The Thriving City of Manila, Philippines

Manila, Philippines is one of the 17 metropolis and municipalities that comprise Metro Manila and the country's capital. It is the place for most Filipinos to realize their dreams. There are several work opportunities in the city being the country's commercial hub with a modern metropolis that offer wide opportunity ventures.

Just like any other provinces and cities, Manila also holds a story of its own with several infrastructures and historical landmarks that hold its own stories. In terms of population, Manila is the fifth largest city and holds the world's eleventh largest metropolitan area.

A Touch of History

The city has its own stories to share that mark history. It is known as the Kingdom of Namayan and Kingdom of Tondo because it was the capital of old Tondo. It is also known as Gintu or the Land of Gold. Invaded by different nations, the city still has the traces of the previous occupants. The Cabilido Street in Intramuros is a landmark that represents the Spanish occupation from 1581-1898. British also invaded Manila and in 1898-1946, the American occupation gave the city several distinctive supports. American has been the refuge of Filipinos to be free from the Spaniards. Manila Bay is a place in Manila that reminds the Filipinos of the war that took place between these two forces.

Prominent Landmarks in Manila

The Archdiocese of Manila is located in Manila. It is the country's oldest archdiocese in the history. Apart from this, churches run by different religious orders are very prominent, too. San Agustin Church in Intramuros is one of the most famous churches in the place. The place is not only open for the Catholics but has been a place for other faiths and beliefs. Manila is a home to many Buddhist and Taoist temples, The Golden Mosque of the Muslims, Hindu temple for the Indian people and synagogue for the Jewish and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Many prestigious universities also inhabit Manila in a place called the University Belt. This is the famous term for institutions in higher concentration and of good quality education. Among the popular universities in Manila are the University of the Philippines, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Philippine Normal University, Technological University of the Philippines, Philippine Christian University, the Philippine Women's University, De La Salle University, and De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde.

Other catholic schools are also within the University belt such as the Paco Catholic School, San Beda College, University of Santo Tomas, Adamson University, St. Paul University. Other private schools in Manila are the University of the East, Far Eastern University, Centro Escolar University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, the Mapua Institute of Technology, Lyceum of the Philippines University and its very own Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

Some of the interesting places in Manila include the famous Rizal Park where the country's national hero had his execution. The Chinese and Japanese Gardens, the Department of Tourism Building, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the National Library of the Philippines are also among the known landmarks in Manila.

Rajah Sulayman Park, Manila Boardwalk, Liwasang Bonifacio, Plaza Miranda, Paco Park, Remedios Circle, Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden are among the popular parks that any traveler will love to visit in Manila. You can always find beautiful places and several striking landmarks with a story to tell in Manila, Philippines.

Jose M Abada writes travel articles for Philippine Travel Guide. You can find helpful information about Manila Philippines and Philippine Travel on this website.

Top Romantic Getaways in the Philippines

In recent years, the Philippines has rapidly become a premier honeymoon destination. In April 2009, the Philippines was awarded the "Most Popular Destination in Asia" award by professional jurors at the 2009 World Travel Fair in Shanghai, China. Foreigners booking their marriage ceremonies and honeymoons in the Philippines have been at record growth rates the past several years.

What are the Most Romantic Places to Visit?

Insiders, people who live in the Philippines, or those Expats who travel to the Philippines frequently have found many special romantic "getaways" to bask in equal doses of passion, solitude and creature comforts. Frankly, there are so many beautiful and romantic locations in the Philippines, it is extremely difficult to identify the Top 5, Top 10 or even the Top 20. Certain places are more romantic to some than others for very personal reasons.

Nevertheless, based on my over 20 years of travelling to and living in the Philippines with my Filipina spouse, I have come up with a comprehensive list of locations which I continuously find other Expats confirming with me as also being their favorite romantic getaway locations.

The Luxury Locations

1. Amanpulo on Pamalican Island: Rated - 5 Star

This has to be at the top of the list, with rooms starting at $550 per night. This place is the Ultimate beach resort in the Philippines and the Ultimate Getaway for those with the funds to afford it. If you choose to visit Amanpulo, you will be hobnobbing with the rich and famous of the world - jetsetters and celebrities from around the world. This is one of the best known secret locations in the Philippines.

