Travel Guide to the Philippines: A to Z (Latest Updates for 2024)

Being a beautiful archipelago in Southeast Asia, in recent years, the Philippines has been acclaimed as a tourist paradise with characteristic features of culture, nature, and profound historical imprints. 

Travel Guide to the Philippines: A to Z (Latest Updates for 2024)

Overview of Tourism in the Philippines

The Philippines is a country comprising a total of 7,107 islands, with a total area of up to 300,000km2. Being a beautiful archipelago located in Southeast Asia, in recent years, the Philippines has been acclaimed as a tourist paradise for avid travelers to flock to. It is a country diverse in culture, geography, and language. With a population of over 110 million people, it ranks 13th in the world in terms of population. Filipinos are mainly of Malay-Polynesian descent, with cultural influences from Spain, China, and India. The official language of the Philippines is Filipino, although English is also widely used. With stunning natural landscapes and profound historical imprints, traveling to the Philippines always holds great allure for a large number of tourists. Particularly, the rich culinary scene and vibrant development of major cities are standout features promising to provide travelers with a truly fascinating journey.

Climate of the Philippines

Weather in the Philippines is generally hot and humid throughout the year. The dry season lasts from December to May, while the rainy season is from June to November annually. However, there are minor variations in seasons in many places. The average highest temperature is 31°C and the lowest is 24°C. Therefore, the best time for travelers to visit the Philippines is from December to May when the weather is cool, dry, and especially with fewer occurrences of unexpected storms. To ensure a smooth trip, you should check the weather forecast in advance to be better prepared for your journey.

Means of Transportation when Traveling in the Philippines

Traveling by Air

Currently, there are several airports in the Philippines where international flights usually land, such as:

• Ninoy Aquino Manila International Airport (MNL) – this is the largest and most popular airport in the Philippines, located in the capital city of Manila.
• Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) – this is the second-largest international airport in the Philippines and is located in the city of Cebu.
• Clark International Airport (CRK) – located in Pampanga, about 80 km north of Manila.
• Davao International Airport (DVO) – located in the city of Davao, in the Southern Mindanao region.

Flights from Vietnam usually land at Ninoy Aquino Manila International Airport or Mactan-Cebu International Airport. However, this may vary depending on the route and airline choice. Check out more information about flights to the Philippines, including routes, ticket prices, flight times, promotions (if any)... here.

Getting from Ninoy Aquino Manila International Airport to downtown Manila

To travel from Ninoy Aquino Manila International Airport to downtown Manila, you have several transportation options as follows:

Taxi: There are 2 types of taxis at the airport, yellow taxis and white taxis. Yellow taxis are officially registered and certified taxis from the airport. The initial fare is 70 Pesos (around 30,000 VND) for the first kilometer and increases by 4 Pesos (around 2,000 VND) for each subsequent kilometer. White taxis are slightly cheaper, with a starting fare of 40 Pesos (around 17,000 VND) and increasing by 3.5 Pesos for every 300 meters.

Airport Bus: You can find buses outside the arrival hall alongside the yellow taxis. The fare is 150 Pesos (around 64,000 VND) and stops at various locations in the city center: Greenbelt in Makati, Robinson in Malate, etc. Departures are every 30 minutes.

Jeepneys: If you really want to travel in the classic Filipino style, you can take a jeepney. However, you need to walk to the main road and ask locals for assistance. This mode of transport is quite cheap, costing only around 8-12 Pesos (around 3,000-5,000 VND) per trip if you have minimal luggage.

Grab/Uber: Grab/Uber fares from the airport to downtown Manila are approximately 300-500 pesos (around 129,000-215,000 VND) depending on the destination. The travel time is usually 30 minutes depending on traffic flow.

Hotel Shuttle Service: If you have booked a hotel in downtown Manila, you can request the hotel to provide shuttle service to the airport. Many hotels in Manila offer shuttle services to transport guests from the airport to the hotel.

