Paspoort tot de Filipijnen

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.

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. 

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 

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% 

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.

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 

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.