Five things to know before you go! Philippines
NUMBER ONE - EXIT TICKET: You must have an exit ticket in order to enter the country. If you do not have a ticket leaving, you will be required to purchase one or will not be able to enter the country! This one is very important, and is often overlooked. Also do not forget, when you leave you are required to pay an exit tax. I saw many people wait in line for security, only to be sent back out to pay an exit tax and then wait in line again. They do not advertise or tell you that you have to pay an exit tax most of the time until you go to the security check point. Save yourself some time and pay the exit tax before going to the security line.
NUMBER TWO - DO YOUR RESEARCH: This is important, and I cannot stress this enough. The Philippines has been having a lot of issues with ISIS and terrorists. It is becoming more and more dangerous to travel here. A few years ago I would not have said this, but while I was there recently I had to cancel a scuba trip due to the military fighting terrorist in the town I was going to, Palawan. There have been several attacks recently, mostly in the South. But also in Manila, so be cautious and know where your going. Always take precaution and be safe.
Here is the Warning from the U.S. Embassy website:
The U.S. Embassy has received credible information that terrorist groups may be planning to conduct kidnapping operations targeting foreign nationals in the areas of Palawan Province, Philippines, to include Puerto Princesa City, and the areas surrounding Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. U.S. citizens are advised to carefully consider this information as they make their travel plans and to review personal security plans, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and remain vigilant at all times.
The U.S. Embassy wishes to remind U.S. citizens of the most recent Worldwide Caution, dated March 6, 2017, which indicates there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines. Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems–including airlines, and other public venues where large crowds gather. Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses and popular restaurants have also been targets. U.S. citizens should be mindful of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines.
Taken directly from the site: https://ph.usembassy.gov/security-message-u-s-citizens-travel-advisory-palawan-province/
NUMBER THREE - USE UBER OR GRAB: Transportation is super cheap, I hear a lot of people recommending to take a Jeepney or a tricycle. Yeah right, they are incredibly packed, hot, uncomfortable, and hard to figure out. You may want to try a Jeepney to experience a little local culture, but an Uber is less than $5 going anywhere. Jeepneys are cheap, less than $1 for most places. I took nearly 40 Uber rides while I was there and none were over $4. Even when there was traffic and it took 45 minutes+ it was still less than $4 USD. It is easy and convenient. I would not even recommend sharing an Uber, you might save .50 or a dollar, unless you are on a very very limited budget there is no reason, and sharing can hold you up for up to a half hour. ( I know because I did it one night) Taxis will try to rip you off, sometimes don't have A/C, and at times it can be hard to explain directions if the driver speaks limited or no English. If you do have to take a taxi for some reason, do not put your stuff in the trunk. They have a scam where when you get out of the taxi the driver takes off with your stuff never to return. They can just claim they forgot it was in the trunk if they happen to get caught. Your trip just got a lot more difficult!
NUMBER FOUR - ALWAYS HAVE CASH (PESOS): ATMs, can be hard to find, and almost nowhere in the street shopping centers do they accept credit cards. Even most Mcdonalds and fast food places do not accept credit/atm cards. ATMs usually have high fees and lower exchange rates. If you are going to a money changer on the street be very careful, the local criminals know when you leave you have a pocket full of money. Its best to exchange money during the day at a reputable places. Most malls have money changers and very good security. Again do your research and be prepared, some towns don't even have ATMs, what ya gonna do then?
NUMBER FIVE - THE FOOD IS NOTHING TO WRITE HOME ABOUT: Nothing like Thailand, or Vietnam! The food in the Phillipines is really not that good, sorry guys but its true. Basically their local cuisine is some sort of meet with rice. I searched and searched, but could not find anything worth writing about. I mostly dined at Thai restaurants, and big chain restaurants when they could be found. If you travel often and are used to trying the amazing foods of other Southeast Asian countries, you may be a little disappointed here. Again google it and make plans if you like good food, be prepared!
Hope this helps someone traveling to the Philippines! Until next time, adios.