Philippines: The People

Halo-halo is a Filipino word that means mixture. While it describes a popular dessert, it could also describe the Filipinos. They look like Asians, write and speak English like Americans, worship like Spaniards, and have an outlook that is international.

Like the Southern Chinese, the Thai, Malay, Indonesian and Burmese, the modern-day Filipino traces his remotest genetic lines back to an Australoid and Mongoloid stock. You will also find a touch of Caucasian, Chinese, Indian and Arabic in their gene pool as well. But to truly understand the Filipino, you have to look at the land. The historic isolation between islands and the topographic isolation on each island, become the primary influence governing regional traits and societal behavior.

This diversity makes Filipinos all the more interesting. However, what is apparent isn't how different they are from each other, but rather how alike they are. Brought together by a common history, and looking forward to a common future, it is not surprising to find a sharing of certain traits. Their warmth, graciousness and hospitality—all part of the Filipino psyche—will make your stay a delight.

Travel Quotes:

One travels more usefully when alone, because he reflects more. Thomas Jefferson

Just got back from a pleasure trip: I took my mother-in-law to the airport. Henny Youngman

Desserts Food, Philippine Cuisine

As a tropical oriental country it should come as no surprise there are many treats made from rice and coconuts. One often seen dessert is bibingka, a hot rice cake optionally topped with a pat of butter, slices of kesong puti (white cheese), itlog na maalat (salted duck eggs), and sometimes grated coconut. There are also glutinous rice sweets called biko made with sugar, butter, and coconut milk.

More details at Desserts Food, Philippine Cuisine

Why it’s best to travel with a group?

Choosing and seeking the help of a reliable travel agent is a determinant if the trip would be hassle free or the other way around. Make sure that you will choose according to the credibility the agency owns due to its experience in handling group trips or travel. Why its best to travel with a group?