Local folklore has it that the primeval gods took their time when they created the first Philippine island. Once they finished their masterpiece, the gods were so pleased with their work that they decided to make 7, 000 more!

The Philippines is one of the most beautiful places you will ever go. This country is regarded as the Pearl of the Orient because of its natural beauty, charm and grandeur.

Because of its scattered islands, the Philippines is never short of wonderful and fantastic places to go. It is blessed with beautiful coastlines and unspoiled beaches, and brimming with velvety white sand beaches surrounded by azul and crystal clear waters.

If you opt for the greenery and scenery, then you will not be disappointed with the picturesque hills, captivating plateaus and forests rich with rare and exotic wild life.

For a taste of history, the Philippines has a number of preserved spots and areas that mirror the colonial regimes of Spain, Japan and America.

If all of these are not enough, shop to your heart’s delight in this country’s numerous malls and flea markets.

To cap it all off, Filipinos are known all over the world for their hospitality and friendliness.

So what are you waiting for? Get on that plane and head to the wonder of Asia, the Philippines!

To make your visit more exciting, here is a top ten list of must see places in the Philippines:

10. Manila Bay

Manila bay is a natural harbor in Luzon that stretches from other neighboring regions of Bataan and Cavite. It is said to have the most beautiful sunset view in the world. In fact, this spot has inspired a number of artists and writers to create masterpieces. One of the most powerful pictures of this place moved a writer to describe it as “the place where the sun kisses the ocean.”

As the bright afternoon turns into dusk, adults and children alike gather in Manila bay to witness a spectacle of colors. The bright blue sky turns a soft glow of orange, then it transforms to red, then yellow until it fades to deep purple.

9. Mall of Asia

If you love shopping, then you better head to one of the largest malls in the world: Mall of Asia!

As the name suggests, Mall of Asia is popular for its massive size. It boasts a floor area of 386, 224 square meters and is occupied by more than 600 shops and 150 dining establishments. It is also complete with facilities like an Olympic-size skating rink as well as an IMAX theater for movie lovers.

Shoppers will surely find something that will quench their thirst for fashion, accessories, gadgets and even food!

Because of its huge area, the mall offers its customers a 20 seat tram that goes through the different areas of this one-of-a-kind mall.

8. Divisoria

You haven’t experienced bargain shopping until you’ve set foot in the busy market of Divisoria.

Divisoria is a popular flea market in the Philippines. It is continuously flocked by shopaholics because of its wonderful goods and its unbelievable rock bottom prices!

You’ll be surprised just how many shopping bags you can carry with a small amount of money. Imagine getting a complete ensemble of blouse, jeans, bag and shoes, for as little as P1,000 or $25 dollars!

7. Baguio

When you want to relax and get away from the summery climate of the metro, then head to Baguio for a cooler atmosphere.

Baguio is referred to as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”. It is renowned for its beautiful parks like Camp John Hay, Wright Park and Burnham Park. This place is also filled with towering pine trees plus views studded with plants and flowers.

During February, Baguio is flocked by visitors who want to behold a flower festival called “Panagbenga” which literally means “blooming of flowers.”

6. Banaue Rice Terraces

Banaue Rice Terraces, which is also referred to as “Hagdan Hagdang Palayan,”

is also found in the Philippines. It is widely regarded as the 8th wonder of the world because of its magnificence and grandeur.

A mountain formed by traversing stairs, Banaue Rice Terraces is a 2,000-year old landmark, carved by the Ifugao natives.

This man made structure is also known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. Bohol

Bohol is one of the loveliest islands of the Philippines. It is full of diverse wildlife and lush green forests as well as blue beaches.

A popular attraction in this province is the world renowned Chocolate Hills. This tourist spot is composed of more than 1,200 perfect cone shape hills, which are, unusually, all the same size! The name Chocolate Hills was derived from the color of the hills. During the summer the green grass that covers the hills turns brown.

The true attraction here is that these lush green and brown hills are not manmade, but are, in fact, a masterpiece of nature!

4. Vigan

If you are wondering what the Philippines looked like during the Spanish regime, then you should pack your bags and head to Vigan.

Vigan is a World Heritage Site, renowned for a perfectly intact Spanish architecture. Experience what it was like to walk during the great times of Spanish era as the streets of Vigan are laid with cobblestones. The entire town is also fused with unique and elegant architectural designs.

There are also “calezas” or carriages that complete the experience.

3. Cebu

Cebu, or the “Queen City of the South,” is definitely a great place to go to in the Philippines.

This region is a fantastic fusion of urban metro and rural province. Cebu is filled with breathtaking beaches colored by the clear blue sea and powdery sands. Enjoy yourself in its serene cool waters or you frolic in the sun while beholding the captivating horizon.

If you head to the city, you will be welcomed by skyscrapers, malls and hotels!

2. Boracay

You haven’t seen paradise until you have arrived on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world: Boracay!

It is not surprising that the seas of Boracay have been named several times as the world’s loveliest beach. Who wouldn’t fall for its azul waters lined by velvety white sand?

After you’ve enjoyed the beach, treat yourself to a palatable experience as there are numerous restaurants that serve authentic Filipino dishes while some offer a fusion of Asian and European cuisines.

At night, you can party your heart out as the picturesque and quite beach is transformed into one big party place!

1. Palawan

If there is one world to best describe Palawan it would be the world magical.

Indeed Palawan tops our list as its exotic beauty remains unparalleled! It is a sanctuary graced by spectacular lime stone formations and cliffs. To top it off, Palawan is laced with emerald clear waters unlike any other.

Among the most popular resorts include El Nido, Coron and the world class and exclusive Amanpulo.

This relaxing place is also abundant with rare flora and fauna. For more information regarding this article, read Philippines - The destination with islands of beaches and fun.