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Going To Puerto Galera

Are you looking for the best harbor in the world? Well, do not look too far because it’s Puerto Galera it is found just in the very heart of the Philippines. This place was discovered in the early 16th centuries by Spaniards in the midst of typhoon and storm. This is a Y-Shaped neck of land located on the northern part of Mindoro Island. It is bounded on the North by Verde Island Passage and by Municipality of San Teodoro on the South.

Aside from the very strategic and wonderful location, its wonderful geographical features and notable history will surely attracts you to go and visit the place.

Puerto Galera is surrounded with mountains that are covered with striking and green tropical rainforest. Waterfalls and cool waters of rivers and beaches will surely make your vacation a memorable one. See the Tamaraw Waterfalls; experience a deep bath on its waters. Experience its cool waters. Explore the jungles hidden on its tropical rainforest. Trek, hike and camp around and experience safari adventure in an Asian setting. Go and climb Mt. Malisimbo and experience the escapade of your life. Visit Puerto Galera and you will rediscover and unveil the beauty of nature of the Philippines. Other interesting must see in places are the tamaraw that are native in the place.

Water is Puerto Galera???s noun! Have some water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. Are you the type of person who loves water extreme adventure, well, this is the best place for you! Do kayaking, sailing or simply swim along the cool waters.

Do wind surfing, experience how breathtaking it is. Your vacation will never be complete if you will not go around its crystal lucid waters and white sand beaches. Do exciting gigs on dark on the shore.

One of the top beach resorts is the Atlantis Beach Resort. It is situated 110 kilometers South of Manila.

Unwind at night at Big Apple???s 24-hour Bar ad Billiard located at Sabang Beach. This first class bar and resto offers a wide variety of local and imported drinks. Name it and you will surely have it and tale note, it is in reasonable prices! This bar also provides billiard tables where you can play with your family and friends. Experience Asian, European and other distinctive dishes because in Big Apple???s 24-hour Bar and Billiard these are just good cuisines.

Put yourself insane and crazy in the morning with the extreme sporting adventure. Experience the heat and thrill. See the awesome sceneries over the mountains or even while you are in the air with the available aircrafts and wind adventure. During the night feel the effervescence of the night outdoor activities. Party all night out! Feel the tropical atmosphere. Get hot and lively with the discos along the coast of the beaches.

Now, are you tempted to have a stay on Puerto Galera your next question should be ???how will you get there???? Well, the most convenient and easiest way to get there is from Manila is by riding the ferry service. Arrange your transportation through Batangas Pier.

Nature and adventure ??? these are words that will surely suit to describe Puerto Galera!

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The Day Water Determined Our Fate

A few days short of two months from the day the flood came. Lives abruptly strewn in disarray are now starting to be rebuilt. Where once people, filled with thoughts of hopelessness and dismay, have now set their minds on recovering.

One hard-hit place is Marikina city. Seated on a valley where a river runs through, it was once the premiere shoe producer of the Philippines. Over time it would also become one of the country’s cleanest and greenest cities.

Upon surveying this locality, it can be noted that it is also comparable to historic Manila, in terms of number of tourist destinations. First and foremost is the Marikina River, which was rehabilitated and beautified into a riverside park. There is also the city Shoe Museum that houses thousands of pair of shoes, including a considerable number from the collection of Imelda Marcos. The Doll Museum that houses dolls from all nations and the Butterfly Farm are sights that are not to be missed, as well.

One of the recently established attractions, located in a busy intersection at the heart of the city, is a peculiarly designed wall that houses chimes of different sizes. Each hour, these bells would play native tunes, all in perfect harmony. Complementing this structure is a fountain where residents of all size and age tend to hang out to enjoy the cool mist and lovely melody. On occasions I would take a walk and observe people as they lolled about. Whats typical is seeing young people running around, and elderly citizens engrossed in their thoughts while lounging the time away.

And the flood came. Rich, poor, young, old, male, female, Christian, Muslim, houses, buildings, stores, churches, schools, hospitals, and yes even the proud attractions all bore the brunt of the massive flooding, quieting the proud hearts of Marikes; silencing even the Fountain Chimes. It seems the flood waters are not particular about its victims.

Flood waters stayed for a couple of days, and in its exodus left a few inches of sticky brown mud. It would take weeks to clean up the whole city, and a little longer for the veil of gloom to be lifted.

