After Indonesia, the Philippines, the world's second-largest archipelagic country, provides everything you might want in a vacation destination. It features lush rainforests, rising volcanoes, colorful coral reefs, picturesque islands, and breathtaking beaches. Its peaceful colonial towns and crowded megacities showcase various cuisines and cultures.

The massive archipelago in Southeast Asia comprises over 7,640 islands, just about a third of them inhabited. Surrounded by the glistening waters of South China, Celebes, and Philippine seas, it has the world's fifth-longest coastline. Dazzling white sands coexist with waving palm palms and enticing turquoise lagoons. Its two most significant and populous islands are Luzon and Mindanao, both hilly and biodiverse.

While its sprawling capital, Manila, can be a pain to navigate, the city's numerous landmarks, museums, and marketplaces make it well worth a visit. After viewing its historic core, most visitors leave to relax on gorgeous beaches or stroll through the well-preserved colonial cities of Vigan and Zamboanga.

Apart from great old cathedrals, mosques, and palaces, the Philippines' main lure is its breathtaking beaches and islands. Boracay, with its beautiful white sands, and El Nido, with its spectacular karst landscape and crystal clear waters, are two of the most popular. Both Palawan and Cebu feature picture-perfect beaches, exciting watersports, and breathtaking views. The spectacular Banaue rice terraces and peculiar Chocolate Hills are among the country's most incredible natural wonders.

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