Philippines travel guide, revealing the hidden paradise island

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Philippines, a beautiful country with more than 7,000 islands, attracts tourists from all over the world with its magnificent beaches, rich culture and welcoming people. If you're planning a trip to the Philippines, this article will provide you with comprehensive and practical advice to help you enjoy a memorable vacation on a budget.

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Things to keep in mind when traveling to the Philippines

Before embarking on your journey to the Philippines, there are a few important things you need to know ahead of time to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

Visa requirements

Citizens of most countries enjoy a 30-day visa waiver when entering the Philippines, but some countries may need to apply for a visa in advance. Always check your visa requirements before you leave and make sure your passport has at least six months of validity left at the time of entry.

Health and Safety

Before traveling, some common vaccinations such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Tetanus are recommended. Although medical care in the Philippines is better in major cities, medical facilities may be lacking in remote areas. Therefore, it is advisable to carry your usual medications with you and be aware of the local medical services.

Currency and Payment Methods

The Philippines uses the peso (PHP) and it is advisable to exchange some cash before departure. While credit cards are accepted by many merchants in major cities, cash payments still dominate in rural and remote areas.ATMs are common in the cities, but may be scarce in remote areas. Therefore, it is advisable to get some extra cash in the city.

There are many affordable accommodation options in the Philippines for different types of travelers. Here are 10 recommendations:

  1. RedDoorz: with branches in several cities, it offers clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices for travelers on a budget.
  2. Hostel 101: suitable for backpackers, offering shared dorms and private rooms with a friendly atmosphere for meeting new people.
  3. Bamboo House: close to the beach, offers affordable accommodation and delicious breakfast, suitable for travelers who like beach life.
  4. The Circle Hostel: located in Boracay, offers comfortable accommodation and community activities in a relaxed atmosphere.
  5. MNL Boutique Hostel: in Manila, offers modern rooms and cozy common areas for young travelers.
  6. Casa Blanca: in Cebu, offers traditional Filipino style accommodation at a good value for money.
  7. The Henry Hotel: in Cebu, elegant and moderately priced, perfect for families.
  8. Santiago Bay Garden and Resort: in Siquijor, close to the beach, affordable and suitable for vacation.
  9. Blue Lagoon Inn and Suites: located in Cebu, great for business travelers and families, great service.
  10. Punta Villa Resort: in Iloilo, offers comfortable accommodations and a swimming pool, perfect for a family outing.

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Local Food Recommendations

In the Philippines, food is not just a part of life, it's a reflection of the culture. Here are 10 unmissable local food recommendations:

  1. Adobo: meat slow-cooked in soy sauce and vinegar for a rich flavor, usually served with rice.
  2. Sinigang: sour soup, often made with pork or shrimp, refreshing and delicious.
  3. Filipino BBQ (Inasal): chicken marinated in special seasoning and grilled for a unique flavor, usually served with rice.
  4. Halo-Halo: Mixed ices with a variety of nuts, smoothies and milk, especially cool in summer.
  5. Kare-Kare: A traditional dish of beef stewed with peanut sauce, usually served with rice.
  6. Lumpia: A spring roll-like dish with a rich filling, with vegetarian and meat options.
  7. Pancit: traditional chow mein noodles in a variety of flavors, suitable for banquets and potlucks.
  8. Lechon: Roasted suckling pig, a traditional Filipino holiday delicacy.
  9. Tapsilog: a classic Filipino breakfast that includes cured meat, eggs and rice.
  10. Bibingka: a traditional dessert made with rice flour and coconut milk, usually served during festivals.

Weather in December and January

December and January are one of the best times to visit the Philippines. Temperatures during this time are moderate, usually between 25°C and 30°C, and rainfall is low, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures are warmer, but the difference in temperature between morning and evening can be significant, so it is advisable to prepare light jackets for cooler mornings and evenings. In addition, beach activities and hiking will be perfect on sunny days.

Items to pack when traveling

While traveling, the following items are essential to help make your journey in the Philippines go smoother.

