Destinations / Asia

More than 7,000 islands scattered gracefully in the westernmost rim of the Pacific Ocean-­‐ the Philippines, a country known for its boundless hospitality and the friendly smiles of its people. Endless possibilities of discovery and adventure await you in these islands of contradictions and diversity. A mix of old and new, tribal and contemporary, the wild and the luxurious, it has something for everyone. It will capture your heart and feed your soul. It is for anyone looking for something new yet comforting, unusual yet fascinating. Perhaps, the Philippines’ most valuable jewel, amongst its wondrous sights and islands, are the Filipinos themselves. Filipinos are a friendly people. Wherever you travel in the Philippines you will be sure to be greeted with smiles. They have welcomed so many visitors to their shores that generosity has become a national trait. Mabuhay means "hello" and "welcome" in Filipino, and it is a phrase you'll see and hear often when you visit the Philippines. Filipinos are unique among its neighbors in Southeast Asia – who have shown to the world remarkable ability to accept and assimilate foreign cultural influences and yet they think and behave in a manner that is uniquely Filipino. So it is that the visiting Chinese would see traces of his own culture and traditions. After all, history records the 12th century traders from China, along with Indian and Islamic merchants who came to engage in bustling trade with the original Malay residents of the Philippines. The American visitor would immediately feel a kinship with the people and the land. After almost 50 years of American occupation, western influences are very much evident. But then, the Filipinos “filipinized” what the Americans brought in. And as to the visiting Hispanic, traces of Spanish influence remain in the cities of the Philippines and has become manifest in the language of the people. Filipinos are mainly of Malay origin with some Chinese, American, Spanish, and Arab ancestry. Characteristic Filipino traits are Bayanihan (the spirit of cooperation), piety, and close family ties. Filipinos's flair for English and love of popular culture may be derived from the American Occupation. Filipinos are emotional and passionate about life.