2. Manila Makati Peninsula Hotel: Rated - 5 Star

This is the perfect getaway for those looking for a romantic upscale, city location, with city light views and culture similar to New York City. There are numerous room choices, from superior rooms ranging from $200 to $300 per night, up to suites ranging from $400 to $500 per night. The views in the lobby of the hotel are absolutely stunning, and the room is perfectly decorated.

3. Shangri La Mactan Island Resort (Cebu): Rated 5 Star

This luxurious resort is nestled on 14 hectares of beautifully landscaped coastal land. All the rooms open to excellent view of the ocean. Being on the coast, the resort offers all the normal water sports. You get a lot of space when you stay here. It has been named as one of the "Top Ten Best Resorts in the Asia-Pacific" by Business Traveler Magazine

4. Badian Island Resort and Spa (Cebu): Rated 5 Star

This resort is on the top of the list of Top 10 Island Spas, as featured in a recent issue of Asia Spa magazine. It is situated just off the coast on the far Southwest end of Cebu island, away from the cities and the noise, in a perfectly beautiful romantic destination spot. It is about a 2.5 hour drive from the Cebu airport, but you can request for a helicopter to whisk you to the resort in 30 minutes.

5. Shangri La Boracay Island: Rated: 5 Star

Another plush property from the Shangri-La's group, this resort is located in a northern part of Boracay island. It is in a location secluded from all the hustle and bustle congestion of Boracay, and has its own secluded 350 meters of unspoiled beach and well-preserved nature. This luxury resort features 219 rooms and villas decked out in ethnic Filipino décor, each room connecting to a balcony where you can relax and revel in panoramic views of the beach.

Now, how about the rest of us, we who wish to not so freely roll out the night rates of the above luxury resorts, but wish to find that unique romantic getaway. Well, this list is even harder to select, as there are so many beautiful and romantic locations at the more affordable rates of $100 to $250 per night.

The Budget Minded Locations

1. Boracay's elite row of resorts - Boracay is the best-known tourist spot in the Philippines. Because the northern end of Boracay's main beach is relatively isolated, the more high-end resorts are located there, two of which I recommend as romantic getaways:

Waling-Waling Beach Hotel: Rated: 3 Star

This resort has only 29 rooms, so it is quite private, and guests are treated like family. What gives this resort its unique character is that outdoors is a line of native cabanas filled with over-sized pillows decorated with shells and hanging lamps where you can dine, read, drink, take a nap or simply watch the sea and people walk by.

Friday's Resort: Rated: 4 Star

Friday's, like Waling, is located on beautiful White Beach, but what makes it differ so much from Waling is its somewhat isolated location, which gives it more privacy. It was the first luxury resort built in Boracay

Nami Private Villas Hotel: Rated: 4 Star

Nestled in the hills with a magnificent view of the ocean, the resort features 12 private and spacious villas, each with its own Jacuzzi. The resort is only a 10 minute drive from the main area of White Beach. There is a service center that can arrange activities for guests, such as horseback riding, aqua sports, and golf. The resort is an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic getaway with privacy and seclusion, while still being nearby Boracay's commercial area.

2. El Nido Resorts in Palawan: Rated - 4 Star

El Nido is home to enchanting vistas of white sand beaches, huge limestone cliffs, tranquil lagoons, and reefs teaming with life. The scenery is simply stunning, the water some of the clearest I have ever witnessed, and they are really secluded - on the north end of Palawan. There are two major resorts making up the El Nido Resorts - Lagen Island Resort and Minoloc Island Resort.

3. Pearl Farm Beach Resort: Rated - 5 Star

Located in the southern part of the Philippines is the Samal group of Islands, an archipelago consisting of nine islands which stretch out over a land area of 28,000 hectares. Samal is a beautiful, tranquil and exotic island with a coastline adorned with white sand beaches, abundant marine life, rock formations, mangroves, and landscape elements of coconut palms, flowering plants and fruit-bearing trees. The area is blessed with various natural attractions and flourishing flora and fauna.