  1. Passport and Visa copies: Keep them with you in case they are lost or stolen.
  2. Common medications: Include painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications and personal prescriptions to ensure good health while traveling.
  3. Mobile power supply: Ensure your cell phone is always charged when you are away from home for easy navigation and communication.
  4. Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent: Protect your skin from the sun and mosquito bites and stay comfortable.
  5. Portable Water Bottle: Convenient to replenish water at any time and keep your body well hydrated.
  6. Lightweight rain gear: During the trip, the weather changes quickly, so be prepared for emergencies.
  7. Camera or cell phone: Record the beautiful travel moments and leave precious memories.
  8. Small backpack: Convenient to carry necessary items during daily traveling.
  9. Multi-function plug: Make sure you have the right plug when using electronic devices in different countries.
  10. Travel esim: PhoneSIMGo travel esim service designed for travelers, allowing you to travel worry-free, enjoy 5G high-speed internet, and say goodbye to roaming charges.

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Transportation Options

In the Philippines, there are various transportation options for travelers with different needs.

  1. Motorcycle Rental: Flexible and convenient for short trips, especially convenient in cities. Many places offer motorcycle rental services at affordable prices.

  2. Jeepney: This local public transportation is affordable and a great way to experience Filipino culture. Jeepneys usually have fixed routes and fares are cheap.

  3. Taxis and Internet Rides: For long distance travel, it is safer and more comfortable to opt for cabs or internet rides. In major cities, it is very convenient to use internet taxi apps.

  4. Public buses: for travelers on a budget, they are inexpensive and cover a wide range of destinations.

  5. Car rental services: If you plan to explore remote areas in depth, considering renting a car is also a good option. While road conditions can be complicated, renting a car gives you the freedom to organize your trip.

Personal safety precautions when traveling abroad

Ensuring your personal safety is crucial when traveling abroad, here are 10 effective precautions to take:

  1. Stay alert: Be careful to protect your personal belongings, especially your cell phone and wallet, in crowded places.
  2. Avoid traveling alone at night: Choose safe areas and times to travel, and try to travel in groups.
  3. Know the local laws and regulations: Know the laws and regulations of your destination in advance to avoid breaking the law unintentionally.
  4. Use a hotel safe: Store valuables in a hotel safe to minimize the risk of theft.
  5. Choose reputable means of transportation: Take regular cabs or internet taxis.
  6. Bring emergency contact information with you: keep contact information for local police, hospitals and embassies.
  7. Avoid displaying valuables: Try to keep a low profile in public to avoid attracting attention.
  8. Know the local emergency numbers: Ensure that you can call for help quickly if needed.
  9. Keep your communications open: Make sure your cell phone is fully charged and you are always in touch.
  10. Keep an eye on the weather: Adjust your travel plans according to the weather conditions to ensure safety.

Small items suitable for traveling abroad

When traveling, the following 10 small items are very practical and can enhance the travel experience:

  1. Folding shopping bag: for shopping or loading travel items, environmentally friendly and practical.
  2. Travel Inflatable Pillow: Improve comfort and ensure a good rest when traveling by transportation.
  3. Small First Aid Kit: Includes band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers, etc. to cope with unexpected situations.
  4. Portable charger: Ensure electronic devices are always charged for easy access to navigation and communication.
  5. Personal hygiene products: such as wet wipes and hand sanitizer to maintain personal hygiene.
  6. Masks and hand sanitizer free: maintain hygiene in public places to reduce the risk of infection.
  7. Small travel brochure: record travel itinerary and important information for easy reference.
  8. Waterproof bag: Protect electronic devices and valuables from water damage.
  9. Lightweight rain gear: to cope with sudden weather changes and stay dry.
  10. Ear Plugs and Eye Mask: Improve the quality of sleep during the trip and ensure adequate rest.

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The Philippines is full of low-cost attractions and activities for travelers on a budget. Here are 10 recommendations:

  1. Boracay Beach: enjoy the sun and waves, totally free.
  2. Underground River in Palawan: cheap admission price and a breathtaking World Natural Heritage Site.
  3. Historic Sites of Cebu: visit the Church of the Holy Child and the Magellanic Cross to learn about the history and culture of the Philippines.
  4. Natural Sites in Siquijor: such as white sand beaches and waterfalls for hiking and swimming.
  5. Rizal Park in Manila: a free public park for walks and picnics.
  6. National Museum of the Philippines: free admission, showcasing Philippine history and art.
  7. Local Markets: such as Cebu's Kalbo Market to experience local life and sample food.
  8. Hiking: such as Mt. Tebala, enjoy the natural beauty for those who love outdoor activities.
  9. Cultural Festivals: such as Sinulog Festival, experience the local culture and passionate celebrations.
  10. FREE BEACH ACTIVITIES: such as snorkeling and sunbathing, many beaches offer free facilities for these activities.

