Philippines enjoys a vibrant nightlife with a huge variety of chic night bars and pubs which are accompanied by different types of delicious cuisines providing varied choices to tickle everyone’s taste bud.
Sports are another important facet of entertainment in Philippines and it occupies such a significant position that it is considered as an intrinsic aspect of the culture of Philippines. The different categories of sports which are widely popular in Philippines comprises of Boxing and Martial Arts,Motorized Sports,Outdoor Sports,Racquet Sports,Skating, Target Sports, Team Sports,Water Sports, Air Sports and Extreme Sports. The movie lovers can chill themselves in the various technologically developed multiplex movie theaters and watch out different movies.History of Philippines
According to popular belief, the Aetas are the first to arrive in Philippines and if we trace back the history then it is found that they arrived in more than 30,000 BC perhaps through land bridges, from China or the Andaman Islands. The ancestors of the majority of the Filipino people, the Austronesians from Taiwan, settled in northern Luzon around 2500 BC and then gradually they spread to different parts of Philippines.
The country of Philippines was previously named as “Las Islas Filipinas" (The Philippine Islands) by Ruy López de Villalobos after King Philip II of Spain. Philippines underwent through the grip of the Spanish colonial rule for three centuries from its inception in 1565. Philippine Revolution of 1896 brought an end to the inglorious Spanish colonial rule. The "Spanish-American War" in 1898 and the Philippine-American War in 1899 made it possible for the United States to gain possession of the Philippines and for five decades the country has to bear the US rule. Philippines attained independence from the United States on July 4, 1946 after Japanese were defeated in 1945.Though the newly liberated Philippines went through many political instability since 1946 but it has managed to keep the pace of its growth and development and ensure a secure and better future for its people.
Culture of Philippines
Culture of Philippines exhibits a strange amalgamation of religions, various settlements and countries. The Philippines located in the Malay Archipelago, consists of 7,107 islands.
While most of the Filipinos are of Austronesian origin, some have Spanish, Chinese, American, and Arab lineage. Thus Filipino culture shows a fusion of native traditions of the Philippines blended with Spanish and American customs. as well as Chinese, Indonesian and Indian specialties. You will also notice Hispanic influences in Filipino culture, which shows prominence in many of the religious festivals and even in naming of streets, towns and provinces as well as in cuisine. As you explore the Filipino dishes like noodles, you will notice the Chinese influence.
Interestingly enough, English language is commonly used in Philippines and shows trends of American influence in the spoken style, basketball, fast-food joints, sprouting interest in American music and movies.
Friendship, bondage in families, nationalism and commitment are greatly appreciated in Culture of Philippines. José Rizal, a Spanish-speaking reformist whose writings induced national identity and awareness among the commoners, is an important figure in the country. Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, written by this reformist are must-read among the students of this country and are highly evaluated.
While music and leisure are close to the heart of Filipinos, sports like boxing, badminton and billiards are also quite popular.
More Information on Culture of Philippines
- Arts and Crafts in Philippines
- Architecture of Philippines
- Music and Dance in Philippines
- Philippines Cuisine
- Religion in Philippines
- Philippines Etiquette
Philippines Popular Destinations
Philippines is one of the most enchanting tourists destinations in the world. This beautiful archipelago nation in Southeast Asia is dotted with famous for its tourist spots. Philippines popular destinations include beautiful islands, exotic beaches, amazing volcanoes, world-class diving spots and unique wildlife. The beautiful Philippines have hundreds of enchanting tourist destinations, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers, honeymooners and adventure seekers from all around the world.
Apart from its exceptional scenic beauty, Philippines popular destinations also include unique cultural, historical and architectural heritages. The beautiful colonial structures of Vigan in Ilocos and World War II markers of Manila never fail to fascinate its visitors. You can plan your tour to visit the Philippines popular destinations that range from the famous historic centers of the state to the parks and gardens at Philippines. The Filipinos are vibrant and fun loving people and like to celebrate almost every occasion with great fanfare. The vibrant and colorful festivals are major tourist attractions in the Philippines.
To make Philippines tourism more exciting, explore the interesting shopping areas through out the state. Philippines popular destinations also offer you a good variety of eat outs where you can satisfy your appetite after a long and tiring journey.Philippines Tourist Attractions
Philippines an exotic tourist destination in Southeast Asia boasts of several fascinating tourist destinations of the world. Sprawling across 300,000 square kilometers, the beautiful archipelago is home to 7,107 enchanting islands. Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao constitute the main island groups in the country. The country is renowned for its beautiful islands, golden beaches, astonishing volcanoes, numerous diving spots and exotic wildlife among other Philippines tourist attractions. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, honeymooners and adventure seekers are all lured by the major Philippines tourist attractions.
The famous White Beach on Boracay Island is one of the most beautiful tropical beaches in the world. The famous Alona Beach at Panglao is located in Bohol which is known for its exotic beaches. Cebu is home to major diving spots making it a favorite haunt for adventure lovers. Panglao, Balicasag and Pamilacan in Bohol are also renowned for being home ro some of the popular diving spots. The world-famous Tall Volcano and the beautiful Tall Lake at Tagaytay are sure to hold its visitors spellbound.
