Philippines travel tips for first-timers: What to know

The Philippines isn’t just one destination – it’s over 7,000 of them. You’ll find volcano hikes and waterfall dives, chaotic cities and sleepy surf towns, coral reefs that beg for snorkel gear, and food that’s best ordered with zero expectations (and then totally wins you over). Manila might overwhelm you at first, but stick around and you’ll find rhythm in the mess. Out on the islands, life slows to a different beat – one that often involves rum, karaoke, and the world’s warmest welcomes. These Philippines travel tips will help you cut through the confusion, dodge the obvious, and get to the good stuff faster.

When is the best time to visit the Philippines?

Wondering when’s the best time to visit the Philippines? It depends on what you’re after – perfect beach weather, cheaper travel, or dodging tropical storms. The country has two main seasons: dry and wet. But with thousands of islands stretched across the Pacific, expect some regional curveballs.

• Dry season (December to May) is the safest bet – clear skies, calm seas, and island-hopping in full swing. January and February are cooler, so it is great for hiking in the north or exploring volcanoes like Mayon. Come March to May, it’s hotter and drier – ideal for diving and sunbathing, but bring serious sun protection.
• Wet season (June to early November) brings heavy rains and the odd typhoon, especially in Luzon and the east. Travel can get messy – delays, cancellations, sudden floods. But it’s not all bad: prices drop, nature turns lush, and you’ll share beaches with far fewer people. Palawan and parts of Mindanao stay drier, so it’s not a complete write-off.
• November and late May can be in-between zones. You might get lucky with sunshine – or rained out. Keep an eye on local forecasts and be ready to switch gears.

Is the Philippines expensive?

Short answer: It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. The Philippines isn’t the cheapest country in Southeast Asia, but it offers solid value – especially if you eat like a local and skip the Instagram traps.

Island-hopping tours, diving trips, and fancy beachfront stays will eat into your budget fast. A day tour in El Nido or Coron can run $25-$40, and diving’s even steeper. Resorts in Boracay or Siargao aren’t shy about charging Western prices either.

• Shoestring travelers can get by on around $30-50 a day with some effort. Dorm beds, tricycle rides, and plates of adobo or pancit from a local carinderia go a long way. Just be ready for occasional surprise costs – like terminal fees or pricey boat transfers.
• Mid-range budgets ($60-100/day) get you clean guesthouses, air-con vans instead of sweaty buses, and the odd island tour. You’ll also have room for more varied food – lechon, fresh seafood, and the occasional craft cocktail.
• Splashing out? You’ll find sleek boutique hotels, private island stays, and chartered boats ready to lighten your wallet. Spa treatments, sunset sails, and multi-course tasting menus are all there – if you’re paying.

Is the Philippines safe for travelers?

Generally, yes – but stay switched on. The Philippines is safe for most travelers, especially if you stick to common sense and stay aware of your surroundings. The vast majority of trips go smoothly, and locals tend to be warm, friendly, and helpful. Still, there are a few things worth knowing before you hit the ground, these essential Philippines travel tips will help you avoid hassle and travel smarter.

Crime and personal safety

Violent crime against tourists is rare, but petty theft is common, especially in crowded cities like Manila or Cebu. Pickpockets love jeepneys, bus terminals, and busy festivals. Scams happen too – overpriced taxis, fake tour operators, or that guy who just wants to “help you” at the ATM.

Solo female travelers are generally safe, but catcalling or staring isn’t unusual. Modest dress helps in rural or conservative areas, but confidence and street smarts go further.

To stay safe:

• Keep your phone and bag close, especially in cities and transit hubs.
• Don’t walk alone late at night in unfamiliar areas – grab a Grab (ride app) instead.
• Count your change and double-check prices before handing over cash.
• Avoid political rallies or large demonstrations – they can get tense fast.

Regional risks and natural hazards

Forget the headlines about terrorism in the south – Mindanao is a huge region, and only a small part of it is off-limits. The usual travel no-go zones are well-publicized; just check the latest government advisories before going deep south.

Typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanoes are real risks. Storms hit hardest from July to October, and flooding can disrupt travel across islands. Keep tabs on forecasts and don’t ignore evacuation notices – they’re not just suggestions.

