Updated Sep 05, 2025
tips_and_updates Quick Overview
Be prepared for tropical weather, with hot and humid conditions. Pack light clothing, swimwear, and comfortable shoes. Learn some basic Filipino phrases to enhance your travel experience. Be aware of local customs and traditions.
partly_cloudy_day Climate & Weather
Dry Season (Nov-Apr)
- • Temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F)
- • Less rainfall, ideal for island hopping
- • Peak tourist season
- • Higher accommodation prices
Best for:
Beach activities, outdoor tours, diving
Wet Season (May-Oct)
- • Temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
- • Frequent rain showers
- • Lower tourist numbers
- • Better accommodation deals
Best for:
Budget travel, fewer crowds, lush landscapes
Typhoon Season (Jun-Nov)
- • Peak: August-October
- • Strong winds and heavy rains
- • Flight cancellations possible
- • Monitor weather forecasts
Note:
Have flexible travel plans during this period
luggage Essential Packing List
Clothing
- • Light, breathable fabrics
- • Swimwear (multiple sets)
- • Quick-dry clothing
- • Light jacket for AC
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Sandals/flip-flops
- • Hat and sunglasses
Sun Protection
- • High SPF sunscreen (30+)
- • Reef-safe sunscreen
- • After-sun lotion
- • Lip balm with SPF
- • UV-protection rashguard
- • Wide-brimmed hat
Health & Safety
- • Insect repellent
- • Basic first aid kit
- • Personal medications
- • Hand sanitizer
- • Oral rehydration salts
- • Motion sickness tablets
Electronics
- • Waterproof phone case
- • Portable charger/power bank
- • Universal adapter
- • Underwater camera
- • Headphones
- • E-reader for beach reading
diversity_3 Cultural Etiquette
Do's
- Greet with a smile and "Kumusta" (How are you?)
- Remove shoes when entering homes
- Show respect to elders (use "Po" and "Opo")
- Dress modestly when visiting churches
- Accept hospitality graciously
Don'ts
- Point with your finger (use open hand)
- Show the sole of your foot
- Be overly loud in public
- Refuse food when offered
- Touch someone's head
translate Essential Filipino Phrases
Basic Greetings
Hello
Kumusta
Good morning
Magandang umaga
Good afternoon
Magandang hapon
Good evening
Magandang gabi
Goodbye
Paalam
Courtesy Words
Please
Pakisuyo / Paki
Thank you
Salamat
Thank you very much
Maraming salamat
You're welcome
Walang anuman
Excuse me
Excuse me po
Travel Phrases
How much?
Magkano?
Where is...?
Nasaan ang...?
I don't understand
Hindi ko maintindihan
Help!
Tulong!
Delicious!
Masarap!
payments Money & Tipping Guide
Currency & Payment
-
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP/₱)
Bring USD or major currencies to exchange
-
Cards: Widely accepted in cities
Always carry cash for small vendors
-
ATMs: Available in major tourist areas
Check with your bank about international fees
Tipping Guidelines
Restaurants
10-15%
Tour guides
₱200-500/day
Massage therapists
₱100-200
Hotel staff
₱50-100
Taxi drivers
Round up fare
restaurant Food & Dining Tips
Must-Try Filipino Dishes
- Adobo - National dish with pork/chicken
- Lechon - Roasted whole pig
- Sinigang - Sour soup
- Halo-halo - Mixed ice dessert
- Fresh seafood - Grilled fish and shellfish
Dining Safety Tips
- Choose busy restaurants with high turnover
- Eat hot, freshly cooked food
- Peel fruits yourself
- Drink bottled or boiled water
- Trust your instincts about food safety