Getting from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to downtown Cebu City

You can travel from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to downtown Cebu City by the following means:

Taxi: Simply walk out of the terminal, turn right, and walk straight for 100 meters where you'll find the taxi stand. There are two types of taxis at the airport: yellow taxis, which are newer and have an average fare of around 70 Pesos (about 30,000 VND) per kilometer, and white taxis, which are standard taxis available throughout the city and have an average fare of 40 Pesos (about 17,000 VND) per kilometer.

Bus: The bus terminal is located opposite the taxi stand. Airport buses depart every 20 minutes to SM City Cebu, the city's famous shopping center, with a fare of 25 Pesos (about 10,000 VND) per person. The travel time is approximately 45-60 minutes.

Hotel Shuttle Service: If you have booked a hotel in downtown Lapu-Lapu City, you can request the hotel to provide shuttle service from the airport at a pre-arranged fare.

Currency

• The currency unit in the Philippines is the Peso (PHP). 1 PHP is approximately 448.10 VND.

• The US dollar is widely accepted here, and you'll find it easier to exchange than traveler's checks. In Manila, you won't have any difficulty exchanging Euros or British Pounds either.

• ATM systems are ubiquitous, especially in major cities, and operate 24/7. You can use MasterCard or Visa cards.

Unmissable Destinations When Traveling in the Philippines

1. The Capital, Manila

Intramuros Historic Walled City

This 64-hectare stone-walled enclave was built by the Spanish in 1571 and has endured wars and natural disasters. Here, you can only explore on foot, by horse-drawn carriage, or by pedicab for 700 Pesos per vehicle for 2 people. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided walking tour, which may save you time and provide a better understanding of the city's history and culture. The ideal time to explore the walled city with its characteristic European-style architecture in Southeast Asia is before 10 a.m. when the temperature is still moderate.

Contemporary Art Exhibition Hall

Manila's Contemporary Art Exhibition Hall regularly showcases paintings and photographs by young Filipino and international artists. What's even better is that visitors don't have to pay an entrance fee.

Greenbelt District

Visit the Greenbelt Church located next to the park of the same name, where you can explore a famous religious structure in Manila and indulge in shopping. Surrounding the Greenbelt Park are a series of shops and renowned shopping centers offering upscale items such as Gucci, Prada, Diesel, Aldo, and more.

Manila Bay

Manila Bay with its mesmerizing blue sea is a beloved destination for tourists in the capital of the Philippines. The bay becomes even more beautiful as the sunset casts golden and orange hues across the landscape.

Chinatown District

Like many other Asian cities, Manila has a Chinatown district where tourists can visit, shop for affordable items, enjoy Chinese delicacies, and participate in Chinese festivals.

Marikina Shoe Museum

The Shoe Museum is a must-visit destination for women, especially fashion enthusiasts. The museum is located in the heart of the capital city's shopping district.

San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church is a Roman Catholic church under the patronage of the Augustinian Order located within the walls of Intramuros in Manila, Philippines. In 1993, San Agustin Church was one of four churches in the Philippines built during the Spanish colonial period recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site under the collective title 'Baroque Churches of the Philippines'.

San Agustin Church is the only building left intact after Intramuros was destroyed in World War II. Built between 1587 and 1606, it is the oldest church in the Philippines. The imposing facade conceals an intricately decorated interior filled with valuable historical and cultural artifacts, including elaborate frescoes on the vaulted ceiling.

2. El Nido

El Nido is a renowned pristine beach not only for its crystal-clear turquoise waters but also for its numerous bays, limestone cliffs, colorful coral reefs, waterfalls, and rich, diverse vegetation. Located at the northern tip of Palawan Island, El Nido is approximately 420 km away from the capital city of Manila, Philippines. In 1996, El Nido was listed among the most attractive and secluded destinations by Time Magazine. If you ever have the chance to visit, explore this 'paradise' on traditional Filipino outrigger boats and discover its renowned marine biodiversity. Don't miss the chance to explore the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

3. Batan Island

Batan Island offers refreshing natural landscapes, towering cliffs, lush green meadows, and the oldest ancient sites in the Philippines. Here, stone houses seem to be preserved intact, with unique cogon-thatched roofs that will surely arouse your curiosity, excitement, and desire to explore further.

4. Mount Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo is one of the most famous volcanoes in the Philippines, located on Luzon Island – the largest and most populous island in the Philippines.

