I came from the country known as the Pearl of the Orient Seas.

The Philippines is known for having an abundance of beautiful beaches and delicious fruit. The collection of islands is located in Southeast Asia, and was named after King Philip II of Spain.

Here are some of the few things that you should know about my beloved country:

First, The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world. But more than 5,000 of the islands remain unnamed on most international maps.

Second, The Philippines is the only Asian nation that is predominantly Christian. While many of its Southeast Asian neighbors practice Buddhism, 86 percent of the Filipino population is Roman Catholic.

Third, An iconic symbol of the country is the jeepney, the colorfully painted buses with roots dating to World War II and the U.S. military's jeeps. But with growing pollution concerns, the classic jeepney may soon be replaced with more efficient electric vehicles.

Fourth, the Philippines is indeed a country close to paradise. A place blessed with natural wonders, diverse cultures, traditions and historical treasures. This place is a haven not only for locals but for foreigners who love the different rhythm of travel activities from extreme adventure to tranquil yet sophisticated and relaxing environment and surroundings. The country has a lot to offer, so many to mention, plus you'll love the innate hospitality and happy faces of the people.

The Philippine society is a unique blend of diversity and homogeneity. Although geographically part of Southeast Asia, the country is culturally strongly Euro-American. Forces of assimilation have constantly worked to overcome cultural differences between the various ethnic groups that are scattered-sometimes in relative isolation-throughout the archipelago.

Nearly four centuries of Western rule, however, have left an indelible imprint on the Philippines, serving as a conduit for the introduction of Western culture and as the catalyst for the emergence of a sense of Philippine political and cultural unity. While the Christian churches built by the Spanish and the mosques built by the Muslims provided a spiritual anchor, the educational system established by the United States and expanded by the Filipinos has become emblematic of cultural unity and socioeconomic progress. Nonetheless, through the persistence of strong family ties, the revival of the barangay as the smallest unit of government, increased attention to Asian history and literature, and subsequent revival of dormant traditions, the Philippines has strengthened its Asian heritage without abandoning its Western cultural acquisitions.

Filipinos have a tradition rich in local and regional lore. Myths and legends deal with such subjects as the origin of the world, the first man and woman on earth, why the sky is high, why the sea is salty, and why there are different races. Other tales are associated with the Spanish conquest.

The Philippines is the country to visit now. Flights are frequent to the major cities of the Philippines and after a restful night of sleep, a modern paradise awaits in this multi-island nation. The sunrise and sunset are at roughly the same time year round, and the weather nearly as predictable in its perfection. The Philippines is a unique and beautiful country where kindness and respect towards others is part of the culture, and all are willing to help you to have a wonderful experience in their country.

The nation has endless natural beauty, yet also the skills and modern infrastructure to make it home to many of the world's largest companies. Stress is not as palpable in this country as in others, but rather it feels that there is balance among most. Work, family, and religion, are all present in the everyday and all three play an important part in achieving the sense of peace you feel here. The Filipino people are fast and intelligent and live well-structured lives while at the same time preserving a calm and relaxing environment, making this nation a joy to visit.

There are endless options to see beautiful landscapes and understand more about the people that form this extremely proud nation. Filipino pride is written and spoken everywhere.

Aside from the picturesque spots in the Philippines, the warmth and hospitality of the Filipinos is a reason itself for you to visit the country. It continuously tops surveys on friendliness and was even considered as the friendliest country in Asia. The moment your plane lands here, you will be greeted with the genuine and loving smiles of Filipinos.

Filipinos are very hospitable too. They have strong family ties as part of their culture. If you have Filipino friends who invite you to their home, they will treat you like you're a part of their family and may even serve you a feast of home-cooked Filipino food.

This reason alone will make you feel like the Philippines is your home away from home.

Love,
loverich_WP