Culture, customs, and respect

The Philippines is laid-back, but there are still a few unwritten rules:

• Don’t lose your temper – shouting or complaining loudly is a no-go. Keep it calm and polite.
• Modesty goes a long way in churches, markets, and small towns.
• LGBTQ+ travelers are widely accepted in big cities, but conservative attitudes still linger in some areas. Be mindful of local vibes.
• Bribes are illegal – but small “fees” at checkpoints or ports still happen. Don’t argue, but don’t offer either.

Do you need a visa for the Philippines?

For many travelers, no visa is needed to visit the Philippines – at least not right away. The country has a generous visa-free policy, especially for short stays, but rules still vary by nationality and how long you plan to hang around.

Visa-free entry and tourist visas

Citizens of over 150 countries – including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe – can enter the Philippines without a visa for stays up to 30 days. All you need is a passport valid for at least six months and a confirmed onward ticket (yes, they do check).

Want to stay longer? You can extend your stay in 29-day chunks at any Bureau of Immigration office. It's not hard, just bureaucratic – bring your passport, fill out some forms, and pay the fee (around $60 for the first extension). You can keep extending up to 36 months total, though expect more paperwork the longer you stay.

Visa on arrival and e-visa?

There’s no visa on arrival in the traditional sense. If you’re not eligible for visa-free entry, you’ll need to apply in advance through the Philippine embassy or consulate in your country. There’s talk of a proper e-visa system, but progress is slow – check the latest before you book.

How to stay healthy while traveling in the Philippines?

Looking for Philippines travel health tips? Start with the basics: avoid mosquito bites, stay cool, and use common sense around food and water. Big cities like Manila and Cebu have decent hospitals and clinics, but once you're off to island villages or mountain trails, it’s a different story. Be prepared – especially if you're venturing far from the main tourist routes.

Medical care and pharmacies

Private hospitals in major cities – like Makati Medical Center or Chong Hua in Cebu – offer good care. But once you’re beyond urban areas, clinics can be under-equipped or closed altogether. Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is a smart move.

Pharmacies (called botikas) are common even in smaller towns. Most everyday medications are sold over the counter, and staff usually speak English. Still, pack anything essential – especially for allergies, asthma, or chronic conditions.

Vaccinations and prep

No jabs are required to enter, but a travel clinic visit is worth your time. Recommended:

• Tetanus – For cuts, scrapes, or coral scratches.
• Hepatitis A – Spread through food and water.
• Hepatitis B – If you're staying a while or getting medical care.
• Typhoid – Useful if you're eating local food or heading rural.
• Rabies – Optional, but good if you’ll be around animals or trekking.

There’s no major malaria risk in tourist hotspots, but check for updates if you're going to Palawan or the deep south.

Water, food, and gut survival

Don’t trust tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered – even for brushing your teeth. Hotels usually provide it, and convenience stores have it on every corner.

Food is generally safe, especially if it’s cooked fresh and served hot. Street food’s part of the fun – just go where there’s a crowd and fast turnover. Be wary of:

• Raw shellfish and anything that’s been sitting in the sun.
• Salads and fruit you didn’t peel yourself.
• Ice in drinks unless you're sure it’s purified.

If things go sideways, pharmacies carry antidiarrheals and rehydration salts, or bring a few from home.

Heat, sun, and tropical hazards

Humidity hits hard. You’ll sweat through your clothes by noon, especially in the cities or on volcano hikes. Heat exhaustion is a real risk.

• Drink water constantly, not just when you feel thirsty.
• Wear breathable clothing and go slow mid-afternoon.
• Use sunscreen even on overcast days – UV here is brutal.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are the biggest health nuisance. Dengue is common and there’s no vaccine for tourists, so prevention is key.

• Use repellent with DEET or picaridin – every day.
• Sleep with a net or in rooms with screens if you’re outside the city.
• Cover up at dusk, especially near standing water or rice fields.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting the Philippines

The Philippines is easygoing on the surface, but understanding cultural etiquette in the Philippines can save you from awkward moments. It’s a mix of Asian tradition, Spanish influence, and American pop culture – but scratch past the karaoke and jeepneys, and you’ll find a society where politeness, pride, and personal space all matter.

You don’t need to overthink it. Just come with respect, curiosity, and a little humility.

Dress modestly – but not overly formal

The Philippines isn’t conservative in the strictest sense, but modest dress is still the norm, especially in churches, rural areas, and traditional communities.

