Why the Philippines?
If you’re craving a place where you can island-hop turquoise waters in the morning and sip barako coffee in a heritage café by sunset, we got you. Look forward to hopping ferries in Palawan and wandering through Manila’s side streets – this is the real-deal advice to make your trip unforgettable.
Let’s get into it: here’s how to travel to the Philippines like a pro. Bonus: our favorite films set in the Philippines so you can get in the mood while packing.
🇵🇭 The History You Need To Understand:
Long before colonization, the archipelago was home to thriving Austronesian societies engaged in trade with China, India, and the Arab world. Kingdoms like Tondo and the Sultanate of Sulu ruled coastal hubs, while highland tribes preserved unique spiritual traditions. In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan’s arrival marked the start of over 300 years of Spanish rule, during which Christianity took root, Manila became a key stop in the galleon trade, and Spanish friars established churches, schools, and colonial towns. Filipino identity began to take shape under colonial pressure, with resistance movements eventually erupting in the late 19th century.
After a brief period of revolution, the Philippines declared independence in 1898—only to be handed over to the United States in the Treaty of Paris. American rule introduced English, a new education system, and modern infrastructure, but also sparked the bloody Philippine-American War. The country was occupied by Japan during World War II and finally achieved full independence in 1946. Post-war decades saw a cycle of democracy, dictatorship under Marcos, and the People Power Revolution of 1986. Today, the Philippines is a resilient democracy with a youthful population, rich cultural heritage, and one of the most dynamic economies in Southeast Asia—shaped by its past, yet always forging its own future.
First, the basics:
The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands, grouped into three main regions:
Luzon (north): Home to the capital Manila, surfing town La Union, and mountain escapes like Baguio and Sagada.
Visayas (central): Famous for Cebu, Bohol, and dreamy islands like Siquijor and Boracay.
Mindanao (south): Less touristy, known for Davao City, Mount Apo, and rich Indigenous cultures.
1. Visa Requirements: What U.S. Travelers Need
U.S. passport holders can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism. Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon arrival. Officials may ask for proof of onward travel and accommodation.
Check with your doctor about recommended vaccines like Hepatitis A or Typhoid.
Pro Tip: Take screenshots of your flight itinerary and hotel bookings—immigration likes receipts.
2. How Safe is the Philippines for Travelers?
The Philippines is generally safe for travelers, especially in tourist areas like Palawan, Cebu, and Metro Manila. That said, petty crime can happen—particularly in crowded markets, transport terminals, and some parts of Manila.
Always check the U.S. State Department’s latest travel advisory, especially if heading to Mindanao.
For solo female travelers…
Most solo women travelers navigate the Philippines comfortably. People are warm, helpful, and used to tourists. Dress modestly in conservative or rural areas and be aware at night.
Our Tip: Use Grab or official taxis after dark. Say no to sketchy offers. Watch your drinks.
LGBTQ+ Travel…
The Philippines is paradoxical: legally conservative, but culturally chill. While same-sex marriage isn’t legal, the LGBTQ+ community is very visible—especially in cities like Manila and Cebu. Local drag culture and queer communities thrive.
Advice: Be respectful and low-key in public, but you’ll find lots of friendly locals and spaces that are welcoming.
3. Cultural Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
The Philippines is a cultural cocktail—Austronesian roots, centuries of Spanish rule, American influence, and Indigenous tradition.
Join a Fiesta
Whether it’s Sinulog in Cebu or Pahiyas in Lucban, these festivals are wild, colorful, and deeply local.
Try a Kultura Cooking Class in Manila or Bacolod
Learn adobo, kare-kare, lumpia, or kinilaw. Regional differences are huge, and flavors run deep.
Visit a Spanish-Era Church or Heritage Town
Vigan’s cobblestone streets or Intramuros in Manila feel like stepping into a different century.
Stay with Indigenous Communities in Luzon or Mindanao
Support regenerative tourism by learning weaving from the Ifugao or dance from the T’boli. Go with a vetted ethical operator.
Island Hop in Palawan or Bohol
Balance chill beach time with snorkeling or local food tours.
4. Money: How to Pay and What to Budget
What’s the Currency?
Philippine Peso (PHP). $1 USD is usually around ₱55-60. Rates fluctuate—check before exchanging.
Do You Need Cash?
Yes. While cards are accepted in malls and big hotels, you’ll need cash for transport, markets, and small eateries.
Digital Payments
GCash and Maya are growing, but mostly used by locals. GrabPay works in cities. Apple Pay is barely a thing here.
Our Tip: Use ATMs at big banks like BPI or BDO. Avoid sketchy standalone machines and airport exchanges.
5. Transportation: Getting Around Like a Local
In Cities…
Grab (like Uber) is the safest and easiest way to get around in Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Jeepneys are iconic (and super cheap), but chaotic for newbies.
🛺 How to Use a Jeepney
1. Know Your Route
Each jeepney follows a fixed route, usually written in big bold letters on the side or windshield (e.g., “Cubao–Quiapo” or “Ayala–Makati Loop”). There’s no app that perfectly tracks them yet, but locals often use Facebook groups, Google Maps, or ask nearby vendors or guards for the right one.