If I counted correct, its been a month and 12 days since. I again am passing by the chimes that have become a symbol of Marikina living. Before I gotten far, a familiar clanging lilt filled my ears and I realized that it was the fountain chimes back on-line. Though lugging a bulky laptop messenger bag while crossing the street, I managed a glance back at the sound machine. Then I noticed the young girls and boys splashing water, and a person, well on in age, crossed legged, seemingly thinking about retiring, and what could be his retiring income. With a smile I knew, we’re back to normal.

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The Splendor Of The Truly Mystical Beach Of Palawan

Palawan Beach is one of the best attractions you will see once you enter the borderline of the Philippines that is found in the island called Palawan. Many destinations are all in here but among these, the El Nido Beach Resort is one of the best to be with. El Nido is situated in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan. It is approximately 430 kilometers from Manila and 238 kilometers from Peurto Princesa (Palawan’s capital).

El Nido is described as a magical place. From its unchanging huge marble cliffs to its white sandy beaches with crystal clear water, many refer to it as a paradise. There are over 50 beaches to discover that makes you think that as if you’re in your own isolated private beach. Many sights are found here in Palawan but among of all is El Nido.

You will also find captivating lagoons with tranquil turquoise green water, caves that can take you to hidden beaches, and a very diverse variety of wildlife. This resort is a best place for island hopping. Book your boat, take some food, some drinks in a cool box and go into the fantastic marine reserve that is Bacuit Bay. It is definitely a relaxing and inspiring destination. Scuba diving is one of the best activities here with more than 30 dive sites for varying levels and skills from taking the plunge and learning to dive for the first time, perfecting your expertise and advancing your qualifications.

Here in El Nido you can find the soothing resort of Lally and Abeth Beach Resort. It is a special interest resort accredited by the Philippine Department of Tourism. Founded in the late 1980’s, this resort is one of the well-known resorts in Palawan. It has over decade of experience in providing quality service to its guest at very affordable prices. When it comes to accommodation Lally and Abeth Beach Resort serves you the best. It has a total of 32 rooms and cottages available for your stay. Each provides your particular needs from apartments to deluxe cottages straightly fronting the beach.

Palawan Beach is a great place to be in. Like Lally and Abeth Beach Resort, it has plenty of facilities and amenities to look for such as:

* Many Palawan beaches where you can enjoy just a minute away from your room. El Nido is known for its perfect white sandy beaches and coral reefs.

* Boat tours are one of the immense ways to explore the nearby islands of Miniloc, Vigan, Pinaglugaban, Snake Island, Dilumacad and many more. You can go to lagoons that have cracks between rocks, surrounded by black marble walls with mysterious rock formations.

* One of the greatest things to accomplish is snorkeling above a dazzling array of fish and other sea creatures.

* Hiking is certainly perfect because the hiking trails in El Nido are practically undamaged by development. The tropical forest is green and just waiting to be discovered by the courageous souls.

* Diving when it comes to this Lally and Abeth Resort becomes one of El Nido’s resorts offering a full range of diving services. It has a small dive operation dedicated to provide exceptional and exciting dive experience to everyone. It’s safe to dive because they provide dive masters who are certified instructors with years of experience.

Palawan Beach is one of the main reasons why Palawan is commonly referred to as “The Ultimate and Beautiful Last Frontier”. When you are in the haven of Palawan, you will know why. Captivating El Nido Beach is a truly breathtaking place that will leave satisfying experience and memory for every visitor. Aside from El Nido, there are also other beaches in Palawan beaches where you can also experience the beauty of the pristine seawater and its sea creatures. Whether you are alone or you’re with a family or friend, experience in these beaches is totally satisfying and memorable.

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Island of Cebu in the Philippines

The City of Cebu Philippines is the oldest and one of the most developed provinces in the country, the educational and commercial center of the Visayas area. The official language of Cebu is Cebuano, though its natives are also proficient in English, Tagalog and other Visayan languages. Roman Catholic is predominant, followed by several religious minorities such as Protestant churches, Taoists, Latter-Day Saints, Muslims, etc.

Cebu lies on the east of Negros Island. It also has Bohol in the southeast and Leyte in the east. It is enveloped by the straits of Cebu and Tanon and is located between 9deg25′N and 11deg15′N latitude and between 123deg13′E and 124deg05′E longitude in the center of the archipelago, approximately 365 miles south of Manila. It can be reached in an hour through air travel.

