Plan your visit

Welcome to the Philippines, a captivating Southeast Asian archipelago comprising over 7,000 stunning islands.

This tropical paradise boasts two islands that consistently rank in the top 5 of the world’s most beautiful beaches and island destinations. While its natural beauty, featuring picturesque mountains and pristine coastlines, is unparalleled, the true gem of the Philippines is its warm and genuine Filipino hospitality.

As you explore this enchanting nation, you’ll encounter friendly locals at every turn, fluent in English and eager to engage with you.

Discover the Philippines, where breathtaking landscapes and heartfelt hospitality create an unforgettable
travel experience!

At la glance

Currency: The official currency of the Philippines is the Piso, commonly referred to as the peso in English. It is divided into 100 sentimo, also known as centavos. The peso is denoted by the symbol “₱”. 1 US Dollar = 55-57 Philippine Pesos, 1 Euro = 59-61 Philippine Pesos, 1 Australian Dollar = 35-37 Philippine Pesos

Languages:

The Philippines has two official languages: Filipino and English. Filipino is the national language, while English retains its official status from the country’s time as a U.S. territory between 1898 and 1946. Filipino is widely used in education and media, while English is prevalent in government and print media.

Religion: The Philippines is the sole Christian nation in Asia. Over 85% of the population is Roman Catholic.

Electricity Socket Type: The Philippines utilizes a 220V supply voltage and operates at a frequency of 60Hz. The majority of electrical outlets in the country are non-grounded and feature two-pronged sockets, typically following the type A (North-American standard) with two flat parallel pins.

Where to exchange currency

1

Exchange Offices: Currency exchange kiosks at the airport offer unmatched convenience, but it’s wise to exercise caution as their rates typically come at a premium. Into the city are available better deals from money changers.

For those residing or temporarily staying in Metro Manila, prime destinations for reliable money changers include Makati and Mabini Street in Ermita, Manila, which has a sizable expat community. In these areas, you may come across dollar-to-peso exchange rates that outshine what banks offer.

2

Using Credit Cards: Major credit cards are accepted at most prominent establishments in cities and urbanized regions. Nevertheless, in smaller, remote islands and rural areas, particularly in smaller shops, lodgings, and eateries, cash payments are typically preferred.

When venturing to these distant places, it’s advisable to carry an ample amount of cash to cover your expenses.

3

Hotels: Certain hotels provide currency exchange services for their guests’ convenience. However, it’s important to note that the exchange rates offered by hotels may not be as advantageous as those available at specialized exchange offices.

4

ATMs: ATMs dispensing local currency are widely accessible in urban areas. However, it’s important to be aware that a “transaction fee” will be deducted from your account with each withdrawal, and these fees may vary depending on your bank. Additionally, local banks may impose an extra fee for this service.

In more remote or provincial areas, ATMs can become scarcer, and some may even be “offline,” while certain locations may not have these convenient machines at all.

Food and Drink

In the Philippines, food is a celebration of flavors and social connection. Traditional meals follow a unique pattern, with breakfast, merienda (snacks), lunch, more merienda, and dinner. Filipino cuisine showcases diverse tastes, from adobo and lechon to seafood like lapu-lapu and milkfish. Vegetables like pinakbet and chop suey complement these dishes.

Breakfast often includes longganisa, tocino, or fried bangus fish with garlic rice and a fried egg. Desserts feature coconut-infused cakes and halo-halo. Fresh fruit, especially mangoes, is a treat.

Street food offers balut, fishballs, and squidballs. Bottled water, soft drinks, and fresh fruit juices quench your thirst. For beer, try San Miguel, and for spirits, Tanduay rum or Fundador brandy.

Wine choices are limited, but native rice wine, tapuy, or lambanog, a distilled spirit, offer unique tasting experiences. Dive into Filipino culinary culture and savor the rich flavors of the islands.

Choose Your Destination

The Philippines is a captivating blend of cultures and natural wonders, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. With over 7,000 islands, this nation invites exploration.

From the awe-inspiring Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the historic charm of Vigan’s Spanish-style architecture, the Philippines offers a tapestry of experiences. Baroque-style churches like San Agustin Church in Paoay grace its landscapes.

The Philippines boasts Asia’s longest coastline, with pristine white-sand beaches such as Boracay, Camiguin, and Nasugbu. Dive into its crystal-clear waters; it’s Asia’s diving capital, teeming with marine life.

