Dubbed the "pearl of the orient"… JB, New York City
The Philippines has absolutely been underestimated. I mean, sure, this country has been (and still is) under many common dilemmas, but that didn't stop me from going to this beautiful country. My friends told me not to go there cause of the terrorist scare and all, but I dared to go, and I'm still alive! Dubbed the "pearl of the orient," it certainly lives up to its name. Manila is certainly one of Asia's cosmopolitan cities despite its cornucopia of both old and new structures mixed with the slums and elite buildings.
Apart from Manila, there are several amazing stops you can visit in the country for seeing faces and places and immersing in a maelstrom of diverse cultures, what with 7,107 islands comprising this magnificent gem. The beaches are spectacular (try Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao for surfing), the food exotic and scrumptiously tasty (try their renowned roast pig called "lechon" as well as adobo, and other culinary adventures), and the people very warm and welcoming (believe me, the Filipinos are known for their hospitality). Take the time to see the beautiful things in the background. If you are the traveller or backpacker who dares for something different, don't forget the Philippines on your route map for your own amazing race. Take my word for it.
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