“The Philippines are a shimmering, kaleidoscopic mixture of 7107 tropical islands on the edge of the Pacific – each one with its own distinct character. Almost 400 years of Spanish colonial rule have left their mark on this exotic archipelago, so don’t expect the usual Asian attractions here. Pagodas of burnished gold, richly decorated temples, fierce curries and green tea are thin on the ground of these islands, but you will find baroque churches, fiery fiestas, cha-cha, coffee, rum and a God-given mañana mentality. The Philippines are the other Orient, Asia’s very own Caribbean islands.”
Jens Peters, Philippines Travel Guide http://www.travelphil.com/internet_eng/index.html

The Philippines, officially known as the Republic of the Philippines, is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. Its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire and its tropical climate make the Philippines prone to earthquakes and typhoons but have also endowed the country with significant natural resources and outstanding natural beauty and made it one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the world. With an estimated population of about 92 million people, the Philippines is the world's 12th most populous country and an additional 11 million Filipinos live overseas.

The arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 marked the beginning of an era of Spanish interest and eventual dominance. Manila emerged as the Asian hub of the Manila–Acapulco galleon trade. Missionary work led to widespread Christianity. As the 19th century gave way to the 20th, there followed in quick succession the short-lived Philippine Revolution, the Spanish-American War, and the Philippine-American War. In the aftermath, the United States replaced Spain as the dominant power. Aside from the period of Japanese occupation, the United States retained sovereignty over the islands until the end of World War II when the Philippines gained independence. The United States bequeathed to the Philippines the English language and a stronger affinity for Western culture.
Excerpted from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines

The Philippines offer unique tourist attractions and breathtaking views ranging from the Rice Terraces of Ifugao, often called the “Eight Wonder of the World”, agricultural masterpieces that were sculptured by Cordillera tribes some 2,000 years ago to the six kilometer long white beach of Boracay Island. Experience a ride in a Kalesa (horse carriage) through the streets of the center of Vigan, the country’s best preserved old town from the Spanish era, fly over the crater lake of one of the world’s most dangerous volcano, Mount Pinatubo or enjoy the view over the picturesque Chocolate Hills. Go scuba diving at one of the many exciting dive destinations, such as the Tubbataha Reefs, swim with the Wale Sharks in Donsol or play golf at any of the world class courses. Explore the Underground River on Palawan or visit the massive Spanish churches (“earthquake baroque”). Enjoy Filipino music and food, such as Lechon (crispy roasted suckling pig), Lapu-Lapu (grouper), Kare-Kare (oxtail stew) or Adobo (chicken or pork cooked with vinegar). Wash your meal down with the excellent San Miguel beer and drink a glass of Tanduay rum which will make you think you are in the Carribean!