Explore Now

THE PHILIPPINES

Ah, the Philippines! A sun-kissed archipelago of more than 7,000 islands scattered like emeralds across the western Pacific Ocean. This Southeast Asian nation boasts a vibrant history shaped by indigenous cultures, centuries of Spanish colonial rule, and a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. From ancient Austronesian tribes to the galleon trade that connected Manila to Mexico, the Philippines has long been a cultural crossroads. The result? A people whose warmth, resilience, and joy are as unforgettable as the landscapes they call home.

Geographically, the Philippines is a paradise of extremes. Picture this: smoldering volcanoes rise from misty rice terraces, coral reefs teem with marine life in aquamarine shallows, and jungles echo with the calls of exotic birds. Whether it’s the serene beauty of Palawan’s lagoons or the adrenaline-charged surf of Siargao, there’s a rhythm to the islands that beckons you to slow down—or dive in. With average temperatures ranging from 78–90ºF (25–32ºC) year-round, the Philippines offers the perfect tropical escape wrapped in adventure and history.

Why Visit the Philippines?

 Pristine Beaches & Islands: From El Nido’s dramatic limestone cliffs to Boracay’s powdery white sands, the Philippines is a beach lover’s paradise with over 7,000 islands.

Stunning Marine Life: Dive with whale sharks in Donsol, explore WWII shipwrecks in Coron, or snorkel vibrant reefs in Apo Island.

Warm Hospitality: The Filipino people are famously welcoming, with a laid-back vibe and a deep love for music, food, and celebration.

Natural Wonders: Hike the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, trek the Banaue Rice Terraces, or visit the underground river in Palawan.

Cultural Diversity: Spanish churches, Muslim mosques, tribal traditions—centuries of cultural fusion make every region unique.

Year-Round Tropical Climate: Expect warm, humid weather year-round (averaging 77–90°F / 25–32°C), with cooler temps in the highlands like Sagada or Baguio.

Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are at their absolute lowest. Many hotels and resorts offer significant discounts to attract visitors.
  • Fewer Crowds: Major attractions, popular islands, and bustling cities are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate and relaxed experience. You’ll have beaches and historical sites practically to yourself.
  • Lush Landscapes: The rain transforms the islands into vibrant, verdant paradises. Waterfalls are at their fullest, and rice terraces are incredibly lush and green.
  • Authentic Local Vibe: Experience the Philippines like a local, with more opportunities to interact with residents and enjoy a serene atmosphere. You’ll find a more genuine interaction with the culture.
  • Unique Activities: The rainy season can bring new opportunities, such as white-water rafting, chasing magnificent waterfalls, or enjoying cozy evenings in charming cafes.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Rainfall: Expect regular rainfall, ranging from brief showers to longer downpours. This can disrupt outdoor plans, especially island hopping.
  • Typhoons: The latter part of the rainy season (August-October) is prone to typhoons, which can cause significant disruptions to travel and safety.
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (beach/island hopping): Some island hopping tours and water activities might be canceled or restricted due to rough seas.
  • Humidity: The humidity can be high, even with the rain.
  • Muddy Conditions: Trails and unpaved roads can become muddy and slippery.

Regions:

  • Palawan (El Nido, Coron): While prone to rain, the limestone karsts and lagoons are still breathtaking. When the sun breaks through, the beauty is unparalleled, and you’ll have less competition for the best photo spots. Many resorts offer rain-friendly activities.
  • Cebu & Bohol: The central Visayas region offers a mix of urban attractions (Cebu City) and natural wonders (Bohol’s Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary). Even with rain, these sites can be enjoyed, and the prices for excursions are lower.
  • Manila: The capital city offers numerous indoor attractions, including world-class museums, historical sites like Intramuros (which can be explored even in light rain), and fantastic shopping and dining experiences.
  • Baguio & Tagaytay: These cooler, elevated destinations are popular escapes from the lowland heat. While they can be misty and rainy, the cozy atmosphere and lush scenery are still appealing.
  • Davao: Located outside the main typhoon belt, Davao often experiences less severe weather during the rainy season, making it a relatively safer bet for off-season travel.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, without the extreme heat of summer or the constant rain of the wet season.
  • Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than peak dry season, but attractions are fully open and vibrant. You’ll experience a good balance of activity and tranquility.
  • Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in the peak dry season, though slightly higher than the deep rainy season.
  • Festivals & Events: Many vibrant local festivals and cultural events take place, including various regional fiestas and harvest celebrations.
  • Blooming Landscapes (March-May): As the dry season progresses, certain flowering trees and plants come into full bloom.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Increasing Temperatures (March-May): The heat and humidity gradually increase, making midday sightseeing less comfortable, especially by May.
  • Some Crowds (Nov-Dec): While not peak, tourist numbers start to pick up by late November and early December in popular areas.
  • Higher Prices (March-May around Easter): The week leading up to and including Easter (Holy Week) sees a significant surge in domestic tourism, leading to higher prices and crowded transportation.
  • Limited Availability: Especially during specific popular events, accommodations can book up quickly.