2. Flag It Down
Stand by the roadside and wave your hand palm-down to hail a jeepney. Hop in the back—don’t wait for it to fully stop unless it’s empty. Slide in and make space for others. It’s bench-style seating, face-to-face with fellow passengers.
3. Pay the Fare
Base fare is usually ₱12 ($0.20 USD) for the first few kilometers. Pass your cash (exact change helps) down the line and say “Bayad po” (meaning “Here’s my fare, please”). If you’re going a shorter route, mention your stop. People will pass your payment to the driver, and he’ll send any change back through the human chain.
4. Know When to Get Off
When your stop is near, just say “Para po!” loudly so the driver hears you (it means “Stop, please”). Knock on the roof or tap a coin against the metal rail if it’s noisy. Be quick and careful stepping off—the jeep may barely stop.
Between Cities…
Flights: Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have tons of domestic routes.
Buses: Victory Liner or Ceres are solid for land travel.
Boats/Ferries: 2Go Travel, Montenegro Lines, and OceanJet are common between islands.
Sustainable Note: Try boats and buses over short flights when possible. The Philippines is working on eco-tourism initiatives—support the slower route.
6. Cities You Should Know
Manila
Chaotic, soulful, and full of contrasts. Visit the National Museum Complex, sunset at Manila Bay, or nightlife in Poblacion.
Cebu City
Laid-back and historic. Visit Magellan’s Cross, dive in Moalboal, and hop to Bantayan or Malapascua.
Davao
Clean, calm, and close to Mount Apo. Great for local fruit markets and Indigenous heritage.
Baguio + Sagada
Cool mountain air, coffee farms, and lush pine forests. A vibe.
El Nido + Coron (Palawan)
Gorgeous limestone islands. Dive, kayak, snorkel, repeat.
7. Food Safety: What to Eat and What to Avoid
Filipino food is homey, savory, and wildly regional. Yes, you can eat street food—but smartly. Check out Cerca‘s article on the 7 iconic dishes to try while in the Philippines.
Street Food Tips
Go where it’s busy.
Stick to grilled or fried.
Wash your hands or bring sanitizer.
Be cautious with seafood or anything dairy-based in the heat.
Drinking Water
Tap water isn’t safe. Stick to bottled or filtered. Refill stations are now in many hotels and cafés.
Sustainable Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter or UV cap. Every plastic bottle you skip matters.
8. Respect the Culture: Don’t Be That Tourist
Dress Code
It’s casual here, but modesty is appreciated—especially in rural areas, churches, and Indigenous communities.
Religion
The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, but also home to Muslims, Indigenous spiritualities, and Protestants. Be respectful, especially during religious events or when visiting mosques or churches.
Taboos!
Avoid confrontation—Filipinos value diplomacy (“pakikisama”).
Don’t insult food.
Smile—it’s the national default.
Public affection isn’t common outside big cities.
9. Packing Tips for the Philippines
Light, breathable clothes
Quick-dry towel for island travel
Power adapter (Type A, B, or C – check your charger)
Reef-safe sunscreen
Travel insurance that covers typhoons or health emergencies
Temple/church attire (shawl, long skirt/pants)
10. Travel Sustainably and Responsibly
Support family-run homestays or locally owned guesthouses
Book with eco-certified island tours
Avoid jet skis, dolphin shows, or any exploitative marine tourism
Say no to plastic bags—bring a tote
Buy crafts from Indigenous makers directly
The Philippines is one of the most biodiverse archipelagos on the planet. Your choices matter.
BONUS: Get Ready For Your Trip
Our favorite films set in the Philippines:
Metro Manila (2013)
Award-winning British-Filipino drama about a rural family moving to the big city. Gritty, real, and haunting.
Ma’ Rosa (2016)
Directed by Brillante Mendoza, this Cannes-recognized film looks at poverty, corruption, and survival in Manila.
The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros (2005)
A beautiful, queer coming-of-age story set in the slums of Manila. Pure heart.
On the Job (2013)
Action-thriller set in the underbelly of Manila. Think “The Departed” meets gritty Southeast Asian noir.
Apocalypse Now (1979)
Shot largely in the Philippines—those jungle scenes are all real. It’s not about the Philippines, but the locations are.
Babae sa Breakwater (2003)
Set in Manila Bay, this raw indie gem paints a portrait of life in the margins.
Goyo: The Boy General (2018)
Epic historical film about General Gregorio del Pilar. Think Filipino patriotism + sweeping mountain vistas.
The Philippines won’t yell to get your attention—but listen closely and it sings. It’s where hospitality lives in every “kumain ka na ba?”, and nature still feels raw and humbling. Whether you’re hiking terraces in Ifugao, chasing waterfalls in Cebu, or eating mangoes by the sea—you’re part of a bigger, beautiful mess.
So go lightly. Go hungry. Go with heart.
See you on the next ferry.
— Listen to MisInfoNation: Philippines
— The Cerca Travel Crew
