost pipefish, seahorses, and frogfish.
(Source from: https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/best-diving-in-philippines)
4. Moalboal, Cebu
Scuba diving in Moalboal is diverse and very vibrant. Think big schools of fish, beautiful walls, canyons and caves, and fascinating macro life. Pescador Island offers some of the best dives in the Philippines, featuring a dramatic wall with colorful soft corals teeming with anthias. Then there is a large cathedral on the west side of Pescador which makes a nice background for dramatic underwater shots. You can also see schools of barracuda, beautiful caves, reef sharks, and also smaller marine life like nudibranchs and frogfish.
(Source from: https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/best-diving-in-philippines)
5. APO Reef National Park, Mindoro
Take a journey to the diving mecca of the Philippines—the Apo Reef divided into north and south lagoon systems and considered one of the best in Asia. Explore the Apo Reef Marine Park at the island of Binangaan and Cajos Del Bajo in Sablayan populated by various bird species guaranteed to satisfy birdwatchers and nature lovers.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
6. ANDA, Bohol
Anda offers an alternative to the crowded beaches of Panglao Island. Go barefoot across kilometers of fine white sand beaches where billions of finely ground corals caressed by the nursing tides and washed into the lazy slopes of the Anda shore-line. Or, take a nourishing dip by frolicking in the aquamarine sea and let the gently lapping waves calm your nerves. Anda is more than its white beaches. It’s also the site for an important cultural treasure – Lamanoc Island.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
7. Malapascua Island, Cebu
Be a silent witness. These elusive masters of the deep can only be seen in Malapascua Island. Every day, thresher sharks would come up from its habitat deep in the sea to have itself cleaned. Divers would need to wake up early though as they can only be seen from 4AM – 5AM.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
8. Coron Bay, Palawan
Home to THE BEST wreck dives in the Philippines, Coron Bay is also known for its jaw-droopingly beautiful limestone cliffs and crystalline lagoons. The combination of great wrecks and picturesque landscapes is what puts Coron on this list. Read more about the world's best wreck dives. The historical World War II shipwrecks of Coron, Palawan are really unique. Coron Bay used to be the harbor for World War II Japanese warships. 11 of these ships were sunk during an air attack in September 1944. Today the wrecks of Coron serve as reef systems, supporting a number of marine life. Some of the residents of these wrecks include scorpionfish, nudibranchs, cuttlefish, and octopuses. You’ll even see the occasional reef shark or stingray, hovering near the wrecks.
(Source from: https://www.bluewaterdivetravel.com/best-diving-in-philippines)
1. Sherwood Hills Golf Country Club
Located in Trece Martirez City, in the heart of the Cavite region of the Philippines, Sherwood Hills Golf and Country Club is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country. The golf club is about 1 hour away from the capital city of Manila and can easily be reached by taking the coastal road to Aguinaldo Highway. The distance is around 50 kilometres, making it possible as a day trip from Manila and a comfortable drive from the airport.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
2. The Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club
Playing golf in the Philippines is very exciting and there have been many top golf course developments in recent years, one of which is The Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club.
Despite having the name of the Philippine capital city in the title, The Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club is actually located to the south of Manila in the city of Carmona. However, it only takes 60 minutes to drive between Manila and Carmona, making it an easy destination to reach for a day of golf.
You could easily stay for longer than a day at The Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club and we recommend you do as there are two lovely golf courses to enjoy. Both golf courses have been designed by Jack Nicklaus, with the Masters course rated by many as being the best in the Philippines.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
3. Orchard Golf and Country Club
When arriving in the Philippines to play golf, your most likely destination is Manila. This is the capital city of the Philippines and as such is home to the biggest airport in the country, Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The airport accepts both international and domestic flights and wherever you are based in the world you can reach Manila with no more than one connecting flight. Once you have arrived at the airport you can travel into the city or make the short 30 minute trip straight to Orchard Golf and Country Club.
You are spoilt for choice when playing golf at Orchard Golf and Country Club and there are two fantastic golf courses to play. You will instantly recognise the names involved in the design of the courses with ‘The Legacy’ course designed by Arnold Palmer, and ‘The Tradition’ course designed by Gary Player.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
4. Riviera Golf Club
Manila is the capital city of the Philippines, a country which is an archipelagic in Southeast Asia. Situated in the tropics, Manila has a tropical savannah climate meaning there is very little in the way of variation in the weather throughout the year.
The coolest month in Manila is January while the warmest is May yet there is only 4 degrees difference in the temperature. The only thing you will need to look our for the is the wet and dry season, with the former taking place between May and November and the latter between the months of December and April.
