Travel Tips for Visiting the Philippines
With the exception of some parts of western Mindanao in Philippines’ south area, this country is a safe Travel destination as long as you’ll be careful and you are knowledgeable of the best travel trips.
Once you arrive at the airport, there are banks between customs and immigration. Get bills like 50 or 20 notes as these are important when giving tips and riding on taxis. There is plenty to see and do around Manila the capital city of the Philippines before hitting other places. However, if you want to know what Philippines has to offer, travelling south can make a difference in your travel experience. You can visit spots like Boracay or you can also visit quieter and beautiful places such as Vigan, Baguio, Tagaytay, Siquijor, Palawan, Camiguin, and Bohol.
There are other things to know when travelling to the Philippines and these include:
Language
The country’s language is Filipino or popularly known as Tagalog. There are over 111 dialects spoken in the Philippines. But, there’s nothing you should worry about if you are thinking of language barrier as majority of Filipinos are bilingual. Filipinos are also good in English language.
Tipping
This is expected for most services, yet whether you tip or not is actually up to you. Generally, restaurant staff will expect one, though there’s a service charge included. It is also a nice gesture to tip your guide, but again it’s discretional.
Foods and Drinks
Filipino foods are a tasteful, exotic fusion of European, American, and Oriental culinary influences with a range of delectable fruits and fresh seafood. Adobo is the national dish, which is often prepared in pork or chicken or both, simmered in vinegar and soy with black pepper and garlic.
Lechon de leche is another delicacy of the Philippines and it’s a roasted suckling pig. Crispy pata is also a tasty delicacy you should try. If you’re the type of person who loves seafood, fish dishes are great as well. However, most fish delicacies are better in the provinces of the country. Other than that, almost all dishes are served with rice and Western food is widely available in the Philippines.
Expenses and Money
Peso is the Philippine currency. US dollars are widely accepted form of money and banks won’t change sterling or the euros. American Express, MasterCard, Diners Club, and Visa are accepted throughout Manila and some major cities. You may also withdraw cash from ATMS in cities or small towns 24 hours.
Etiquette and Social Conventions
Filipinos are very friendly, outgoing, and cheerful. They will ask you some personal questions without considering it as a rude gesture. They are sociable and would offer to share a meal or drink. Filipinos also have a sense of humor and good behavior, particularly with women and elders. Those that do not speak English might answer your question with a nod of the head, which means yes, maybe or no.
When traveling to the Philippines, always have fun and enjoy the moment for you to make most of your travel experience. Also, keep those traveling tips in mind to avoid any inconvenience.
Like any trip, you’ll get the most out of it by learning all you can before you arrive. Hope these tips are helpful, if I missed anything please leave a comment.
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