With over 7000 idyllic islands, some of the world’s best scuba diving and surfing, a rich and diverse cultural history as well as some of the world’s most famously friendly locals, it is rather surprising that the Philippines remains a relatively undiscovered holiday destination. This vast archipelago is characterised by lush, jungle-clad mountains, exquisite beaches and crystal clear waters. Culturally inclined visitors can explore myriad mystical tribal villages, ancient rice terraces, and crumbling Spanish churches while food lovers can indulge in the renowned Filipino cuisine, which is an eclectic mix of culinary ideas borrowed from the varied cultures that have influenced the country: Malays, Polynesians, Chinese, Spanish and of course the warm and welcoming native islanders. Whether you are keen laze about in the sun, get involved in some adventurous watersports, or get in touch with your inner culture vulture, this remarkable archipelago has so many varied islands to offer that you should have no trouble finding your own little piece of paradise.
Betalingen en Wisselkoersen
Currency
Local currency: Philippine Peso
Symbol: ₱
ISO code: PHP
Subunit: Centavo
Banknotes: ₱20, ₱50, ₱100, ₱200, ₱500, ₱1000
Coins: 1₱, 5₱, 10₱
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited
Diner’s club: Limited
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes (Hours may vary)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
*Check the specific hours of local banks for the most accurate information.
Reizen en Plaatselijk Transport
Air:
Main airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air
International Airports: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila), Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Cebu)
Domestic Airports: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila), Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Cebu), Clark International Airport (Angeles City), Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Limited
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Eten, Drinken en Culinair Advies
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Philippine cuisine is a diverse blend of flavors influenced by Chinese, Spanish, Malay, and American cultures. Some highlights include adobo (marinated meat), sinigang (sour soup), and lechon (roast pig). Notable local drinks include San Miguel Beer and Tanduay Rum.
Tipping: 10%
Klimaat en Weersomstandigheden
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 26°C
Summer:
Average highs: 32°C
Average lows: 24°C
Winter:
Average highs: 29°C
Average lows: 21°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit the Philippines is from November to April when the weather is dry and cooler.
Kledingvoorschriften
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General:
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internetbeschikbaarheid
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Netspanning en Telefonie
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 220V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.