Explore
the Philippines - a tropical paradise of 7,000+ islands blending
white-sand beaches, ancient rice terraces, and vibrant island
culture. Perfect for travellers seeking adventure, beauty, and
authentic Southeast Asian charm.
Country: Philippines
Continent / Region: Asia / Southeast Asia
Capital City: Manila
Government Type: Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 118 million
Official Language(s): Filipino, English
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~58% (very widespread)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+8
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B/C – 220V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 911 (nationwide)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 15–17 hours (1 stop)
Best Time/Months to Travel: December–April (dry season)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: 30 days; free entry (extensions available)
- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A, Typhoid; consider Rabies & Japanese Encephalitis depending on region
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in the Philippines):
Average Daily Costs: £25 / £50 / £100+
Tipping Culture: 5–10% appreciated; some restaurants add service charge
Public Transport Options: Jeepneys, tricycles, taxis, Grab, ferries, domestic flights
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: PHP 15–20 (jeepney)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G/5G in major cities; Globe, Smart, DITO
Main Climate Type: Tropical; dry and wet seasons
Average Temperature: 25–32°C year-round
Major Cities: Manila, Cebu, Davao, Quezon City, Makati
Natural Attractions: Beaches, islands, rice terraces, coral reefs, volcanoes
Popular Destinations: Palawan, Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Siargao, Manila, Banaue Rice Terraces
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic; Islam in southern regions
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Adobo, sinigang, lechon, pancit, halo-halo, fresh mango
Local Festivals: Sinulog (Cebu), Ati-Atihan, Pahiyas Festival, Dinagyang, MassKara
Famous Landmarks: Chocolate Hills, Mayon Volcano, Intramuros, Tubbataha Reefs, Coron lagoons
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe; varies by region
Common Scams: Taxi overcharging, fake tours, overpricing in markets
Health Risks: Mosquito-borne illnesses, dehydration, jellyfish stings
Recommended Clinics: St Luke’s Medical Center (Manila), Chong Hua Hospital (Cebu)
Insurance Recommendation: Essential — especially for island-hopping & water activities
Internet Speed: Good in cities; slower on remote islands
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: El Nido lagoons, Boracay White Beach, Chocolate Hills, Kawasan Falls, Intramuros Manila, Siargao surf spots
Unique Experiences: Island hopping in Palawan, whale shark encounters in Oslob/Donsol, Taal Volcano views, jeepney rides
Hidden Gems: Bantayan Island, Romblon, Camiguin, Sagada hanging coffins, Balabac islands
Popular Areas to Stay: El Nido, Coron, Boracay, Cebu City, Makati (Manila), Siargao Cloud 9
Average Hotel Prices: £20 / £40 / £120+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Manila BGC & Makati, Boracay Station 2, Cebu IT Park
Local Drinks: San Miguel beer, rum cocktails, fresh fruit shakes
Entertainment: Beach bars, karaoke, live bands, sunset lounges
Car Rental: Available but not recommended in Manila traffic
Domestic Flights: Frequent between major islands
Ferries: Extensive inter-island ferries
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Affordable; Grab widely used in cities
Best Markets: Greenhills (Manila), Divisoria, Cebu Night Markets, D’Mall Boracay
Popular Souvenirs: Dried mangoes, pearls, wooden crafts, local coffee, woven bags
Local SIM Card Providers: Globe, Smart, DITO
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–9 p.m. (daily)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe to drink; bottled water essential
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
The Philippines has over 7,640 islands, making it one of the world’s largest archipelagos.