• Women: shorts and tank tops are fine in beach towns, but cover up when heading inland or visiting religious sites.
• Men: leave the shirtless look for the beach (and even there, locals rarely go bare-chested).

Heading into a church? Wear sleeves and avoid short shorts or skirts. Nobody will yell, but you’ll get the side-eye.

Greetings and local manners

Filipinos are famously friendly, but respect goes hand in hand with warmth.

• A handshake or nod works as a greeting. With elders, a slight bow or saying “mano po” (a gesture of respect) might earn you points.
• Titles matter. Use “Sir,” “Ma’am,” or “Kuya” (older brother) and “Ate” (older sister) when addressing people – it’s polite and expected.
• Smiling is practically a national language. So is indirectness – most people won’t say “no” outright, so read between the lines.

If you’re invited into someone’s home (it happens often), take off your shoes, bring snacks or sweets, and don’t refuse food – it’s rude, even if you’re full.

Public behavior: laid-back, but not lawless

Filipino society values composure. Loud arguments, public affection, or showing frustration in public (especially with staff) won’t go over well.

• Drinking is legal and often social, but being rowdy in public is frowned upon.
• PDA like hugging or kissing is fine in tourist areas, but dial it down in public transport or small towns.
• Swearing loudly, mocking religion, or insulting Filipino pride? Big no.

Food culture: share and smile

Filipinos love to eat – and they love it when you join in.

• Meals are often communal. Say “kain tayo” (“let’s eat”) before digging in, even if it’s symbolic.
• Don’t take the last piece without offering it around first.
• Use a spoon and fork – locals rarely eat with their hands unless it’s a special meal like a boodle fight (a feast eaten by hand on banana leaves).

Left hand isn’t taboo, but try not to point with your finger – use your lips or your whole hand instead (yes, lip-pointing is a thing).

Religion and local customs

The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, but religion is deeply personal and woven into daily life.

• Sunday is a major church day – expect packed services and slow mornings.
• Don’t make jokes about the church, Jesus, or the Virgin Mary – faith is a serious matter here.
• You’ll also see fiestas, processions, and shrines everywhere. Feel free to watch, just be respectful.

Muslim communities, especially in Mindanao, follow different customs – dress more modestly and ask before entering mosques or homes.

Tipping and gestures

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated:

• In restaurants, leave 5-10% unless service charge is already included.
• For porters, guides, and drivers, a few pesos go a long way.
• Round up taxi or Grab fares if the driver was helpful or didn’t try to hustle you.

Is the Philippines a good destination for families?

Yes – if your family likes beaches, boat rides, and spontaneous karaoke, the Philippines can be a great choice. It’s not Disney-level organized, but it’s warm, welcoming, and full of adventure. Just be ready for heat, unpredictable transport, and the occasional power cut.

The vibe is family-first across the country – kids are doted on, locals will chat with them everywhere, and no one will blink if your toddler’s melting down in public. Just plan with some flexibility and patience – these family-focused Philippines travel tips will help you make the most of it.

Where to go with kids in the Philippines

Cebu hits the sweet spot between beach and city. You’ll find child-friendly resorts, waterfall treks like Kawasan Falls, and snorkel spots where even beginners can spot clownfish. Island-hopping to nearby Bohol adds tarsier sanctuaries and chocolate hills to the mix.

Palawan is an obvious draw, especially El Nido and Coron. Boat tours, clear lagoons, and chill beach days are kid-friendly, but younger kids might struggle with long boat rides or rough sea days – go when it’s calm (dry season) and book private tours if you can.

Boracay is back in business, cleaner and more family-friendly than before. Calm waters, soft sand, and a walkable beachfront make it a safe bet for little ones. Bigger resorts have pools, kids’ clubs, and babysitters.

Baguio or Sagada in the mountains are cooler escapes from the heat, with scenic hikes, caves, and fresh strawberries. Just beware of winding roads – motion sickness is real.

Manila is chaotic, but it has kid-friendly museums, air-conditioned malls with play areas, and historical sights like Intramuros and Rizal Park. It’s best as a stopover, not a base.

