Philippines Travel Guide

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The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country comprised of over seven thousand islands in the western Pacific Ocean. It is known for its stunning beaches, incredible coral reefs, and vibrant culture that lures travelers worldwide. It is a great destination for those looking to experience diverse cultures, beautiful landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.

In this travel guide, we will explore the essentials for a successful trip to the Philippines:

Overview of the Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago nation in the western Pacific Ocean, consisting of over 7,000 islands. It is the second-largest island country in the world, encompassing a total land area of more than 300,000 square kilometers (just over 116,000 square miles). The stunning tropical seascapes beckon visitors from around the globe to marvel at unspoiled coral reefs, lush forests, and mountains dotted with picturesque beaches. The country’s vibrant culture reflects its diverse heritage and proud history: a former Spanish colony and then an American protectorate granted independence after World War II.

The capital city Manila is one of the busiest hubs in Southeast Asia and provides business travelers with excellent transportation links and rich cultural attractions. The northern province of Ilocos Norte offers breathtaking landscapes like dramatic gorges surrounded by pine trees and pristine dunes for ATV adventures. Mountainous regions are home to wildlife ranging from clouded leopards to large colonies of bats inhabiting ancient caves. Meanwhile, southern islands have excellent diving sites abounding with corals and sea life, such as manta rays.

The Filipino people are hospitable and welcoming; they take immense pride in their customs and traditions passed down through generations. Throughout the region, you’ll discover local musical instruments such as kulintang drums, admire numerous colorful festivals like Ati-Atihan dedicated to Santo Niño de Cebu’s patron saint or observe locals gathering together for karaoke parties on weekends when families come together to relax by lantern light under starlit nights.

A visit to the Philippines promises a unique experience rooted in a vibrant culture that celebrates nature’s bounty all around you – it truly is an enchanted paradise that awaits!

Popular Tourist Destinations

The Philippines is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience a unique blend of modern and traditional city life, exotic food, and friendly culture. The country comprises more than 7,000 tropical islands with vibrant wildlife and adventure activities. From crystal-clear lagoons and paradisiacal beaches to its majestic mountain ranges and vibrant cities, travelers can participate in diverse experiences.

Explore the centuries-old architecture and sample the delicious street food in the bustling capital of Manila. Also nearby are the mystical Banaue Rice Terraces and Coron Island – home to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches. Head further north to Cebu City for its buzzing nightlife, or stay on Siargao Island for world-class surfing with the famous Cloud 9 wave! Other top destinations include Bohol, its stunning Chocolate Hills, and white sand beach resorts in Palawan.

Planning an unforgettable trip within the Philippines requires selecting ideal travel locations for your particular vacation needs. Whether you prefer coastal lounging or deep jungle hikes, there are many options available – use these popular tourist destinations as your starting point:

  • Manila
  • Banaue Rice Terraces
  • Coron Island
  • Cebu City
  • Siargao Island
  • Bohol
  • Palawan

Getting Around

Getting around the Philippines can be a great adventure and a fun experience. The country has various transportation options, from public buses and jeepneys to private cars and taxi services. You can choose the most convenient transportation depending on your budget and itinerary.

We will discuss the different types of transportation available in the Philippines and how to make the most of your trip:

Transportation Options

Throughout the Philippines, travelers have numerous transportation options to help them get around. However, while getting from one point to another is usually not difficult, traveling times can be lengthy as the infrastructure for roads, airports, and ferry terminals can be lacking in some areas.

Public transport options throughout the country typically include jeepneys, tricycles, buses, and motor taxis. Jeepneys are often the most commonly used public transport option due to their affordability and popularity among locals. Tricycles are typically the preferred method of getting around small or rural towns, while larger cities boast an extensive network of buses and taxis. Rental cars may also be an option for navigating larger cities or road trips between destinations.

Additionally, inter-island ferries provide a popular way of reaching many significant islands in the country without backtracking via mainland routes or flying domestically. Boats range from small outriggers to large modern vessels offering overnight journeys between destinations. Travel by air is also possible between major cities, including Manila and Iloilo, on airlines such as Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific Air (CEB), AirAsia Philippines (APG), and SkyJet Airlines (SJI).

Cost of Travel

When traveling around the Philippines, costs can vary greatly depending on your chosen mode of transport. Public transportation such as buses, ferries, and jeepneys are the cheapest option for getting around. These fares usually range from 20-100 PHP (Philippine Pesos), depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle used.

Taxis are also readily available in each city and are more expensive than public transport, with most trips costing about 100-300 PHP. It is advised to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand if you choose to take a taxi rather than using a taxi booking app such as Grab or Uber, which can make it much more affordable.

