Off to the Philippines? Keep these 12 tips in mind

08.01.2025 - 02:51 / lonelyplanet.com

Jan 7, 2025 • 9 min read

Made up of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has some of the most beautiful tropical landscapes and richest marine biodiversity in the world. 

Even as a local who has made it a personal mission to visit the 82 provinces of my home country – a staggered, long-term staggered quest that took me over a decade – I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface. Given this Southeast Asian nation’s spread-out geography, it may be more challenging to get around than its neighbors. Yet it’s precisely that remoteness and sheer beauty that delight any traveler who makes the effort. 

Here are some insider tips to make the most of your trip to the Philippines.

The archipelagic makeup of the country means hopping around islands can involve multiple planes and ferries. Domestic flights between key hubs are the fastest option; they’re also the most expensive. Boats and ferries cost less, but can take longer thanks to inconvenient schedules, weather conditions or delays.

You’ll need to plan your itinerary carefully, or opt to spend more time savoring the main attractions instead of rushing to tick off as many places as you (think you can) get to. It makes sense to concentrate on one or two main island hubs – such as Palawan – with stopovers in those cities that have airports. If you plan to hop from north to south and cover the three major island groups of Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao, factor in travel time by adding a day or two between flight days and ferry crossings just to be safe. 

Think you’re an expert at train travel and city navigation? Try getting around Manila using only mass transit – a notoriously tricky brief. If you can manage to get where you’re going using only the disjointed network of trains, buses, jeeps and tricycles without a hitch, you’re surely qualified to go far on a future season of The Amazing Race. Consider it a boot camp even for seasoned travelers. And you’ll also save a lot on fares, too.

If the idea of this challenge stresses you out, you can always book rideshare services like inDrive (a cheaper alternative to Grab), or motorbike taxis like Move It and Angkas, to get around with ease. 

To avoid getting stuck in the gridlock, head right away to the islands and countryside spots, where the only traffic you’ll encounter are schools of fish underwater, or the occasional cow blocking the road.

In the Philippines, getting from point A to point B isn’t as simple as checking a timetable, swiping your smartphone, booking tickets and leaving at the exact appointed time. In many rural areas, you have to physically go to a bus station, van terminal or port on the day of your trip; if there’s an available seat, you take it.

Some bus companies allow online bookings or reservations a