Getting around and where to stay

When it comes to getting around the Philippines, don’t expect stroller-friendly sidewalks or seamless connections. Strollers and Philippine sidewalks don’t mix – baby carriers are more useful, especially in crowded cities or rural towns with uneven paths. Most public transport isn’t stroller-accessible, and buses or jeepneys won’t wait for you to fold one up.

Taxis and Grab (the local ride app) are the most convenient options in cities. Just note that car seats are rare, so bring your own if safety’s a priority.

Flying between islands saves time, and domestic flights are frequent, but delays aren’t uncommon, so leave room in your schedule. Ferries are the budget alternative, but they’re slower and can be rough – less ideal if your kids get seasick or restless.

Hotels run the gamut from basic inns to full-on resort mode. Family rooms and triple-sharing setups are common, though not always advertised clearly – check directly if you need cots or extra beds. Bigger resorts usually come with pools, breakfast buffets, and enough space for kids to burn off steam.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Filipino food is easygoing and often kid-approved – fried chicken, rice, noodles, BBQ skewers, and tropical fruits are hits with picky eaters. Portions are generous and locals are used to sharing meals.

You’ll find diapers, wipes, and formula in supermarkets and pharmacies in cities. Rural areas? Bring your own. Local snacks (banana chips, dried mango, skyflakes) make great travel bribes.

Public bathrooms can be basic. No changing tables, so bring a mat and hand sanitizer.

Safety and health tips for families

The Philippines is generally safe, but some travel-with-kids basics apply:

• Heat and humidity are relentless – hydrate constantly and take AC breaks.
• Sunscreen is expensive locally – bring your own.
• Mosquitoes love tropical evenings. Use repellent, especially near water or rice fields.
• Tap water isn’t drinkable. Stick to bottled for drinking and brushing teeth.
• Traffic is unpredictable – hold hands and cross carefully, even at marked crossings.

Medical care is decent in big cities – St. Luke’s and The Medical City in Manila are reliable. In smaller towns, expect limited equipment and long waits. Pharmacies are everywhere, and staff usually speak English.

What are the best places to visit in the Philippines

Looking for the best places to visit in the Philippines? Whether you’re after jungle hikes, diving reefs, or a hammock with a view, the Philippines delivers in spades. This is your cheat sheet to the islands, towns, and coastlines that deserve a spot on your itinerary – including a few that fly under the radar.

• Palawan – Regularly topping lists of the best islands in the Philippines, Palawan is where dramatic limestone cliffs meet electric-blue water. Base yourself in El Nido for island-hopping or head to Coron for wreck dives and hot springs. Port Barton is the quieter cousin – just as scenic, half the crowds.
• Siargao – The surf capital, but it’s not just for board riders. Palm-fringed roads, tidal rock pools, and laid-back island life make it a favorite. General Luna is the hub, with easy side trips to Sugba Lagoon and the mangroves.
• Bohol – A balance of beach and adventure. Inland, you’ll find the surreal Chocolate Hills and tiny bug-eyed tarsiers. Panglao Island is where to crash – its Alona Beach ranks among the best beaches in the Philippines for diving and snorkeling.
• Cebu – A central jumping-off point for both cultural sites and natural wonders. Check out colonial-era landmarks in Cebu City, then head south for sardine runs in Moalboal, canyoning at Kawasan Falls, or snorkeling with whale sharks (ethics debated) in Oslob.
• Boracay – Once a cautionary tale, now a comeback story. Cleaned up and better regulated, White Beach is still one of the best beaches in the Philippines for sunsets, cocktails, and powdery sand. Day trips to nearby islands add extra bang for your boat buck.
• Banaue and Batad – Far from the beach, deep in the Cordillera mountains. These ancient rice terraces are carved into the slopes and still farmed today. Batad is especially stunning, but you'll need to hike in—bring stamina and a good rain jacket.
• Camiguin – Tiny but packed with volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs. Known as the “Island Born of Fire,” it’s perfect if you want an adventurous escape without tourist crowds. Snorkel around the sunken cemetery or hike up Mt. Hibok-Hibok.
• Baguio – Up in the highlands, this mountain town is a break from the heat. It’s not flashy, but the pine forests, fresh strawberries, and cool air make it a popular local retreat – especially in summer.
• Davao – Low-key but well-organized. Good for families and travelers who want a clean, safe city with easy access to nature. Mt. Apo, the country’s highest peak, is just outside town. Try the durian – if you dare.
• Manila – Gritty, messy, and misunderstood. It's chaotic, but also full of history, food, and character. Explore the Spanish-era streets of Intramuros, eat your way through Binondo (the world’s oldest Chinatown), then escape to the islands.