Renting a car or hiring a private driver is another option to provide convenience during your travels. Car rentals typically start at 2,000 PHP per day plus gas and miles traveled (about 10-15 PHP per mile). Hiring a driver uses up similar costs, but you may be able to negotiate a discounted rate if it is just for one day or quick trips.

Planning and researching transportation options before arriving in the Philippines can save you lots of money while still getting you around efficiently and in style!

Accommodations

Accommodations in the Philippines vary from luxury high-rise hotels to quaint budget inns. Depending on your budget, the Philippines offers travelers a wide range of options. Many luxury resorts offer world-class amenities and comfortable accommodations if you want a luxurious stay. Or, if you’re looking for something budget-friendly, there are many budget hotels and inns to choose from.

Let’s dive deeper into the different types of accommodations available in the Philippines:

Types of Accommodations

When it comes to accommodations, the Philippines offers a variety of options to suit different budget levels and preferences. Depending on your budget and needs, travelers can choose from luxurious 5-star hotels to cozy family-run guesthouses.

  • Hotels: Hotels come in all shapes and sizes in the Philippines, ranging from luxurious 5-star resorts overlooking white sand beaches to small boutique hotels featuring local artistry and design. Hotels typically serve a breakfast buffet in the morning, which may be included in the room rate or offered as an optional extra.
  • Guesthouses: Guesthouses are smaller versions of hotels in the Philippines and appeal to those looking for equally comfortable yet more affordable accommodation. They are often family-run, providing an intimate experience and basic amenities such as air conditioning and hot water. Some offer traditional Filipino homecooked meals for an extra cost.
  • Hostels: Hostels offer basic, budget accommodation ideal for backpackers or students looking to go further into their travels without spending too much on accommodation. Features usually include bunk beds without private bathrooms, though some hostels might have larger rooms with private attached baths at a higher price point, depending on availability.
  • Flats/Apartments: Vacation rentals such as flats or apartments are becoming increasingly popular among visitors who want more space or privacy than what is typically available at a hotel or guesthouse but still prefer staying near popular tourist attractions within easy reach of local nightlife spots. Flats usually come fully equipped with all the basics – kitchen equipment, hot & cold showers/bathtubs – and also offer certain convenience items like laundry detergent, bath towels/sheets, and air conditioning which most hostel doesn’t provide you with!

Cost of Accommodations

The cost of accommodations when traveling in the Philippines will depend on your budget and preferences. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there are a variety of accommodation types that could suit your needs.

  • Luxury Resorts: These typically offer beautiful views, modern amenities, swimming pools, and special services such as room service and spa services. Prices range from around ₱ 8,000-20,000 per night, depending on the resort and location.
  • Hotels: Hotels are scattered throughout the country, with prices depending on the type of hotel (mid-range or low-budget) and varying by city. Mid-range hotels can cost up to ₱ 4,000-5,500 a night, and cheaper budget hotels can cost about ₱ 1,000 – 3,500 a night for single or double rooms with bathrooms attached.
  • Guest Houses/Hostels: Depending on facilities, guest houses/hostels are one of the cheapest forms of accommodation available in the country, with rates ranging from around ₱ 400 – 1,500 a night for mixed dorm rooms or private rooms, respectively. A wide range of facilities such as barbecues and exploring tours are usually included in these places as well.
  • Apartments/Houses: For more extended stays (1 month+), renting an apartment or house is usually more economical than staying at any other accommodation type because rent is legally required not to exceed three months for tourists in certain parts of The Philippines. Fully furnished apartments can range from around ₱ 10k – 30k based on location and size. In contrast, long-term rentals can be found for much lower rates, such as under ₱ 8k per month, with all utilities included in some parts of Manila or Cebu City areas.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks in the Philippines have a strong influence from the Spanish, Chinese and American cultures. As a result, the country’s cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Chinese, and American flavors, making for various food options for visitors. Filipino cuisine is known for its sweetness, fusion of flavors, and subtle use of spices.

The food options range from street food to classic home-style cooking. There is something for everyone in the Philippines.

Popular Cuisines

Philippine Cuisine is a unique blend of native Southeast Asian flavors combined with Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. Rice is a staple food in the country, and Filipinos eat it every day, typically for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fish, seafood, pork, and poultry are all popular ingredients in this cuisine.

Filipino dishes vary significantly by region, but some of the most popular cuisines are:

  • Adobo: A classic Filipino dish comprising meat or seafood marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices such as garlic, peppers, vinegar, and soy sauce.
  • Kare-Kare: A thick stew of beef or pork cooked with vegetables in a peanut sauce. It is usually served with bagoong (a paste made from fermented fish or shrimp).
  • Sinigang: A sour soup made with tamarind as its main ingredient for flavor. It can be cooked with pork, beef, or seafood and vegetables for added flavor.
  • Lechon: This is the most famous Filipino dish – roasted pork that has been deboned before cooking to make it easier to eat. The skin is crisp, while the meat stays juicy inside. Other parts of East Asia have adopted this dish, but Filipinos have perfected it best!
  • Crispy Pata: Deep-fried pork trotters served with dipping sauces such as spiced vinegar, or honey glaze sauce are signature dishes at many celebrations and parties around the Philippines.

