Philippines
Travel Guide
A tropical paradise with pristine aqua-blue waters, world-class beaches, beautiful culture, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine.
Travel to the Philippines, an archipelago consisting of approximately 7,641 islands. Explore some of the most gorgeous beaches and islands in the world! Snorkel in crystal clear waters, and observe diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs, vibrant fish species, turtles, sharks, and more. Learn about the unique culture and taste the flavors of Filipino cuisine. Find out more about popular places like Cebu, Palawan, and hidden gems. We will share everything you need to know about the main destinations, top attractions, hotels, food, transportation, travel requirements, comprehensive travel guides, and more!
What You Need To Know
Language
Tagalog is the main language spoken in the Philippines. English is also commonly spoken in the Philippines making it easier for tourists to communicate while traveling, especially in tourist destinations.
Entry Requirements
Upon arrival in the Philippines, you are granted a free 30-day visa, which can be extended for an additional 30 days online for approximately ₱3,030 or around $54 USD. Proof of vaccination or a test result is not required for entry.
Currency
The main currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP), symbolized as ₱, with common banknotes including ₱20, ₱50, ₱100, ₱500, and ₱1000 denominations.
Outlets
The power plugs used in the Philippines typically are Type A or Type B sockets, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 60Hz. It’s also recommended to carry a universal adapter with many outlet variations which is useful for international travel.
The Philippines does not currently have a tax refund system for tourists. However, a VAT refund is expected to be implemented in 2024 to provide a 12% VAT Tax refund to tourists for eligible purchases over 3,000 within 60 days of leaving the country.
In the Philippines, tipping is common and appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for various services. A typical tip is around 10% of the bill, but it can vary based on the level of service and local customs.
Tap water is not safe to drink in the Philippines. It’s recommended to drink bottled or purified water to avoid the risk of waterborne illnesses.
When is the best time to visit Philippines?
The best time to visit the Philippines is between November to April. There are two distinct seasons in the Philippines, a dry season from November to April, ideal for clear skies and outdoor activities, and a wet monsoon season from May to October, which can offer budget-friendly travel opportunities because there are fewer tourists.
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Philippines
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