So, if you were to choose a time to visit Manila and play a round of golf at Riviera Golf Club, the months between December and April would be the best but this is a golf course which is in great condition throughout the year.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
5. Anvaya Cove Golf Course
Travelling away from the capital city of Manila toward the west coast of the country and you will find Anvaya Cove Golf Course. This is located in Morong, Bataan and is very close to a lovely beach and bamboo groove. The golf course is part of a stunning development by Ayala Land Premier and is designed by Kevin Ramsey. Featuring two distinct sets of 9 holes, called Mountain and Seaside, you soon begin to get an idea of what to expect at Anvaya Cove Golf Course.
In truth, the Mountain Course is not mountainous in any way but does feature peaks and ridges throughout. The undulating fairways and greens make for a good test of golf but the standout holes on the course are undoubtedly between 11 and 13 on the Seaside Course.
The 11th hole has a lovely view of Subic Bay, while the 12th plays down towards the beach before reaching the 13th which is a cliff-top par-3 and the signature hole on the golf course. The quality of the course, in addition to the clubhouse and recreation centre make Anvaya Cove Golf Course one of the best golf courses in Philippines and worth making the effort if travelling from Manila.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
6. Mount Malarayat Golf & Country Club
Mount Malarayat Golf and Country Club can be found near Lipa City, in the province of Batangas, which is in the in the southern Tagalog region of the Philippines. Easily reachable from the South Luzon Expressway in Santo Tomas, Batangas, it is accessible through the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR) toll gate. The golf course is about 80 kilometres from the capital city, Manila and the drive takes just under 2 hours to complete.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
7. Eagle Ridge Golf & Country Club
Close to the city of Manila, located on the southern shores of Manila Bay, is Eagle Ridge Golf Country Club. Situated in the region of Cavite, this is the largest golfing facility in the Philippines, boasting a total of four different championship courses. The resort is just 60 kilometres away from Manila airport, making it very easy to reach upon arrival in to the Philippines. It’s also no more than an hour’s drive from the centre of the city, heading in a southern direction, making it great for a day trip, although it’s best to try and stay for longer.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
8. Luisita Golf and Country Club
There are many great golf courses to play in Philippines and Luisita Golf and Country Club is one of the best.
Situated to the north of Manila, the capital city of Philippines, the best place to stay for accessing Luisita Golf and Country Club is Clark-Angeles. You can stay in the city if you wish and it is just under one hour to reach the golf course.
Luisita Golf and Country Club was originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior and opened for play in 1967. The course has been named after the wife of Don Antonio Lopez, who was the head of the Tabacalera company that previously owned the land.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
9. Canlubang Golf & Country Club
While several new golf courses have opened in Philippines in recent years, there is one course which has stood the test of time. Canlubang Golf and Country Club, which is located at the foot of Casile, Laguna was established in 1977 and is regarded by many as being one of the best golf courses in the country.
Just 5 kilometres from Barangay Pittland, which is also known as Terelay, Canlubang Golf and Country Club is in the province of Laguna, situated to the south of Manila. It is easy to reach and would make a great stop on a Philippine golf holiday.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
10. Summit Point Golf & Country Club
If you are travelling to the Philippines, there is a gem of a golf course in the Batangas region of the country, around 1 hour and 30 minutes from the city of Manila.
A private golf course measuring some 6775 yards from the back tees, and a par of 72 the Summit Point Golf & Country Club is an absolute must try track.
Designed by world renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr, the design was based on some of the best holes of golf that you can find anywhere in the world.
(Source from: https://www.golfsavers.com/philippines)
1. Philippine Eagle Center, Davao City
The Philippine Eagle Center, also known as the Malagos Eagle Center, is a conservation facility located in the city of Davao in the Philippines. The center is dedicated to the preservation and protection of the Philippine Eagle. It is a critically endangered species of eagle that is found only in the forests of the Philippines. The center serves as a breeding and research facility, and also serves as an educational center for the public. It helps people to learn about the Philippine Eagle and its habitat. The center is home to several Philippine Eagles, as well as other animals such as the Philippine deer, civet, and slow loris. Visitors can take guided tours of the center to learn more about the eagles and the other wildlife. It can also participate in conservation programs to help protect the eagles and their habitat.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
2. Subterranean River, Puerto Princesa
The park is famous for its underground river system, which is one of the longest in the world. It’s stretching for 8.2 kilometers through a limestone karst mountain. The river runs through a spectacular cave system, complete with towering limestone cliffs, underground waterfalls, and a diverse array of stalactites and stalagmites. The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and also listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
(Source from: https://secret-ph.com/the-10-most-popular-philippine-nature-and-wildlife-destinations-for-tourists)
3. Crocodile Kingdom, Davao
The Davao Crocodile Park is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Davao, Philippines. The park is home to a wide variety of crocodiles and alligators, including the Philippine crocodile, which is an endangered species native to the country. The place aims to promote the conservation of crocodiles and educate the public about the importance of protecting these animals and their habitats. The park features several exhibits, including an indoor crocodile exhibit where visitors can see the crocodiles up close, and an outdoor exhibit where visitors can watch the crocodiles in a more natural setting. The park also has a breeding and research facility where visitors can learn about the breeding and conservation efforts of crocodiles.