This long narrow island of Cebu stretches 225 km or 140 miles from north to south. It is surrounded by 167 smaller islands like Mactan island, Bantayan, Daanbantayan, Malapascua, Olango and the Camotes Islands. For the most part, Cebu has rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges traversing the northern and southern lengths of the island.

The native people of Cebu are called Cebuanos. Most descended from Austronesians and some have Spanish and Chinese ancestry. Cebuano culture has preserved strong Hispanic traditions in its native culture. Contemporary music, movies, fastfoods and the wide use of English are dominant influences from Americans. Cebu takes pride in being the country’s oldest colonial city. In April 14, 1521, Magellan planted a large wooden cross that commemorates the archipelgo’s first encounter with the west. From mainland Cebu, Magellan crossed the channel to the island of Mactan in an effort to spread Christianity. The chieftain of Mactan, Lapu-lapu, together with his warriors, resisted the attempt and killed Magellan as he reached the shore. A shrine now marks the historical spot.

In recent years, Cebu become a replica for self-governing industrial growth. It is a busy capital, next to Manila, in comercial activity and cosmopolitanism. In Cebu shipping is a main industry. Manufacturing of processed foods, textiles, and chemicals are among other industries in the city. When it comes to rattan furniture Cebu is considered a world center for production. it is recognized as the Philippines guitar producing capital. The guitar-making industry is centered in Maribago and Abuno on Mactan island, where a day’s production includes at least a hundred assorted instruments including mandolins, banjos and string basses.

Cebu Philippines is well known for its sun-drenched, white sand beaches and year-round tropical climate. In terms of accommodation, a good range of beach resorts from mid-priced to luxury is concentrated on Mactan Island. Mactan maintains the still unspoiled charm of the relatively uncongested countryside.

Off the northwestern tip of Cebu Island is Bantayan Island, now becoming popular among venturesome beach fanciers with a taste for excellent soft shell crabs. One the southwest coast, Moalboal, about three hours overland from cebu, has been a haven for scuba-diving enthusiasts as well as budget trallers, earning a reputation among some as “the Philippines’ best-kept secret.”

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About the Philippines

About the Philippines: The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia composed of more that 7,100 islands. Many of the volcanic islands that constitute the archipelago are isolated. The 11 largest islands namely Luzon, Masbate, Mindoro, Palawan, Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Samar, Negros, Panay, and Mindanao, account for more than 94% of the total land area.

The topography is generally hilly, rising to a high point of about 3 kilometers at Mount Apo, a volcano in the island of Mindanao. Luzon and Mindanao islands only have wide lowland areas. There are various dormant and active volcanos, particularly Mount Pinatubo in Central Luzon, which made a big noise in 1991.

Wildlife incorporates the carabao (water buffalo), monkeys, reptiles, and tropical birds. There are rich deposits of gold, lead, manganese, silver, nickel, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron ore and coal and an excellent hydroelectric and geothermal power impending. Volcanic steam provides an increasing factor of the nation’s power supply demands.

There are two distinct seasons, the Dry and the Wet. The dry season is somewhere between the month of March to June whereas the wet season is from the month of July to October. The period in between is neither too hot nor too wet for comfort. Humidity is relatively high, about 80%. The climate is warm but healthy. It was considered that it is one of the most favorable tropical climates all over the world.

The mean yearly lowland temperature is more or less 27??C (80??F). Temperatures fluctuate more between day and night and high and low altitudes than between seasons.

The Filipino people is a mixture of races. Racially, most Filipinos are a mixture of Malaya and Mongoloid races, with some mixture of Chinese, Indian, Arab, Spanish, and American elements. The Spanish expression ‘mestizo’ is used to describe anyone of mixed blood.

Although the Filipino people speak a variety of languages and are spread across many islands, they have a rather high degree of cultural resemblance. The long struggle for self-government, the use of Filipino (which is the national language) and English languages in the schools, the influence of Christianity, and the rural-to-urban resettlement have contributed to unity. Least saturated are the Muslims of the south, the upland hill tribes, and recent Chinese immigrants.

