** WORK IN PROGRESS **
I came to realize that I’ve been answering the same questions over and over again, and why not just make a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page! On this page, you will find actual emails I have replied, and links to topics that I felt will be useful to answer your queries.

1. Why visit Philippines?
2. When is the best time to visit Philippines?
3. Where should I go?
4. Is Philippines safe?
5. Do I need a VISA?
6. What’s the Philippines PESO exchange rate?
7. Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Philippines?
8. What is the best airline to get to Philippines?
9. What travel itineraries will you recommend?
10. How to get to Manila city from the airport?
11. Do I need travel insurance?
12. What islands to visit?
13. What nature parks to visit?
14. Where is the best honeymoon destination?
15. Do you have any suggestions for day trips?
16. What is the weather in Philippines?
17. Is the water in Philippines a drinkable?
18. Do you have any bus schedule?
19. Do you have any ferry schedules?
20. How do I claim tax refund for my purchase?
21. How to rent a car in Philippines?
22. Is Philippines a good place to travel with kids?
23. What to pack to Philippines?
24. What to buy in Philippines?
25. What to eat in Philippines?
26. I don’t speak Tagalog. Must I learn it?

Here are tips on how to travel in Philippines by plane, bus, car, train, ship & ferry. For information on how to get to Philippines from other countries, see Getting to Philippines.

It is easy to travel around Philippines, but it’s a big country (maps) made up of over 7,100 islands and islets.

Transport may be crowded on major holidays.

By Air

Manila, Cebu, Davao, Clark, Subic, and Laoag are the international gateways, with the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila as the premier gateway. It is served by more than 30 airlines, which fly to different cities around the world. The Mactan International Airport (MIA) in Cebu handles regular flights from Japan, Singapore, and Australia as well as chartered flights from Hong Kong, the United States, and other major travel capitals. Davao International Airport handles regular flights from Indonesia and Singapore. The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport and Subic Airfield in Central Luzon service both chartered and cargo planes. Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte services regular flights from Taiwan and Macau.

Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national flag carrier and considered “Asia’s First Airline,” remains the country’s biggest airline company. It has the largest number of international flights to the Philippines as well as domestic flights. PAL links Manila to 14 cities in 8 countries, and flies regularly to 41 domestic destinations outside Manila.

Cebu Pacific Air (5J), the low fare leader in the Philippines, is the country’s leading domestic airline with the lowest year-round fares, most number of destinations, most number of routes, most number of flights, most number of passengers flown in its domestic network and newest fleet of brand new Airbus A320s, Airbus A319s and ATR 72-100s. It links Manila to 21 domestic destinations and the Philippines to 12 international destinations with its direct flights. It also makes its international and domestic destinations virtually accessible to each other through its extensive connecting flight network. The airline currently operates hubs in Manila, Cebu, Davao and soon, in Clark.

Other airlines that presently fly the Philippine skies are Air Philippines, South East Asian Airlines, Laoag International Airlines, Asian Spirit Airlines, and Pacific Airways – each serving popular tourist destinations at pocket-easy prices. For a more personal experience, chartered flights are available via small air companies such as Airspan Corporation (helicopters), A. Soriano Aviation, and Aerolift Philippines (small-to-medium-sized planes).

By Sea

As the islands of the Philippines are separated by different bodies of water, the sea plays an integral part in travel. A range of seafarers are available, from huge cargo ships to small ferry boats; take long trips that last for a day or two with regular ship lines or take shorter ones with ferries. Major cruise liners call on the port of Manila.

WG&A Lines, a partnership between William Lines and the Aboitiz Group, has launched its SuperFerry Program, an affordable but convenient alternative to the usually crowded vessels of other ship lines.

By Land

Moving around the country by land is easy with national highways connecting the major islands and an extensive public transportation sytem, which includes the exotic Philippine jeepney. Trains, taxis, buses, jeepneys, and trikes are the main modes of public transportation. The calesa, a more elegant means of traveling in most major cities, is more commonly offered as a “fun ride” in many public parks across the country.

A land railway system operated by the Philippine National Railways, called the Metrotren, is recommended for long distance traveling. It reaches as far south as Carmona and Cavite, or as far north as Meycauayan, Bulacan. Within Metro Manila, the Light Railway Transit (LRT), which stretches from Caloocan to Baclaran, provides a fast alternative from the regular jeepney. The Metro Railway Transit (MRT) traverses the length of EDSA and connects North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City, passing through the major arteries of Makati’s financial district.

