Overview

• Language: The official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English; however, many regional dialects exist and are spoken throughout the country.
• Useful phrases: Hello (Kamusta), Thank you (Salamat).
• Currency: Philippine Peso (see current exchange rates here).
• Payment methods: Credit cards are accepted at most major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, but the more remote you are, the more likely you will need to pay in cash. ATMs are common in major cities like Manila and the easiest way to get cash upon arrival.
• Electric plugs: The Philippines uses type A, B, or C electrical outlet plugs. Additionally, standard voltage is 220V with a standard frequency of 60Hz. If you are coming from the Americas, you will likely need a converter. Check out my favorite converter and adaptor!
• Measurement systems: Like most of the world, the Philippines primarily uses the Metric System, measuring distances in kilometers and temperature in Celsius. However, due to American colonial influence in the 20th century, you may also encounter some measurements using the Imperial System (i.e. inches).
• Weather: The Philippines has a tropical, warm climate with temperatures from 70°F to 90°F most of the year. Typhoon season is June through November and can be very rainy and humid, with the remaining months being dryer and cooler.
• Bonus tip: The Philippines celebrates the world’s longest Christmas season – it’s not uncommon to start seeing decorations and hearing carols as early as September!

Logistics

• Visa needs: Upon entry to the Philippines, most citizens from Western countries will not need a formal visa, and will instead get a transit visa at the airport. These citizens are allowed to stay a maximum of 30 days. You should also be prepared to show proof of intended departure. For more information on visa requirements, click here.
• Getting there: The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila is the major international airport within the Philippines.
• Getting around: Travel around an island will likely be on a bus, Jeepney (an old American jeep, painted and refashioned as a bus of sorts), trike, or Grab (their version of Uber). To get between islands, local airlines or ferries are your best bet, but be prepared to be patient, as there are often not many flights or boats per day.
• Driving: Residents of the Philippines drive on the right side of the road. Visitors with driver’s licenses in English do not require an International Driving Permit to rent a car in the Philippines.

LGBTQ+ Safety

Overall safety ranking: D+

Although the Philippines has a relatively low ranking, it is one of the more LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Asia. Prior to colonization, the Philippines had a fairly accepting culture of queer people; in recent years, this acceptance has been growing once again. However, you should still take care when visiting the country and disclosing personal details.

• Are same sex relations illegal? No
• Is same sex marriage legal? No
• Are there protections against discrimination? No
• Is there the right to change physical gender? No

Check out this post for more safety tips for queer travelers!