In addition to meal times, there are also several dessert dishes popular throughout the Philippines, including halo-halo (a type of sundae featuring sweet beans), leche flan (custard pudding made from condensed milk), polvoron (sweet, powdery cookies composed mainly out of flour, sugar and melted butter).

Cost of Food and Drinks

The cost of food and drinks in the Philippines depends on where you decide to dine. The cost of food will vary based on your location, with more urban areas having higher prices. Whether you are eating at a casual or upscale restaurant, meals can range from being affordable to being rather pricey. Generally, expect to pay around 250-400 PHP ($4.90-$7.85) for a two-person meal at a casual restaurant and 700-1000 PHP ($13.75-$19.70) for a two-person dinner at an upscale restaurant.

The costs of drinks will vary depending on what type of beverage you order and where you are buying it from. An average beer in the Philippines is typically 75 PHP ($1.47). Expect to pay to double that at tourist locations such as famous beaches or nightclubs. Soft drinks or juices are usually around 45 PHP (approximately $0.88). One liter of bottled water can range between 15-50 PHP (about $0.30-$0.97).

Activities

The Philippines is a tropical country that offers a wealth of activities for the adventurous traveler. From beautiful beaches to vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of activities in the Philippines. In addition, the country’s diverse geography means that each region offers unique experiences – from diving and snorkeling in the clear waters of the south to trekking in the Cordillera mountains.

Whatever your interests, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Philippines:

Popular Activities

The Philippines is an exciting country full of adventure and activities to explore. From pristine islands to stunning beaches, there is something for everyone in the Philippines. So whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for an adventure or want to relax and take in magnificent views, the following popular activities can help ensure you make the most of your travels.

  • Snorkeling: The Philippine islands are blessed with pristine waters, home to a wide array of marine life. Many of these islands are ideal for snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore underwater coral reefs and observe colorful fish darting around them. Snorkeling can be enjoyed along beaches or designated spots where coast guards or wildlife watch groups offer day boat trips.
  • Diving: Experienced divers can explore deeper depths on diving excursions with experienced local guides. Experiences can range from trench dives and shallow dives to night dives with bioluminescent creatures or close encounters with some of the largest animals on Earth, including whale sharks and manta rays.
  • Surfing: The shorelines on many Philippine islands offer great waves ideal for beginner and experienced surfers. Surfing lessons can be arranged on nearly every beach in the country, providing newbies with everything they need, from instruction and rental boards to a knowledgeable guide who will show you all the best spots for your skill level.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Paddling a canoe or kayak across peaceful lakes offers breathtaking scenery that’s hard to find by any other means – remote islands surrounded by lush greenery, spectacular waterfalls cascading into blue lagoons, villages settled right along lush mangroves. These scenes have been inspiring generations of paddlers since ancient times!
  • Hiking/Trekking: Adventurous travelers will find all sorts of topographic escapades in the Philippines’ myriad protected areas – so why not enjoy them best on their terms? Hikes usually take less than a single day; trekkers multiple days as they explore rugged mountain slopes and deep valleys through relatively unspoiled terrain while taking detours via waterfalls, hot springs, caves as well as small-scale farmland villages sustained minorly by tourism-oriented products like woven hemp items worth getting souvenirs off shops.

Cost of Activities

Planning a trip to the Philippines doesn’t need to involve hefty travel expenses. Instead, you can enjoy the best of its sights and sounds, explore its nature parks, and dive into the country’s local culture and tradition—all without breaking the bank.

Depending on where you go, a wide range of activities for all interests and ages are available that can fit into most budgets. Activities such as island hopping, city tours, spelunking (cave exploration), and waterfall spots are some popular attractions that offer great discounts for family trips or group travelers.

Moreover, many beach resorts across the country, like Palawan Island, have excellent activity packages, including accommodation and full-day guided tours to nearby historical spots and dive sites. As prices depend on seasonality, it is best to book these in advance so you can get more out of your budget.

Some attractions come with entrance fees ranging from USD$5-15 depending on what attraction you choose. However, popular museums such as Fort Santiago in Manila only charge USD$4 per person for entrance plus a guided tour around the complex, which is offered free of charge by the museum staff. There are also free activities such as visiting ancestral spread homes dispersed throughout the province, which offer no entrance fees but respectfully giving donations is highly encouraged by host families should you decide to stay longer.