How long to spend in the Philippines?

It’s tempting to treat the Philippines like a tropical pit stop – but that’s a mistake. With thousands of islands, limited transport options, and ferry delays that don't care about your schedule, slow travel wins here. Add in jet lag, weather curveballs, and the fact that it takes half a day to get anywhere, and you’ll wish you gave yourself more time.

Before you book, ask:

• Are you just here for beaches, or do you want culture, food, volcano hikes, and reef dives too?
• How many domestic flights or boat rides are you actually willing to take?
• Are you chasing off-grid islands, or keeping it simple with well-connected hubs?

Rough timing breakdown

• 5-7 days – Enough for one region, max. Pick either Palawan, Cebu + Bohol, or Siargao – not all three. You’ll fly in, do a few island-hopping trips, squeeze in a beach day, and fly back out. It’ll feel rushed, but doable.
• 10-14 days – The sweet spot. You can hit two regions without burning out. Palawan + Coron is a natural pairing, or do Cebu + Bohol + Siquijor. Add a night or two in Manila or Cebu City for food and history, and you’ve got a well-rounded trip.
• 3 weeks – Time to mix it up. You’ll be able to visit multiple islands without feeling like you live at the airport. Think Luzon rice terraces + Palawan + a beach break on Siargao or Camiguin. Add some wiggle room for typhoon season if you're going mid-year.
• 1 month or more – Now you’re really traveling. Explore the Cordillera mountains up north, dive in Apo Reef, wander small towns no one’s posting about yet, and have actual beach days with zero plans. Long-term stays mean deeper cultural experiences – and way fewer “pack and go” mornings.

What’s the best way to plan a Philippines itinerary?

Planning a trip to the Philippines is less about ticking boxes and more about understanding how travel actually works here. On the map, everything looks close – but don’t be fooled. Ferries are slow, flights get delayed, and “just one more island” often means three transport connections. If you want a trip that flows (instead of frays your nerves), start by choosing fewer places and giving them more time.

The best Philippines itinerary mixes fast-paced fun with downtime. Island-hop one day, sink into a hammock the next. The goal isn’t to do everything – it’s to enjoy what you do without always racing the clock.

Start with how long you’ve got

Time makes or breaks a good trip here. Too short and you’ll feel rushed. Too long in transit, and you’ll wonder if the beach was worth the 6-hour van ride.

• 1 week – Stick to one region: Palawan or Cebu + Bohol or Siargao. Don’t try to mix and match – you’ll spend more time in airports than in the sea.
• 10-14 days – You’ve got room to breathe. You can combine two hubs – say, El Nido + Coron, or Cebu + Siquijor + Bohol—without collapsing from ferry fatigue.
• 3 weeks or more – That’s when things get good. You’ll have time for offbeat spots like Camiguin, the Cordillera rice terraces, or Apo Reef. Expect to move slower, but deeper.

Match your destinations to your travel style

The Philippines is huge, diverse, and hard to do “all at once.” Focus on what actually excites you – not just what’s trending on TikTok.

Into beaches and blue water?

• Palawan (El Nido, Coron, Port Barton) – remote islands, epic lagoons, wreck dives.
• Siargao – surf, sea, and relaxed vibes.
• Boracay – clean white sand, cocktails, sunset strolls.

Want to explore the best islands in the Philippines?

• Bohol – mix of beaches, tarsiers, and inland oddities like the Chocolate Hills.
• Camiguin – compact but packed with hot springs, volcanoes, and waterfalls.
• Siquijor – laid-back island with caves, cliff jumps, and a spooky-fun reputation.

Prefer mountains, culture, or cooler weather?

• Banaue and Batad – UNESCO-listed rice terraces and mountain treks.
• Sagada – caves, hanging coffins, misty pine forests.
• Baguio – the cool-weather escape with food markets and local crafts.

City time?

• Manila – chaotic, yes, but full of stories. Eat in Binondo, explore Intramuros, then move on.
• Cebu City – smaller and more manageable, with good food and quick access to beaches.

Getting around the Philippines: plan it, don’t wing it

Transport is where most itineraries fall apart. Ferries get canceled. Flights run late. Buses break down.