Regions:

  • Palawan (El Nido, Coron, Port Barton): Excellent weather for island hopping and beach activities without the peak season rush. The waters are clearer, and boat tours are readily available.
  • Boracay: Enjoy the pristine white sands and turquoise waters with fewer people. This is a great time to experience the island’s famous sunsets and water sports.
  • Northern Luzon (Banaue & Batad Rice Terraces): The weather is generally pleasant for trekking and exploring the stunning rice terraces. November offers cooler temperatures, while March-May are hotter but still good for exploring the villages.
  • Siargao: The surf season starts to pick up in late shoulder season (around October/November), but the crowds aren’t as intense as peak season. March-May also offer good surf conditions.
  • Camiguin: This volcanic island offers a unique blend of hot springs, waterfalls, and white sand beaches, all enjoyable with pleasant shoulder season weather.

Dry Season (Mid-December – February, especially around Christmas/New Year and Chinese New Year): This is the Philippines’ peak tourist season, driven by favorable weather and major holidays. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular attractions, especially in beach destinations like Boracay and Palawan, will be very crowded. While the weather is generally sunny and ideal for island hopping, the value for money is significantly lower.

Easter/Holy Week (March/April, exact dates vary annually): This religious holiday is a major travel period for domestic tourists, leading to extremely high prices for transportation and accommodation, especially in popular pilgrimage sites and beach destinations. Many establishments may be closed or have limited hours. Booking far in advance is essential if you plan to travel during this time.

Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?

Get Started

Essential Trip Information

  • Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality. Check the official Philippine Bureau of Immigration website: https://immigration.gov.ph.

  • Many nationalities (including U.S., Canada, UK, EU) can enter visa-free for 30 days.

  • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.

  • Proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds may be requested on arrival.

  • Extensions of stay are possible (usually in 29-day increments) and can be arranged at local immigration offices.

  • The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Current exchange rate: US$1 ≈ PHP56 (varies).

  • Bills: ₱20, ₱50, ₱100, ₱500, ₱1000 | Coins: ₱1, ₱5, ₱10

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; save major currency exchange for ATMs.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs attached to major banks (BDO, BPI, Metrobank). Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities, but carry cash (₱1000–2000) for small towns and island areas.

  • What to Avoid: Airport exchange counters (poor rates), and “dynamic currency conversion” (always pay in PHP).

  • Filipino and English are official languages. English is widely spoken in urban areas and tourist spots.

  • Helpful phrases:

    • “Salamat” = Thank you

    • “Saan ang…” = Where is…

    • “Magkano ito?” = How much is this?

  • The Philippines is generally safe for tourists, but stay alert in crowded areas (Manila, Cebu) for pickpockets.

  • Island regions and tourist towns are laid-back and low-crime.

  • Avoid travel to some parts of Mindanao due to periodic unrest (check local advisories).

  • Emergency number: 911

  • No mandatory vaccines, but Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, and Tetanus are recommended.

  • Tap water is not safe to drink—stick to bottled or filtered water.

  • Mosquito repellents are advised in tropical areas (Dengue is present).

  • Travel insurance is strongly recommended (private hospitals can be costly).

  • Pharmacies (e.g., Mercury Drug, Watsons) are widely available in towns and cities.

  • Domestic Flights: Fast and affordable for long distances (e.g., Manila to Palawan).

  • Jeepneys and tricycles: Colorful, cheap, and part of the experience.

  • Buses and vans: Good for intercity travel on Luzon and Cebu.

  • Ride-hailing (Grab): Reliable in urban areas like Manila and Cebu.

  • Ferries: Crucial for island-hopping. Bring patience—they’re not always punctual.

  • Walking: Good in compact towns and islands, but sidewalks can be limited in cities.

