The Philippines: Saipan’s friendly neighbor

Just three and a half hours away from Saipan is a beautiful archipelago known as the Philippines. This group of 7,107 tropical islands, located in between the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea, claims some of the finest beaches and coral reefs in the world. However, it is not just these factors that attract people to the country. In this article we will be examining the appeal of the Philippines, and taking a look at some of the best things to do when you get there.

Most of the people who travel to the Philippines arrive by airplane, landing at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. The capital city of the Philippines, Manila is an exciting and dynamic city that combines traditional Asian culture with Spanish flair and the American entrepreneurial spirit. Manila really does have something for everybody—vibrant nightlife, world-class shopping malls at rock-bottom prices, old Spanish fortresses, stunning sunsets over the bay, and an excellent selection of golf courses. Also, for the business-minded, the central business districts of Makati and Ortigas hold a wealth of opportunities to build new relationships.

After a few days of exploration in cosmopolitan Manila, many people feel ready to hit the beach for some rest and relaxation. The most famous of all beach destinations in the Philippines is Boracay—a small, palm-fringed island with powdery white sand and crystal clear water. Often voted the best beach in the world, Boracay has a good selection of beach resorts that are located only a few seconds’ walk from the surf. During peak season the island is packed with fun-loving people from across the globe, and the nightlife is excellent. The more adventurous visitors often go scuba diving with one of the local dive operators, or try their hand at kiteboarding.

An alternative to the thriving beach resorts of Boracay is the natural tranquility and calm of Palawan. This region in the west of the Philippines (close to Borneo) is often referred to as “the last frontier” due to its untouched rainforests, limestone cliffs and vast caves. The most majestic way to see Palawan is from the comfort of the M/V Lagoon Explorer—an 80-foot long, 10-cabin catamaran that cruises around the Calamian Islands under the guidance and care of its friendly crew. Snorkeling, scuba diving, sun bathing and exploration all await you on this four-day, three-night adventure in paradise.

The best time to visit the Philippines is between September and May, when the weather is clear and sunny. However, even the rainy months of June, July, and August have their own appeal as many resorts lower their prices due to lower demand for rooms. Prices remain favorable throughout the year due to the exchange rate (currently at 53 Philippine pesos to the US dollar), and almost all of the country is very safe for tourists. Most Filipinos speak good English, and are very happy to help visitors to their country. Food in all of the restaurants and resorts in tourist areas is international, and almost all signs, menus, and maps are printed in English.

If you would like to visit any of the places mentioned here, you can contact Blue Horizons Travel and Tours (the leading tour operator and travel agency in the Philippines) for more information. Telephone +(63-2) 848-3901, fax +(63-2) 848-3909 or email info@bluehorizons.com.ph for assistance. To find out more about the M/V Lagoon Explorer, visit the Discovery Cruises website at www.LagoonExplorer.com. To learn more about some of the golf courses in the Philippines, visit www.GolfingPhilippines.com. Finally, if you would like to find out about scuba diving in the Philippines (and see some stunning pictures of dive sites around the country) visit www.ScubaDivePhilippines.com. (Alex Stutely)