Philippines Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🟢 Planning & Logistics
When is the best time to visit? Generally December to February for the best balance of cool weather and dry skies.
When is typhoon season? June to November, though they can happen year-round.
Do I need a visa? Many nationalities (US, UK, CA, AU) get 30 days visa-free. Check the latest eTravel requirements.
Is the eTravel card mandatory? Yes, you must register online within 72 hours before arrival.
What is the “Fuel Crisis” people mention? A recent surge in oil prices has caused some flight price hikes; book domestic legs early to lock in rates.
Should I book Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines? PAL is full-service; Cebu Pacific is a budget carrier. Both are reliable, but Cebu Pac is known for “piso fares.”
Are domestic flights often delayed? Yes, especially in Manila (NAIA) due to air traffic congestion.
Can I use my drone? Yes, but stay away from airports and government buildings. Check CAAP rules for drones over 7kg.
Is 2 weeks enough for the Philippines? It’s enough for 2-3 islands (e.g., Palawan and Cebu).
What is the currency? Philippine Peso (PHP).
Are credit cards widely accepted? In cities and malls, yes. In rural islands like Siargao or Palawan, cash is king.
Should I exchange money at the airport? Surprisingly, NAIA rates aren’t terrible, but money changers in malls (like Sanry’s) are usually better.
Is there a terminal fee? Most are included in the ticket, but some small domestic airports still collect 100-300 PHP in cash.
What plug type is used? Types A and B (standard US two-prong).
Is the water safe to drink? No. Always stick to bottled or filtered water.
How do I get a SIM card? Buy a Globe or Smart SIM at the airport. eSims (like Airalo or Holafly) are popular but sometimes slower than local physical SIMs.
What is the best app for transport? Grab is the essential ride-hailing app.
Is there Uber? No, Grab replaced Uber years ago.
What is “Angkas”? A motorcycle taxi app—great for beating Manila traffic if you’re brave.
Is it expensive? It’s more expensive than Vietnam or Thailand for transport/flights, but cheaper for beer and socializing.
🔵 Destinations & Itineraries
Manila: Is it worth staying? Most Redditors say 1-2 days is plenty for Intramuros and Binondo.
El Nido vs. Coron? El Nido has better beaches; Coron has world-class shipwreck diving and cleaner lakes.
How do I get from El Nido to Coron? Take the fast ferry (3.5–4 hours) or a small plane (AirSwift).
Is Boracay too touristy? It’s the “party island,” but the white sand is still some of the best in the world.
What is the best island for surfing? Siargao (Cloud 9).
What is the best island for diving? Malapascua (Thresher sharks), Moalboal (Sardine run), or Tubbataha Reef.
Where are the Chocolate Hills? Bohol.
Can I see Tarsiers? Yes, in Bohol. Use official sanctuaries only.
Is Cebu City worth it? It’s a hub. Most people head straight to Moalboal or Oslob.
Should I do the Oslob whale shark swim? Controversial. Many travelers prefer Donsol for a more ethical, natural experience.
What is Siquijor famous for? “Mystical” healers, waterfalls, and great sunsets.
Is Batanes worth the expensive flight? Yes, it looks like New Zealand and is the safest province in the PH.
Where is the “Maldives of the Philippines”? Balabac, Palawan.
How do I get to the Rice Terraces? Take a 9-hour night bus from Manila to Banaue or Sagada.
What is Port Barton? A quieter, cheaper alternative to El Nido.
Is it safe to travel to Mindanao? Generally yes in areas like Siargao, Camiguin, and Davao, but check your government’s travel advisories for the southwest.
What is the best beach in Palawan? Nacpan Beach.
Can I hike volcanoes? Yes, Mt. Pulag (cold/sea of clouds) or Mt. Pinatubo (crater lake).
Where is the best nightlife? Makati (Poblacion) in Manila, or Station 2 in Boracay.
What is the “Underground River”? A UNESCO site in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
🔴 Safety & Health
Is the Philippines safe for solo female travelers? Generally yes. Filipinos are very helpful and speak great English.
What is “Laglag-Bala”? An old airport scam involving planted bullets; it is largely a thing of the past but keep your bags locked.
Are taxis safe? Stick to Grab. If you take a white taxi, ensure the meter is on.
What is “Stranger Danger” like? Most people are genuinely nice, but “friendly” locals in tourist hubs might lead you to overpriced tours.
Do I need a Dengue vaccine? Not mandatory, but use mosquito repellent (Off! is the local brand).
What about malaria? Low risk in most tourist areas; higher in deep rural Palawan.
How is the healthcare? Excellent in Manila (St. Luke’s/Makati Med); very basic in the provinces.