4. Pansukian Resort: Rated 5 Star

This is a beautiful, uncrowded (only 8 Villas) resort in Siargao, an unspoiled island in the southern Philippines, also known as a surfer's heaven. There is a world famous surf break known as Cloud 9 north of General Luna, the main city on the island. The Siargao Cup surfing competition is held in late September or early October each year. Siargao is east of Cebu and northeast of Butuan City in Mindanao.

5. Surf Camp - Calicoan Island, Samar: Rated: 4 Star

The Surf Camp is an idyllic tropical getaway situated in 'abcd' beach, Calicoan Island's prime surfing area. The eight luxuriously appointed cottages are inspired by Thai, Balinese, Indonesian and Filipino architecture. All are equipped with air conditioning, hot water, satellite tv, minibar, safety deposit box and intercom. The resort features an infinity pool with an unparalleled view of the Pacific Ocean.

6. Sonya's Garden - Tagaytay: Bed and Breakfast

You can't believe that tucked in a small road outside Tagaytay City is this delightful place filled with rare flowers, and where you can have lunch or dinner and stay for the night in it cottages lovingly built and uniquely furnished by its owner, Sonya Garcia. It is the closest that you can get to an English "bed and breakfast" in the Philippines, but with a bit more style and personal service.

7. Bohol Beach Resort at Panglao - Bohol Island: Rated: 3 Star

Panglao is a small island virtually attached to the main island of Bohol, connected by two bridges of just 50 meters in length. All major beach resorts are located on Panglao with its pristine white beaches and clean seawater. Panglao is also the destination of choice for many divers. Alona Beach is where all the big hype is about Bohol (and the higher priced resorts - one great one which is Alona Palm Beach Resort).

8. The Manor at Camp John Hay - Baguio

What makes staying here so special is that it is located in Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines. Baguio, located at 5,000 foot elevation, was originally constructed as a mountain retreat by US military forces in the early 1900's. Now, its cool temperatures (average of 19 degrees Celsius year round) draw Manila visitors in large numbers when the lowlands are sweltering. The city's character is shaped by the throngs of young college students. It is the most accessible and preserved pine forest area in the Philippines.

Do you want to learn more about these romantic getaways? I have just completed my new book "How To Be A Happy Husband of a Happy Filipina Wife", and located on its website is an expanded free book available for download entitled "Romantic Getaways In The Philippines", which includes an indepth discussion of the amenities and nightly rates for each of these locations. You can download it after signing in at one of the following websites:

http://www.HowToBeAHappyHusband.com

http://www.RetirementLivingInThePhilippines.com

Will Irwin is a powerful entrepreneur, and business and life coach. He has started many online and offline businesses both in the USA and in the Philippines, residing in both Hawaii and the Philippines.

Top 5 Philippine Vacation Destinations

The Philippines is a majestic place to visit. The country has so much to offer to its millions of visitors each year. Because of the diversity of the things a tourist can do in the Philippines, it has been such a popular place to unwind, relax, and genuinely have a great time. There are many popular vacation spots in the Philippines and if you have all the time to spend exploring the country's 7,107 islands, then by all means do so and have a grand time. However, if you only have a limited time to spend in this beautiful country, here are the top 5 Philippine vacation destinations to visit.

The top 5 Philippine vacation destinations mentioned here are not arranged in a particular order but rather chosen because of its wonderful attractions. These top 5 Philippine vacation destinations are also the places that have an increasing number of tourists recorded to visit each year, which just shows that these are the areas which cater very well to them.

The first place on the list is Baguio City, a mountainous place in Northern Luzon, which is approximately six hours from the Manila, the country's capital. Baguio is known for its climate which can be very cold even during summer. Locals and tourists alike enjoy going to there during the Christmas season to unwind. Much greenery can be found in Baguio. It is also known for its strawberries which are at par with the strawberries grown abroad. There are lots of things to do in Baguio like strawberry picking, horse-back riding, and golf, among others.

When in the Philippines, one should not miss the chance to see the Chocolate Hills located in the province of Bohol. The Chocolate Hills is on its way to become one of the new Seven Wonders of the World as per online voting. Not only are the Hills amazing, but the entire province as well. Bohol is known all over the world for being the habitat of the world's smallest primate - the tarsier. Not only that, Bohol is also known for its white sand beaches and excellent dive spots in Panglao. It also has the Loboc River and a Man-Made Forest to add to its fare.