The Philippines is affordable, especially outside major tourist areas.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels, local inns (US$15–30/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels, beach resorts (US$40–90/night)

  • Luxury: Island villas and 5-star resorts (US$120–300+/night)

Food

  • Street food/local eateries (carinderia): US$2–5

  • Sit-down casual restaurants: US$6–15/person

  • Upscale dining: US$25+/person (often includes seafood feasts)

Drinks

  • Local beer (San Miguel): US$1–2

  • Cocktails: US$4–8 (resorts/bars)

  • Coffee: US$2–4 at cafes

Transportation

  • Jeepneys/tricycles: US$0.20–1 per ride (local transport)

  • Taxis/Grab (rideshare): US$2–10 per ride in cities

  • Ferries/boats: US$5–25 (depending on distance)

  • Domestic flights: US$40–100 (to reach islands)

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat like a local at carinderias and night markets.

  • Use local ferries instead of private speedboats.

  • Domestic low-cost carriers (Cebu Pacific, AirAsia Philippines) often have seat sales.

  • Skip the resorts and stay at family-run guesthouses on islands.

Explore the Philippines

PALAWAN
CEBU
MANILA
BORACAY
SIARGAO
BOHOL
BANAUE RICE TERRACES
VIGAN
DUMAGUETE
MAYON VOLCANO / LEGAZPI

Planning Your Trip

The Philippines is a tropical archipelago with two main seasons—dry and wet—and its weather plays a key role in planning your trip.

Dry Season (December–May):

  • Peak season runs from December to February, with cooler temperatures (75–86°F / 24–30°C) and low humidity—ideal for beaches and outdoor exploration.
  • March to May gets hotter (up to 95°F / 35°C), especially inland. Great time for island-hopping in Palawan or Siargao.

Holy Week (March/April):

  • Expect local travel surges; book well in advance.

Wet Season (June–November):

  • Frequent afternoon rains and tropical storms, particularly from July to October.
  • Travel remains possible—fewer crowds and lush landscapes, but ferry schedules may change.
  • Surf season in Siargao peaks in September.

Tip: Visit between late January and early March for the best mix of sunny days, festivals (like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan), and manageable crowds.

  • Hospitality: Filipinos are warm and friendly—expect smiles and casual conversations.

  • Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (10% in restaurants, small tips for porters/tour guides).

  • Shoes Off Indoors: In local homes, it’s customary to remove footwear.

  • Dress Code: Modest attire in churches; light clothing elsewhere (but bring a cover-up for air-conditioned malls and buses).

  • Greetings: A simple “Hi po” or “Salamat po” (thank you) shows respect.

  • Religion: Predominantly Catholic—respect during mass or religious processions.

  • Public Behavior: Affectionate displays are fine, but loud arguments or criticisms may come off as disrespectful.

The Philippines is a great value destination, especially outside major cities.

  • Accommodation:

    • Hostels: US$10–25

    • Mid-range hotels: US$40–100

    • Luxury resorts: US$200+

  • Food:

    • Street food or carinderia (local eateries): US$2–5

    • Casual restaurants: US$8–15

    • Upscale dining: US$30–60

  • Transport:

    • Domestic flights: US$30–80 one-way

    • Ferries: US$10–20

    • Local transport (jeepney, trike): US$1–5/day

  • Activities:

    • Island-hopping: US$20–40

    • Scuba diving/snorkeling tours: US$30–60

    • Entrance fees to parks/sites: US$1–5

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, street food, public transport).

  • Mid-range: US$120–200 (hotels, island tours, sit-down meals).

  • Luxury: US$300+ (resorts, guided excursions, fine dining).

  • Wi-Fi:

    • Available in most cafes, hotels, and airports—but may be slow in remote areas.

  • SIM Cards:

    • Globe and Smart offer prepaid tourist SIMs (US$10–20 for 10–20GB).

    • Available at the airport or convenience stores—bring your passport.

  • eSIMs:

    • Compatible with newer phones (Airalo, Nomad).

    • Reliable for urban areas; may drop signal in rural/island locations.

Tip: Download offline maps for island destinations.

  • Highly recommended, especially for island activities and remote locations.

  • Medical Care: Urban centers have decent hospitals, but rural care may be limited—emergency evacuation coverage is a plus.

  • Adventure Sports: Check that your policy includes snorkeling, diving, and motorbike rentals.

  • Flight Delays: Weather can disrupt inter-island travel—coverage for missed connections is useful.

  • Natural Events: Typhoons may affect travel—insurance helps with rebooking or cancellations.