As a crater lake situated atop a volcano, Pinatubo's stunning scenery makes the journey to conquer it anything but easy. However, along the way, you'll experience the majestic beauty of gray cliffs, meandering streams, and serene mountain landscapes. As you near the lake, you'll be greeted by its radiant light, a turquoise hue reminiscent of a precious gem emerging from the nestled mountains. Enclosed by steep cliffs, the calm lake surface resembles a giant mirror reflecting the azure sky, attracting travelers from far and wide. From above, this scene portrays the pristine beauty rarely found elsewhere, showcasing the natural splendor of the mountains that leaves everyone in awe.

5. Siquijor Island

Travelers flock to Siquijor not only for its beauty but also to unravel the supernatural abilities associated with this island. As a small island nestled in the waters of southern Philippines, Siquijor was once a stronghold of missionaries, evidenced by its unique centuries-old churches.

6. Sagada City

Sagada, known as the “Shangri-La of the Philippines,” is located in the northern part of Central Philippines. Situated at an altitude of 1,766 meters above sea level, it boasts a cool and pleasant climate all year round. Many agronomists once came here to cultivate lemons, believing that the climate and soil here were suitable for this fruit.

Upon arriving here for the first time, travelers may be deceived by the weather, which closely resembles that of the northern provinces and hilly regions of our country, with images of rolling hills, terraced fields, and rustic villages creating a majestic yet serene and rustic beauty.

7. Boracay Island

Although one of the smallest islands in the Philippines, Boracay is the most beautiful and charming with its soft, powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters gently lapping against the shore. Many tourists, upon visiting this island, unabashedly refer to Boracay as paradise on earth. It is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia in travel guides and on travel websites. With its stunning beauty, Boracay is likened to a gem amidst the vast sea.

8. Daraga City

Mayon, a dormant volcano in Daraga, is known as the most perfectly-shaped volcano on Earth, attracting thousands of tourists each year to marvel at its beauty. Contrasting the hustle and bustle of downtown Daraga, the suburban areas offer a peaceful landscape of sprawling rice fields at the foot of the mountain.

9. Vigan Ancient Town

Vigan, located in the province of Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for being the most well-preserved Spanish colonial town in Asia. Vigan is a popular destination for international visitors, offering not only beautiful architecture but also an ideal place for sightseeing and relaxation. Its winding cobblestone streets, leaning houses with unique Baroque architecture, and the local way of life all contribute to its distinct cultural identity.

10. Apo Island

At first glance, Apo Island may not be as enticing as other famous islands in the Philippines because its beaches are not particularly attractive to sunbathers. However, beneath its surface lies a vibrant underwater world. The island's marine sanctuary has been recognized by the diving community as one of the most beautiful dive sites in the world, earning a spot on Sport Diver magazine's list of the 'ultimate dive destinations.'

11. Davao City

Influenced by diverse cultures, most notably Spanish and American, Davao, while not the wealthiest or most bustling city in the Philippines, boasts unparalleled diversity in ecology, economy, and culture. Few places blend sea and mountain, cool seasonal weather, and sun and sea breezes as harmoniously as Davao. Foreign visitors especially love Davao not only for its immaculately clean streets and vibrant traditional festivals but also, unequivocally, for its virtually non-existent petty crime rate due to tight security.

12. Cebu City

Sirao Flower Garden

Cebu City of the Philippines is renowned for attracting a large number of tourists and is also the oldest and first city of this country. Dubbed as the 'Queen City of the South' in the Philippines, Cebu City offers many enticing attractions to tourists, among which the 'secret garden' resembling a fairyland, Sirao Flower Garden, stands out.

The Sirao Garden, also known as 'Little Amsterdam,' covers an area of about 8,000 square meters located in the mountainous region of Barangay Sirao. It is considered a fairytale garden paradise for photography enthusiasts to visit and check-in. Here, tourists can not only appreciate the beauty of majestic nature and the vibrant colors of flowers, but also encounter a 'giant hand' as a prominent highlight in this area. The giant hand, built sturdy with cement, is an ideal Instagram spot for tourists. In addition, cleverly built stairs lead tourists up to an ideal viewpoint resembling paradise. Amidst the blooming flower forest, the giant hand stands out prominently, allowing tourists to admire the panoramic view of the garden.

Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao Province

The Banaue Rice Terraces of the Ifugao people in the Philippines, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for their vastness with heights of thousands of meters showcasing the ancient agricultural techniques created with minimal tools, primarily by hand. The Banaue Rice Terraces stand at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, covering an area of 10,360 square kilometers on the mountainside. About 2,000 years ago, the mountainous region in Ifugao Province, Philippines, was cultivated and meticulously sculpted by the indigenous people here to create these colossal rice terraces.

These terraces are often hailed as the 8th wonder of the world due to their immense scale, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of ancient people and built in the likeness of the mountains, blending perfectly the beauty of nature and human ingenuity.

13. Coron Island

Coron Island in the beautiful Palawan archipelago, where many breathtaking scenes await. Numerous beaches here impress with their crystal-clear waters, cool atmosphere, and picturesque landscapes.

While the infrastructure here is still developing, it offers a green and refreshing environment along with the friendliness of the islanders. When visiting Coron Island, you must climb to the summit of Mount Tapyas to fully appreciate the island from a height of 210 meters above sea level with 743 steps. It's best to climb in the afternoon to witness the sunset without exerting too much effort. This will be an incredible experience for you on Coron Island.

What to Eat When Traveling in the Philippines?

Philippine cuisine is as diverse and rich as that of other Southeast Asian countries. Most dishes feature vibrant colors such as the red of curry, the yellow of turmeric, and the orange of annatto. A distinctive feature is that Philippine cuisine is not inclined toward spicy flavors, and travelers can request additional spice during meal preparation. When visiting the Philippines, travelers should try the following 10 representative dishes:

Pinakbet

Up in the north in Ilocos, vegetable dishes like eggplant, okra, bitter melon, squash, tomato, and bagoong (shrimp or fish paste) are highly favored. Pinakbet is a simple, affordable, and healthy dish, so it is commonly found in local households and restaurants.

Mami Noodle Soup

Mami noodle soup is also a prominent feature of the island's culinary culture. Imported from China, Mami noodles have been transformed into a national dish with local flair. Made from the finest flour, combined with various meats and a broth extracted from bones and special spices, it produces an affordable yet delicious meal. As a dish with a long history, travelers can enjoy it at any restaurant or eatery.

Tsitsaron

Tsitsaron might sound unfamiliar, but it's actually the Filipino version of chicharrón, as called by the Spanish. Chefs slice pieces of pork fat with a bit of meat, marinate them with salt and spices, then fry them in a large bubbling pot of lard until evenly crispy and fragrant. This unique dish is often served with pickled green papaya to balance its richness, and it can be found in most stores along the bustling streets of the capital, Manila.

Taho Tofu Pudding

This is one of the most interesting breakfast dishes of the Philippines. Along busy streets filled with cars and pedestrians, you'll hear the vendors' calls for Taho echoing in the air.

Made from tofu, Taho distinguishes itself with its refreshing sweetness and fragrant aroma of fresh mango blending with caramel or vanilla syrup and the chewiness of tapioca pearls. If you ever travel to the Philippines, don't forget to visit Jorge Bocobo street to savor the unforgettable taste of this Taho drink.

Grilled Chicken Isaw

The grilled chicken Isaw of the Philippines is quite diverse. Chefs make use of every part of the chicken to create a grilled chicken dish like no other. Each cleaned strip of chicken innards, feet, neck, wings, and head is marinated and skewered onto wooden sticks, then grilled over charcoal until it's crispy and fragrant, leaving diners craving for more. It's perfect to enjoy Isaw while it's still hot, served with spicy vinegar and refreshing sour vinegar.

Adobo

Adobo is a must-have on any list of Filipino foods. It's a highly popular dish found in every Filipino household. Originating from Mexico, Filipinos have adapted it by cooking meat (usually chicken and pork) with vinegar, salt, garlic, chili, soy sauce, and other spices.

