Each one of these main group of islands have thousands of large and small islands that belong to different provinces.

The Philippines have 80 provinces and are politically grouped into 17 administrative regions. Each of these provinces and regions have their own unique Filipino cultures, traditions, dialects and languages.

There are 7,107 islands in the Philippine archipelago and this is one reason why traveling and exploring the Philippine Islands is so exciting for the explorer and the adventurous.

There is so much to explore and so much to experience, and I want to have as much of those as I can each time I am on a vacation in the Philippines.

It's so nice to travel to the Philippine Islands countryside and be away from the hectic world. It's also nice to be in a relaxed atmosphere where the lifestyle is laid back and simple, it makes a perfect setting for a tropical paradise vacation.

Sipping on my favorite drink along a remote beach in the Philippine Islands, where the only noise you'll hear is the splashing of the ocean waters, has always been my dream.

The Filipinos are perhaps the warmest and most hospitable people you'll find on earth, and are easy to get along. it's a care free environment, so set aside the fuzziness because Filipinos aren't fuzzy people. Communication? Not a problem. Most Filipinos understand and speak English.

Because it is warm in the Philippine islands , I enjoy spending time in the malls, the beaches or up the mountains. And what better way is there to beat the heat and enjoy yourself than to be in these places? Of course a vacation will not be complete without the foods. Yes, the Filipino foods are so richly diverse there is always something for everyone's taste.

There are so many things you can do as well, like water sports activities both inshore and offshore, hiking, camping, sightseeing or mountain climbing if you are in the high lands, and shopping if you are in the big metropolis.

Sports fishing is another exciting thing you can do while you are in the islands so bring your tackles along. There is always something for everyone to enjoy here.

There are also some good surfing destinations as well but they are seasonal.

If you are used to a crowded urban setting, then Manila is for you and you should include it in your itinerary when you travel to the Philippine Islands.

There are plenty of bargain shops around and the prices are unbelievably cheap you would wonder how these people make money.

But if you want a relaxing and tranquil environment, just head straight to the provinces and there you'll find the friendlier people, the gorgeous pristine beaches and the picturesque mountains and volcanoes of the Philippine Islands.