Taxis provide the best means of transportation around the city, with a flag-down fare of PhP20 on the meter. For the steel-hearted, buses also tread the roads. A vast majority of city buses travel via Epifanio delos Santo Avenue (EDSA) while provincial bus lines have put up various terminals all across the country. The best means of short distance travel is the trike: the motorized version is called a tricycle, and the pedal-powered one is called a pedicab. Trike terminals are often found near a “palengke” or marketplace.

The undisputed “King of the Philippine Roads” is the jeepney. Since it first emerged after the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, it has become a fixture in roads all over the country – so much so that it is now considered a symbol of national pride. Jeepneys are adorned with colorful designs that distinguish them from one another, with themes ranging from the serious to the outright silly, but all uniquely Filipino.

A giant stained glass window in the main altar of the Christ the King Seminary’s Shrine of the Divine Word along E. Rodriguez Avenue in Quezon City.

The town of Libog was founded in 1749. There is an account of Andres Bonifacio staying in the town and having a child with a local woman. His statue stands in front of the municipal government building today instead of the usual Jose Rizal. Libog is the hometown of Potenciano Gregorio who composed the immortal Bicolano love song “Sarung Banggi”. It was renamed as Sto. Domingo in 1959 in honor of its patron saint.

Mahatao Light house @ Batanes, Philippines

Smile and the whole world smile to you - Philipines Children

Paoay, Ilocos Norte: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE. The Augustinians started building the present in 1699. Repairs and improvements were made in 1710, 1719, 1793, 1818, 1844, 1865, 1889 and after the 1927 earthquake. The church provides a breathtaking view from any angle.

Banaue rice terraces

Boat in river

Children playing in the river

About Tourism Philippines | About PKTan

Tourism Philippines .com is an Unofficial Travel Guide website to Philippines, aimed to provide unbiased updated information for anyone who plans to travel to Philippines independently.

Tourism Philippines aims to be the best, most user-friendly, most informative and entertaining travel guide website dedicated to the fascinating Philippines, and to help travelers to understand the Philippines society and culture better.

Tourism Philippines is neither paid by nor beholden to any tourism interest, it isn’t existed to promote any hotels, products, travel agencies or service. This independence means I am free to guide my readers to the good stuff but warn them against the lousy services, review about the best places and the things to watch out for in each destination.

Tourism Philippines is not designed to impress anyone, but like a book. I think through the links you might need and the pages you’ll want to read next, and set up the navigation accordingly, and trust me, it’s very difficult to do that optimally in a database.

Behind the computer

About PKTan
Having family and friends in Philippines, allowed me to take regular trips to Philippines every year. I have lived and studied in several places around the world including Singapore, London and Paris. I started blogging about three years ago, and the experience completely changed the way I interact with the Internet. Along the road I realized that there is an internet revolution going on, and I wanted to be part of it. This led me to quit my job. Currently I am working on entrepreneurial projects, most of them related to the Internet and innovative media.

Alot of things have changed over the years, but what hasn’t changed is my fascination with this beautiful, complicated country. I love advising travelers to Philippines and have developed this Philippines Travel Guide to share all my knowledge of Philippines with everyone.

One great thing about Filipinos is that they are very courteous with the female locals as well as travellers. Chivalry is not dead among the male locals of the Philippines. You can simply wear shorts or sleeveless shirts which is common for a tropical country. However, you must watch out for your belongings at all times. Although Philippines is known for being hospitable with the foreign travellers, there are still some who would take advantage of the unsupervised belongings especially your wallet, bags, and jewelleries. It is also not advisable to wear to many valuable accessories such as gold rings, bracelets, and necklaces especially if you will be shopping at the bargain stores located in Divisoria or Baclaran.

Although you would hear negative news about the country, it is still safe to go to Philippines even if you would have your flight now. The region where the war is going on is very far from the tourist destinations in the country. Mindanao is just one of the islands in the archipelago and you still have other thousands of islands more to explore.

The recent political and economic issues in the country such as the increase of the oil price and such do not actually affect the tourism industry. Moreover, small rallies and few demonstrations were peacefully done on the streets. There are no violent manifestations on the road. Therefore, tourist should not be afraid of walking or travelling on the highways of Philippines, particularly in Manila.

Unfortunately, because of the rainy season that lasts from July to October, it is not advisable to have a vacation in the Philippines due to the storms that might ruin your whole tropical experience.

