How to Travel to the Philippines
The Philippines is a tropical haven with 7,009 islands, rainforests, mountains and terraced rice paddies. For any travel diva seeking an idyllic beach experience, adventurous mountain trek or world-class diving, The Philippines should be their dream destination.
Cambodia may not be one of Southeast Asia’s pricier countries, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some luxury from time to time without breaking your budget. Here are a few tips for making the most out of your trip:
Arriving at the airport
Arriving in the Philippines? Taxis are your go-to way of getting from your hotel to the airport. Metered taxis can be found outside arrivals hall, or you can request a ride with one of many ride sharing services like Grab.
You can take one of the point-to-point buses or jeepneys that connect the airport to various points around Metro Manila. Numerous routes serve the complex and its vicinity, including a direct link between Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport in Angeles, Pampanga.
Arriving at the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time is recommended, as this will give you ample time for checking in and clearing security. This is especially crucial if flying domestically and uncertain whether your flight will depart on schedule.
Getting to your destination
In the Philippines, there are various ways to get around. Whether you prefer hiring a car and driver or prefer traveling independently, there are plenty of options available for everyone.
In addition to flights, ferries can transport you to many islands across the archipelago. It’s essential that you allow enough time for both catching the ferry and flying between destinations.
Another way to travel around the Philippines is by bus. You can book these tickets ahead of time, but be aware that journeys between cities may take a while due to poor roads and heavy traffic.
Planning your journey should be made simpler with a local travel planner like ViaHero. They’ll create an itinerary, suggestions and maps tailored to your travel preferences.
Getting around
In the Philippines, there are various ways to get around, such as buses, jeepneys and taxis. Taxis are particularly popular in big cities like Manila or Cebu City but can be pricey.
Budget travelers can save money by taking advantage of their local public transport system. Buses offer an economical and convenient way to travel, particularly over longer distances. Plus, they offer stunning views of the country’s countryside as you pass by.
Jeepneys are another common form of transport and an excellent way to explore the country. These utilitarian vehicles, modelled after American World War II jeeps, provide the cheapest way to travel between cities and towns in the provinces.
They’re the quickest and most convenient way to travel around major cities such as Manila and Cebu, though be aware of traffic conditions here. If you’re traveling in a group, it may be beneficial to partner up and split the cost of rides.
Getting a visa
Foreign citizens requiring visas for travel to the Philippines must secure one. There are various types of visas, each with its own requirements and conditions for issuance.
Philippine tourist visas are issued to visitors for tourism, business, religious pilgrimage, cultural or scientific activities. Depending on your country of origin, these visas can be valid for stays up to 59 days.
You must possess a valid passport and proof of a round-trip flight itinerary from your home country to the Philippines, as well as enough funds to support yourself and any dependents while in the Philippines.
To obtain a Philippine visa, you must apply in person at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. The process may take anywhere from two to ten working days depending on the type of visa you need and whether all documents are in order.
