Muhammad Ali certainly put Philippines on the map when he fought Joe Frazer in Thrilla in Manila here in 1975 and for that we are massively grateful because now more and more people are aware of the Philippines and explore its many churches, diverse and complicated culture, Spanish colonial trademarks, gigantic malls, vibrant nightlife and the friendly indigenous people within. 
 
Metro Manila
 
Initial impressions may leave you daunted as you enter a concrete jungle full of congested roads and polluted streets, but once you delve deeper into the Philippines capital you will be more than impressed.  Home to three of the largest shopping complexes in the world – SM North EDSA, SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia – you will find all of your retail therapy from boutique stores, supermarkets and department stores to all of your entertainment needs with cinemas, restaurants, bowling alleys, spas, art galleries and museums.  In fact you will even find medical facilities, schools, offices and even a chapel.  It is like a city within a city.
 
Ermita & Malate
 
Ermita and Malate merge together to form the largest tourist district within the country capital.  You will find sections of old Manila and its traditional architecture and lifestyles interjected with brand new high rises, condo developments and tourist visitors.  While you are here, visit the Manila Ocean Park and its Oceanarium – Manila’s answer to Singapore’s Sentosa Aquarium. 
 
Banaue
 
Banaue receives many visitors to its stunning rice terraces.  Some 2000 years ago Ifugao tribes people carved out of the hillside to provide level steps where the natives plant rice, and many of which are still in use today.  Providing a picturesque staircase to the sky – some reaching an altitude of 1500 metres – it is considered to be one of mankind’s greatest engineering feats.  This UNESCO World Heritage site is particularly appealing to international tourists for its many hiking trails, while the road to Bontoc provides a beautiful panoramic view of this incredible destination.
 
Tagaytay
 
Tagaytay is relatively close to the bustling capital, yet remains a peaceful paradise wrapped in beautiful natural landscapes.  The city overlooks the incredibly photogenic Taal Lake in Batangas, providing a view of the iconic Taal Volcano Island in the middle of the lake, from several vantage points in the city.  With a cool climate and clean air, Tagaytay City is the perfect place to unwind with a picnic, horseback riding, golf or even just a leisurely sightseeing tour.
 
Round Up
 
Visit Philippines for a blend of Western and Eastern culture where bustling city centres lie less than an hour away from a tranquil picturesque landscape.
 
WHAT TO DO: Feast of Nuestra Senora Penafrancia, 3rd Saturday of September, Naga City

A religious festival held in honour of the Feast of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Bicol's most revered patrones highlighted by the fluvial procession of the Lady's image down the Bicol river. The week-long-celebration includes civic-military parade, sportsfests, exhibits, cultural shows, beauty pageants and colorful competitions.
 

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