(Source from: https://secret-ph.com/the-10-most-popular-philippine-nature-and-wildlife-destinations-for-tourists)
4. Tarsier Sanctuary, Bohol
These cute furry creatures are considered as the smallest primate in the world. They weigh only about 113 to 142 grams or four to five ounces. Tarsiers are named such due to their special elongated tarsal bones, which form their ankles and enable them to leap almost 10 feet from tree to tree. The most notable feature of the tarsier is their eyes, which are bigger than its entire brain. They hunt at night exclusively for animal prey which includes insects such as cockroaches and crickets.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
5. OSLOB Whaleshark Interaction, Cebu
Get up close with these gentle giants and swim with the whale sharks — or opt for just whale shark watching — in this town of Oslob, Cebu in Barangay Tan-awan. This wild life tourism attraction is one of Cebu’s sought after tourism activity and has generated significant revenue which changed the perspective of the locals about whalesharks. Aside from that, this has greatly led to stronger efforts for the protection of the marine ecosystem in Oslob. Over the years, the number of whalesharks in Tan-awan has increased and more and more conservation efforts are in the way for these gentle giants.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
1. Enchanted Kingdom, Santa Rosa Laguna
Enchanted Kingdom is the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines. Get ready to have a day filled with magic, fun, and laughter! Brace yourself for world-class rides, spellbinding entertainment, delectable food delights, and variety of unique souvenir items for all ages. Enjoy the fascinating sights and sounds of seven themed zones and experience exciting events and amazing attractions.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
2. SOLAIRE CASINO, Parañaque
Casino gaming has reached a whole new level of fun at Solaire Resort, with gaming machines and exciting table card games that revolutionize a player’s casino experience. The massive casino floor is filled with slots, card tables, and other betting machines to keep you entertained. Play Baccarat, Blackjack, and other popular card games for a more adventurous time at the tables.
(Source From: https://www.solaireresort.com/casino?language_content_entity=en)
3. SkyRanch, Cavite
A leisure and entertainment park, this 5-hectare property offers exhilarating rides, dining places, horseback riding, and a fantastic view of Taal Lake. This is a place where kids and adults alike will enjoy. Aside from being family-friendly, this amusement park is also open to events and gatherings.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)
4. DreamPlay by Dreamworks
DreamPlay is a world-class and revolutionary approach to family entertainment. Play, dance, laugh, and party with all your favorite DreamWorks friends! Test your skills, seek adventure, and have the time of your life as you explore our wondrous and spectacular attractions inside DreamPlay!
(Source from: https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com/en/enjoy/dreamplay)
5. Funtastic Park, Subic
Funtastic Park is the first indoor Educational Fun Park inside Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Here they offer fun and unique activities which can be enjoyed not only by the kids but the kids-at-heart as well. See list below to name a few: 1. Mirror Maze 2. 3d wall arts 3. Enchanted Forest walk-in 3d room 4. Upside down room 5. Dark room 6. Science zone 7. Optical illusions 8. Garden Maze Adventure 9. Grass Slide 10. Art from the Junk Garden AND MANY MORE!
(Source From: https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/)
1. The Farm at San Benito
The Farm at San Benito, a proud member of CG Hospitality and the hospitality arm of CG Corp Global — is an eco-luxury, holistic medical wellness resort located in Lipa City, Batangas. Resting on 52 hectares of a lush green environment with life-sustaining microbiome ecology, with a stunning view of the majestic Malarayat Mountains, pure fresh air and refreshing, life-giving energy radiating around the property.
(Source from: https://www.thefarmatsanbenito.com/)
2. Luljetta’s Hanging Garden and Spa
Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa has been the favorite go-to place of people for relaxation and wellness. Escaping from the city life in the metro, our wellness services and packages serve as an outlet for people to recharge and take a quick break.
(Source from: https://www.luljettas.com/wellness/)
3. Amanpulo
Blissfully marooned in the Cuyo Archipelago of northern Palawan in the Philippines, Amanpulo lies on Pamalican Island, a private island fringed with white sand beaches and pristine reefs. Offering a back to nature experience in supreme comfort and privacy, this tropical paradise is lapped by calm clear seas ideal for water sports, while sandy tracks lead to deserted coves and jungle-clad lookouts.
(Source from: https://www.aman.com/resorts/amanpulo/wellness)
4. Nurture Wellness Village
One of the country’s pioneer destination spas, Nurture Wellness Village takes pride in our Filipino roots expertly experienced through professional wellness spa treatments, from our nurturing therapists down to our freshly blended therapeutic massage oils. Our Pinoy massage spa therapists are licensed by the Department of Health, having been trained a minimum of two months based on the international industry standards. Most of our Pinoy massage therapists are mothers, who are well known to have the power of healing caresses. Their restorative touch are combined with the spiritual power of prayer, helping ease your body, mind and soul.