Generally, Filipinos have these qualities: friendly, hospitable, devoted to family, respectful of authorities, devoted, sentimental and happy. They could quickly adjust to new circumstances almost certainly due to the fact that they had been under numerous colonial rules in the past.

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Philippine Tourism as the Number One Aid Of Country’s Growth

Philippines tourism can be considered as the country’s comparative advantage and this is the reason why the government puts great effort in promoting the tourism industry. The country is archipelagic and located in the Pacific Ocean and this is one reason why the tourism is a hit in the country.

The Philippines has been blessed with stunning natural resources made more appealing by its distinctive culture which in turn was influenced by many foreign cultures. Spain, Latin America and the United States have all contributed in its little ways to help make the Filipino culture what it is right now.

The tourism in the country is booming thanks to its natural resources scattered in all parts of the country and also to its unique Filipino identity. The tourism in the Philippines began stepping up in the 1970s and this lasted until the mid 1980s. After that time, tourist arrivals in the country started to slow down. An indicator that the country’s tourism business is on the move down is on the average stay each of the tourist in the country. By 1988, the average stay of a tourist in the country is 8.9 days. This figure is significantly lower than the registered 12.6 days in previous years. But this scenario for the country didn’t last since by 1990s, the sector once again peaked with around 1.2 million tourist arrivals for 1992. This jolt in the arrival of tourist in the country has gave the Department of Tourism a more positive outlook and allowed for the Department to say that they expect more tourist arrivals in the future.

By the year 2000, the tourist arrivals in the Philippines totaled 2.2 million and this increased to 2,838,000 in 3 years. The Philippine archipelago is well known for many sights, sounds and festivals and these are several of the reasons why the tourism industry in the country is a hit.

From Metropolitan Manila to as far as the Northern provinces to the southern provinces of the country, there will always be a tourist spot that travelers and tourists will love.

. Metropolitan Manila. Intramuros in Manila and Makati City are known tourist draws. The Intramuros in Manila is called the ‘walled city of Manila’. This was built in the 1500s and originally the whole of Manila was confined within the areas of the walled city. But since the city has been growing exponentially, a number of buildings have been built outside the city. Right now, Intramuros is being visited due to its museums, churches and the old fort. Manila on the other hand is known for its vibrant night life. A nightlife and party scene that can rival those found in other Asian capitals. Other than Manila, Boracay and Cebu are also considered as party hotspots in the country. Makati is simply Manila in a modern way. Most modern facilities can be seen here- from shopping malls to major hotels and business centers.

. Aklan. This is one province in the Visayas region and considered as one of the most visited provinces in the country. Aklan is known for its ‘Ati-Atihan Festival that is hosted in Kalibo.

. Bohol. This province in the Visayas region is known for its ‘Chocolate Hills’. These are limestone hills that appear like ‘chocolate hills from afar. The province is also the home of the Philippine Tarsier, which is considered as one of the smallest primates in the world.

. Northern Philippines. The Northern Philippines is famous also because of its many tourist spots. One popular destination is Mt Pinatubo known for its massive eruption that happened in 1991. The Hundred Islands is another place worth visiting. The Banaue Rice Terraces are known for its beauty too- rice terraces that are carved from the mountainside. This is a UNESCO world heritage site. A visit to the country, northern provinces will not be whole without checking the ‘Hanging Coffins’ of Sagada.

. Taal Volcano in Laguna is worth checking too, and this is considered as one of the smallest volcano in the world.

. Palawan. This is a province and an island situated in the South China Sea and famous for its beaches.

. Boracay. And talking about beaches, Boracay is one destination worth visiting.

There are a number of great tourist spots in the country and since the country is archipelagic in nature, some of the adventure that can be experienced by the tourists will be mostly water-based. Philippine tourism activities and festivals are often concentrated on some of the best surfing and diving sites in the country.

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Philippines Art and Culture

The Philippines art and culture is colourful and lively that distinguishes Filipinos from its Asian neighbors. This include traditions, language, and arts which are found in museums, churches, galleries, and within the heart of each and every Filipino. One word that best describes Philippine culture is diversity.

This diverse culture is due to the fact that the Philippines has been accessed through migrations and trade not only by its neighboring countries, but also by countries from all over the world. These countries have left their cultural influences on the Filipino people who in turn have passed these influences from generation to generation.