Next on the list is Boracay. Boracay is a haven for tourist for its pristine white sand beaches. There is so much to do in Boracay which can range from a relaxing dip in the pool, a quiet time on the porch, a swim in the beach, or a party during the night. Locals love going to Boracay to have a good time. It is Philippine's very own Miami.

Fourth on the list is the Queen City of the South, Cebu. Cebu is just an hour away by plane from Manila, and it is known for being a place that offers diverse options for the tourists. Like Bohol, Cebu also has fine white sand beaches in its northern part, particularly in Bantayan Island. Cebu is also known to have very good diving spots in Moalboal and Mactan.

Lastly, you should not forget to pay Palawan a visit. The place has a wonderful biodiversity and is rich in natural resources. Palawan also boasts of its beaches and its beautiful underground caves. Visiting Palawan will truly be a pleasant experience because it is nature at its best.

These are the top 5 Philippine vacation destinations that you can visit. For sure, these places will not be on the top of the list if they fail to give the much needed break that most people want.

Don't start to travel to Philippines Boracay Island and other affordable Philippine vacation spots without reading more of Pierre Smith's amazing travel tips.

The Philippine Archipelago Doctrine

The territorial limits and boundaries of the Philippines were defined by:

(1) the Treaty of Paris between the United States and Spain on December 10, 1898;

(2) the Treaty of Washington between Spain and the United States on November 7, 1900; and

(3) the treaty between Great Britain and the United States on July 2, 1930.

In the Treaty of Paris, Spain transferred its ownership of the Philippines to the United States for $20,000,000, and for the first time the boundaries of the archipelago were then defined.

In the Treaty of November 7, 1900, the United States paid Spain another $100,000 to acquire possession of some small islands in the Sulu archipelago-Cagayan, Sibutu, and the smaller islands around these. These areas were then added to Philippine territory.

Finally, on July 2, 1930, another group of islands were ceded to the Philippine archipelago. These were the Mangsee and Turtle Islands, which had previously been claimed by both Great Britain and the United States.

By the Philippine Constitution of 1973 and by the ratified Constitution of 1987, the Philippines adhered to the Archipelagic Doctrine in defining the boundaries of the country.

Article 1, Section 1, of the 1973 Philippine Constitution, provided that "the national territory comprises the Philippine archipelago with all the islands and waters embraced therein and all the other territories belonging to the Philippines by historic right or legal title, including the territorial sea, the air space, the subsoil, the seabed, the insular shelves, and the other submarine areas over which the Philippines has sovereignty or jurisdiction."

The same provision of the Philippine Constitution added: "The waters around, between, and connecting the islands of the archipelago, irrespective of their breadth and dimensions, form part of the internal waters of the Philippines."

Article 1 of the ratified Constitution of 1987 has, more of less, the same provisions.

The Archipelago Doctrine on territorial limits of countries further states that the baselines from which the territorial sea of the archipelago is to be determined consist of the straight lines connection the outermost portions of the islands. Waters within the baselines are Philippine internal waters and waters outside the baselines but within the extent of the international treaty limits, comprise the country's territorial sea.

This doctrine means, therefore, that our country, with its thousands of islands and many seas, should be considered as a political unit for reasons of history, law, geography, economics, and security. Also, when questions involving territorial conflicts arise, the Philippines has this doctrine to support its claims.

About the Philippines

Philippine Almanac offers you all the information you need about the Philippines. If you are a traveler, a student, foreigner or native who is looking for a certain information about the history, politics, livelihood, entertainment, tourist destinations and attractions, accommodation or where to stay, jobs and specific places in the Philippines, then this website can offer you so much. To visit Philippine Almanac immediately, Click Here.

The Philippines As the First Choice in the Offshore & Outsourcing Biz

What makes the Philippines effective in the offshoring and outsourcing destinations? They say that India is the first choice in the outsourcing. Probably that is correct but the trend changed easily in which the Philippines now emerged as the first choice and not as the second choice anymore.

