Philippines is a fascinating combination of cultures and experiences. This country draws from a wellspring of many influences: Chinese, Muslim, Spanish, and American.

Despite their nation's colonial history, poverty, and frequent political instability, Filipinos ("Pinoys" as they call themselves) are among the world's most hedonistic people. They joyfully enter into the spirit of things and expect that you will do likewise. Music is a constant and all-pervading factor of daily life. 

The Philippines is the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia, with a large Catholic majority. The calendar is full of religious holidays and communal festivities. Every Good Friday young men volunteer themselves for the honor of being "crucified," and flagellants take to the streets to demonstrate their faith. Even jeepneys, the favorite public transport, are painted with Christian images and symbols.

The 7,100 islands of the Philippines spread across 300,000 square kilometers (115,830 square miles), with jungles and white-sand beaches that border crystalline seas. Scuba diving among the 30,000 square kilometers (11,580 square miles) of kaleidoscopic coral reefs is among the best in the world.

There are volcanoes, spectacular rice terraces at northern Luzon, mountains for climbing and hiking, and an astonishing biodiversity. Magnificent temple ruins or religious architecture are not the primary attractions; the Philippines is to be enjoyed primarily for its natural beauty and its people.

English is widely spoken in addition to Pilipino (or Tagalog, as the residents call it), even outside metropolitan regions.