The Philippine Islands are a cluster of more than 7000 islands, lying north of the Malay Peninsula in South East Asia. From north to south, the archipelago extends over nearly 1850 kilometers. Philippines is of volcanic origin, it has more than 20 active volcanoes, and regularly experiences earthquakes.

The total land area of the Philippines is about 300,000 square kilometers, and the largest city is the its capital, Manila. The two largest islands are Luzon to the north, and Mindanao to the south, with a host of smaller islands in between, including some unnamed and uninhabited patches of land.

A large part of the terrain is mountainous; the volcanic eruptions in the area have given the Philippines, fertile soils and spectacular landscapes and underwater areas. Unfortunately, deforestation and uninhibited harvesting of both flora and marine life have deprived the Philippines of its once rich and diverse resources.

The predominant ethnic groups on the islands are of Malayan origin, with some Chinese influence. There are also the Mestizos (Filipino-Spanish and Filipino-American) who are evidence of the long Spanish and American occupation of the country. The islands got their name from the Spanish - they named the country Filipinas after King Philip II of Spain. Due to extensive proselytization by the Church during the Spanish era, the Philippines are the only Christian nation in Asia, with over 82% of its population following the Roman Catholic faith. The Filipinos are a very outgoing and friendly people, whose ethos is ruled by 'bayanihan' - a communal spirit which binds them together, and embraces all visitors to their country as well.

The climate is mostly hot and humid - averaging at about 80 degrees with humidity of 77%. The best season to visit is during the months of November to March - which is the dry season. The months of May to October are very hot and humid.

The fertile lowlands of the islands provide crops of rice, coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples and mangoes. Pork, eggs, beef and an abundant supply of fish are also produced. Industries center around textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing, petroleum refining and fishing.

The Philippines has it all, rich history, night life, shopping, sporting activities, uninhabited tropical islands, unique wildlife and for those of you that need some creature comforts from home – KFC, McDonallds, the Philippines have taken to Western fast foods.

Don't let this spoil the culinary delights that the Philippines has to offer! Or the incredible and diverse culture and history which is around every corner, just waiting to be discovered. It is also one of the few English speaking Asian countries.

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WIKI: An archipelago abundant in nature, rich in culture, and filled with pleasant discoveries. Experience the Philippines, its 7,107 islands, its natural wonders, colorful history and warm, engaging people. Over a hundred ethnic groups, a mixture of foreign influences and a fusion of culture and arts have enhanced the uniqueness of the Filipino race and the wonder that is the Philippines.