Arroz Caldo

Arroz Caldo is a chicken rice porridge simmered with thickly sliced chicken meat, infused with ginger. Some also add boiled eggs, roasted garlic, and spring onions. You can find this dish at street food stalls in the Philippines.

Kamaro

Kamaro is a dish made from a type of insect, and the chefs from Pampanga are known to prepare the tastiest Kamaro in the Philippines.

Philippine Tuna

A specialty of the Philippines is the 'Philippine Tuna,' a dish commonly found in family meals and the most popular dish for visitors to the Philippines. Fresh tuna is caught, cleaned, and sliced to be eaten raw with wasabi. Alternatively, it can be marinated and grilled over charcoal. It's often served with greens like lettuce or herbs. The head, fins, or fish bones are used to make soup. Almost all restaurants and eateries have this popular dish.

Shopping Destinations in the Philippines

When it comes to shopping in the Philippines, Manila cannot be overlooked. It's the economic and financial hub of the archipelago. Manila is a tourist destination, an entertainment hub, and the ultimate shopping destination in this island nation. You can find everything here, from luxury goods to budget items. When visiting the Philippines or Manila, remember to bargain when shopping.

Makati City

Makati can be said to be the most densely packed area for tourist shopping. It has areas dedicated to various types of goods such as shoes, toys, clothing, handicrafts, household items, and modern electronics. However, it's advisable to exchange currency before shopping. People here only transact in Peso, the primary currency of the Philippines. Makati City has large shopping centers within modern buildings, connected by indoor staircases so you can move from one place to another without going outside.

Rustan’s

One of the shopping destinations favored by the elite in the Philippines is Rustan’s. It's the largest and busiest shopping center in the capital city of Manila. All renowned global brands like Cartier, Dunhill, Tiffany, and Lalique are concentrated here. Opened since the 1970s, Rustan’s has expanded significantly from its original scale. It's also considered a symbol of the Philippines' indigenous art and craftsmanship. The staff here are attentive and courteous, allowing you to comfortably choose your favorite items. Despite its historical evolution, this shopping center still maintains its value as a familiar shopping destination for tourists visiting Manila.

ShoeMart

If you're looking for high-quality footwear at affordable prices, ShoeMart is the place to be satisfied. ShoeMart is a well-known brand present worldwide specializing in shoes. Founded by Henry Sy in 1958, ShoeMart started as a small shoe store. But by 1972, due to the quality and variety of its products, ShoeMart had become a shoe-centered shopping hub. No matter when you visit, ShoeMart always attracts a large number of tourists for sightseeing and shopping in the capital city of Manila.

Park Square

Park Square is another enticing shopping destination for tourists. With a fairly large area, it's divided into 2 sections: Park Square 1 and Park Square 2. Park Square features ample parking space and comfortable pedestrian areas for tourists. Here, you can find a wide range of products to browse and purchase as souvenirs. Electronic items and DVDs are prevalent in the stalls at Park Square. Additionally, you can enjoy Filipino and Chinese cuisine at the food stalls arranged within this square. Park Square also has staircases connecting to the ShoeMart center, making it convenient for tourists to move between the two sides.

Green Hill

Green Hill is a sprawling and bustling shopping center frequented by tourists. The main products sold here are still fashion items such as clothing, jewelry, and finely crafted handicrafts. The center features entertainment areas like electronic games and movie theaters. Especially, you'll have the opportunity to explore the pearl market located within this commercial area. Situated in a convenient location right in the heart of Manila, Green Hill shopping center always attracts a large number of foreign tourists for sightseeing and shopping.

Quiapo

Quiapo Market is a gathering place for the finest handmade handicrafts. Here, you can find useful items crafted with great finesse by the hands of local artisans. This market is also a distinctive feature of the Philippines because its traditional value remains intact to this day. The market operates even at night, so strolling through Quiapo at night is a common habit of locals and an enticing activity for tourists visiting here.

China Town

China Town is also an interesting shopping destination attracting many tourists. It offers a wide range of products, from electronic devices, office supplies, household items, jewelry to fashionable clothing. There's also a dining area featuring Manila's specialties and Chinese cuisine. However, this place is famous for bargaining. You should negotiate if you want to make a purchase. During sales seasons, China Town is always bustling and lively. There are discounted items throughout the year, but you should pay more attention to quality than price.

