Gregory Smyth asked:


Philippines is one of the most compelling and attracting tourist destinations not only in Asia but the whole world. It is an archipelago nation located in Southeast Asia and it is as charming a destination you can ever imagine.

The Philippine archipelago consists of 7,107 beautiful islands, spreading a total area of 300,000 sq km with Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao constituting the main island groups in the country. Known for its scenic islands, exotic beaches, fascinating volcanoes, fantastic diving spots and elusive wildlife among many more attractions, the Philippines is a lovable place to visit. Philippines boasts of hundreds of seductive tourist destinations, making it a popular choice for nature lovers, honeymooners and adventure seekers from across the world.

Philippines is home to some of the most enchanting beaches in the world comprising the famous White Beach on Boracay Island, which is conferred the tag of the most beautiful tropical beach in the world. Cebu, which comes after the capital Manila for its popularity, possesses some of the most excellent diving spots in the world, making it a favorite destination for adventure seekers.

The islands of Panglao, Balicasag and Pamilacan in Bohol also have world-class diving spots. Bohol also has beautiful beaches which includes the famous Alona Beach at Panglao. The highly sought after Tall Volcano and the amazing Tall Lake at Tagaytay never fail to quench the thirst of its visitors for natural beauty.

Besides its unbelievable scenic beauty, Philippines has a lot more to fascinate its visitors. The cultural, historical and architectural heritages of the Philippines are set to enchant those who are interested in exploring the historical background of the nation. The beautiful colonial structures of Vigan in Ilocos and World War II markers of Manila are ever lasting heritage sites.

The Filipinos are generally energetic and relaxed people and choose to enjoy almost every occasion with great flourish. The lively and colorful festivals are major tourist interests in the Philippines. Philippines conducts numerous colorful festivals, celebrated across the year in all parts of the country.

Those who want to flex their muscles a bit will never leave Philippines disappointed. Philippines offers a compelling range of leisure and adventure activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, trekking, and a rich diversity of water sports. The lovely beaches of Philippines gives you the perfect ambience to relax, sunbath, and numerous other exciting beach activities.

Filipinos are extremely hospitable people. Guests are often considered like royalty in Philippine households. This is revealed noticeably during fiestas when even absolute strangers are accepted and permitted to partake of the feast that most, if not all, households within the town arrange during the occasion. Quite often, this hospitality is mistaken. Some households allocate their complete savings on their fiesta offerings and sometimes are even indebted just to provide splendid food on their table. They use the next year compensating these debts and readying themselves for the next fiesta.

The country features an excellent blend of cultures; in the Philippines, you can witness the jelling of East and West cultures. The roots of the people in this nation mainly lie in Indonesia and Malaysia. You can also find tints of Chinese and Spanish elements as well. The American rule of the past and indulging with merchants and traders resulted in a rare blend of East and West. You will be able to find this in the appearance and character of the Filipinos, or people of the Philippines.

There is no question about the artistic versatility and scenic beauty of Philippines. You are now familiar with the diverse attractions available as well. It is up to you to ensure that your next trip is to this majestic country.

Wolfgang Jaegel asked:


Republic of India, a sovereign South Asian country, is the seventh largest country by geographical area. India is the second most populous country and most populous democracy in the world.

The southern part of the India is surrounded by Indian Ocean, the west by Arabian ocean and the east by Bay of Bengal. With a coastline of over 7000 kms, it is bounded by Pakistan in the west, China, Nepal & Bhutan in the north-east and Bangladesh & Myanmar in the east.

India is home to Indus valley civilization, vast empires and historic trade routes. Well-known for its cultural wealth, India is the birth place of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism – four major religions in the world.

This federal republic consists of twenty-eight states and seven union territories. Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, and Chennai are the four major metros in the country. There are several other cities which attract tourists all over the world including Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Cochin, Thiruvanthapuram, Agra, Jaipur and Pune.

India is home to Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders in the world and premier sites of India. This architectural beauty is one of the most visited sites in India by tourists. Built by three of the greatest Mughal emperors, Agra Fort is also a major tourist spot in India.

The construction of this fort began in 1565 by Akbar and completed by the time of Shahjahan. The fort has massive double walls with four gateways. The fort consists of palaces, courts, gardens, mosques, baths and gracious pavilions.

There are several tourist attractions around the country. The city of Cochin is famous for its port and Chinese fishing nets, locally know as Cheena vala. The second largest monastery in Asia Tawang is situated on a hill top in Arunachal Pradesh. Another major attraction is the wall built by Rana Kumbha which is running up and down the Aravali hills in Rajasthan.

The wall consists of 34 fortresses and it resembles the Great Wall of China. Many if the temples India has musical stone pillars in which the central part of the pillars produces notes similar to that of Xylophone.

The Hindola Mahal, also known as swinging palace, in Mandu in central India has a peculiar design. It looks like a powerful fort with strange leaning sidewalls making an illusion that the entire structure is swaying. Mandu, the major fortified city of the medieval world, is situated in India.

The first carved image of Lord Buddha lies in Mathura which was carved around 2000 years ago. The Indian Wild Ass, also know as Khur, is seen only in the salt desert of Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.

Hyderabad, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most modern cities in India. The cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad together known as twin city. The cities are separated by an artificial lake named Hussain Sagar. Founded on the Musi River by the Qutub Shahi dynasty, Hyderabad is famous for the Charminar and the bazaars.

One of the world’s largest mosques in the world, Mecca Masjid is situated adjacent to the Charminar. Golconda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Tombs of Qutub Shahi kings, Buddha Statue, Paigah Tombs and Hussain Sagar are some of the Hyderabadi places of historical interests.

Hyderabad is filled with several recreational centers some among them are Indira Gandhi Park and Nehru Zoological Park. Archaeological Museum, Birla Mandir Temple and Planetarium at Naubat Pahad, Ramoji Film City, St Joseph’s Cathedral, Health Museum, Chowmohalla Palace, Purani Haveli, Shilparamam Craft Village and Hi-tech city also attract tourists around the world. You can watch cultural and artistic performances regularly at the Ravindra Bharati Theater.

Hyderabad is home to Hyerabadi cuisine which is famous all around the world. Several trades, fairs and festivals are conducted through out the year in Hyderabad. An annual industrial exhibition is held during the months of January and February. The exhibition comprises colorful fair, displays textiles, machinery, handicrafts, and household utensils.

The Deccan Festival in February is accompanied with several cultural performances. Mrigasira Festival is another famous festival in India which consists of a unique feast to cure asthma. This is festival is held during the months of June-July. The Lumbini Festival is celebrated in the month of December.