Should I get travel insurance? Absolutely. Medical evacuations from islands are expensive.
Is it safe to walk at night? In tourist areas and BGC (Manila), yes. Avoid dark alleys in old Manila.
Common scams? Overcharging tricycles and “the closed hotel” scam. Always agree on a price first.
🟠 Culture & Etiquette
What is “Po” and “Opo”? Respectful particles added to sentences. Using them will get you big smiles.
Do I need to tip? Not mandatory but 10% is appreciated. Some restaurants add a “Service Charge.”
What is a “Jeepney”? The iconic colorful public bus. Pay by passing money to the driver.
How do I say thank you? “Salamat.”
Is English widely spoken? Yes, it is one of the official languages.
What is “Filipino Time”? A casual attitude toward punctuality. Expect buses and ferries to be “late.”
Can I haggle? Yes, in markets and for tricycles, but don’t haggle in malls or restaurants.
Is the country religious? Very. It is predominantly Catholic.
What is Holy Week like? Everything shuts down. Don’t travel during this time unless you want to be stuck.
What should I wear? Light, breathable clothing. Modest dress for churches.
🟣 Food & Drink
What is the national dish? Adobo (meat stewed in vinegar and soy sauce).
What is Balut? A fertilized duck egg. A “rite of passage” for travelers.
Is Filipino food spicy? Generally no, unlike Thai or Indian food. It’s more salty, sour, and sweet.
What is Jollibee? The most famous local fast-food chain. Try the Chickenjoy.
Best beer? San Miguel (Pale Pilsen or Light).
What is Halo-Halo? A shaved ice dessert with milk, beans, fruits, and ube ice cream.
Is street food safe? “Eat where the locals eat” and ensure it’s piping hot.
What is Lechon? Roasted whole pig—Cebu has the best.
Can I find vegetarian food? It’s getting better in cities/Siargao, but can be difficult in rural areas.
What is Taho? A sweet tofu snack sold by street vendors in the morning.
🟤 Transport & Survival
What is a Tricycle? A motorcycle with a sidecar. The main way to get around small towns.
How do I book ferries? Use sites like 12Go or book at the pier.
Is the sea rough? It can be during monsoon season. Bring motion sickness pills.
What is a “Bangka”? A traditional outrigger boat used for island hopping.
How is the internet? Improving but still spotty on islands. Starlink is now widely used by hostels.
Should I bring a power bank? Yes, “brownouts” (power outages) are common in places like Palawan.
How do I use a “Bidet”? Most PH bathrooms have a “bum gun” or a “tabo” (dipper).
Do I need to carry toilet paper? Yes, many public restrooms don’t provide it.
Is there a dress code for bars? Only in high-end Manila clubs. Flip-flops are fine elsewhere.
What is “Pasalubong”? The tradition of bringing back gifts for friends/family.
⚪️ Specific Advice
Is Boracay still limited on tourists? Yes, there is a daily cap. Book your hotel in advance.
Is Siargao fully recovered from the 2021 typhoon? Yes, it’s back and more popular than ever.
Can I use G-Cash? As a tourist, it’s hard to set up without a local ID, but Maya is sometimes easier.
What is the “Green Lane” at the airport? For vaccinated travelers (though rules are currently relaxed).
Is Manila’s “Skyway” worth it? Yes, pay the toll to bypass hours of city traffic.
Should I go to Baguio? Only if you want cool weather; it’s very crowded now.
Where can I see whale sharks naturally? Donsol, between February and May.
What is the “No Plastic” policy? Many islands (El Nido, Boracay) ban single-use plastics. Bring a reusable bottle.
Can I rent a scooter? Yes, usually 300-500 PHP per day. Bring an International Driving Permit.
Is it okay to travel during Christmas? It’s the busiest time. Flights and hotels triple in price.
What is the best mall in Manila? SM Mall of Asia or Greenbelt for luxury.
How do I handle “Immigration Offloading” fears? This mostly applies to locals; as a tourist, just have your return ticket and hotel booking ready.
What is “Karaoke culture”? It’s everywhere. Be prepared to hear singing at 2 AM.
Are there sharks in the water? Mostly harmless reef sharks.
What is the “Sunscreen Ban”? Some tours ban sunscreens that aren’t “reef-safe.”
How do I get to Siargao? Direct flights from Manila or Cebu.
Can I stay in a “Nipa Hut”? Yes, these are traditional bamboo houses. Great for the “island vibe.”
What is the best way to see Palawan? The “Expedition” boat trips (3-5 days) between El Nido and Coron.
What is the local greeting? “Kumusta!”
Is the Philippines worth the “hassle”? According to 99% of Reddit threads: Yes, the beaches and people make up for the transport delays.