Attracting more international travellers every year, the Philippines is an exciting place to visit for first timers. With its idyllic paradise scenes, high-quality resorts, and varied activities suited to all kinds of people including thrill seekers and families, there’s every reason to go and see what the country is all about.
Travelling anywhere for the first time can be made so much easier when you’re in the know, so here are a few handy hints and tips to keep in mind when you’re planning your trip to the Philippines and while you’re busy exploring.
You can get everywhere from Manila
Travelers from Australia and New Zealand will typically enter the country through the capital, Manila. From Manila, you can choose to travel to many off the beaten path locations with the city’s airport providing frequent and convenient flight connections. Budget carriers like Cebu Pacific and full-service airlines such as Philippine Airlines offer flights to a wide range of destinations, from remote barely touched islands to other well-known cities and hubs across the Philippines.
Prepare for the climate at the time of year you’re travelling
The Philippines has a tropical climate with warm temperatures, high humidity, and like many parts of southeast Asia, a distinct wet and dry season with the dry season running from November to May. Depending on the activities you are planning, you should also keep in mind that the Philippines experiences cooler weather from November to February and hotter temperatures from March to May. The cooler season could be ideal for some of the adventure activities the Philippines is known for, like cycling or hiking tours.
The rainy season spans June to October with occasional rainfall and storms. There will still be plenty of sunshine during this period to enjoy the beaches, but while it may not always be the perfect beach weather, the rain is known for enhancing the lush landscapes and many scenic spots around the country.
Don’t miss the must-try experiences when planning your trip
Travelers will discover a diverse range of unique experiences in the Philippines they won’t find anywhere else. You can explore breathtaking natural wonders like the pristine beaches of Palawan, including the turquoise lagoons of El Nido, and the underground river in Puerto Princesa.
For beach lovers, Boracay is the place to go for powdery white sands and a vibrant nightlife, while diving enthusiasts will be spoilt by Tubbataha Reef and Apo Island with their rich marine biodiversity. Away from the beaches and ocean, culture seekers shouldn’t miss the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which showcases ancient agricultural ingenuity.
The Philippines also boasts an annual calendar of vibrant festivals like Cebu’s Sinulog and Aklan’s Ati-Atihan which offer a fun way to experience the country’s traditions. Outdoor adventure activities like hiking and cycling in the highlands and mountains, kayaking the lakes and rivers, and paragliding are also popular among active adventurers, while the Philippines is also a top destination for wellness seekers with a huge variety of retreats and glamping options.
Carry cash with you wherever you go
The Philippines is a largely cash-based economy for everyday transactions, so make sure you have cash on hand to avoid issues when buying food, drinks, or other daily essentials. Fortunately, things like street food or small souvenirs are generally inexpensive compared to other destinations, meaning you won’t need to carry large amounts around with you. It’s also helpful to have smaller denominations available to make paying for things easier, like avoiding difficulties with change, and helping vendors to retain their cash reserves for other customers.
Make the most of the street food and local restaurants
Don’t be afraid to dive into the vibrant street food culture and local dining scene of the Philippines – if you are, you’ll be missing out. Not only is the local street food affordable – typically costing anything from a few cents to a couple of dollars – it’s also a great way to experience authentic Filipino flavours. Look out for popular Filipino favourites like BBQ pork skewers, sweet banana spring rolls (turon), crispy cheese sticks, and creamy coconut milk ice cream (sorbetes).
Avoiding restaurants as a way to save money is also not necessary like it is in many other destinations. Meals at most local establishments in the Philippines are priced similarly to global fast-food chains while they offer much more flavourful and higher quality food.
