Lonely Planet Philippines

This guide includes information on accommodation and places to eat for every budget. It covers what to do and see in the region and offers tips on getting the best out of your visit and how to get-off-the-beaten-track.
The Philippines' extraordinary diversity and beauty in one comprehensive guidebook: kaleidoscopic local festivals, bustling cities, deserted islands, awe-inspiring rice terraces, erupting volcanoes, and great adventures under sea and in the hills.
1.over 100 easy-to-read maps
2.completely revised by a new team of authors
3.culturally sensitive and insightful information on the country's political, economic and environmental scene
4.essential language chapter, with handy phrases in Pilipino
Philippines
A country of eastern Asia consisting of the Philippine Islands, an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean southeast of China. Inhabited by Malays and various indigenous groups, the islands were first sighted by Magellan's expedition in 1521 and were colonized by the Spanish after 1565. They came under U.S. control in 1898 after the Spanish-American War. A commonwealth was created in 1935 and full independence achieved in 1946. The islands were occupied by Japan during much of World War II. Political turmoil led to the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos after 1965 and his exile in 1986 following the election of Corazón Aquino. Manila is the capital and the largest city. Population: 87,800,000.