The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,600 islands, located in Southeast Asia. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, rich culture, and friendly people, the country is a paradise for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Capital: Manila
Official Languages: Filipino and English
Currency: Philippine Peso (₱ / PHP)
Population: ~115 million
Time Zone: GMT +8
Best For: Island hopping, diving, surfing, food, and festivals

☀️ Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (Best Time): November – May
  Perfect for beaches, island hopping, and sightseeing.

• Rainy Season: June – October
  Expect heavy rain and occasional typhoons, but fewer crowds and lower prices.

Tip: Visit between December and April for the best weather and calm seas.

🛬 Getting There & Around

✈️ Air Travel

• Main International Airports:

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) – Manila

  • Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) – Cebu

  • Clark International Airport (CRK) – Pampanga

Direct flights connect the Philippines with major Asian, Middle Eastern, and some European cities.

🚐 Getting Around

• Domestic flights: Best for long distances (Manila–Cebu–Palawan–Boracay).

• Ferries: Connect major islands (2GO, OceanJet).

• Jeepneys & Tricycles: Cheap and iconic local transport.

• Grab app: Reliable rideshare service in major cities.

🏝️ Top Destinations

1. Palawan

• Home to El Nido and Coron, famous for limestone cliffs, lagoons, and diving spots.

• Puerto Princesa’s Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Boracay

• World-famous White Beach, nightlife, and water sports.

• Recently restored for sustainable tourism — clean, organized, and stunning.

3. Cebu

• Great balance of city life and nature.

• Swim with whale sharks in Oslob and chase waterfalls in Kawasan Falls.

4. Bohol

• Visit the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and stunning white beaches.

5. Siargao

• Surfing capital of the Philippines, famous for Cloud 9 waves.

• Chill island vibes, lagoons, and mangrove forests.

6. Manila

• Bustling capital city with history and culture.

• Explore Intramuros, Rizal Park, and modern malls.

🍛 What to Eat

Philippine cuisine is a fusion of Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. Don’t miss:

• Adobo – Chicken or pork stewed in vinegar and soy sauce

• Sinigang – Sour tamarind soup

• Lechon – Whole roasted pig

• Halo-halo – Shaved ice dessert with milk and mixed toppings

• Balut – A famous (or infamous!) fertilized duck egg snack

💸 Budget & Costs

Tips:

• ATMs widely available, but carry cash on remote islands.

• Tipping: 5–10% is appreciated but not mandatory.

🏨 Where to Stay

• Budget: Hostels ($10–20/night)

• Mid-range: Boutique hotels & resorts ($40–100/night)

• Luxury: Beachfront villas & 5-star resorts ($150–400/night)

📱 Connectivity

• Local SIM cards: Globe and Smart (buy at airport).

• Wi-Fi is common in cafes and hotels, though sometimes slow in remote areas.

⚕️ Safety & Health

• The Philippines is generally safe for tourists.

• Watch belongings in crowded areas.

• Avoid isolated beaches at night.

• Stay updated on local weather and travel advisories during typhoon season.

• Vaccinations: Routine shots + Hepatitis A recommended.

• Drink bottled water only.

💬 Useful Phrases (Filipino / Tagalog)

📅 Top Festivals to Experience

• Sinulog Festival (Cebu) – January

• Ati-Atihan (Kalibo) – January

• Panagbenga (Baguio) – February

• MassKara (Bacolod) – October

• Pahiyas (Lucban) – May

🧭 Travel Tips

✅ Bring reef-safe sunscreen — protect marine life.
✅ Always carry small bills (₱20, ₱50, ₱100).
✅ Book flights & ferries early in peak season.
✅ Respect local customs and dress modestly in rural or religious areas.
✅ Learn a few Tagalog phrases — locals appreciate it!