Thrill-seekers can snorkel with whale sharks or scale Mt. Apo in Davao. River rafting in Chico River and cave exploration in Tuguegarao offer more excitement. For a leisurely pace, kayak through Bacuit Archipelago.

Filipino cuisine tantalizes the taste buds with dishes like Lechon, Adobo, and Kare-Kare. Fresh seafood, grilled to perfection, is a culinary delight.

The Philippines comes alive at night with bustling nightlife hubs, and its festivals are a riot of colors, music, and dance. Intramuros in Manila reveals colonial history, while horse-drawn carriage rides add charm.

The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, a UNESCO site, is a testament to ancient farming. Explore this living cultural landscape, an exquisite fusion of nature and human artistry.Key business tourism activities encompass participating in meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.

Determine the Best Time to Visit

The Philippines experiences a tropical climate. The optimal period for a Philippines visit falls between December and February, featuring temperatures ranging from approximately 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F). During this season, the entire country, including its stunning islands and remote regions, is readily accessible. In March and April, the season is still dry but temperature start raising, reaching maximum of 35°C – 96°F. From July to October, typhoons are possible. The southern regions tend to be more humid, and rain showers can occur year-round.

AverageJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High86°F87°F90°F93°F92°F90°F88°F87°F87°F87°F87°F86°F
30°C 31°C32°C34°C33°C32°C31°C31°C31°C31°C31°C30°C
Temp.79°F80°F83°F85°F85°F84°F82°F82°F82°F82°F82°F80°F
26°C 27°C28°C29°C29°C29°C28°C28°C28°C28°C28°C27°C
Low74°F75°F77°F79°F80°F79°F78°F78°F78°F78°F77°F75°F
23°C 24°C25°C26°C27°C26°C26°C26°C26°C26°C25°C24°C

The above temperatures are Philippines average throughout the year.

Travel inside the Philippines

Car Rental

Vehicle rental services provide car options at key Philippine airports, certain major hotels, and their local offices. Rates for a compact car, excluding a chauffeur, fall between P2,000 and P2,800 per day. If you opt for a car with a driver, prices begin at P3,000 per day. Fuel expenses are typically separate, and it’s common for rental companies to request a deposit.

Bus

Numerous bus companies offer affordable services to key tourist destinations. These bus services typically depart from their individual terminals, as opposed to a central depot within a city. Prior to your journey, it’s advisable to inquire with a hotel attendant, taxi driver, or airport information desk for the most suitable bus company. Buses are known for their fair fare policies, ensuring that all passengers secure a seat. Be prepared for strong air conditioning on some buses, so it’s wise to carry a light jacket. Additionally, long-distance buses include scheduled breaks during the journey for refreshments and restroom breaks. 

For an alternative bus experience, consider using jeepneys, a preferred mode of public transport in the philippines.

Train

Taking a train journey in the Philippines is an option that may not suit everyone. The country’s limited train network primarily operates a single line from Tutuban Station in Tondo to Legaspi City in the south. 

Unfortunately, the train is relatively slow and typically costs as much as a bus ticket. As a result, it is not generally recommended for travelers looking for efficient and timely transportation.

Ferry

In the Philippines, water transport has been a traditional means of travel among its many islands. Although cheap flights are replacing ferries on some routes, ferries and smaller boats remain essential, especially for inter-island travel in the Visayas region.

For same-day ferry tickets, arrive at the pier early, as the ticketing process can be slow and lines can be long. Some piers lack basic amenities. Ferries are frequent on popular routes but tend to fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book ahead when possible.

Internal Air Travel

Getting around the Philippines typically begins from the nation’s central point, Manila. Cebu City is emerging as a prominent hub for flights traversing the Visayas and extending into Mindanao. Air travel is both fast and cost-effective, thanks to domestic carriers that cover a substantial portion of the country’s destinations.

Plan Your Activities

When considering where to go in the Philippines, with its more than 7,000 islands, it’s essential to choose based on your budget and available time. Here’s a list of recommended places to visit in the Philippines:

1

Cities: Manila and nearby areas or Cebu, which is the second largest city in the country. Explore the capital city of the Philippines, and don’t miss the vibrant night-life of Makati and the historic walled city of Intramuros.

2

Islands: Palawan is one of the world’s best islands. Explore the stunning destinations of El Nido and Coron. Bohol instead is a small island packed with adventure, beautiful beaches, and natural wonders. Explore the best things to do in Bohol. Siquijor is a small but surprisingly beautiful and laid-back island that boasts long stretches of empty beaches, affordable food, and a cool island vibe.

