If you are going for a holiday, weather related information should be your prime concern. Since Philippines lies in hot and tropical region, its climate can be divided into two seasons. Wet season starts from May and ends in October, whereas the dry season starts from November and ends in April. The dry season is the best time to visit Philippines. However, even during the wet months, rain is not extensive and most days are hot and sunny, with downpours only occurring at dusk. The most pleasant months for travelling and exploring are January and February. From March to May, weather is really hot and temperature can reach up to 36°C. If you want to explore Philippines in wet season, then Palawan and Visayas are best, as these regions are less prone to typhoon.
But if you are going to visit your family and a budget flight is your top priority , you must book in advance. If you are planning to book flights to Philippines for July 2017 or December 2017 . For any other month Travel House will keep you updated with latest flight offers from different airlines as soon as they are launched. Looking for last minute flights to Philippines is always a gamble. you might be lucky to grab a deal but normally Philippines being one of popular destination for travelers, its always advisable to book in advance.
This aspect is important in choosing the right airline for your destination. Backpackers and businessmen prefer to pack smartly. However, tourists on vacations want more baggage allowance. Following are main airlines with their baggage allowance:
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With Philippines Airlines, you can take 2 pieces of 23kg each in economy class and 2 pieces of 32kg each in business class to all Philippines destinations.
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Turkish Airlines allows you to carry 25kg in economy class and 30kg in business class for any destination in Philippines.
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When you choose Emirates, you can take 35kg in economy class (depending on fare type), 40kg in business class flights and 50kg in first class.
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Baggage allowance on Singapore Airlines flights is 30kg for economy class, 40kg for business class and 50kg for first class.
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KLM has checked baggage allowance of one piece of 23kg in economy class and Two pieces of 32kg each in business class flights for Philippines.
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Qatar Airways allows you to take 32kg in economy class, 40kg in business class flights and 50kg in first class to Manila.
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Baggage allowance on Etihad Airlines is 2 bag of 23kg each in economy class (depending on fare type), 2 bags of 32kg each in business and first class.
Every tourist can easily find accommodation in Philippines according to his budget. You have lots of choices from luxury five-star hotels and resorts to simple huts and budget guesthouses and hotels. Budget hotels offer rooms with fan or A.C but breakfast is not included in the price. Mid-range hotels include separate bathroom and air conditioning. Luxury hotels are mainly found in Manila, Cebu and popular beach destinations.
If you want cheaper options than hotels, then you can either choose to stay in hostels or homestays. Most youth hostels are located in university cities. If you have a Hostelling International card, you can use it at YWCAs and YMCAs to avail discount. In rural areas, where hotels and resorts are not present, locals are willing to offer homestays on cheap rates. Homestays are a good way to get close with locals and their traditions.
Philippine is world famous for its hospitable locals, stunning beaches, big shopping malls and the most diverse wildlife. All of these perk with delicious but cheap food. Philippines food is a tasty mix of American, Malay, Spanish and Japanese cuisine. Below are major cities with their must to visit restaurants and sites:
Manila: The capital city of Philippines is the main hub for international tourists as most airlines are offering direct flights only to Ninoy Aquino Airport. Prominent places to visit are Rizal Park, San Agustin Church, and Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila Ocean Park and National Museum of the Philippines. If you love to try new food then Buddha-Bar, Sushi Nori and Chun Chon are best in the city.
Cebu: Cebu city offers a great insight in Philippines culture and history with great food, natural and man-made wonders. The best places to visit are Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary, Casa Gorordo Musuem, Basilica Minore del Santo Nino and Magellan's Cross. The most delicious food in town is served at Aranos, La Maison Rose and Sa Paolito's Seafood House.
Davao: Famous for its durian production, this city should be included in your itinerary. You can visit Philippines Eagle Center, Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Samal Island. Best restaurants in town are Rekado, Wild Berry and Garden by the Bay.
Exploring Philippines is incomplete without attending its mass festivals and celebrations. They not only showcase their culture and traditions but also their history and religious beliefs. Below are the most famous festivals of the country:
Ati-atihan Festival - This festival is celebrated from 16th to 22nd January to pay homage to Santo Niño (Infant Jesus). Dancing on the beats of tribal drums and wearing colorful costumes are part of the event.
Sinulog Festival - The patron saint of Cebu city, the Santo Niño, is honored by the locals in the 3rd week of January. The event is marked by street dancing, parades and colorful processions.
Masskara Festival - Celebrated in Bacolod city, the festival is a treat for tourists, photographers and art enthusiasts. From 14th to 21st October, streets are filled with locals wearing colorful costumes and masks.
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