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Time Travel Turtle

A travel blog with stories beyond the brochure

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THE PHILIPPINES

7000 ISLANDS TO EXPLORE

There’s a huge amount of diversity in the Philippines and I feel like you can go back again and again to find new things on the different islands.

Michael Turtle – TIME TRAVEL TURTLE

The Philippines has more than 7000 islands and a population of about 100 million people, making it a country that would take a long time to see properly. It’s often defined by its beautiful natural sites but it also has a strong food scene and many cultural offerings.

The influence of Western countries that have colonised it over the centuries gives The Philippines a blended culture. English is the main language while the religion is clearly Spanish in origin. There is also evidence of the Americans in much of the modern lifestyle.

Filipino culture places a strong emphasis on relationships, particularly with family and the church. While visitors often travel to the country for the beaches or the diving, it’s hard to escape the warmth and generosity of the people. Expect to be well fed and well looked after.

SAILING INTO THE UNDERGROUND >> THE FAMOUS PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER <<

You’ll find one of the most famous and unusual natural wonders of the Philippines on the island of Palawan. Here’s what you need to know about visiting the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

A DANGEROUS VOLCANO >> HOW YOU CAN GET UP CLOSE TO TAAL VOLCANO <<

It’s still one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world – not that you would know that from looking at it. But it’s the island within the island that makes visiting Taal Volcano such a special experience.

SPAIN AND THE PHILIPPINES >> THE COLONIAL LEGACY IS WORTH DISCUSSING <<

I’m not sure how I feel about some of the things I see that remain from the Spanish colonial days. These beautiful churches in Manila, for instance, can be looked at from very different perspectives.

Travel stories about the Philippines

To explore more of my stories about the Philippines, you can

Use the map to choose by location

Read one of my featured articles

Click through to see all the posts

FEATURED STORIES

Is it worth visiting Vigan?

The Old Town of Vigan in the Philippines is a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. But I’m not sure if it’s worth the visit.

An amphitheatre of rice

The Batad Rice Terraces form an amphitheatre of agriculture that have lasted for 2000 years. Here’s how you can get there yourself.

Control this island, you control Manila

This small island at the mouth of Manila Bay is one of the most strategic military points in Asia. When the Japanese attacked, it was their key to success.

Read all my stories >> HERE <<

  • PRIVACY POLICY