THE COUNTRY
Paradise, that's the first word that comes to my mind if you ask me how to describe this country. If you've seen pictures of the Philippines on social media and haven't been to the country, let me tell you that it is what you see in the pictures. The pictures are not photoshopped at all! White sand, clear waters, it is what a paradise is made of!
With over 7,000 islands, there's plenty of room to adventure and a lot of islands to explore. Combine the perfect tropical conditions with the amazing food, beautiful viewpoints and friendly locals, what more could you ask for?!
VISA/ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Prior to entry ensure that your passport is valid for the next 6 months from the time you arrive in the Philippines. Visa is not required for foreigners staying for under 60 days. There is a penalty for overstaying. For a 1 month overstay it's $80 USD. For 3 months, it's $260 USD. And for 6 months, it's $360 USD.
An onward ticket is a must when coming to the Philippines. I mentioned this about Indonesia as well and they do check but not all the time. In the Philippines however, it is a requirement, just like it's a requirement for you to have your passport before catching a flight. They will check this and they do check every single time. They will not let you get on the plane if you don't have an onward ticket. I completely understand if you don't know when you'll be leaving the country. That's how I eventually go about my travels. If this is the case for you, buy the cheapest ticket out of the country or a ticket that you could get a refund.
CURRENCY
Peso is the currency used in the Philippines. ATM's may be limited especially in certain parts of the islands. If you are in a big city or in a touristy area, be sure to take money out of the ATM's from there if you think you're going to be needing some soon. Debit/Credit cards are accepted in well established places like in the malls, hotels, restaurants etc.
The Philippines Peso both have notes and coins, as with any other types of currency that have both, try to get rid of your coins first if possible to decrease weight in your pocket. This will also ensure you are squeezing your budget to the last cents.
TRANSPORTATION
Tricycle - It's just like a tuk tuk in Thailand or Cambodia but they call it differently in the Philippines. Tricycles are convenient for getting from one place to another in a city/town. Before you get in one, be sure to always bargain and always agree on a price before getting in.
Scooter - Scooters are available for rent mostly everywhere. My preferred transportation getting around town.
Bicycle - The cheapest way to get around the city/town. Depending on how far your destination is or where you're trying to get to, if your destination is within cycling distance, then this option will make the most sense.
Shuttle service/Boat service - There are times when flying is probably an option but the most common way to get around from one city to the other is by either taking a minivan shuttle or by a boat. You need to find a travel agency in the city/town you're in (they are usually everywhere or the hostel/hotel you're staying in will be able to sell you tickets) and purchase a ticket. This is probably the most commonly used transportation the travellers use in the Philippines.
THINGS TO DO
Tours A,B,C or D in El Nido (Palawan) - There are several snorkelling and island hopping tours you can choose from. Pick one that is the most appealing to you. The Philippines is beautiful enough that it's impossible to pick the wrong option.
Crash a 5 star resort in Puerto Princesa (Palawan) - No joke I've done this several times when I was there. No need to pay for a room at a 5 star to use their facilities. You simply just walk in, act like you're from the resort and because you are most likely going to look like a foreigner (least not look like a bum), employees of the resort would greet you as if you were staying there. Just buy a drink at the bar and now you can enjoy their facilities such as a poolside view by the water. Try it! It's fun and adventurous at the same time!
Osmeña Peak (Cebu) - This is the highest peak in Cebu. It sounds intimidating but the hike is not that hard at all. The views from the top are spectacular!
Island hopping in El, Nido (Palawan) - You could rent a boat or rent a kayak. I rented a kayak and got lost in the different islands here. There are a lot of secluded islands that you can enjoy all to yourself here.
Moalboal (Cebu) - Rent a scooter for the day and roam around this beautiful city!
Kawasan Falls (Cebu) - This waterfall is beautiful flaunting it's clear blue water. A good way to spend half the day here. A bit touristy but worth visiting to take a dip in the water and enjoy its beauty.
Dive/snorkel - You must do one or the other if you're in the Philippines or maybe both! You need to see the marine life and experience what it's like to swim in one of the most beautiful waters in the world.
Siargao Island - There are plenty of things to do here. Jump of a cliff or go surfing!
Seafood - The seafood in the Philippines is fresh and delicious. A must when you're in the country.
Viewpoint in El Nido, Palawan - Come up here for sunrise or sunset, you will have an overlooking view of El Nido.
If you're looking for clear waters, white sand, palm trees and coconuts kind of thing, the Philippines is this "perfect getaway" you're looking for as cliché as it may sound. It is one jaw dropping country for its natural beauty. See for yourself and check out one of my vlogs the last time I was in the country down below!
I hope you found this guide useful and if you would like to know more about the country or have any feedback, leave them in the comment section and I'll get back to you. Safe travels everyone!