The Filipino Cultural Traits

* Close Family Ties:

Filipinos tend to uphold close family ties. For Filipinos, the family is the center of the social structure. Most Filipinos live close to their family for most of their lives, even when they are independent adults.

* Bayanihan

:

The helping attitude of Filipinos whenever one is in need. Often, the Bayanihan spirit in action can be seen when a car gets a flat tire. The bystanders or passers-by would assist the driver to get the car back on the road.

* Pakikisama:

Pakikisama, or harmony, in English, involves getting along with others to maintain a harmonious relationship.

* Utang na Loob:

This means Debt of Gratitude. It is owed by one to a person who has helped him through the whatever trials or adversities one has gone through. This if further reinforced by the local saying: ‘Ang hindi lumilingon sa kanyang pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa kanyang paroroonan’, which means, ‘One who doesn’t look back to where he has started, will not reach his destination’.

* Sense of Humour:

The Filipino’s sense of humour is evident in their optimistic approach to life. They have the ability to laugh at themselves and their predicament, embarassing it may be. This helps them to cope with life and helps them to survive.

* Resourcefulness:

Filipinos are resourceful, inventive, creative, and fast learners. They are ingenious and often improvise and make innovative use of whatever is available. These qualities have been repeatedly demonstrated in their capacity to adapt to change, demonstrated in Filipinos thriving and prospering in any part of the world.

* Hard Working:

Filipinos are regarded as excellent workers who perform well, be it physical labor or sophisticated and technical types of work. This natural affinity for hard work, is motivated by the longing for improvement for oneself and economic security.

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Most Visited Places in the Philippines

Philippines Tourist spots such as the eighth wonder of the world Banaue Rice Terraces in Benguet, Hundred Islands in Pangasinan, Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Intramuros in Manila Philippines, Taal Lake and Taal Volcano in Tagaytay, and Burnham Park in Baguio are just some of the many destinations you can visit. You’ll surely find whatever fancies you, your budget and your preferences.

Listed below are some of the beautiful tourist destinations of the Philippines:

Banaue Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordillera’s

Banaue rice terraces is a mand-made engineering marvel that is referred to as “the eighth wonder of the world.” Inscribed in the World Heritage List of the UNESCO, it is a living testimony to man’s genius. Ancient Ifugao’s turned the rugged terrain of the Cordilleras into a continuing source of sustenance.

Puerto Galera, Mindoro Island

Puerto Galera is an ideal place to do island-hopping from Luzon or a place to laze on pristine white sands and clear, warm water. The most popular beaches for swimming are White beach and Tamaraw Beach, while beaches near Sabang have best facilities for coral-cruising. For more tranquility try Big and Small Laguna Beaches. Puerto Galera also offers excellent inland nature walks.

Camiguin

Camiguin, which rhymes with ???come again,??? has been regarded as the most beautiful island in the Philippines. As such, it is also described 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. Camiguin is sure to captivate anyone who visits with the desire to be back again soon.

Dakak

Dakak Park Beach Resort is located on the sunny white beachfacing the exotic turquoise Sulu Sea. The private beach that measures 750 meter is blanketed with pure powdery white sand. The tumbling waterfalls and natural spring water feed the resort’s two pools, while the ultimate hideaway is provided at a private open-air jacuzzi where you can unwind in the sauna and whirlpool amidst an ambience of peaceful solitary refinement.

Honda Bay, Palawan, Philippines

Despite its outstanding natural beauty, Palawan’s islands have been one of the least developed holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. A lack of commercialism has made Palawan very special. It is becoming more famous for international adventurers and divers. Honda Bay is the perfect place for sun seekers and snorkellers because it has several islets including Cannon Island, Bat Island and Starfish Island, with fine white sand beaches, coral reefs breaking crystal clear water onto empty. Its blue cool waters are dotted with islets that assure one of a pure-pleasure experience. From snorkeling in its crystal clear waters to island hopping within its enclaves or simply having a picnic in the fine sand of its beach areas, Honda Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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 contains mostly of the bird nests that flourish in the vicinity. 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.

Malapascua Island, Cebu

This tiny island, situated at the northeast tip of Cebu Island, is relatively new to the international market, but already rates highly on the the list of world’s best beaches – some say it is the new Boracay. This has also become a major dive centre, famous for the crowds of thresher sharks using the marine highway between Cebu and Leyte islands.

