The Philippines are renowned for their vibrant culture, beautiful beaches and for having some of the nicest people you’ll ever find on the planet. It’s also a place rich in culture and with more natural beauty per square mile then almost anywhere else in the world. If this is your first time in the country however, it’s easy to get lost in all the action of a fast-paced city like Manila. In this article, were going to give a few essential tips for first timers in the city.
Get Acquainted with the Exchange Rate
One of the most important things before to going to the Philippines or any country is getting familiarized with the exchange rate. It’s not uncommon for taxi drivers at the airport to hike up prices and take advantage of unsuspecting visitors who might not be familiar with the local currency. So, before you leave, try to check what the current exchange rate is, as it fluctuates on daily basis. You could also go to a site like Numbeo to see average prices for a variety of commodities in the city to make sure you aren’t taken for a ride.
Organize Your Transport Transfer Before You Land
You should try to book a shared transfer in advance from the airport if you don’t want to get scammed. Uber and metered taxis are the best option. Ubers are everywhere in Manila, and you’ll have no problem finding a driver. The prices are also very cheap. Another option is Grab, which is another ride sharing service that is very popular in the city and even cheaper than Uber.
Choose the Right Accommodation
Manila has everything you need as far as accommodations, whether you’re looking for a 5-star experience, or a nice bungalow near the water. But if you can, try to stay away from 3-star establishments and spend a little more if you want to have access to better accommodations. Sure, while a cheap hotel might do if all you want is a nice place to sleep, I suggest you save money for a nice Makati hotel Manila. Some will offer things like a spa service, a nice pool, gyms, and great dining options, so it’s definitely worth it.
Get Prepared for Local Traffic
Before you leave, you should also make sure that you know the local rush hours to avoid unpleasant surprises. Just because it took you 20 minutes to get from the airport to your hotel when you came in, doesn’t mean it’s going to be the case when you come back. Traffic can get brutal in central Manila, so make sure you know when the rush hour starts and ends so you’ll know exactly how long it will take to get from A to B.
Manila is a great place full of adventure and a great atmosphere. If you follow these few instructions, you should be able to enjoy your experience to the fullest.
