Philippines-It’s more fun

Chocolate Hills! The name itself promises an unending supply of chocolate to last for a lifetime for die-hard chocolate fans such as myself. Though not edible, the chocolate hills are a delight to see and visit. Located in Bohol in Philippines, a tour to the famous Chocolate Hills – more than 1,268 grass-covered limestone domes that are nearly symmetrical in shape and height, promises to be a trip of the lifetime. The picturesque hills turn a distinct shade of brown during the dry season and give them a passing resemblance to a certain confectionary treat, hence their name.

The Philippines is a very friendly country and makes for a perfect Asian holiday with its emerald green rice fields, picture perfect beaches, vibrant city life, and fantastic shopping.

With more than 7000 islands, you are sure to be spoilt for choice. A good place to start is Manila,the capital of the Philippines. In 1571, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established the city of Manila, which, until 1898, was the seat of Spanish colonial rule in Asia .Manila  is one of the most diverse and energetic cities in Asia, with a fascinating colonial heritage.  It is actually a series of cities fused into one, and is, thus, a place where cultures and classes converge. It’s also the best place to shop to your heart’s content within the comfort of Asia’s 3rd largest mall, the Mall of Asia or to soak up the sights and sounds of street shopping at the Baclaran Market. And if partying is on your mind, there is no better place than Manila to live up the nightlife in its hip and happening spots. If you haven’t had enough of the party scene in Manila, then you should head to Cebu .The city of Cebu is known as the “Queen City of the South”. Explore the city’s rich past with a visit to its historical landmarks and indulge in some more shopping in Malls, which provide a range of shopping, dining and leisure activities for various budgets.

For a romantic break in the Philippines, a visit to Boracay is a must. Just seven kilometers long, and less than a kilometer wide at its narrowest point, Boracay is a postcard-sized tropical paradise. Here, laze on the powder white sands for some much needed R&R or indulge in some adrenalin pumping activities.

There’s no shortage of activities for you at this island paradise. Boracay has around 25 dive sites that cater to all levels of experience. You can go parasailing, take a native outrigger boat called the paraw for a tour of the island, go waterskiing or even cliff diving.  Iconic photos of Boracay are likely to be from the westward-facing White Beach, which is four kilometers of white, powdery fine sand dotted with resorts, shops, and restaurants. Boracay definitely is a perfect backdrop for “facebook- perfect” pictures, which you would want to share with the entire world.

For nature lovers, a visit to Puerto Princesa, the capital of the island province of Palawan, is a must. One of the cleanest and greenest cities in the Philippines, Puerto Princesa offers a wide range of attractions ranging from beaches to wildlife reserves. Honda Bay is the perfect place to go swimming, snorkelling and island hopping. But the must do activity in Puerto Princesa is definitely a visit to the Subterranean River National Park, more commonly known as the Underground River. At over 8 kilometers in length, this river is reputably the longest underground river in the world. With its crystalline waters and spectacular cave formations, it’s not surprising that the site was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999.

Whether you wish to simply lie on powdery white sand beaches, get adventurous, shop and eat to your heart’s content, whatever’s on your mind, it’s more fun in the Philippines!