Mactan Island

Lying in the heart of Cebu is the island of Mactan. This tropical-island adventure endowed with an array of colors ??? from its beach, resorts, nightlife, hotels, music, drinks, food ??? will ensure to spice up every guest.

Pagudpud

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 fascinating views, white sand and clear blue waters. Pagudpud promises its visitors a magnificent experience in a secluded paradise.

Panglao, Bohol

Panglao is a perfect for a great dive and beach holiday. It is a small islet on the southwest of the Philippines of the bigger island, Bohol. On the southern beach of Panglao there are numerous resorts that line up on the beach. Bohol, is just across Cebu, famous for its strangely bumpy Chocolate Hills scenery. It is becoming more popular as the region’s best beach destination, with superb white sand and some world class diving sites, mostly on the adjacent little island of Panglao.

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. At present, beach lovers all over the world visit this first-class beach resort for its panoramic landscape and seascape, and white sand bringing with them the memory of a lifetime ??? a soothing private retreat in a tropical seventh heaven.

Puraran Beach, Catanduanes Island

Catanduanes Island lies in the Pacific Ocean just off Luzon and is one of the Philippines’ major surf venues. Puraran Beach’s white sand is very alluring, but currents can be hazardous during the surfing season. There are also other white sandy beaches like Pamangal Beach near San Andres town or Igang Beach.

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Travel Around the Magnificent Islands of the Philippines

More than the usual – this is how the Philippine is positioned in the tourism block. The country is an archipelago and known officially as the Republic of the Philippines. This archipelago is located in Southeast Asia and holds the distinction of being one of only two predominantly Christian countries in Asia. East Timor is the other country. There are around 7,107 islands in the country and these islands host around 90 million people. This population based on 2008 estimates makes the country as the 12th most populous country in the world. For the traveler interested to know more about the country, it should be learned that the country has around 11 million overseas Filipinos worldwide and these are the Filipinos who work in other countries and one of the main reasons why the economy of the country is competitive.

Based on 2008 estimates, the gross domestic product or the GDP of Philippines is hooked at over US$ 327.2 billion and this is considered as the 37th largest in the world. The name ‘Philippine‘ traces a long history. The name was taken after the name of King Philip II of Spain in the 16th century. It was the initiative of Ruy Lopez de Villalobos to use the name Las Islas Filipinas or the Philippine Islands as his name for the islands Leyte and Samar. And the use of this name was in reference and in honor of the Prince of Spain. An additional assessment of the name ‘Philippine’ will reveal that this has Greek roots and according to some historians this was the name of the father of Alexander the Great.

The country is divided geographically into three groups:
– Luzon
– Visayas
– Mindanao

And these three major island grouping is then sub-divided into 17 regions, another 81 provinces and 136 cities. The country also plays host to 1,494 municipalities and 41,995 barrios. The government controls Sabah, North Borneo as stated by Section 2 of the Republic Act Number 5446. Ecologically, the country is known as one of those countries which feature diverse flora and fauna. This feature of the country is one of the major reasons why the archipelago is one of the favorite places for travelers who seek to experience nature at its best. Another main reason why the country is always part of the list of preferred travel destinations is that the country is rich in natural resources and its scenic spots are panoramic and ready to comfort and to overwhelm the first-time visitors. The natural resources of the country are extensive and this can be seen in many areas like agriculture, forestry and minerals.

Talking about the archipelago is not complete without talking about its fertile and arable lands, the forests that host diverse flora and fauna and the panoramic coastlines. For those travelers willing to sample what the country has to offer over a limited amount of time, it is suggested that the interested traveler should focus on its culture, its beaches and its heritage. The unique Philippine culture will let the traveler experience the many festivals in the country- from Sinulog in Cebu to the Penafrancia Festival in the Bicol Region. Philippines has plenty of festivals and these festivals are mostly celebrated during the month of April and May – the time for the country’s fiestas. Most of these festivals have links to the church and religious in nature.

Exploring the country without visiting some of its renowned beaches is not suggested. Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands and with a coastline that is twice the length of United States, you can really expect that Philippines has indeed some of the best beaches in the world. Mere mention of the Philippine will remind images of white and fine beaches of Boracay, Palawan and some of the more not-so commercial yet striking sands of other beaches. Some names that should be part of the plans of the traveler include Pagudpud, Mactan Island and Panglao. And speaking of heritage, the country is home to Ifugao Rice Terraces which is now part of the UNESCO Heritage List in 1995. Aside from this rice terraces, Philippine also plays host also to many old churches- baroque churches in Metro Manila and these are all considered as heritage sites that carry the country’s culture and history.