Sun worshippers would certainly love to visit the Philippines since it is abundant with beaches, falls, lakes, and more since it is surrounded with water. In Western Visayas, most tourists go to Boracay because of its stunning fine white sand and sparkling turquoise water. You may feel like you are in the Caribbean Islands. However, compared to the Caribbean, a few hundred dollars would already last for a week or two. But if you no longer want to be part of the whole tourist crowd, there are still other options for all the beach lovers including the Pagudpud Island in Ilocos Norte or the beaches located in Camiguin Island. The commodities and the hotels in the latter islands are cheaper compared to what you can get from Boracay. These summer destinations have a lot in common. Aside from eating the best tasting seafood cuisines from the clean yet inexpensive restaurants, you will get to taste fresh as well as exotic fruits that you can never find anywhere else in the world such as coconut, mango, durian, jackfruit, and more. However, if you want to fully enjoy your summer experience, you must go to Philippines during the month of March until June. This is when the sky is clear and free from storms that might ruin your vacation.

On the other hand, if you would like to spend your summer in the Philippines yet do not wish to have sun burn there are also several places in the country that have low temperature. Tagaytay, located in Cavite, is one of the best places to stay during summer in Philippines. This is where most families do picnic because of the stunning view of the Taal Volcano while they can relax with the cool weather at the same time. You may also want to visit Baguio, in the Benguet province. There are all kinds of activities that you can do here in Baguio such as dining, sightseeing, horseback riding, and even shopping. Expect crowds during the months of May, December, and February.

Another great time to visit the Philippines is during the Christmas season (month of December). This is when the traditions of the country is at its richest. Tourists will get to eat traditional foods that are only available during December such as the Bibingka and the Puto Bumbong. Since December is one of the peak seasons in the country, expect the price to be much higher as people are thriving to make a living. The months of November to December are also not a great to shop in bargain stores because of the crowd.

Unfortunately, because of the rainy season that lasts from July to October, it is not advisable to have a vacation in the Philippines due to the storms that might ruin your whole tropical experience.

If you want to experience a variety in tourism, then the best place that you should visit is Philippines where you can have a taste of the Western as well as Eastern culture since it has been dominated by several nations in the past, such as Spanish, Japanese, and Americans. Because of this, Philippines became rich in several structures such as churches, towers, museums, and more.

Sightseeing is one of the activities that you can do here in Philippines. Each region and each province has something different to offer. Most of the tourist spots here in Philippines are natural scenic sceneries and had been nominated to become one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Some of these destinations include the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Mayon Volcano in Albay, Subterranean River in Puerto Princesa, and the Tubbataha Reef in Suly. There are also several ruins that can be found in Cebu (churches as well as watchtowers), Albay (Cagsawa ruins), and even in the capital of the country, Manila (Fort Santigo).

Thrill seekers would definitely love this country because of the different activities that can be done here. Snorkelling and scuba diving are just some of the popular outdoor activities since the country is rich in marine treasures. There are certain places such as the Sorsogon, Mindoro, and Siargao Island where you can get to dive with rare creatures including the White Whale Shark. In Coron, Palawan alone your eyes will be fascinated with all the marine creatures that you can never see anywhere else in the world. In the same province, you can also explore various caves and be astounded with the stalagmites and stalactites formed as angels, religious icons, and more.

And although some parts of the country were being modernized, there are still several places where eco-tourism is the most popular activity. Lush mountains await the nature lovers. Hiking and trekking can be done in the mountains in Romblon, the mysterious Mount Makiling, and the perfect cone-shaped Mount Mayon.

The best time to visit Boracay is actually to AVOID Boracay during Lent, Christmas and holy week (Easter). Unless you are in for huge crowds, insanely over crowded beaches, hot and humid weather, long waiting lines, over the top peak rates and much lesser accommodation options.

In third week of Januarys, Boracayans also celebrate the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival, which is much like Mardi Gras; it’s a huge tourist draw. International sports events such as the Boracay International Fun Board Cup and the International Paraw Cup Challenge is also held annually during January to February.

Boracay weather is dictated by the monsoon seasons, creating a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season, also known as “Habagat” is June – October. Expect cool temperatures, and lots of water. Make sure you have your umbrellas and raincoats packed before coming! This is also the off-season, where you can get the cheapest price rates.

The dry season, also known as “Amihan” is November – May. Expect it to be HOT (sun screen lotion is a MUST!) with temperature ranging from 26-33 degrees Celsius. Nights will be cooler with the occasional rain showers. Starting from Feb, prices will start to increase due to the influx of tourists.