Emergency contacts in case of problems

While traveling, you may encounter various problems, here are some emergency contacts to help you quickly seek help when needed:

  1. Local Police: Call 117 or 911 for personal safety.
  2. Medical Emergency: Dial 162 to get medical help in time.
  3. Embassy Contacts: It is recommended to check your country's embassy contact information in advance, just in case.
  4. Travel Insurance Company: If you have purchased travel insurance, keep the contact information of your insurance company in case you need to contact them.
  5. Local fire department: Call the fire alarm to be safe.
  6. Pharmacy contact information: Know the location and contact information of your local pharmacy in case of emergency.
  7. Travel Agents: If booking a trip through a travel agent, contact them for assistance.
  8. Hotel Reception: Hotel staff will usually be able to provide the necessary help and advice.
  9. Local helplines: find out the number of local emergency services.
  10. Social media groups: Join local travel social media groups for real-time help and advice.

Common Travel Questions

Here are 10 common questions to keep in mind when traveling abroad:

  1. How do I deal with a lost passport?

    • If you lose your passport, the first step is to immediately contact your local police to report the loss and ask for proof of the report. Then, go to the embassy or consulate of your country to apply for a replacement passport. Identification documents and photographs are usually required.
  2. How do I cope with language barriers?

    • The main language in the Philippines is English and many people are fluent in English. If you encounter a language barrier, you can use a translation app or learn some basic phrases in the local language.
  3. How do I choose the right travel insurance?

    • When choosing travel insurance, make sure you check the coverage, including medical emergencies, loss of belongings and trip cancellation. Compare quotes and terms from different insurance companies and choose a plan that suits your needs.
  4. Is it necessary to exchange cash?

    • Although credit cards are accepted in many places, cash is still the main form of payment in remote areas and small stores. It is advisable to exchange some cash immediately upon arrival for emergencies.
  5. How do I deal with unexpected health problems?

    • If a health problem arises, the first step is to find the nearest hospital or clinic. Make sure to carry your travel insurance information with you so that you can quickly access medical services if needed.
  6. How do I choose the right mode of transportation for me?

    • Choose your transportation according to your itinerary. For short trips, you can choose jeepneys or motorcycle rentals; for long trips, you can choose cabs or online cars; if you plan to explore remote areas, renting a car will be a better choice.
  7. Is it necessary to book hotels in advance?

    • During peak tourist seasons (e.g. during Christmas and New Year), it is advisable to book hotels in advance to ensure that suitable accommodation is available. During the off-season, good accommodation can usually be found on a temporary basis.
  8. How can I ensure that my cell phone communication is smooth while traveling?

    • Consider purchasing a local SIM card or using an eSIM service before you leave. eSIM packages from PhoneSIMGo are designed to provide Filipino travelers with high-speed internet service that covers remote areas, ensuring that you are always connected while traveling.
  9. How do I cope with cultural differences in the Philippines?

    • Learn about the local culture and customs and respect the way of life of the locals. Be polite and friendly in social situations and avoid touching on sensitive topics.
  10. How to get useful local information?

    • Before traveling, you can obtain local information through travel guides, blogs and social media. Upon arrival, check with hotel staff or locals for up-to-date advice and recommendations.

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Travel Network Issues

Cell phone communication is a key issue when traveling. To avoid expensive roaming charges, it is important to choose the right network service. PhoneSIMGo offers eSIM packages designed for Filipino travelers that provide high-speed internet service, coverage in remote areas, and affordability to ensure that you enjoy your trip to the Philippines. With eSIM service, you can enjoy high-speed internet anytime, anywhere, say goodbye to roaming charges, and stay in touch with your family and friends with ease.

Benefits of eSIM

The advantages of using eSIM include:

  • Quick Activation: Activation can be done by scanning the QR code, no need to wait for the physical card to be mailed.
  • Flexible choice: Choose different traffic packages according to your itinerary to suit different usage needs.
  • Wide coverage: Maintain a good internet connection whether you are in a city or remote area, ensuring a worry-free traveling experience.

Conclusion

The Philippines is a fascinating destination, and with the combination of these affordable travel tips, you can enjoy the culture and scenery of this beautiful country while staying on budget. Whether it's food, accommodations, or transportation options, being prepared ahead of time will make your trip go much smoother. With every corner of this colorful country waiting to be explored, may your trip to the Philippines be filled with wonderful memories and insightful experiences!