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Numerous ways to make a long distance call

Most Filipinos would adore to hear from their family or friends from the US.?? Who won’t??? There’s just so much to tell and burning the lines would be one helluvah understatement if you are to make an international call to the Philippines.?? The reason is because the Philippines is one of the most eventful places in the world right now.?? See the news to prove this.??

Placing a global call might be a particularly wallet-pinching endeavor.?? But this should not always be the situation.?? There are numerous ways to make a long distance call, especially if the destination of your call is the Pearl of the Orient, the Philippines.??

here is a rundown of proposals on how to make that world call to the Philippines without shelling out much of your precious dollars.??

1.?? Be careful when buying call cards.??

many pre paid phonephone cards have concealed charges.?? There could be a connection fee that might be about tantamount to getting ripped off particularly when the card buyer makes a call and either the call is routed to a voice mailbox or to an answerphone.?? Connection fee deduction is instantly done even if the caller did not say anything yet.??

Other telephone card hidden charges include service fee, maintenance fee, access number and long chatting fee.?? The expiration date should also be checked.??

2.?? Know what kind of phone will receive your call.??

it won’t be advisable to make a long distance call to any mobile gizmo.?? The reason being because almost all of overseas carriers implement the’calling party pays’ system.?? The tariff rate of an international wireless telephone could be a lot higher compared against a call made to a land-line in the same country.??

three.?? Say no way to a telephone operator.??

When you elect to be aided by a phonephone operator when placing an international call, you decide to pay considerably more .?? When possible decide to use a dial-around service or dial direct.??

4.?? Sign on to a prepaid long distance plan.??

Various carriers offer this type of service to those that frequently place long distance calls.?? Opt for those with flexible programs.?? These plans work like phone cards but don’t have charges and charges related to prepaid phonephone cards.?? They usually have awfully low domestic and world rates 24/7 and call quality is usually wonderful.?? Another thing about these prepaid plans is the amenity of being able to use them when placing calls from any phones be it cell phones or public phones.??

five.?? Calling during non-business days or off-peak time will help you save.??

Make the most out of these rights by checking on what your carrier offers.?? Just make sure that it won’t be too much of an inconvenience to the recipient of your call.??

6.?? Bad connections should be noted.??

Bad connections happen and the Philippines is not an exception to this nuisance.?? When this occurs, take note of the time and the number you called.?? Prepaid calling cards barely gives you credit for bad connections.?? But if you made an international call employing a standard long distance carrier, or prepaid long distance plans, better check if you might be given credit for that call.?? They always do.??

it might help if you print this information to be always reminded of the Do’s and don’t’s when it comes to making a global call.??

With these straightforward tips, you don’t have to worry when your telephone bill arrives.??

eventually, here’s the step by step process in calling the Philippines.??

a.?? Dial 011, which is the international code

b.?? Then, key in the Philippines’ country code, which is 63.??

c.?? Now, dial the town area code where your your wife and youngsters are.??

Here are the major cities in the Philippines with their various city area codes :

Angeles Luzon – 455

Bacolod – 34

Baguio – 74

Cebu – 32

Clarkfield, Pampanga – forty five

Dagupan, Pangasinan – 75

Davao – 82

Iloilo – thirty three

Laguna Province – 49562

Lucena, Luzon – 42

Makati, Luzon – 2

Manila – two

Ozamiz city – 88

San Fernando, Pampanga – forty five

San Fernando, La Union – 72

San Pablo – 49

Subic, Zambales – 47

Tarlac – 452

Tarlac Province – 45

Zamboanga – 62

d.?? Eventually, dial the remaining digits.??

Also, remember to greet your Filipino friend using her local language. ‘Kumusta’, articulated as’cooh-moose-TAH’ surely will never fail to make her smile.

??

How many wonders have you visit during your lifetime? Visit famouswonders.com and see the top wonders of the world and also have a look at

Url: http://famouswonders.com/pamalican-island/
Pamalican Island facts.

Url: http://famouswonders.com/mayon-volcano/
Mayon Volcano facts.