About the Philippines, from Philippine Trails - The UK Philippines Travel Experts

The amazing Chocolate Hills, Bohol

About The Philippines

This fast-emerging tourist destination has much to offer the adventurous traveller.

puerto Galera

With over 7100 islands to discover, The Philippines, and its friendly people, are just waiting to greet you!

Bustling cities like Manila and Cebu contrast with the tranquility of exquisite tropical islands.

And did you know, the Philippines is the 3rd largest English speaking country in the world, after the United States and Great Britain? Most signs are in English too!

The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands. The main island groups are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Philippines' capital is Manila. Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours. Luzon, the largest island group, accounts for more than half of the entire population.

Climate

In The Philippines the period from March to May is hot and dry. June to October is the "Rainy Season". November to February is relatively cool. Average temperatures: 78°F / 25°C to 90°F / 32°C; humidity is 77%.

Languages

Two official languages --- Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education.

Religions

Some 83% of Filipinos are Catholic. About 5% are Moslem. The rest are made up of smaller Christian denominations and Buddhist.

Unit of Measurement

The Metric System is used in most trade and legal transactions.

Electricity

220 volts a/c is the common standard. 110 volts a/c is also used, especially in major hotels.

Currency

The Philippines' monetary unit is the peso, divided into 100 centavos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any hotels, most large department stores, banks, and authorized money changing shops accredited by the Central Bank of the Philippines. International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, Bank Americard, Master Card, and American Express are accepted in major establishments. Be sure to let your card holders know you will be using your cards abroad.

ATMs are widespread in most large cities and towns, but not so in some isolated and rural communities. Be sure to carry enough cash. BPI (Bank of Philippine Islands) and Metrobank machines seem to accept UK cards readily.

Safety & Travel Advice

The Philippines seems to have a reputation for natural phenomina like Volcanoes, Typhoons, and maybe some occasional political chaos! However, the sensible traveller will find a very welcoming country. Filipinos are a hospitable people, and it's easy to enjoy their country's charms.

Like many parts of Asia The Philippines is safe provided sensible precautions are taken - you don't flash cash or jewellery about, and use booked transport and taxis when travelling.

It is generally advised that the south west of Mindanao - the Sulu archipelago including Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo, be avoided, where there are ongoing military and police operations against insurgent groups.

Useful Travel Advice and Links can be obtained from The UK Government Website.