Apart from its scenic surroundings, Philippines also boasts of major cultural and historic sites. You can unwind the past with architectural marvels of Vigan in Ilocos and the remains of Second World War. The colorful festivals are celebrated with much gusto and make for major Philippines tourist attractions.Sightseeing in Philippines
Philippines is a combination of natural beauty and modern elegance. Sightseeing in Philippines include beautiful islands, exotic beaches, amazing volcanoes, world-class diving spots and unique wildlife.
Sightseeing in Philippines gives you ideas to try out some awesome Sightseeing Tours and Sightseeing Packages like, city tours, island tours, museum tours and many more. While on vacation, don’t miss the following places perfect for sightseeing in Philippines:
Makati- It is the financial district of the Philippines.
Manila- Another fascinating place and the capital of the Philippines.
Quezon City- The city fit for both sightseeing and shopping.
Hundred Islands in Luzon- Just sit in the sun and relax on the white sand beaches here.
Cavite- This place is 2-3 hour drive from Metro Manila. It boasts of beautiful sceneries and famous eat outs.
Cebu- This place is famous for its scenic beauty and the shopping centers.
Iloilo- Afantastic place to spend your day among the scenic wonders of nature.
Besides these, other options for sightseeing in Philippines are a visit to the monuments, gardens and parks. Some famous such sightseeing in Philippines includes:
Castle Manila- A replica of mid 19th C house, recreating the Intramuros lifestyle of upper class Filipinos.
Chocolate Hills- Bohol's most famous attraction.
Colon Street-The oldest street in the Philippines located in the heart of Cebu.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery-The only underground cemetery in the Philippines; it served as a meeting place for the revolutionary leaders in Laguna.
Magellan's Cross- The most historically famous landmark in Cebu.
Katibawasan Falls- These 250 feet falls cascade down to a pool surrounded by orchids and other rich tropical flora.
Maquinit Hot Springs- This is the premium hot spring in the Philippines. Palawan.
Hidden Valley- A haven for lush jungle life, natural springs and still water pools.
Rizal Memorial Park- Within the lush park there are monuments, a skating rink and adventure playground.Philippines Festivals and Events
Philippines Festivals and Events are the best of opportunities through which you can explore the cultural specialty of the country during your tour. You will be impressed to know that Festivals and Events in Philippines are celebrated through out the year across the regions. Some festivals are held to usher in the New Year or the new season marking the beginning or end of their harvesting time while, some are religious occasions that unravel the vibrant nature of the Filipinos. You will also come across special festivals typical to a region of Philippines.
Philippines Festivals and Events also reflect the fun-loving nature of the Filipinos, who grab almost every occasion available to celebrate with feast and gifts. You will also observe that it is the peak season between December and May when most of the festivals in Philippines are celebrated because the climate is moderate and pleasant suiting the leisurely mood of the tourists as well as locals. Though there are various festivals of flower, puberty, Virgin Mary and re-enactments of Christ's crucifixion, Christmas is known as the most popular of Philippines Festivals and Events.
How to Get in
Getting to Philippines is convenient as the country is well linked to the rest of the world. The major cities like Cebu and Manila act as the international gateways. You can travel to Philippines by air and sea.
Air travel is the most common way to get to Philippines. Manila and Cebu cities are the only major admission points. Known international air carriers run flights between Philippines and major cities of Asia, Australia, Canada, continental Europe, UK, New Zealand and the USA.
Adventure and Recreation in Philippines
Adventure and recreation in Philippines has been a part of Philippine culture. The tropical climate allows Filipinos to spend much of their free time outdoors; children often play outside with friends. There is no doubt that the prevailing socio-economic issues and conditions have aptly dictated the general state of sports in the Philippines.
Types of sports in Philippines
Adventure and recreation in Philippines cannot be complete without the mention of the various sports played here. There are five major team sports in the Philippines that are quite popular to differing degrees. Baseball, softball, football/soccer, basketball, and volleyball are generally among those sports Filipinos have embraced. Other sports like boxing, golf, tennis, badminton, biking/cycling are among the more prevalent individual pursuits. Running, weight/power-lifting, aerobics, and the martial arts of karate-do and tae-kwon-do are likewise popular endeavors especially among the health conscious.
Adventure and recreation in Philippines also include water sports of which swimming continues to be popular. Scuba/underwater diving, canoeing, sailing, and body/wind surfing have also found their niche. On another front cockfighting, horse racing, auto/cart/drag/motor racing, and jai-alai also have a big following.
A good trend to watch is the growth of outdoor, extreme, and endurance sports which is gradually gaining acceptance across the islands especially among the younger generation and the environmentally conscious nature-lovers. Among these are in-line/roller skating, in-line hockey, kite/wake boarding, kite/ski surfing, rock-climbing/scrambling, mountaineering, and Frisbee.
Given the country's many beaches, Sunday beach picnics are a popular pastime for families. Filipinos as well as tourists enjoy yachting, diving and sailing here.
Hotels in philippines