3

Beaches: Boracay is the well renowned, home to one of the world’s best beaches. It recently underwent a major rehabilitation to restore its pristine beauty.

4

Nature: in Banaue, located in the Northern mountain province, you can immerse yourself and witness the breathtaking rice terraces carved into the mountains.

5

Water Sport: fulfill your aqua sports cravings in the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao.

While these are some of the top places to visit in the Philippines, there are many more to explore. The more you search, the more you’ll be inspired to explore this diverse and captivating country.

Book Your Accommodations

The Philippines offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to local hostels. Start by choosing your preferred location, and then use booking sites like Agoda, booking or expedia to find suitable options. 

In larger cities like Manila or Cebu, Airbnb may offer condos and apartments. However, Airbnb choices are limited in smaller areas.

Prepare for Your Trip

Before you travel to the Philippines, make sure you have

  • What Travel Documents, a valid passport is needed , along with any required visas if your country of citizenship require it.
  • Moreover, everybody entering and leaving the country must obtain an eTravel pass for the Philippines.
  • Additionally, it’s advisable to research local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
  • Consider investing in travel insurance to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances like flight disruptions or medical emergencies.
  • Use insect spray: To prevent mosquito and insect bites in the Philippines, especially in rural areas, it’s essential to use insect repellent.
  • Sun Protection Lotion: It’s advisable to bring your own as local options often contain whitening agents.
  • Exercise caution with food and water. Opt for bottled or purified water and steer clear of undercooked meats and seafood to prevent illness, despite the tempting local cuisine.
  • Power Adapter: Essential for your electronic devices. Power Bank are also advicible due to potential power cuts on some islands.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Flip flops or comfortable shoes are the norm on these islands.
  • Medication: Pack your own first aid and any prescribed medications.
  • Respect local habits: Stay friendly, wave back, and consider tipping as a kind gesture. Be polite, accept offered hospitality, stay safe by not walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure. Show respect and avoid making negative comments about the Philippines or its people.

Health Tips for Your Philippines Trip

Here are some essential health tips to keep in mind:

1

Yellow Fever Vaccination: If you’re coming from a yellow fever-infected area, get vaccinated.

2

Malaria Caution: While rare, malaria exists in parts of Palawan and Mindanao, especially in remote areas below 600 meters. Consider anti-malarial drugs for such regions.

3

Dengue Fever Alert: Protect against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever by using repellent and covering up during mosquito-active times.

4

First-Aid Kit: Pack prescription meds, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea pills, and antibiotics.

5

Safe Water: Stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Hospitals and pharmacies

“When visiting the Philippines, uninsured foreign visitors can receive medical treatment at local hospitals. However, they should be prepared for certain procedures like paperwork and consultation fees, which range from P100 to P750.

Waiting times depend on doctor availability, and additional charges may apply for prescriptions. It’s advisable for foreign visitors to have healthcare coverage, as policies can vary.

Pharmacies, such as Mercury Drug, are conveniently located near hospitals and city centers. Keep in mind that the selection of medications may not be as extensive as what you’re accustomed to in your home country. 

Some medicines, including common ones, may come at a relatively higher cost, and you might encounter queues at prescription counters.

Security and Safety: What You Need to Know

The Philippines is a safe destination for travelers, despite occasional concerns like public disturbances or petty theft in urban areas. Generally, provincial areas are even safer than larger cities like Manila. To ensure safety, safeguard your valuables, lock your vehicle or taxi doors, and consider using a concealed money belt or safety deposit boxes.

Passport’s Requirements

Tourists visiting the Philippines must hold a valid passport throughout their stay and departure from the country. 

eTravel Pass 

All travelers, both foreign and Filipino, flying to or from the Philippines on commercial flights are obligated to submit an electronic entry and exit eTravel QR code via the website www.etravelphilippines.net

This form can be filled out well in advance, even months before your trip; however, it must be completed prior to reaching the airline counter, as it’s a mandatory requirement for airline presentation. To ensure a smooth airport experience, we recommend completing the form before your journey begins.

The Philippines are a vibrant and enchanting destination that caters to various interests. By adhering to these travel recommendations, you can ensure a secure and delightful trip. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of lush rainforests, or immersion in the local culture, the Philippines offers an array of experiences for every traveler.