(Source from: https://nurture.com.ph/filipino-spa/)
(Photos from: Department of Tourism Website)
The Filipino is basically of Malay stock with a sprinkling of Chinese, American, Spanish, and Arab blood. The Philippines has a population of 76.5 million as of May 2000, and it is hard to distinguish accurately the lines between stocks. From a long history of Western colonial rule, interspersed with the visits of merchants and traders, evolved a people of a unique blend of east and west, both in appearance and culture.
The Filipino character is actually a little bit of all the cultures put together. The bayanihan or spirit of kinship and camaraderie that Filipinos are famous for is said to be taken from Malay forefathers. The close family relations are said to have been inherited from the Chinese. The piousness comes from the Spaniards who introduced Christianity in the 16th century. Hospitality is a common denominator in the Filipino character and this is what distinguishes the Filipino. Filipinos are probably one of the few, if not the only, English-proficient Oriental people today. Pilipino is the official national language, with English considered as the country's unofficial one.
The Filipinos are divided geographically and culturally into regions, and each regional group is recognizable by distinct traits and dialects - the sturdy and frugal llocanos of the north, the industrious Tagalogs of the central plains, the carefree Visayans from the central islands, and the colorful tribesmen and religious Moslems of Mindanao. Tribal communities can be found scattered across the archipelago. The Philippines has more than 111 dialects spoken, owing to the subdivisions of these basic regional and cultural groups.
There are two official languages in the Philippines—Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education. There are also eight (8) major languages spoken by majority of the Filipinos: Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Kapampangan, and Pangasinense.
Filipino is the native language which is used nationally as the language of communication among ethnic groups. Like any living language, Filipino is in a process of development through loans from Philippine languages and non-native languages for various situations, among speakers of different social backgrounds, and for topics for conversation and scholarly discourse.
The first half of the year, from January to May, is the best time to visit the country. November to February is cool, while March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy, with the months between July and September characterized by typhoons. Average temperature is 78 degrees F/25 degrees C; average humidity is 77%. Some parts of the country such as Cebu, are warm and comfortable in all seasons and can be visited throughout the year.
For up-to-date weather information, visit the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)
The Philippine Peso (sign: ₱; code: PHP) is the official currency in the country. 100 centavos or sentimos make up 1 peso.
Foreign currency may be exchanged at your hotel, and in most of the large department stores, banks and authorized money changing shops. Exchanging money anywhere else is illegal and the laws are strictly enforced.
Most large stores, restaurants, hotels, and resorts accept major credit cards including American Express, Visas, and MasterCard. Traveler's Checks preferably American Express are accepted at hotels and large department stores. Personal checks drawn on foreign banks are generally not accepted.
The best currency to take when in the Philippines is the local peso.
The Philippines generally uses the metric system in most trade and legal transactions. Inches, feet and yards (for textiles) are common in everyday use for measuring things.
The supply voltage in the Philippines is 220 volts. 110 volts alternating current is also used especially in major hotels.
If the appliance is single voltage rated, it will need to operate on the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country e.g. 220 volts.
Water supply in Metro Manila and in all the other major cities are considered potable. Bottled purified water, spring water or mineral water is often supplied by hotels and resorts, and sold in all grocery stores.
Since the Philippines is a tropical country, where temperature can get humid, it is advisable to wear light and loose clothing. White and light colors are perfect as they reflect the heat. Try your dark-colored tops at night for a more refreshing feeling. Having a basic classic white tee is also strongly recommended.
The men’s national costume is called a Barong Tagalog–a formal garment often made from thin fabric (piña or abaca) and is richly embroidered. It can be used by both men and women and it looks like a tunic or shirt with long sleeves and is worn over a usual shirt. If you must attend any occasion which would require a suit and a tie, the Barong Tagalog is a wonderful substitute, usually worn with a Chinese collarless shirt called camisa de chino.
Most businesses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday and 8:00 AM until noon on Saturdays. Banks are open from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM from Mondays through Fridays. When doing your bank transaction, it is advisable to have your passport with you for identification.
No employee in the Philippines must work for over 8 hours a day. An employee is worthy of a 1-hour lunch break daily, without fail. However, a worker is only required to work for a maximum of 8 hours per day from the office. There are no laws that mandate his working hours from home.
Post offices are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays only. Stamps for postcards are frequently available from the Concierge Desk at most major hotels. The Philippines uses ZIP codes, please include them in addressing local mail.
NOTE: The Standard lunch hour is from 12 noon to 1:00 PM.
(Source from: Department of Tourism Website)