• Flights – Book in advance if you’re traveling on weekends or around holidays. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines are the big players.
• Ferries – Can be scenic but slow. Only use for shorter crossings (like Bohol to Siquijor).
• Jeepneys, vans, tricycles – Fun but chaotic. Great for local flavor, not great for long hauls.
• Renting a scooter – Easy on small islands, but avoid in big cities unless you like near-death experiences.

Think about the season

Weather in the Philippines is a big deal. Ignore it and you might spend your beach week under a tarp.

• Dry season (December-May) – Best weather. More tourists, higher prices, but worth it.
• Rainy season (June-October) – Hit or miss. Some days are sunny, some are typhoon-level chaos. Be flexible.
• Shoulder months (May and November) – Good balance of price and weather, but still bring a rain jacket.

Book the big stuff, leave space for spontaneity

Secure your flights, ferries, and first few nights of accommodation. Then stay loose. The Philippines works well for travelers who go with the flow – and poorly for those with rigid schedules.

Book ahead:

• Domestic flights (especially around holidays)
• High-demand ferries (El Nido-Coron, Cebu-Bohol)
• Top resorts or remote eco-lodges
• Dive trips, surf lessons, or big tours

Winging it works for:

• Local guesthouses and hostels
• Island tours (book when you arrive – it’s cheaper)
• Hiring guides, scooters, or drivers

How to slow travel in the Philippines

If you're island-hopping on a tight schedule, you’re doing it wrong. The Philippines isn’t built for rushing – ferries run late, rainstorms pop up uninvited, and the best moments happen when you're not looking for them. Slow travel in the Philippines means fewer destinations, deeper experiences, and time to actually connect – with people, food, and the land (and sea) beneath your feet.

Start in Manila or Cebu – but don’t just transit through. Intramuros, Binondo, and Quiapo in Manila are full of living history. Cebu City has vibrant markets and Spanish-era architecture. Both are chaotic, yes – but they’re also real, raw, and full of stories. Take a walk. Eat street food. Get a haircut. Watch life unfold.

Choose islands that make sense together. Palawan and Coron? Great. Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor? Easy. Siargao and Camiguin? Doable. But combining El Nido, Banaue, and Siargao in one trip? You’ll burn out before your tan sets in.

Stay longer in one spot. Rent a motorbike and explore backroads. Chat with your sari-sari store lady. Say yes when a local invites you to lunch, a fiesta, or a karaoke session. Those are the moments you’ll remember.

Skip the chain resorts. Try beach huts in Siquijor, mountain homestays in Batad, or eco-lodges in Camiguin. Comfort matters, but so does character.

Let go of the checklist. You don’t need to see “everything.” You just need to see something well.

Key to slow travel in the Philippines?

• Accept delays. You can’t out-schedule a typhoon.
• Pack less, stay longer.
• Talk to locals. English is widely spoken – use it.
• Make room for unplanned adventures. That random jeepney ride might be the highlight of your trip.

How to handle money and payments in the Philippines

The Philippines runs on a mix of cash, cards, and crossed fingers. You can pay by card in cities and malls, but step outside the urban grid – or even into a beach shack – and you’ll need pesos in your pocket.

• The currency is the Philippine peso (PHP). Locals often just say “five hundred” or “one thousand” without the word “peso.”
• ATMs are everywhere in cities, but can be flaky or run dry in smaller towns and islands. Bring a backup card, and always get cash before heading to a remote area.
• Stick to ATMs from big banks like BDO, BPI, or Metrobank. They’re more reliable and have better security. Some machines limit withdrawals to ₱10,000-₱20,000 per transaction (about $175-350), and fees vary by bank.
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants. Outside of those? Not so much. Tricycle drivers, sari-sari stores, boat tours, and carinderias (local eateries) are strictly cash-only.
• Currency exchange is easy in cities – banks, money changers, and some hotels offer decent rates. Avoid airport exchanges unless you need a small amount for transport.
• Tipping isn’t required, but it’s appreciated – especially in service jobs. Round up your bill or leave 5-10% at restaurants. Tip guides, boatmen, or drivers around ₱50–₱100 if they’ve been helpful.

What are the most common scams?

