When you think about clear blue waters and perfect beaches, the Philippines is usually what comes to mind. After spending a month there, I can’t explain how much I love this incredible country. For me, the Philippines was truly mind-changing. I hope you won’t skip this gem when planning your trip. So, here is a quick and easy guide about everything you need to know to help you book your trip:
- When you should go
- Where to go
- What to eat
- Money currency
- How to use your phone / SIM Card
- Some facts
- Different accommodation options
- Insurance
- Renting a scooter
- Essential apps to have
When you should go
The best months to visit the Philippines are from December to May. Those are the months for the dry season. The rainy season is from June to November. The Philippines is a big country, so the temperature may vary depending on the region.
The high season for tourists is from mid-December to mid-April. That means more people and higher prices for accommodations. I visited the country in March and April. Honestly, it’s not that busy if you compare it to other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Indonesia (Bali). The accommodation prices are still super affordable!
Of course, if you still prefer to travel during the low season to avoid as many tourists as possible, some islands are not as affected by the rain as others. For example, Palawan, Mindanao and the Visayas would be your best bets for dry beaches during the rainy season.
Where to go
The Philippines has so many islands. It took me a while to figure out where I wanted to go. What I love about this country is that there is a place for everyone and every activity. Obviously, I haven’t traveled to all the islands yet (sadly).
But, if you love snorkeling, kayaking, boat tours, enjoying the beach, canopying, scooter riding, working in an animal shelter, watching sunsets, etc., check out my article Where To Go In The Philippines to find out where I went and why it could be the perfect islands for you too.
What to eat
I didn’t know what to expect from Filipino food. But gosh, I was so surprised at how good the local food I tried was. I met a Filipino girl, so she made me try some things, and that’s exactly what I’m recommending to you:
- Sinigang: it’s a sour soup that uses pork as the main ingredient. It can also be made with seafood. Definitely my favorite meal I tried in the country.
- Pork sisig: it’s a popular dish made from minced pork, chopped onion and chicken liver. I ate it in different restaurants, and it was always good. Try it!
- Grilled pork belly: simple BBQ dish where the pork belly is marinated in a delicious sauce from soy sauce and lime. Usually served with rice.
Money currency
The Philippine peso (₱) is the money currency in the Philippines. You can exchange your money at the airport or get it at almost every ATM with your bank card. For me, I would withdraw with my visa, so the only thing I had to make sure of was that there was the Visa logo on the machine.
The withdrawal fee for every transaction at an ATM is normally around 250 ₱ (6$ CAD). Since the fee is quite big, I recommend withdrawing a bigger amount to make sure you don’t pay too many ATM fees. Always make sure to secure your money to not lose any or get stolen. However, I would prioritize card payment if, like me, your card doesn’t charge every transaction.
PS: It’s important to note that some islands don’t have ATMs, so make sure you have enough money before traveling to a new place.
How to use your phone / SIM Card
The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is certainly not by buying a phone package back home. Buy a Filipino SIM Card! You can find them in almost every convenience store like 7/11, MiniStop and AlfaMart. You can buy them at the airport, but it is cheaper in the city. Just ask your taxi driver to please stop somewhere you can buy a sim card, and they will know where to bring you. You can also ask a staff member of your hotel or your hostel where to buy one. The price depends on where you get your sim card and how much internet you get, but I will tell you, it is always very cheap compared to Canada.
Know that they should be installing it for you, and remember to keep your SIM card from home!
The best companies for SIM Cards in the Philippines are Smart (the one I had), Telecommunity, Globe Telecom and Dito Telecommunity. My Smart SIM Card cost me around 10$ CAD and I had 21GB for 30 days.
Some facts
Here are some facts about the Philippines:
- You don’t know where to go in the country? That’s understandable since the Philippines consists of 7 642 islands.
- Independence Day is on June 12.
- The Philippines is a Christian country, with 80% of Filipinos identifying as Catholics.
- Palawan is ranked as one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
- The country has over 175 dialects and languages. Don’t worry if you don’t understand the language from one island to another, it’s normal.
Different accommodation options
Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms.
Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.
Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is the cheapest option for you. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience.
Insurance
Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.
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Renting a scooter
If you know how to ride a bike, motorcycle, or scooter, or you are willing to learn, this is your best option. You can hop on them with a driver, but sometimes if you are going on a long day adventure your best option is to rent one yourself! This way you can go wherever you want, no need to wait for a driver.
In the Philippines, motorbikes are everywhere, but some areas have less than others. Be sure to go get yours early in the morning and if they have no more left, ask for the time another traveler is supposed to bring his bike back. Commonly, they are going to ask for you to leave your passport or an ID as a guarantee. Nothing bad ever happened to me, but I know it is scary to leave behind something so important.
They don’t ask for a license, and you will most likely never get arrested. Ask for a helmet when you rent a bike because they might not give it if you don’t ask. They are mandatory in the Philippines, so don’t search for trouble! Gas is available everywhere. If you are small like me, ask for a Scoopy. They are the smallest.
A tip I can give you is to always make sure there is space in the seat so you can put things in it.
Essential apps to have
Transport: Having access to transport in the Philippines is so easy!
- Download Grab and Gojek.
You can always just download one, but sometimes Grab is cheaper or faster and vice versa. It works the same as Uber. You can just order your car or bike knowing already the price it will cost. You know when your driver will be there, and you have the option of paying cash or directly with your card on the app. I would always prefer paying cash. This way I could always round up the amount and leave a tip. They deserve it! You can even order food on Grab, just like Uber Eat!
Place to stay:
- Booking: You will find all three types of accommodation.
- Airbnb: You will find amazing and original villas.
- Hostelworld: This is an app for hostels only. You will find the best ones with an amazing rating system to help you make your choice. There are also group chats on the app with the people who will be staying at the same place as you.
