Guide to the Philippines

CULTURE & HISTORY:

The Philippines has arguably the most unique, diverse, and dynamic culture in all of Southeast Asia. Being a colony of Spain for over 300 years followed by a wave of American occupation and some influences from its neighboring countries, it is no surprise that the country had become Asia’s melting pot. Filipinos are known to be very warm, cool, friendly, and hospitable that has made the tropical gem one of Asia’s top tourist hot spots.

LOCATION:

With a great many tropical islands to browse, the Philippines is a beach bum's nirvana! There's an island to suit each taste, from marooned slicks of sand in the sea, volcanic dream getaway, hidden lagoons, to rambling mega-islands, the list goes on! you name it, the Philippines have it! if it’s diving or surfing you’re in the mood for or simply some chill time by the beach with an astonishing sunset view, whatever tropical fantasy it is that you have you're certain to never come up short on choices in this excellent archipelago.

TOP THINGS TO DO:

Island hopping

Boatmen all over the Philippines offer a variety of island hopping experiences. So hop til you drop cause there is an array of instagrammable beauts to choose from! google up the Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan, Cebu, Palawan, Boracay, Bohol, and Siargao and that’s just for starters!

Scuba diving

Definitely there's a lot to see under the sea! Situated within the coral triangle, the Philippines has the best scuba diving sites that will blow your mind!

Go beach bumming

I’m sure you’ve heard about Palawan, Boracay, Cebu, Siargao, and Bohol. If you haven’t yet, you’ll learn that these islands aren’t famous for nothing! so #wheninthePhilippines, these places are pretty much the point so don’t miss it!

Hike the Rice Terraces

Where there are beaches there are mountains! So why not try a little hiking or mountain trekking too? ‘cause there’s surely more to the Philippines than gorgeous white sand beaches! It is likewise home to the absolute prettiest mountains. If this is in your bucket list, head North to the mountain regions to climb Batad, and Sagada or the nation's popular rice terraces in Banaue!

Eat local food

Spend less and eat more! In the Philippines, street food is the way to go! Food is cheap and Filipinos love their street food so go ahead and knock yourself out on a street food feast!

TRAVEL TIPS:

Tip #1 - Check for ATMs

don’t assume there’ll be an ATM wherever you go. It’s wiser to always have cash with you just in case.

Tip #2 - Keep Pesos at hand for airport departure charges

Domestic or international airports have terminal charges for around PHP 200 but these can change whenever. You pay it after check-in and until you have the receipt stapled to your ticket, you can't generally continue to the remainder of the air terminal.

Tip #3 - a mosquito repellent is a must have!

And use it regularly. While malaria is now uncommon in most islands, Zika is still prevalent. Most hostels will offer mosquito nets and when they do – use them.

Tip #4 - Pack light

you’ll likely go island hopping so carrying too many bags is a NO NO since there can be a lot of journey segments along the way – like getting on a tricycle, a bus or a boat, – before or after you get to the airport.

Tip #5 - keep a lot of time in traveling between islands

It is wise to commit a whole day to go between islands 'cause transportation can be dreary. Worst-case-scenario the main alternative to move is to fly back to Manila to catch another flight to the next island. Leave as much time as possible while moving around to avoid all the inconvenience. Weather conditions in a tropical nation are unpredictable so anticipate delays, cancellations, traffic – all that stuff we hate.

Tip #6 - Befriend the Filipino locals

good news! Everyone in the Philippines speaks English! some more advanced than others. It’s not hard to find a cool, trustworthy local and since most of them are kind and friendly, you can use that to your advantage!

Tip #7 - Bring all the medication you might need

Pharmacies are in the islands but are not so easy to find so take your mini emergency kits with you. Better safe than sorry.