Ricky Huang & Bertie Ocampo

Language
Tagalog and English are both official languages of the Philippines. Many people speak English and you'll be able to get by without using Google Translate

Visa
Australian citizens can travel without a visa to the Philippines if staying for less than 30 days. Double check your requirements here

Weather in January
The Philippines has two seasons: wet and dry, although how wet or how dry it is varies depending on which island you're on. But typically, dry season is from November-May. The weather in Manila in January will be cool and less humid - averaging from lows of 24°C to highs of 30°C

Plugs Used
The Philippines uses plug types A, B and C with voltage 220V and frequency 60Hz

For travelers arriving at Ninoy Aqunio International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, it's crucial to have all necessary documents prepared for immigrations and customs.

Know your terminal in advance to streamline the arrival process. Expect crowds, especially during peak hours, and stay alert to navigate efficiently through the airport.

Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings amidst the hustle and bustle of the busy airport environment.

The best way to get to your accommodation from NAIA is via Taxi. Uber is not available in the Philippines and public transportation is highly discouraged

Navigating Manila can be quite overwhelming for first-time visitors and traffic jams are known to be notoriously bad, so make sure to leave ample time to get around (minimum 30 minutes to get anywhere). Here are our recommendations on how to get around:

GRAB
For utmost convenience and safety, Grab, Southeast Asia's version of Uber, is the most popular option. You can either pay via credit card through the app or pay the driver in cash at the end of your ride. But please note, Grab (especially during peak hour) can often be unreliable, and you might have to wait 30-45 minutes before pickup.

Taxi
Taxis are another viable option, but it's best to use reputable companies like "MGE" or "R&E" and always insist on using the meter to avoid fare disputes and getting scammed. For added security, you can also book regular taxis through the Grab app

Private car or van
For those looking for a more comfortable way to travel, consider hiring a private car or van with a driver, especially if you're travelling in a group. Learn more here

Shuttles on January 17th
On the day of the wedding, a shuttle service to and from the venue will be provided for guests staying in SEDA BGC and Discovery Primea Hotel. More details will be provided closer to the event date

Currency and Payments
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). It's a good idea to exchange some money before you arrive or at the airport. ATMs are widely available in Manila, and most major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores.

However, small shops, markets, and rural areas (if you're planning to travel outside of Manila) may only accept cash. Make sure to also bring your physical debit and credit card with you as Apple Pay and Google Pay are not available in the Phillipines.

Tipping
Tipping in the Philippines is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is customary if no service charge is included, while rounding up the fare is common for taxis and ride-hailing services. For hotel staff, tour guides, private drivers, and spa services, small tips are a nice gesture to show appreciation for good service.

Health Tips

• Water Safety: Always drink bottled or filtered water, as tap water is not safe to drink. Avoid ice in drinks unless you're sure it's made from purified water.

• Insect Repellent: If you're planning to travel to one of the islands, use insect repellent to protect yourself against mosquitoes.

• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost belongings.

• Bring any necessary medication: There are pharmacies around Manila and in most islands around the Philippines, but as with travelling to many countries, don't expect them to have exactly what you need and when you need it. Always better to be safe than sorry.

Safety Tips

• Secure your valuables at your hotel: Keep your valuables in a hotel safe or secure place, and avoid displaying expensive items like jewellery and gadgets. It's best to have a lock on your luggage.

• Protect your belongings: Never leave your bag or valuables unattended. When dining out, keep your bag on your lap while you eat and keep your phone in your pocket or bag rather than on the table when you're not using it.
  

Planning to stay in Manila for longer? We recommend staying in Manila for a maximum of 1-2 days. Any more than that and you're better off visiting one of our 7,640 islands! Here's a few local spots you can check out:

Things to check out

• Intramuros: Historic Intramuros is the most popular tourist attraction in Manila. Known as the Walled City, this 0.67 sqkm walked area was the City of Manila during the Spanish Colonial Period. You can explore Intramuros on your own, but one of the most fun ways to experience it is on sustainable bamboo bikes. Check out the tour on Klook

• Binondo Food Tour: The Binondo Food Tour takes you through the world's oldest Chinatown, where you can savour a variety of delicious Chinese -Filipino dishes, all while exploring the historic streets and vibrant markets of Binondo. For more information, check out the tour on Klook

• Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC): If you want to get a bit of shopping and dining done while you're in Manila, Makati and BGC are your best bet. Both Makati and BGC offer a wide range of shopping options, featuring a mix of international and local brands, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. The most popular malls to check out are Greenbelt and Glorietta in Makati. Then Bonifacio High Street, SM Aura Premier and Uptown Mall in BGC. Both areas are also known for their nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs and entertainment venues. Poblacion, in particular is known for its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants, offering everything from craft cocktails to street food.