The dynamic change in the Philippines infrastructures and facilities attract the locators to pick the former rather than other countries also promoting this industry. There are so many reasons to mention why the call centers in the Philippines is the best in the world. The campaign of the government and partnership with the education sectors are among the secrets of producing competent workers capable of speaking English. To outsource your business in the Philippines is a huge opportunity for your company to expand and grow rapidly. The hospitality and the values in keeping your business alive in the market is the mainstream you can get from the Filipino workers.

The national government is very supportive in partnering to the investors. The outstanding tandem of the business community and the political leaders convinced the investors to come to the Philippines and expand their business processing outsourcing companies. Win-win solution between the outsourcers and the government possess positive feedback in keeping the business alive.

Understanding the trend in the global outsourcing is important for your company to be on top of the competition. The Philippine government trained their people about the importance of the outsourcing industry. In just few years of marketing and designing effective promotional tools, the country today the first choice of destination among companies out there. BPO is regarded as the steadfast and lucrative growing industries in the world. The BPO and call center in the Philippines gained heavy recognition in 2000s due to the demand for offshore and outsourcing business. The positive report from the Information and Communications Technology division under the Board of Investment (BOI) revealed that the call center in the Philippines reported an outstanding growth rate of 70 percent in 2005. In 2006, the government estimated that contact centers and BPO companies employed as many of 130,000 workers. In further development, the government is expected to employ more than a million Filipinos in 2010.

This is the reason why the Philippines is tagged as a major player in the global outsourcing market. Filipinos can speak English fluently because the education system is pattered to that of the American educational system prior. As American colony for more than 50 years, this is the reason why the Filipinos can easily understands the American culture especially the accent and diction. The efficient and cheaper rate offered in the Philippines encourages the investors to do business effectively. The study made by the Swiss International Institute for Management Development in 2004 disclosed that found that among Asian countries, the Philippines were the number one in the availability of skilled labor.

Potential locators preferred to invest their money in the Philippines because of valuing work ethic, unique personality and friendly. Filipinos have the patience in their customers in supporting their concerns.

Roberto L. Bacasong, 27, works as Customer Interaction Associate in a biggest contact center in the Philippines.

Visit the Philippines - 4 Top Reasons to Vacation Here

If you want a holiday you will remember forever then the Philippines should be your top tourist destination. With 7,107 islands inhabited by some of the most friendly and hospitable people in the world, the Philippines teems with tourist destinations. Here you have it all from  uninhabited tropical islands, pristine white beaches, scenic sunsets, challenging surf sites, clear dive sites, beautiful mountains, and unique wildlife - natural jewels in a tropical setting.

The Philippines is one of the few English speaking countries in Asia and yet it has an incredible, diverse culture and history that is waiting for you around every corner. Just come and discover it yourself. But be warned - you could spend a lifetime here and never begin to see it all!

4 Top Reasons to visit the Philippines:

1. Meet Filipinos who are among the most genuinely hospitable and friendly people on earth.

Most first time visitors to the Philippines are amazed at the genuine hospitality shown to them by Filipinos. Whether rich or poor, Filipinos will make you welcome.

As one expat said recently after living in the Philippines for 10 years, "Filipinos who made us so welcome from day one and have enriched our lives ever since ... so many other people welcomed us as friends. They took the trouble to take us to meet their friends. So within months we were busy almost every evening ... Filipinos will take you to their hearts and make your life a joy."

2. Save on vacation costs - the Philippines is one of the most inexpensive countries in Asia.

Whether it is food, clothing, entertainment, or accommodation you will find prices in the Philippines far cheaper than in Western countries. For example, a man's haircut (including tip) in the Philippines costs less than a tenth of what it costs in Australia.

Similar price differences apply to almost all tourist associated activities, even quality accommodation. And if you come here to live it's even cheaper. You can afford to live like a king in the Philippines!

3. Save on medical costs and enjoy a "medical holiday."

Yes, the Philippines is now attracting people who not only visit as tourists, but who also seek medical treatment while they are here. Until recently Thailand was the top spot in Asia for medical tourism but now the Philippines is catching up.

This is especially true of dental treatment, whether it be a dental implant, cosmetic dentistry, cleaning, or just a simple filling. And it is far cheaper than in other Western countries. In fact some medical tourists claim that their savings on dental treatment paid for the entire cost of their holiday.