Safety

When visiting the Philippines, it’s essential to be aware of potential safety risks to have a safe and enjoyable trip. The Philippines is a relatively safe country with a low crime rate. However, some areas should be avoided for safety reasons. This guide will provide an overview of the safety precautions that should be taken when traveling in the Philippines.

Crime and Security

The crime rate varies across the country, but recently, petty crimes have increased, such as pickpocketing and theft of valuable items. Be cautious in crowded markets, public transportation, and other tourist spots. When exploring the city, it is best to travel in groups or with a tour group whenever possible.

You should also exercise caution while visiting isolated areas of the country, especially when traveling alone. Avoid walking outside after dark or entering unfamiliar neighborhoods, and stay alert for potential dangers. It is advisable to avoid displaying valuable items or flashing large amounts of money when out in public. If confronted by an attacker, remain calm and do not attempt to resist.

Do not leave valuables unattended at any time, and keep a photocopy of important documents (e.g., passports) handy in case they get lost or stolen. A passport copy should be kept separately from your wallet or purse. It is also recommended that you wear some form of identification to be easily identified if necessary.

Travelers are advised to abstain from consuming alcohol while traveling as it can lead to compromising situations where safety might be threatened.

Health and Safety Tips

Staying safe on your travels is vitally important, so knowing what you can do to protect yourself while traveling in the Philippines is essential. First, of course, following general safety tips like being aware of your surroundings, carrying a minimum of valuables, and researching your destination before arrival is important. Additionally, here are some essential health and safety tips for travelers in the Philippines:

  • Always drink bottled water instead of tap water to avoid stomach issues such as diarrhea.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellant and wearing long clothing covering any exposed skin outside.
  • Be especially careful around open flames or hot surfaces and floors, as these can cause severe burns; only venture into areas like this if necessary.
  • Avoid swimming alone or driving without a licensed driver, as both activities can be very dangerous.
  • Check with a doctor before travel – especially in rural areas – to ensure up-to-date vaccinations are received; also check with embassies in cities visited for more information regarding health concerns related to specific regions in The Philippines.
  • Keep any prescription medications in their original containers, sealed and clearly labeled with the traveler’s name and doctor’s address/phone number; speak with a doctor about these medications when traveling overseas.

Conclusion

The Philippines is a fantastic destination for adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. From bustling cities to pristine beaches, it has something for everyone. The Philippines is a must-visit destination with its vibrant culture, exciting cuisine, and fascinating attractions.

In this article, we’ve discussed all the best places to visit and activities to do while you’re in the Philippines. So if you’re planning a trip here, use this travel guide as a resource.

Summary of the Philippines

The Philippines is a breathtakingly beautiful country with incredible natural attractions, including stunning beaches, spectacular mountains and volcanoes, colorful coral reefs, impressive waterfalls, and swamps filled with intense wildlife.

But it’s not just nature that makes the Philippines so unique – the country also has vibrant culture and history filled with heritage sites, nature resorts, colonial architecture, and much more. In addition, the Philippines is blessed by two huge mountain ranges – Mount Pulag is the 3rd highest peak in Luzon at over 2 900m – and the numerous archipelago islands it holds.

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience that caters to all travelers – from adventure seekers to beach bums to city sightseers – then look no further than this stunning Southeast Asian nation! From unique marine experiences such as diving Mantabay in coron or pursuing whale sharks off of Donsol’s coast; culture excursions such as tracing Spanish influences seen in vintage churches scattered across each island of the archipelago; or urban explorations for party-goers around Manila – whatever your type of traveler are looking for, you won’t be disappointed.

In summation: the Philippines offers something special for everyone; whether they want sunbathed relaxation on tropical beaches or a challenging adventure through volcanic spires – there is no denying its standing as one of Asia’s premier destinations!

Final Tips for Travelers

Now that you’ve finished our Philippines Travel Guide, here are a few last tips to keep in mind during your travels in the beautiful country!

  • Familiarize yourself with the local culture. Filipinos are proud of their traditions, so they respect local customs and dress modestly.
  • Bring a refillable water bottle and mosquito repellent to ensure your stay is safe and comfortable.
  • Exchange currency before arrival, as ATMs can be scarce or unreliable.
  • Familiarize yourself with medical options. Find out where the nearest hospital or health clinic is located in case of an emergency.
  • Leave your valuables at home or store them safely at your accommodation, as pickpocketing is more common than you may think in busy areas like markets, festivals, and other tourist attractions.
  • Visit outside peak travel times to get better value for money on both airfare and ground transportation, as well as accommodation costs. The Philippines is perfect for budget travelers, so use this opportunity wisely!
  • Most importantly, relax and enjoy Filipino hospitality – it’s all part of having an unforgettable experience!