PHILIPPINES TOURS

Anything that’ll keep you cool. Swimmers, thongs, hats, t-shirts and shorts etc. Some parts of the Philippines are conservative in their religious attitudes so anything that covers your shoulders is always a win. For times you’re trekking through jungles, sturdy shoes are the way to go. For everything else, see your trip notes!

Tropical with an average temperature of 27°C.

Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valour) is celebrated on 9 April, commemorating the fall of the Bataan peninsula and defeat against Japanese invaders during World War II. 12 June is Independence Day. You can guess what this celebrates... the Philippines independence from Spanish colonial rule. Immaculate Conception on 8 December is the Roman Catholic holiday around the world dedicated to the belief of the Virgin Mary having conceived without well, you know.  

It depends! You’ll need to budget for spending money, meals (only the ones which aren’t included, obvs) and those immense optional activities. Go through your itinerary and think about the optionals you’re keen to experience – it’s all part of the fun!

Philippine peso (PHP).

Dry season, particularly February, March and April. Temperatures are warm. The sun is high in the sky. There’s little rain. It’s the best time of year for allll the outdoor adventures, boat trips and beach lounges.

You must have comprehensive travel insurance to participate in a Topdeck trip to the Philippines. You will be unable to join us without it. 

It’s your responsibility to obtain the correct visas for your trip. Ask your travel agent or check with the relevant embassies before you depart. 

Find travel advice for Australia citizens here, for New Zealand citizens here for US citizens here, for Canadian citizens here and for British citizens here. If you’re travelling from a country not listed here, head to the relevant government website for more information.

We recommend you consult your doctor about health and vaccination requirements before you travel to the Philippines. 

For current travel safety advice, please check your home country’s travel advisories.

Mobile phone reception in the Philippines varies. Signal is likely to be better in cities and towns than in rural areas. Remember to check your network provider’s roaming fees to avoid any nasty surprises on your next bill!

The plug types in the Philippines are Type A, B and C. Croatia operates on a 220V supply voltage and 60Hz. 

We recommend you bring a universal plug adapter – airports usually sell them, but it’s cheaper to buy one before you go.

#1. Embrace the local bayanihan spirit! Community is everything in the Philippines – you might even get roped into building a house (kidding, but you get the idea). If you’ve got their back, they’ve got yours. #2. Respect your elders. Goes without saying, right? In the Philippines, it’s a big deal. The easy way to do this is to add ‘po’ to the end of your sentence when speaking directly to the elderly. #3. Watch out for hidden fees. Whilst you don’t need to worry about your Topdeck trip being covered, hidden fees might crop up at airports and ATMs. Bonus! Cash is king here so make sure you’ve got plenty of it just in case.

Hello = Kamusta 

Please = Paki 

Thank you = Salamat 

Good morning = Magandang umaga 

Good afternoon = Magandang hapon 

See you later = Kita tayo mamaya 

How are you? = Kamutsa ka? 

How much? = Magkano?