Written by Jannelle Buguis, Edited by Jekelyn Nisola

The Philippines has something for everybody: from historical heritage sites and natural landscapes to colorful all-year-round festivals and unspoiled beaches, plus many more! And did I mention how hospitable the Filipinos are?

Below, find out some of the things you can look forward to when you visit the Philippines:

•  Accommodation

Finding a place to stay while traveling across the Philippines is not a problem because there are plenty rooms to rent based on how much you’re willing to spend. Choose from stunning 5-star hotels and luxurious houses to countless villas and condotels.

Many first-time travelers prefer to stay in Makati City, Taguig City, and Pasay City in Metro Manila, the National Capital Region  (NCR) of the Philippines.

Makati City, a Central Business District (CBD), is known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle.  A lot of expatriates live and work in this bustling hub.

Taguig City, another CBD, is known for its luxury residential developments and commercial infrastructures.

Pasay City, on the other hand, is known for its commercial and entertainment establishments, various restaurants, and  5-star hotels facing the Manila Bay.

Hint: Check out properties for rent on PropertyAsia.ph.

• Tourist Destinations

Discover the Philippines’ unspoiled beaches such as the Tambongbong Beach and  Cabongaoan Beach in Pangasinan; the Burot Beach in Calatagan, Batangas;  the Puntod Island in Panglao, Bohol, and the Malcapuya Island in Coron, Palawan.

In your island adventures, immerse yourself in nature, observe the marine life, or enjoy various outdoor activities such as kayaking, diving, snorkeling, hiking, or climbing.

If you’re in for historical trips instead, visit the Calle Crisostomo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur;  the Corregidor Island near the Manila Bay; the walled city of Intramuros in Manila, or the Rizal Park, also in Manila.

Also, don’t forget to experience the country’s wealth of natural landscapes such as the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao; the Chocolate Hills in Bohol;  the Mayon Volcano in Albay, and the Taal Volcano in Talisay, Batangas.

• Cuisine

The Philippines is divided into 17 regions; therefore, there are so many variations of your favorite Filipino food that you can enjoy! It’s sort of difficult to describe–in other words,  Filipinos are good at continuously innovating its local cuisine.

The Filipino cuisine is a mix of American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Spanish influences. Some of the Filipinos’ mouth-watering foods you shouldn’t miss are the adobo, sinigang, Bicol Express, kare-kare, balut, lechon, Pansit Malabon, sisig, and halo-halo.

• The People and Culture

The Filipinos are known to be the most hospitable (also, happy) people in the world.

Mostly Roman Catholics, Filipinos respect other religious beliefs and cultures.