The Philippines caters to all travel styles, from luxury beachfront resorts to affordable hostels.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Amanpulo (Palawan), The Peninsula Manila.
  • Mid-range: Seda Hotels, Henann Resorts (Boracay).
  • Budget: Red Planet, Go Hotels across major cities.

Hostels:

  • Great social scene in El Nido, Siargao, and Manila (e.g., Mad Monkey, Lub d).

Guesthouses:

  • Often run by locals, providing homely and budget-friendly stays (US$15–30).

Airbnb:

  • Ideal for longer stays or groups—available in Manila, Cebu, and beach towns.

Eco-lodges:

  • Unique stays in nature (check out The Birdhouse in El Nido or Loboc River Resort in Bohol).

Tip: Book early for beach destinations during the dry season—rooms fill up quickly.

While public transport can be chaotic in cities, getting around is relatively affordable and adventurous.

Domestic Flights:

  • Essential for hopping between islands (e.g., Manila to Cebu, El Nido, or Bohol).
  • Carriers like Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines offer frequent, budget-friendly routes.

Jeepneys:

  • Iconic and cheap (US$0.20–0.40), but routes can be confusing. Great for short city rides.

Tricycles:

  • Local motorbike taxis ideal for short distances. Always negotiate the fare first (typically US$1–3).

Buses/Vans:

  • Useful for longer land routes (e.g., Manila to Banaue or Batangas).
  • Book through terminals or online (bus fare: US$5–15).

Ferries:

  • For inter-island trips. Ferries range from slow boats to fast crafts (e.g., Cebu–Bohol, US$10–20).

Taxis/Grab:

  • Grab is widely used in major cities—reliable and safer than flag-down taxis.

Car Rental:

  • Possible but not recommended in congested areas like Manila. Better suited for scenic routes like in Bohol or Palawan.

Handy Tips

The Philippines uses the Philippine Peso (₱). Bills come in ₱20, ₱50, ₱100, ₱200, ₱500, and ₱1,000 denominations; coins include ₱1, ₱5, and ₱10.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange counters due to poor rates. Use ATMs or money changers in malls for better exchange rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities, malls, and hotels, but cash is essential for small shops, rural areas, and public markets.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants/Bars: Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or 5–10% is appreciated (some places include service charge).

    • Taxis/Rideshares: No tip expected, but rounding up is common.

    • Hotel Staff: ₱50–100 (about US$1–2) per bag for porters; similar for housekeeping per day.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for group tours; more for private.

English and Filipino are official languages; most Filipinos are bilingual and speak English fluently.

  • Useful phrases in Filipino:

    • “Magkano ito?” – “How much is this?”

    • “Saan ang pinakamalapit na terminal?” – “Where’s the nearest terminal?”

    • “Pwedeng humingi ng resibo?” – “Can I get a receipt?”

Pro Tip: Filipinos are warm and friendly—a smile goes a long way! Most people in tourism speak English well, especially in big cities and tourist areas.

The Philippines is generally safe, especially in tourist zones like Palawan, Cebu, or Siargao, but use common sense.

  • Stay alert in crowded areas like transport terminals and street markets (watch for pickpockets).

  • Avoid isolated areas after dark, especially in unfamiliar places.

  • Emergency Contacts:

    • 911: All emergencies (police, fire, medical)

    • 117: National emergency hotline (older number)

    • Your embassy: Save the number and address—many embassies are located in Manila.

The Philippines uses 220V/60Hz with Type A/B/C plugs (similar to U.S. and European). Bring a universal adapter if unsure. Most electronics (phones, laptops) are dual voltage.

Tap water is not safe to drink in most places. Always drink bottled or filtered water. In hotels, ask if filtered water is available for refill. Restaurants usually offer bottled water.

Most businesses and government offices close on these national holidays:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 9 Apr: Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagitingan)

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 12 Jun: Independence Day

  • Last Mon of Aug: National Heroes Day

  • 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day

  • 30 Nov: Bonifacio Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 30 Dec: Rizal Day

  • Moveable: Holy Week (Maundy Thursday and Good Friday) – many cities shut down completely

Note: Malls and tourist attractions are often open during holidays but very crowded.

  • Malls: 10:00–21:00 (some open until 22:00)

  • Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven and Ministop are often open 24/7

  • Markets: Public markets start early (5:00–6:00) and wrap up by afternoon

  • Adobo: The unofficial national dish—meat (usually chicken or pork) simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns.

  • Sinigang: A sour tamarind-based soup with pork, shrimp, or fish—comforting and tangy.

  • Lechon: Whole roasted pig with crispy skin—often the centerpiece at celebrations.

