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Philippines

What can I expect from The Philippines?

The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,600 islands, is a tropical paradise where pristine beaches meet vibrant coral reefs, where ancient rice terraces touch the clouds, and where warm smiles and hospitality are a way of life. This Southeast Asian nation offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, shaped by its rich history and diverse cultural heritage.

This island nation stands out in Asia for its unique fusion of Malay, Spanish, American, and Chinese influences, reflected in everything from its cuisine to its festivals. The Philippines offers something for every type of traveler, from the urban energy of Manila to the serene beaches of Palawan, from the chocolate-colored hills of Bohol to the historic streets of Vigan.

For beach and nature enthusiasts, the Philippines is paradise found. The country boasts some of the world’s best diving sites, including the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and hidden lagoons await discovery across its many islands. The underwater world teems with marine life, from the smallest nudibranchs to the gentle whale sharks of Cebu.

Adventure seekers will find plenty to explore. Trek through the rice terraces of the Cordilleras, climb active volcanoes like Mount Mayon, or go caving in Sagada. The country’s topography offers endless opportunities for hiking, surfing, diving, and island hopping.

Filipino cuisine is a delightful surprise for many visitors. Less known internationally than its Southeast Asian neighbors, Filipino food offers unique flavors that blend sweet, sour, and savory. From the famous adobo to the festive lechon, from fresh seafood to exotic fruits, the Philippines presents a culinary adventure that reflects its multicultural heritage.

Whether you’re swimming with whale sharks in Cebu, exploring the Spanish colonial architecture of Intramuros, relaxing on the white beaches of Boracay, or connecting with the warm-hearted locals, the Philippines offers experiences that create lasting memories. It’s a country where each island tells its own story, where natural wonders abound, and where “Filipino hospitality” is more than just a phrase – it’s an experience.

Things to See and Do in The Philippines

    • El Nido: Famous for its lagoons and limestone cliffs
      • Small Lagoon
      • Big Lagoon
      • Secret Beach
      • Island Hopping Tours (Tours A, B, C, D)
  • Coron: World-class wreck diving and pristine lakes
    • Kayangan Lake
    • Twin Lagoons
    • Japanese Shipwrecks
White Beach: Divided into Stations 1, 2, and 3
Puka Shell Beach: More secluded natural beach
D'Mall: Shopping and dining area
Bulabog Beach: Popular for kitesurfing
Kawasan Falls: Multi-tiered waterfall
Oslob: Whale shark watching
Magellan's Cross: Historical landmark
Moalboal: Sardine run and turtle watching
Chocolate Hills: Over 1,200 symmetrical hills
Tarsier Sanctuary: See the world's smallest primates
Loboc River Cruise: Lunch cruise through jungle
Panglao Island: Beautiful beaches and diving
  • Intramuros: Historic walled city
    • Fort Santiago
    • San Agustin Church
    • Manila Cathedral
  • Rizal Park: Historic urban park
  • National Museum: Filipino heritage and art
Banaue Rice Terraces: UNESCO World Heritage site
Batad Rice Terraces: Amphitheater-like terraces
Sagada: Famous for hanging coffins and caves
Cloud 9: Premier surfing spot
Island Hopping: Naked Island, Daku Island, Guyam Island
Sugba Lagoon: Clear water lagoon for paddleboarding

“Whale shark watching”

“Puka Shell Beach”

Typical Costs When Travelling

Food

₱100-300 ($2-6) for local meals
₱300-800 ($6-16) for restaurant meals
₱800+ ($16+) for upscale restaurant meals

Accommodation

Budget: ₱500-1,500 ($10-30) per night for hostels/guesthouses
Mid-range: ₱2,500-5,000 ($50-100) per night for hotels
Luxury: ₱5,000+ ($100+) per night for resorts
Local transportation: Jeepney: ₱9-20 ($0.20-0.40) ; Tricycle: ₱20-100 ($0.40-2) ; Grab/Taxi: Starting at ₱40 ($0.80)
Domestic flights: ₱2,000-8,000 ($40-160)
Ferry between islands: ₱300-2,000 ($6-40)
El Nido Island Hopping Tours: ₱1,200-1,800 ($24-36) per tour
Chocolate Hills Complex Entrance: ₱50 ($1)
Whale Shark Watching in Oslob: ₱1,000 ($20)
Intramuros Walking Tour: ₱1,200 ($24)
Banaue Rice Terraces Guide: ₱1,500-2,000 ($30-40) per day
Coron Island Hopping: ₱1,500-2,000 ($30-40)
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering: ₱1,500 ($30)
Scuba Diving: ₱1,500-3,000 ($30-60) per dive
Surfing Lessons in Siargao: ₱1,500 ($30) per session

Suggested daily budget –

For a mid-range traveler, budget around ₱3,000-5,000 ($60-100) per day. This covers accommodation, meals, local transportation, and some activities.

Money Saving Tips

Visit during shoulder season: June to September for lower prices (but be prepared for some rain)
Stay in guesthouses: Family-run accommodations offer better value
Eat at local carinderia: Small local eateries with home-style Filipino food
Use public transportation: Jeepneys and tricycles are cheap and authentic
Book flights in advance: Domestic flights can be very cheap with early booking
Join group tours: Share costs with other travelers
Negotiate respectfully: Especially for transportation and souvenirs
Get a local SIM card: Much cheaper than international roaming

My Must Have Guides For Traveling

Everything you need to know about the Philippines.

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