Located in the the western Pacific Ocean in Asia, the Philippines is the second largest archipelago in the world, made up of 7,107 islands. The country is gifted with idyllic beaches, tasteful cuisine, friendly locals and natural wonders. Being one of the most budget friendly destinations, there is no doubt why millions of tourists visit the country every year.
Why Visit The Philippines
BEACHES
Philippines’ beaches are paradise. With over 22,500 miles (36,200 Km) of coastline, there is an infinite number of beaches with turquoise crystal-clear waters and diverse sand colors (white, cream, brown, gray, pink) to explore. And with its tropical weather, you can enjoy them at any time of the year.
NATURE
The Philippines is one of the most diverse countries in the world, home to 5% of the world’s flora and Seven Natural Wonders. Is home to a diverse range of fauna as well. Volcanoes, beaches, tropical rainforest, majestic mountains, the rice terraces of Ifugao, the lush forests of Bohol, there aren’t enough words to explain the beauty of this country.
AFFORDABLE
The Philippines is an affordable destination, allowing tourists to spend more time in the country for less. You can travel with as low as $20/day (even less if you push it). There is a wide range of accommodations to fit everybody’s budget, from hostels to 5 star hotels.
PEOPLE
Filipinos are known for its hospitality. They are extremely friendly, kind and will try to help you as much as they can and the majority of them speak and understand english, increasing the easing of traveling around the country.
CUISINE
Filipino food has strong influences from China, Spain and America, with a lot of spices and full of flavor, being Adobo the national dish of the country, and a must try.
Located in the the western Pacific Ocean in Asia, the Philippines is the second largest archipelago in the world, made up of 7,107 islands. The country is gifted with idyllic beaches, tasteful cuisine, friendly locals and natural wonders. Being one of the most budget friendly destinations, there is no doubt why millions of tourists visit the country every year.
Why Visit The Philippines
BEACHES
Philippines’ beaches are paradise. With over 22,500 miles (36,200 Km) of coastline, there is an infinite number of beaches with turquoise crystal-clear waters and diverse sand colors (white, cream, brown, gray, pink) to explore. And with its tropical weather, you can enjoy them at any time of the year.
NATURE
The Philippines is one of the most diverse countries in the world, home to 5% of the world’s flora and Seven Natural Wonders. Is home to a diverse range of fauna as well. Volcanoes, beaches, tropical rainforest, majestic mountains, the rice terraces of Ifugao, the lush forests of Bohol, there aren’t enough words to explain the beauty of this country.
AFFORDABLE
The Philippines is an affordable destination, allowing tourists to spend more time in the country for less. You can travel with as low as $20/day (even less if you push it). There is a wide range of accommodations to fit everybody’s budget, from hostels to 5 star hotels.
PEOPLE
Filipinos are known for its hospitality. They are extremely friendly, kind and will try to help you as much as they can and the majority of them speak and understand english, increasing the easing of traveling around the country.
CUISINE
Filipino food has strong influences from China, Spain and America, with a lot of spices and full of flavor, being Adobo the national dish of the country, and a must try.
- Name: Republic of the Philippines
- Capital: Manila
- Official Languages: Filipino, English
- Currency: Philippine peso
- Time Zone: UTC+8
- Name: Republic of the Philippines
- Capital: Manila
- Official Languages: English, English
- Currency: Philippine peso
- Time Zone: UTC+8
Bucket list
See Spanish colonial structures in Vigan
Visit the caves in Sagada
Check out the Chocolate Hills of Bohol
Go island hopping in El Nido, Palawan
Marvel at the lush rice terraces of Banaue
Wander around Batanes
See the Taal Volcano
See whale sharks in Oslob
What to expect
LANGUAGE
Filipino and English are the official languages in The Philippines. However, there are over 183 languages spoken in the Philippines, the majority of them are indigenous tongues. Filipino is an updated version of Tagalog that includes elements of other native Philippine languages, as well as English, Spanish, Malay and Chinese. The majority of the filipinos speak english, as is the third largest English speaking country in the world. You would have no trouble unless you visit extremely remote areas.
ELECTRICITY
In The Philippines the standard voltage is 220V and the frequency is 50 Hz. That’s the standard voltage in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa; If you are traveling from the US you will need an adaptor.
CURRENCY
The Philippine peso, is the official currency in the Philippines. Other foreign currencies like euros and dollars might be accepted in some tourist areas, however it is recommended to exchange the money beforehand as the exchange rate will be better at the airport, banks or exchange houses. Credit cards are widely accepted. ATM’s are mostly found in big cities only. 1 USD equals 49.85 pesos (as of 2020).
CLIMATE
The Philippines enjoys a tropical weather throughout the year. High temperatures, humidity and rain is common. The coolest month is January with an average temperature of 77°F (25.5°C), while the warmest is May with an average of 85 °F (29°C). The best time to visit would be from November to April, when it is dry season.
SAFETY
The Philippines are generally safe to visit. Violent crime is rare, however petty crime is not. Be aware of the pickpockets and scams. There are some areas that I would avoid, like the Sulu Archipelago and the City in Mindanao, as crime rates tend to be higher here. The Philippines is having some political problems right now, but fortunately they are very far from tourist areas and most likely wouldn’t affect yoru trip.
How to get around
By plane
The Philippines is well connected through air. There are a couple of domestic airlines offering flights between major cities and islands. AirAsia, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific are the main domestic carriers, but there are a few others offering flights. Be aware that flight delays are not uncommon, so don’t plan your trip too tight. Flying is the best way to get around quickly.
By Car
To rent a car is the fastest option as usual. However, it is not recommended to drive in Manila due to the traffic jams and crazy drivers. Almost all the major rental companies have offices in the main cities. Be aware of the road conditions.
By Bus
Buses are the cheapest way of getting around, although sometimes slow and uncomfortable. The Philippines offers hundreds of routes, reaching almost every village and town in the country. They would usually make stops to allow passengers to go to the bathroom. Jeepneys on the other hand, are the bus/taxis of the Philippines, the most popular public transportation offering short routes and connecting almost every town of the country. They tend to be cramped and uncomfortable. They are extremely cheap, with fares starting at $0.2 cents, but they mostly run locally.
By taxi
Taxis are available mostly in big cities. Some of them don’t have meters and you would have to negotiate the price in advance.
By Train
There is only one route available from Manila to Naga.
By Boat
The Philippines offers a comprehensive network of ferry routes, with generally affordable prices. They might be the only transportation method available for some smaller islands, and an easy and enjoyable way of getting around. There are different type of vessels with levels of comfort and cost., like the Bangkas (small wooden boats), Fast crafts, ROROs and Passenger Liners (Multi Decked long-haul liners). Be careful if you are traveling with bad weather.
Visa Policy
Most citizens can visit the Philippines without a visa, with the length of stay varying from country to country.
There are only a few countries that will require a visa to visit: Afghanistan , Albania , Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan , Bangladesh , Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina , China, Cuba, Egypt, Georgia, India, Iran, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Montenegro, NAuru, Nigeria, North Korea, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Palestine, Sierra Leone, Serbia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Ukraine and Yemen.
Citizens of Taiwan may apply for an entry permit through the Electronic Travel Authorization system.
New entry requirements:You need to present your One Health Pass QR code before boarding your flight to the Philippines.
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