17 Things YOU NEED TO KNOW before travelling the Philippines 🇵🇭 DON'T MAKE THESE MISTAKES!

Summary

This video provides essential tips for first-time travelers to the Philippines, offering insights from Zoe and Zar, who have extensive experience in the country. They cover everything from the best time to visit, visa requirements, and must-have smartphone apps, to navigating local transport and accommodations. The hosts discuss Filipino culture, food, safety, and healthcare, highlighting both the joys and challenges of traveling around the archipelago. With advice on budgeting, language, and recommended destinations, the video serves as a comprehensive guide to help travelers make the most of their trip to the Philippines.

Takeaways

• 😀 The best time to visit the Philippines is from December to May (dry season), but traveling during the rainy season can still be manageable.
• 😀 Upon arrival, most travelers get a 30-day free visa, and extensions are easy to obtain if you want to stay longer.
• 😀 Download essential apps like Grab (for taxis), Food Panda, Lalamove, and Joyride for convenient travel and ordering services in the Philippines.
• 😀 Stay connected by using Globe or Smart SIM cards, or consider eSIM options for hassle-free data service from providers like Nomad and Aero.
• 😀 Manila has mixed reviews—BGC and Makati are safe and comfortable, but for a quicker escape, heading straight to the islands can be a good choice.
• 😀 With over 7,000 islands in the Philippines, planning your transportation (flights, ferries, buses) in advance is crucial for smoother travel.
• 😀 Local transport options include tricycles, jeepneys, shared vans, buses, and even motorbike rentals. Always double-check prices with locals to avoid overpaying.
• 😀 Travel insurance is highly recommended for medical emergencies and other unforeseen events, especially considering the high cost of healthcare in the Philippines.
• 😀 Accommodation is available at various price points, with local Facebook groups being a great resource for finding affordable long-term stays.
• 😀 Filipino food is delicious but often underappreciated by tourists. To truly enjoy the local cuisine, visit carenderias (local eateries) for authentic dishes like adobo, sinigang, and barbecue.
• 😀 It’s safe to drink water from established establishments in the Philippines, as most serve purified water, but it’s advised to avoid tap water in certain areas like Palawan and El Nido.
• 😀 Cash is still essential for certain payments, especially for street food or small purchases. Consider using e-wallets like GCash for convenience, especially if you’re staying longer.

Q & A

What is the best time to visit the Philippines?

The best time to visit the Philippines is in April during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. However, it can be very hot, so it's essential to bring sunscreen. While the wet season runs from June to November, traveling during this time is still possible, as the rain doesn't usually affect trips too much.

Do I need a visa to enter the Philippines?

Most visitors to the Philippines receive a 30-day free visa upon arrival. If you wish to stay longer, you can extend it for an additional 29 days, and you can continue extending your stay at the immigration office. You'll also need to purchase an ACR card, but this can be done later in your trip.

What smartphone apps should I download when traveling in the Philippines?

The most important app to download is Grab, which is similar to Uber and makes transport much more hassle-free, avoiding scams. Other helpful apps include FoodPanda for food delivery, Lalamove for transporting goods, and JoyRide for cheaper motorbike taxis.

Which mobile network providers are the best in the Philippines?

The two main mobile network providers in the Philippines are Globe and Smart. Both have good coverage, but Smart now offers eSIM options, which might be more convenient for some travelers. Alternatively, you can use international eSIM providers like Aero or Nomad.

Should I skip Manila when traveling to the Philippines?

While Manila often gets a bad reputation for safety, it largely depends on the area you're staying in. Places like BGC (Bonifacio Global City) feel safer than many cities in the world. However, if you're short on time, it's best to head straight to the islands and skip the city.

How do I get around the Philippines efficiently?

With over 7,000 islands, getting around the Philippines requires some planning. Domestic flights can be expensive if booked last minute, so it's recommended to book at least 3 weeks in advance for popular destinations like Boracay, El Nido, and Coron. You can also take ferries, buses, and shared vans to move between islands, with some longer routes like the 18-hour ferry from Coron to Manila.

Is public transport safe and affordable in the Philippines?

Yes, local transport options such as tricycles, jeepneys, shared vans, and buses are available in the Philippines and are generally affordable. It's advisable to check prices with locals or your hotel to ensure you're paying a fair amount. Renting a motorbike is also an option for getting around, especially on islands, and costs typically range from 300 to 500 pesos per day.

Why is travel insurance important when traveling to the Philippines?

Travel insurance is essential due to the potentially high cost of healthcare in the Philippines. If you're injured or become ill and need medical attention, expenses can quickly add up. The video recommends Safety Wing, which offers coverage for medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip interruptions, and more.

What should I know about food in the Philippines?

Filipino food is delicious but can sometimes receive bad reviews from tourists who aren't familiar with local cuisine. Popular dishes to try include adobo (chicken or pork in a sweet soy sauce), sinigang (a sour soup), Filipino BBQ, and halo-halo (a dessert). Street food is generally safe to eat, and it's customary to always have rice with meals.

What are the safety tips for travelers in the Philippines?

The Philippines is generally a safe destination, and locals are known for their friendliness. In case of breakdowns or other issues, people are quick to offer assistance. However, as in any country, it's important to stay vigilant, avoid leaving valuables unattended, and always ensure you're in a safe area. Places like BGC, Siargao, and Palawan are considered safe zones.