Restored Beauty Getaways » Manila Philippines

Manila, Philippines

Manila

The Philippines is the third largest English speaking country in the world. It has a rich history combining Asian, European, and American influences.

With 7,107 islands, and a coastline twice the length of that of the United States, the Philippines can claim to be Asia's Beach Capital. Enjoy the warm crystal blue waters of both the China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Mention the Philippines and images of long, white sand beaches and bodies of water blessed with a variety of marine life come to mind.

Filipinos are a fun-loving people. Throughout the islands, there are fiestas celebrated everyday and foreign guests are always welcome to their homes.

Manila's climate is characterized by two distinct seasons - the dry season, from December to April and the wet season, from May to November. The dry season coincides with the southwest monsoon during the months of April and May while the coolest days are usually in December and January.

The Philippines' monetary unit is the peso, divided into 100 centavos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any hotels, most large department stores, banks, and authorized money changing shops accredited by the Central Bank of the Philippines. International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, Bank Americard, Master Card, and American Express are accepted in major establishments.