Things to Do in Philippines

Where emerald rice terraces cascade down mountain slopes like nature's own stairway to heaven, and pristine islands float like scattered pearls across azure waters, the Philippines awakens something primal in the soul. This archipelago of over 7,000 islands pulses with an infectious warmth that extends far beyond its tropical climate—it lives in the genuine smiles of locals who greet strangers like long-lost friends, in the haunting melodies of kulintang that drift through evening air, and in the sacred rituals that have endured for millennia. Here, Spanish colonial churches stand sentinel beside indigenous burial caves, while jeepneys painted in riotous colors navigate streets where the aroma of adobo mingles with salt spray from nearby shores. The Philippines doesn't just offer a destination; it offers transformation, where every sunset over Boracay's white sand, every trek through Palawan's underground rivers, and every shared meal becomes a thread in the rich tapestry of memory.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Download Grab for reliable rideshares in cities. For inter-island travel, book flights with Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines early for better rates. Jeepneys cost ₱12-15 per ride but can be crowded. Always carry small bills for tricycles and habal-habal motorbikes in rural areas.

Money: ATMs are widely available in cities but scarce on remote islands—withdraw cash in major towns. BPI and Metrobank have the most locations. Credit cards work in malls and hotels but cash is king elsewhere. Always have ₱100 bills for tips and small vendors.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering homes and some restaurants. Use 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to elders to show respect. Point with your lips or full hand, never with your index finger. Dress modestly when visiting churches—cover shoulders and knees.

Food Safety: Street food is generally safe at busy stalls with high turnover. Try sisig, balut, and halo-halo from popular spots. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in rural areas. Choose restaurants packed with locals for the most authentic and freshest meals.

When to Visit

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate with three distinct seasons. The dry season (December-May) offers the best weather with temperatures averaging 77-86°F (25-30°C) and minimal rainfall (1-3 inches monthly). Peak season runs December-February when hotel prices surge 40-60%, but you'll enjoy perfect beach weather and calm seas ideal for island hopping. March-May brings hotter temperatures (up to 95°F/35°C) with fewer crowds and prices dropping 20-30%. The wet season (June-November) sees heavy rainfall (8-15 inches monthly) and potential typhoons, but also dramatic 50% price drops and lush landscapes. September-October typically has the worst weather. Festival lovers should visit during Sinulog in Cebu (third Sunday of January), Ati-Atihan in Aklan (second week of January), or MassKara in Bacolod (October). Budget travelers benefit from June-August when accommodation costs plummet despite daily afternoon showers. Surfers should target July-September for the best swells on the eastern coasts. December-February suits families and first-time visitors despite higher costs, while adventure travelers can brave the wet season for dramatic waterfalls and fewer tourists at major attractions.