• National Museum: The National Museum Complex in Manila is a premier cultural institution that comprises three main musems: the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History. Each museum offers a unique glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural heritage of the Philippines.

• Ayala Museum: Located in the heart of Makati, the Ayala Museum is a privately-run institution that offers a comprehensive look at Philippine history, culture, and art. It is part of the Ayala Center, a premier shopping and commercial district

• Try out Manam: If you want to try out Filipino food, the best spot is in Manam, which has a few branches in Makati and BGC. It's known for its innovative take on classic Filipino comfort food, including their House Crispy Sisig and Sinigang na Beef Short Rib and Watermelon.
  

The best part of the Philippines is exploring the islands outside of Manila. Here are our top picks for first-time travellers:

BY PLANE

Palawan

• El Nido: Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and hidden lagoons. Perfect for island hopping, snorkelling and diving.

• Coron: Famous for its shipwreck diving sites, beautiful lakes and hot springs. Don't miss the breathtaking Kayangan Lake.

• Puerto Princesca: Home to the Puerto Princesca Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a boat tour through the underground river and explore the stunning cave formations.

Boracay

• Renowned for its powdery white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports. White Beach is the most famous spot, but also explore Puka Shell Beach and Bulabog Beach for a quieter experience.

Cebu

• Cebu City: Offers historical sites like Magellan's Cross and the Basilica del Santo Niño. A great starting point for exploring the island.

• Moalboal: Known for its incredible diving spots and the famous sardine run. Perfect for underwater adventures.

• Oslob: Famous for the opportunity to swim with whale sharks.

Siargao

• Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, with Cloud 9 being the most famous surf spot. Also explore the beautiful lagoons and rock pools in Sohoton Cove.

Bohol

• Bohol is renowned for its unique Chocolate Hills, adorable tarsiers, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure.

BY CAR (Road Trips from Manila)

Mt. Pinatubo

• About a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Manila, Mt. Pinatubo is famous for its catastrophic eruption in 1991 and now offers a stunning crater lake trek. Embark on an off-road 4x4 adventure through lahar fields, followed by a trek to the crater lake with its striking turquoise waters. Take a dip in the crater lake and capture stunning photos of the surreal landscape. Check out the tour here

Tagaytay

• Just 1.5 to 2 hours from Manila, Tagaytay offers cool weather and stunning views of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. Book your own private tour to visit Taal Volcano. Or enjoy a delicious meal at renowned restaurants like Balay Dako, known for its hearty Filipino dishes, Antonio's, celebrated for its fine dining and exquisite ambiance, Breakfast at Antonio's for a delightful morning meal with spectacular views of the lake, or Sonya's Garden for a farm-to-table dining experience.

Hidden Valley

• Located in Alaminos, Laguna, about 2 hours from Manila, Hidden Valley Springs is a tropical paradise featuring natural hot springs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Relax in the natural hot spring pools and take a dip in the cool waterfalls. Enjoy a nature walk through the verdant forest and indulge in a buffet lunch featuring local Filipino dishes. Check out the tour here

Villa Escudero

• Situated in Tiaong, Quezon, approximately 2.5 hours from Manila, Villa Escudero is a unique plantation resort offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Tour the museum showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts and enjoy a carabao-drawn cart ride. Have lunch at the famous waterfall restaurant where you can dine with your feet in the water and experience traditional Filipino cultural performances. Check out the tour here

Pinto Art Museum

• Located in Antipolo, Rizal, just an hour's drive from Manila, Pinto Art Museum is a contemporary art space set in a beautiful garden setting. Explore the museum's diverse collection of contemporary Filipino art and enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Relax in the serene gardens and visit the museum's café for a delightful meal with a view of the surrounding landscape. More information here

Note on local flights:
The Philippines is an archipelago, so flying is often the quickest way to travel between islands. Check airlines like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines for domestic flights. You will have to travel to Manila first in order to fly to any of the islands recommend above.