Asia's “beach capital”—the Philippines—has a warm and sparkling coastline twice the length of that in the United States and a seemingly endless variety of rare and exotic sea flora and fauna. The Philippines can very well be Asia's Beach Capital, with its 7,107 islands among which is Boracay, which is surrounded by a 4-kilometer-long white beach hailed as the “finest beach in the world.”

This island country is marked by a true blend of cultures where East meets West in a combination that is unique and colorful. The background of its people is Indonesian and Malay with a mixture of Chinese and Spanish elements as well. The history of American rule and contact with merchants and traders culminated in a unique blend of

Eastern and Western cultures, noted in both the appearance and culture of the Filipinos.

Hospitality, a trait displayed in Filipino homes, makes this country legendary in Southeast Asia. Seldom will you find such hospitable people who enjoy the company of their Western visitors. Perhaps due to their long association with Spain, Filipinos are emotional and passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian. Global Crossroad’s Volunteer in the Philippines program offers you amazing opportunities to explore this beautiful country while serving its warm and welcoming people.