  • Kare-Kare: Oxtail stew in peanut sauce, served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste).

  • Sisig: Sizzling chopped pork face, ears, and liver served on a hot plate—spicy, crispy, and addictive.

  • Laing: Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and chilies—Bicolano cuisine at its best.

  • Inasal: Bacolod-style grilled chicken marinated in calamansi, vinegar, and annatto oil.

  • Halo-Halo: Layered dessert of crushed ice, milk, jellies, fruits, beans, and leche flan—refreshing and chaotic (in the best way).

  • Bibingka: Rice cake baked in banana leaves, topped with salted egg and cheese—Christmas classic.

  • Turon: Fried banana spring rolls with caramelized sugar—street food favorite.

  • Leche Flan: Filipino-style caramel custard—dense, sweet, and silky.

Alcoholic:

  • Lambanog: Traditional Filipino coconut wine—potent and clear, often infused with fruit flavors.

  • Tuba: Fermented coconut sap, typically drunk fresh and cloudy—rural specialty.

  • San Miguel Pale Pilsen: The country’s iconic lager—crisp, smooth, and widely loved.

  • Red Horse: Strong beer with a cult following—bold and malty.

  • Engkanto Beer: Craft beer brand with IPAs, lagers, and pale ales gaining popularity.

  • Don Papa Rum: Premium aged rum from Negros Island—smooth, vanilla-forward, great for cocktails or sipping.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Calamansi Juice: Zesty citrus drink made from the native calamansi fruit—sweet-tart and refreshing.

  • Sago’t Gulaman: Brown sugar drink with tapioca pearls and jelly—served ice cold.

  • Buko Juice: Fresh coconut water straight from the shell—hydrating and tropical.

  • Salabat: Hot ginger tea—spicy, soothing, and often used for sore throats.

  • Taho: Morning street treat of warm tofu, syrup, and tapioca pearls—served in cups by roaming vendors.

  • Intramuros (Manila): Spanish colonial walled city—walk or ride a bamboo bike tour.

  • Rizal Park: National hero monument + local weekend hangout.

  • Banaue Rice Terraces: UNESCO-listed marvel carved 2,000 years ago.

  • Vigan: Cobblestone streets and Spanish-era architecture.

  • Baroque Churches: San Agustin Church (Manila) and Paoay Church (Ilocos).

  • Sinulog Festival (Cebu, January): Colorful Catholic celebration.

  • Ati-Atihan Festival (Aklan): Tribal dances + Catholic tradition.

  • Jeepneys: Ride these vibrant buses—icons of Filipino creativity.

  • Cordillera Weaving: Traditional textiles of Northern Luzon.

  • Music and Karaoke: Every Filipino household has a karaoke machine—don’t be shy!

  • Island-Hopping: Explore lagoons and white sand beaches in Palawan or El Nido

  • Snorkeling/Diving: World-class reefs in Apo Island, Tubbataha, and Coron

  • Shopping: Manila’s giant malls (e.g., SM Mall of Asia) are attractions themselves

  • Volcano Trekking: Hike up Taal Volcano or explore Mt. Mayon

  • Surfing: Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines

  • Massages & Spas: Affordable and widely available

  • Sunset Cruises: Popular in Boracay and Manila Bay

  • Cultural Shows: Watch Filipino folk dances at restaurants like Barbara’s in Intramuros

  • Live Music: Manila and Cebu have great jazz and acoustic bar scenes

  • Nightlife: Poblacion (Makati) and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are vibrant after dark

  • Poblacion, Makati: Manila’s hip bar district—craft cocktails, speakeasies, and rooftop views.

  • The Curator: Hidden bar behind a coffee shop—expertly made drinks in an intimate space.

  • Run Rabbit Run: Playful yet premium cocktails in a two-story house.

  • ABV (Alcohol by Volume): Speakeasy with award-winning mixologists and a jazz vibe.

  • El Chupacabra: Late-night taco joint with strong margaritas and lively expat crowd.

  • Tipsy Pig (BGC): Gastropub famous for cocktails in pitchers and lively evenings.

  • Z Hostel Roofdeck: Budget traveler hotspot with DJs and skyline views.

  • Draft Gastropub: European beers and hearty eats in a polished setting.

  • Lan Kwai Speakeasy (Cebu): Chinatown-themed bar with flair bartending and Cantonese cocktails.

  • Tambai Alley: Poblacion’s grungy-cool hangout for yakitori and affordable beer.

Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?

Get Started