Every morning I wake up slowly with a coffee on the terrace, listening and watching birds. It's a gentle way to greet the day, and I'm not alone with this growing interest in our feathered friends.

Most of us know getting outside is good for us. Doctors recommend walking, psychologists encourage spending time in nature, and we're constantly told to swap screen time for green time.

But what if simply noticing the birds around you could make those walks even better?

A growing body of research suggests birdwatching can reduce stress, improve mood, sharpen attention and even support long-term brain health.

In the UK, it's becoming one of the fastest-growing hobbies among Gen Z, proving birding isn't just for retirees with binoculars anymore.

So, why are so many people swapping doomscrolling for birdsong?

Planning your first trip to the Philippines? There are a few things you really should know before you arrive.

The Philippines is an incredible country to explore, but travelling here can be very different from what you might expect. With 7,641 islands scattered across the Coral Triangle, tropical weather, long travel times, local customs and plenty of quirks you won't find in a typical guidebook, a little preparation can make a big difference. Distances that look short on a map can take much longer to travel, especially when islands, ferries and local transport are involved.

And yes, the water really can be as blue as you see on Instagram, with palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs and incredible marine life attracting visitors from around the world. Cebu is a particular favourite with travellers, offering waterfalls, world-class snorkelling and diving, the famous Moalboal sardine run and a relaxed pace of life.

We've lived and travelled in the Philippines and picked up plenty of useful tips along the way – from understanding the weather and getting around, to knowing what a “CR” is, why you should carry toilet paper and why you might want to think twice before booking certain wildlife experiences.

​So, before you pack your bags, here are some things you should know before visiting the Philippines.

Travelling allows us to experience new cultures, discover incredible wildlife, and create memories that last a lifetime. But tourism also has an impact on the places we visit.

From plastic waste and pressure on natural resources to overcrowded destinations and unethical wildlife encounters, even well-intentioned travellers can unintentionally leave a negative footprint.

The good news is that responsible travel does not require perfection. Small choices such as reducing single-use plastic, supporting local businesses, choosing ethical wildlife experiences, and staying longer in one destination can make a meaningful difference.

Whether you are planning a weekend break, a backpacking adventure, or a holiday in the Philippines, these practical sustainable travel tips will help you travel more responsibly while still enjoying everything your destination has to offer.