When Magellan came upon the island of Homonhon in 1521, he claimed it and the surrounding islands in the name of King Philip II of Spain and named them Felipinas, the Philippines.

Little did he know of the treasures hidden in these unexplored islands. Mountains rich with gold and ore, emerald isles ringed with crisp white beaches and forests alive with wondrous flora and fauna or of the smiling people who would be known the world over for their overwhelming hospitality.

It was only later when the second wave of Spanish conquistadores started converting and colonizing these islands that they found well-developed settlements conducting trade relations with the Chinese, the Arabs and other Islamic seafaring merchants.

The years of foreign domination have moulded the Filipino people and they have assimilated foreign cultural influences and blended them with their own creating their own special culture.

The Philippines is divided into three major island groups -- Luzon in the north, Mindanao in the south and in between, the Visayas. Metro Manila, in Luzon, is the seat of government and the heart of the country's business, economic, social and cultural activity. It is the major crossroads of international trade and commerce.

Hospitality is a by-word in every Filipino home, a trait reflected in the warm welcome accorded visitors. In major cities and towns all over the country, first-class accommodation and facilities, modern shopping centres, and an endless selection of international cuisines conspire to make the visitor feel perfectly at home.

The country is most popular for its beaches and clear waters teeming with marine life which have attracted scuba divers from around the world eager to discover the underwater treasures of the country for a few years now. Facilities for water skiing, jet skiing, windsurfing, hobicat sailing, island hopping and other water sports are available.

Those who prefer to keep their feet dry can still view the coral world through glass-bottomed boats or venture inland and trek through the hills to discover the lush green forests, majestic mountain peaks, age-old structures, modern cities, rustic country-sides and the fauna and flora unique to the area.

Discover it for yourself and be amazed by the beauty of the islands, pamper yourself with a relaxing massage n the beach or sip a coconut cocktail as you lounge next to your hotel’s swimming pool. Escape to the Philippines, you’ll be glad you did.