The Philippines is generally friendly and safe, but like anywhere with tourism, a few scams float around, especially in big cities and transport hubs. Most are more annoying than dangerous, but staying alert helps you avoid them altogether. Keep these tips for traveling in the Philippines in mind, and you’ll steer clear of the most common pitfalls.

• Taxi meter “issues” – Classic move: “The meter’s broken,” or it’s conveniently not turned on. Insist on the meter, or better yet, use Grab (the local ride app). Always agree on a price if you’re in a tricycle or local van (van for hire).
• Overpriced island tours – Some “all-in” island-hopping tours hide add-on fees like snorkel rentals, “entrance” fees, or lunch. Book through your hotel or a reputable agency, and double-check what’s included.
• Currency switcheroo – You hand over a ₱1,000 note, and they “accidentally” give you change for ₱100. It’s rare, but watch your bills and count your change, especially in crowded markets or late at night.
• Fake tour guides – Around big attractions like Intramuros or the Chocolate Hills, unofficial guides may approach offering “local stories.” Some are legit, many are not. Stick to official tour desks or ask your hotel to connect you.
• Rental damage scams – With scooters, motorbikes, or even kayaks, you return the gear and get accused of “damaging” it. Take photos before you ride or paddle, and don’t hand over your passport as collateral – use a cash deposit instead.
• “Friendly local” hustle – A stranger chats you up, then conveniently leads you to a friend’s shop, a casino, or a bar with absurd drink prices. If someone seems too helpful or charming out of the blue, trust your instincts.

If something feels off? Smile, say no thanks, and walk away. Filipinos are generally polite, and firm but friendly gets you further than a confrontation.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in the Philippines?

The Philippines is as generous with its hospitality as it is vulnerable to the downsides of tourism – pollution, overdevelopment, and resource strain. Being a responsible traveler here means staying aware, giving back, and treading lightly.

• Dress modestly (when it counts) – Beachwear is fine – on the beach. But when you’re away from the coast, especially in churches, rural towns, or Muslim-majority areas like parts of Mindanao, covering shoulders and knees shows basic respect.
• Learn a few local phrases – Filipinos speak excellent English, but even just a “salamat” (thank you) or “magandang umaga” (good morning) goes a long way. It’s not expected – it’s appreciated.
• Support local, not imported – Skip the plastic keychains. Look for local crafts, weavings, and delicacies – especially in places like Ilocos, Baguio, or Mindanao. Buy from markets, small shops, and community-based tourism projects.
• Respect nature and heritage – Don’t litter, seriously. Some island towns and mountain villages still struggle with waste management. Stick to trails when hiking. Don’t carve your name into trees, rocks, or ruins. Coral is not a souvenir. And standing on reefs while snorkeling or diving? Just don’t.
• Skip unethical animal encounters – No selfies with drugged tigers or chained monkeys. Avoid zoos or shows where animals are clearly stressed or mistreated. Whale shark tours? Only book with operators that follow strict, ethical guidelines – and avoid feeding or touching wildlife.
• Use water and resources wisely – Many islands rely on limited water supplies and generators. Be conscious of long showers, daily laundry, and air-con usage – especially in remote areas.

Don’t rush the ferry

Everyone’s in a hurry to fly – but some of the best experiences happen on the water. Ferries give you time to see the coastline, chat with locals, and catch the rhythm of island life. The Cebu-Bohol or El Nido-Coron routes offer unbeatable views (and surprise dolphin sightings if you’re lucky). Just be flexible – schedules shift, and “on time” is more of a suggestion. Bring snacks, grab a seat by the window, and enjoy the ride.

Sundays are family days

In this Catholic-majority country, Sunday is sacred – not just for mass, but for family. Cities slow down, businesses open late, and parks fill up with picnics and kids on scooters. Malls stay busy, but don’t count on early museum hours or full restaurant staff. It’s the perfect day to hit a quieter beach, explore small towns, or join the crowd at a local fiesta or food market.

Don’t turn down the karaoke

In the Philippines, karaoke isn’t optional – it’s a social glue. Whether it’s a beach bar, a roadside canteen, or a birthday party you just got pulled into, chances are someone will hand you a mic. Don’t stress about pitch – sing badly, sing proudly. It’s not about performance, it’s about joining in. Turning it down might come off as aloof, but belting out a Bon Jovi chorus? That’s how strangers become friends.