If you have seen Boracay from posters and postcards, it probably has an image of an island paradise to you. However, Boracay has became way too commercialized in recent years due to its popularity, and moved down my “must-go” destinations. Imagine wanting a quiet romantic time, yet from the time you set foot on this island, you will be bugged by thousands of vendors who will pester you non stop to make a purchase, especially so, if you are a foreigner. Gone too are the idyllic beach hotels, and are promptly replaced by international hotel resorts franchises.

However, if you love the beach, the sea, and sun, hanging out in the crowd, and over commercialization, huge selection of international cuisines, wild nightlife, 24 7 (well almost …) partying, then Boracay will make a perfect vacation for you.

Boracay is famous for its long white sandy beaches, and is also a popular outlet for water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing etc. Other than the sandy beaches, Boracay is well known for the nightlife and party scene. There are numerous bars and clubs along the whole stretch of beach, mostly located at station 2 of Boracay. Spas are also readily at most places; you can even find freelance masseurs “patrolling” the beaches!

Where to Stay

Hotels on Boracay are sectioned off into 3 stations.

Station 1: BIG commercialized beach front resorts and hotels, and where you find the BEST white sand beach on the island. Prices are generally high, and abundance of food selection available. The northern Station 1 area is quiet and peaceful, but it can get a bit noisy and crowded near Cocomangas, Club Paraw and Beachcomber.

Station 2: Mid-Range accommodation – this is the area where most bars congregate. There’s never a shortage of activities, events and fun in this area. The clubbing scene of Boracay!

Station 3: Good budget accommodations for backpackers are located. Considered a chill out location with lots of foreigners – place can get real noisy and near the market.
I suggest Dave’s Straw Hat Inn for its value for money. It even has higher standard of services and facilities than many higher priced resorts. Located in a relatively quiet area, but not without places to eat, drink and to socialize. A pedicab or tricycle means that it is 5 minutes away from all the party areas. Sand quality might be slightly worse than Station one tho’, but nevertheless, still a gorgeous beach.

Orchids Resort is also a good choice for budget.

Marzon Resort is a good selection for beachfront choices.

Boracay Nightlife

The nightlife scene on Boracay is just as important as the famous Puka Shell beach, you will never find a shortage of places to party with numerous bars and clubs located along the whole stretch of the beach. Here are some of the highlights:

Club Paraw – Mostly local crowd. A simple, no fuss place to hang out with good music.

Cocomangas – Has been the most happening bar for many years. Bouncers make sure of the right crowd gets in!

Gulli’s island – Very popular with the “City” crowd.

Juice – Seems like a place with lots of expats. Mainly house music.

Hey Jude: The most “wannabee” and “never-will-be” bar in Boracay. Good to hang around to see and be seen but very plastic, no soul. If you are a social mountaineer this is the place to be in. Expect to pay as much as P 800 beach entrance fee to get in on some special nights! Dress code for guys: no shirts allowed. The bigger your six-pack the better to show it off.

Beachcomber - no soul, bland but also good for social climbers and mountaineers. Good house music though.

Summer Place - good vibe, no fuss, good eclectic music, good eclectic crowd.

Tides Roofbar - For the Manila city social mountaineers club, this is considered like the Mount Everest of the club scene! Kilimanjaro ambiance assured at all times!

My To Do List:

• Waste time on the Puka Shell Beach
• Take a pedicab around the island
• Sail around the island with Red Pirates
• Snorkel at Baling Hai Beach
• Go shopping at the Talipapa market
• See tribal music performances at bars and clubs

Stay Away:

• From expensive international cuisines, overpriced!
• From arriving in a ship during wet seasons – rough sea! Take a plane instead.
• From Station 3 accommodations IF you expect a romantic getaway.

How to get there

My recommendation for a first-timer would be to fly via either SEAir or Asian Spirit from Manila to Caticlan. Less convenient but using larger and perhaps more familiar-seeming jet aircraft (also perhaps less costly — especially with advance booking) would be to travel via Philippine Airlies or Cebu Pacific from Manila to Kalibo, and thence onwards to Caticlan via tourist bus or hired van.

I normally fly the fastest route. Manila to Caticlan via SEair w/c has a 35min flight or Asian Spirit 55min flight. Both airline uses prop engine hesitated at first but i’m used to it since my first time in 1996 (i normally book thru Asian spirit & choose their 4 prop plane). Landing in Caticlan you’d take a short 5min ride to the jetty port and then a 15min boat ride to Boracay…from the port in boracay you get a trike to your resort. the whole trip once you take off from manila should take +-2hrs to your resort room

The other route manila to kalibo uses the bigger airlines like Philippine Airline, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines. Difference w/ this route is you add another +-1.5hour landride from kalibo to caticlan jetty port