4. Travel easily in a country where English is widely spoken and understood.

The two primary languages spoken in the Philippines are English and Filipino (formerly Pilipino) based on Tagalog. Filipino is the national language but English is generally used in education, government, and commerce.

This widespread use of English makes it much easier for you as a tourist to get around, which in turn makes for a much more enjoyable vacation. However, even though you do not need to master Filipino, there is nothing to stop you learning a few Filipino phrases. Even a smattering of the local language, with wrong pronunciation and all, will endear you to the hearts of Filipinos.

But of course there are more reasons than can be listed here. For example, Philippine festivals that bring out the culture of the people, historic churches that date back to the Spanish era, the exciting night life of Manila, Angeles City, and Cebu, play golf on courses designed by some of the best golf celebrities in the world, and more ...

And a final reminder - don't forget to take your camera!

Allan E Miller is a retired Airline Pilot who has lived in Asia for over 44 years and has traveled extensively all over the world. He has been a freelance travel writer for 19 years and specializes in articles about the Philippines and other Asian countries. He also maintains the web site for the Bali Hai Beach Resort in La Union, Philippines.

Unrest has Little Effect on Philippine Outsourcing Market

"The administration of President [Gloria] Macapagal-Arroyo has seen its share of political instability over the last five years. The most significant of these was the Oakwood Mutiny of July 2003. Like most social movements manifesting unrest towards government policy, the Oakwood Mutiny was originally perceived to have long-term drastic effects in the economy. This was eventually proven to be untrue for the local and offshore IT industry in this country as the resilience of Philippine society prevailed in succeeding years.

Analysts found renewed growth for the remainder of 2003 and the event being relegated to being a mere nuisance," XMG Inc. told in a statement, as quoted by INQ7.net. The IT research firm also believes the recent pronouncement of state of emergency, which has now been lifted, and the ruckus at the Philippine marine headquarters carry "no fundamental negative effects to (the country's) economic growth."

In the short term, XMG expects some offshore contracts to be suspended or cancelled owing "to insufficient understanding of the real meaning behind events of social unrest in Philippine society." But the sentiment will get better in less than a year so long as the country does not suffer further political unrest.

indicate that the state of emergency has minimal impact on the country's outsourcing market. Service providers have continued to take on a "business as usual" attitude though they admitted that regular business meetings experienced disruptions due to political protests. Nasdaq-listed ICT Group, Inc., for example, revealed plans to expand its operations while eTelecare Global Solutions announced it will recruit over 3,000 new agents in the Philippines. Nevertheless, "the current situation in the Philippines heightens the need for companies to have multiple global sourcing locations and to have multi-country, multi-location disaster recovery plans in place," PRNewswire quoted neoIT CEO Atul Vashistha as saying.

According to the Business Process Association of the Philippines, the Board of Investments and the Commission on Information and Communications Technology, the Philippine outsourcing industry is expected to create 103,000 new jobs in 2006, a 44-percent increase from 2005. This is in spite of the threat coming from other countries like India and China.

Additionally, the outsourcing industry is expected to bring in $3.7 billion in revenues this year. Among the outsourced industries in the Philippines are information technology, call center work, animation and software development. All these sectors are bullish about the prospects of growth. The Philippine animation industry is currently a $40 million business, while the global animation outsourcing industry is valued at $72 billion. The BOI also noted a significant increase of information technology-related projects that registered in 2005. The biggest growth is expected in the outsourced call center with a projected 70-percent growth.

The booming outsourcing industry in the Philippines is considered vital in keeping the country's economy viable. The government recognizes this fact, which is why incentives had been drawn up for foreign companies planning to set up offshore offices here.

The local outsourcing industry is seen to continue growing because of an ever growing demand from the United States. The Philippines remains the most favored nation for outsourcing ventures, after India because of the Filipinos' excellent knowledge of the English language as well as their familiarity with Western culture owing to the country's historical affinity. Another factor is the Filipinos' culture of hospitality which allowed them to carve a niche for quality customer service.

Global Sky is a US owned and operated call center based in the Philippines offering US Quality at Offshore Rates. Find out more about Philippines call centers and call center outsourcing [http://www.global-sky.com/why-us.html]. Also check out our call center services [http://www.global-sky.com/full-service.html].