Like usually during the cold time in Switzerland (November to March), I try to get to warm locations for at least a month. This time the country of choice has been The Philippines. There were several reasons to make this choice: I like Asia and its people, it's warm even in winter, I haven't been there before and as a last reason, the terrorist hype that has been made about the region. Let me explain, I didn't go there to 'face terrorism' or something the like, my line of thinking is, that a lot of the terrorism stories we hear in Europe are exaggerated and imprecise. This has been proven to me in the Philippines through the trip itself and locals I talked to. It's still a quite safe country for an independent traveler AND you got the place almost on your own, due to the lack of tourists.
I arrived in Manila in the middle of the night, which is never a really pleasant situation in a big city if you don't know it. But again, my experiences showed me that the bad reputation Manila has is mostly an exaggeration. From Manila I was heading down on Luzon (large island, on which Manila is located) to Legaspi by bus. From there I started my 5 weeks Odysee through the Visayas (central island group): Masbate, Cebu Island, Malapascua, Siquijor, Negros, Panay, Guiamaras Island, Tablas Island, Romblon Island and eventually Mindoro.
This trip contained the most divers transporting means I have every had on such a short trip: boats of all scales, buses, cabs, jeepneys (modified Jeeps), tricycle (powered by bikes or bicycles) and motorbikes. Like you might notice, getting around on the Philippines is fairly easy. Sometimes it takes a little patience, per example to wait for a ferry or to haggle about the tricycle fare - but that's definitely nothing out of the ordinary.
The Philippines have a lot to offer for the independent traveler. The first idea one might have, is the picture of unspoilt beaches. This you'll find too, but there is much more to it. Due to the size of some islands (Luzon, Negros, Panay, Mindoro and Mindanao) it is possible to travel 'mainland', i.e. buses. Getting around and hanging out with locals is in my opinion the better way to learn about culture, than hanging on the beaches and going diving.. The definite highlight of the Philippines though, are its people. With the usually exception of the touristic places, Filipinos are genuine friendly and hospitable people. I have always felt very safe and well cared for - even with my 'special need': vegetarian food. It's very easy, in the Philippines, to switch between action and rest: between beautiful beaches and crowded, noisy cities.
So, if you think about going to Asia and you don't really know where - pick the Philippines. Sure, it might be less 'exotic' than Thailand, but it always felt real in the Philippines. It is also very easy to escape the tourist rush to Boracay - in most parts of the country you will have a hard time to find a tourist.
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