Những trải nghiệm du lịch tại Philippines

1. Swimming with Sharks and Whales

Oslob has become an incredibly enticing destination for tourists in the Philippines, thanks to its shark and whale swimming experiences. Here, locals lure sharks and whales to the shore using food, and the success rate is always 100%. These creatures only feed on marine life such as shrimp, squid, algae, and jellyfish. Therefore, tourists can freely swim around them without the need for cages or glass enclosures.

2. Chocolate Hills Viewing Experience

Bohol is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. The name 'Chocolate Hills' comes from the brown grass covering the hillsides during the dry season, making them look like giant chocolate mounds. These hills are considered the most vibrant natural landmark of Bohol Island, with their undulating, closely packed formations resembling real-life chocolate pieces.

3. Experience 'Oil Bathing'

Kawa is the unique 'oil bathing' method found only in the tropical tourist area of Tibiao, Antique province in the Philippines. Large cauldrons placed on rocks are heated with firewood. What makes it special is their placement in unique locations like by the riverbanks or under trees, leaving every tourist amazed and fascinated by this 'oil bathing' method.

4. Experience Cliff Diving at Ariel’s Point

For those afraid of heights, just hearing about this experience might make them nervous, but you'll be torn between trying it when you see the azure blue waters below. Cliff diving at Ariel’s Point is sure to provide tourists with an incredibly exhilarating experience, a feeling of euphoria amidst this vast landscape.

Apart from adrenaline-pumping activities like cliff diving, Ariel’s Point offers many other exciting activities for you to explore and experience, such as kayaking along the nearby coastline, BBQ parties, and more.

5. Explore the City with Unique Modes of Transportation

The transportation culture in the Philippines is unique, thanks to the iconic Jeepneys bustling along the country's roads. What's special is that every jeep, whether old or new, is adorned with various paintings and colors, bearing a strong personal imprint on the streets, making every tourist eager to experience this distinctive transportation culture.

Tips for Traveling to the Philippines

- Keep a close eye on the weather forecast every day and don't hesitate to cancel flights if there's a typhoon warning, as the Philippines is situated in the Pacific Ocean and often bears the brunt of severe consequences from typhoons and tsunamis.

- Always carry your passport and hotel card when going out, and never wander alone in desolate places when it gets dark.

- The most unsafe and prone-to-pickpocketing places in the Philippines are crowded tourist spots, shopping centers, and even hotel lobbies!

- When traveling on tours, never leave valuable items on the car seat and walk away to admire the scenery. Even in seemingly secure vehicles like this, thieves can still break in and take away your important belongings.

- Don't linger in the capital city of Manila because there aren't many interesting tourist attractions here. Instead, head to Southern tourist spots like Boracay, Bohol, or Vigan… to experience the unique beauty and culture of the locals.

- Don't miss out on the colorful Jeepneys when traveling in the Philippines because this is the charming cultural feature unique to this Southeast Asian country that hardly anywhere else has. Especially, the fare for this mode of transportation is quite cheap. Jeepneys in Manila are not like buses in Vietnam; you don't just hop on and tell them where to go, they will drive you there, so make sure to note down your destinations and show them to the driver to confirm if they pass by.

- When you arrive at the airport, you should ask for a map at the tourist information counter. Usually, they will provide you with a tourist map, but you should also get a transportation map.

- In Manila, traffic congestion is quite common, with traffic lights sometimes waiting for up to 100 seconds, and it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to travel to the airport by taxi. Therefore, pay attention to your flight time, arrive at the airport early to avoid being late due to traffic congestion.

- In the Philippines, public transportation often sets the air conditioning at a very low temperature, extremely cold compared to Vietnam, whether it's buses, taxis, hotels, or cinemas. Everything is much colder than in Vietnam, so remember to bring warm clothes and long-sleeved shirts if you're taking a long bus ride or flying to Cebu at night.

- Don't buy things at the bus station because it's easy to get ripped off, even if you ask for prices and bargain.

According to Mytour

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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour