Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
to the Philippines from the UK
This year, travel to the Philippines, an archipelago made up of 7,641 islands, boasting stunning tropical landscapes and rich marine biodiversity. Whether you plan to explore the land or underwater, you will not be disappointed due to the presence of a wide range of attractions and activities that make your holiday worthwhile. Learn about the travel tips listed below and also about the traditional dishes and experiences that you must not miss as a first timer in the Philippines.
Philippines Key Information for First-Time Visitors from the UK
| Time Zone | GMT+8 |
| National Language | Filipino |
| Currency | Philippine Peso |
| Capital | Manila |
| Population | 114.9 million (as of 2023) |
| Total Number of Islands | 7,641 Islands |
| National Dish | Adobo |
| Major Island Groups | Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao |
Best Time to Visit the Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines for first-time visitors from the UK should be during the peak season, which ranges from December to May. During these months, one gets to encounter pleasant weather with cool temperatures and less humidity, making the archipelago ideal for exploration. Moreover, during these months, you will also find several events and festivals taking place around different parts of the Philippines, making your holiday more charming.
| Months | Temperature (in °C) |
|---|---|
| December | 24° to 31° |
| January | 23° to 31° |
| February | 22° to 29° |
| March | 24° to 32° |
| April | 26° to 34° |
| May | 25° to 34° |
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to the Philippines from the UK
If you are a first-time visitor to the Philippines, then check out the travel tips that will help you enjoy a seamless vacation experience. Check out the travel tips to follow during your trip to help you enjoy a wonderful vacation in the Philippines.
Visa Requirements
UK citizens do not require a visa if they are planning to visit the Philippines for the first time, under a period of up to 30 days. However, if they plan to stay longer than 30 days, they are required to apply for a tourist visa, either single-entry or multiple-entry, for a period of up to 59 days.
Treat your Journey as an Adventure
When you set out to explore the Philippines, make sure to enjoy and visit as many places as possible. Indulge in various activities and travel using different modes of transportation to gain new experiences, rather than opting for domestic flights to fly from one part of the country to another, which is also very costly.
Travel around the Philippines with Public Transport
Travel around different cities of the Philippines with public transport to save money as well as enjoy the local lifestyle of the Filipino people. You can travel with ferries, buses, boats, trains, jeeps and even tricycles. You also get the option for shared rides to travel at a lower fare to various destinations.
Keep your Itinerary Flexible
Make sure to keep your travel itinerary flexible, as it will help you complete your journey in a better manner. For instance, the transportation facility in the city can be reliable, but when travelling to and from the rural side, there are fewer chances of online booking, and you may miss out on particular buses, trains or ferries to travel to another destination.
Consider the Weather before Travelling to the Philippines
If you are travelling during the peak season, then you need to carry light clothes to help you travel comfortably, even reducing the weight of your travel baggage to move more swiftly. When travelling in warm weather with low humidity, ensure you are carrying dresses that won't make you feel sweaty or sticky. Also, be mindful of cultural sensitivities, especially when visiting religious places, dress modestly and ensure that your arms and legs are covered.
Try Learning a Few Filipino Phrases
During your Filipino holiday, you will encounter fewer communication barriers, as most Filipinos can speak and understand English. They are helpful and wouldn't mind if you ask them for directions. However, it is advised to learn a few local phrases to help you bring a smile to their faces and leave a positive impression behind.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Drinking water is a must that will help you keep hydrated and energised to help you explore different sites around the country in a comfortable manner. Moreover, most food establishments around the Philippines will provide clean and safe drinking water for free. You can also opt for bottled drinks if you are unaware of the quality of water.
Ensure Carrying Cash
When travelling around the Philippines, it is advisable to carry cash, as not every place accepts credit cards. At times, when you will not find any ATMs around, cash will be the only means for acquiring goods and services. Especially in rural areas, cash will come in handy when travelling in local transport or purchasing local goods.
Enjoy Digital Detox
In major cities, you can get good internet service, but in remote islands and rural areas of the Philippines, you will not find strong network coverage. This will help you enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the vibrant landscape. However, if you want to remain connected to others, then ensure you check in at bigger hotels.
Make Sure to Practice Caution
The Philippines is generally considered a safe tourist destination; however, it is advisable to exercise caution. Especially be aware of scams, which can be an annoying experience. Also, stay away from isolated places, especially if you are a solo traveller and also avoid walking down streets at night.
Things to Avoid on Your Trip to the Philippines from the UK
On your trip to the Philippines, there are certain things that one must avoid. Read below the things that one must avoid.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewellery, especially in crowded areas or at night.
- Avoid travelling in a taxi, as you may be a victim of scams like "The meter's broken".
- Double-check the all-inclusive island tours to help you learn to identify hidden charges.
- Avoid renting a kayak, motorbike or scooter without taking any pictures, to avoid the blame of rental damage scams.
- Avoid exchanging your money bills from local shops, as they may fraudulently give you less money.
Things to Try in the Philippines for First-Timers from the UK
First-time visitors to the Philippines are looking for memorable experiences to make their visit worthwhile. So, here are some of the things that you must try in the Philippines.
- Go swimming with whale sharks at Donsol Bay, where you can witness the largest fish from close proximity.
- Enjoy boating at the Puerto Princesa Underground River and enjoy its unique geological formations and ecosystem.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banaue Rice Terraces, by hiking through them and witnessing the rural lifestyle of the Filipinos.
- Go diving and snorkelling at iconic places like Malapascua Island, Anilao, Tubbataha Reef and many more, to witness the diverse and vibrant marine kingdom.
- Set out on a gastronomic odyssey by savouring the popular street foods as well as the traditional Filipino dishes to taste their authentic flavours and ingredients.
- Visit cities filled with iconic attractions around the country like Manila, Boracay, El Nido, Cebu, Coron and many more.
Must-Try Foods in the Philippines for First-Timers from the UK
If you are travelling to the Philippines, then you must taste their flavourful dishes, else you will be missing out on the essence of travelling. Check out below the traditional dishes found around the Philippines that boast rich taste and flavours.
- Adobo
- Sinigang
- Kare-Kare
- Suckling Pig
- Pancit
- Balut
- Lumpia
- Sisig
- Halo-Halo
- Bibingka
Conclusion
Get ready to travel to the Pearl of the Orient, which is filled with rich history, varied landscapes, and an alluring marine ecosystem. The country offers a wide array of iconic attractions and experiences. Travel tips are an essential factor that helps you enjoy a seamless travel experience and make the most of your holiday. Also, make sure to follow the things that are stated to be avoided to stay safe and sound.
If you are planning to visit the Philippines for the first time, reduce your travel stress by getting your flight booking done by us. You can rely on your trustworthy services and also grab some amazing deals and offers to reduce the burden on your budget.
FAQs
One must carry both cash and a card when travelling to the Philippines, to help in conducting transactions in both urban and rural areas.
No, the Philippines is not an expensive destination to visit; however, based on your travelling style and preference, your trip may be expensive.
The best time to visit the Philippines is between December and May, when the weather is warm.
A European traveller needs a visa to visit the Philippines only if they plan to stay over 30 days, otherwise they will not require any visa.
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