BANKS

 

Normal banking hours are from 9.00a.m to 3.00p.m Monday to Friday with automated teller machines (ATM) operating 24 hours.

International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard, and American Express Card are accepted in major establishments.

While banks and ATMS are plentiful in main towns they are less so in rural areas – the best way to avoid problems is to make sure you have plenty of cash before visiting more remote destinations.

  

CURRENCY

 

The unit of currency is the Philippines Peso (PHP): USD1 is roughly equivalent to 42 PHP using mid April 2008 conversion rates.

Philippines money changers are able to offer the latest official guiding rates and are located at the airport, local banks, and other authorized foreign exchange dealers in commercial establishments.

  

CLIMATE

 

March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy (the typhoon season is normally between June and September). November to February is cooler. Average temperatures: 78F to 90F: humidity 77%.

  

DEPARTURE TAX

 

An international departure tax of 550 PHP is payable when checking-in for your return flight - this is payable in dollars or local currency. 

A departure tax of 100 PHP, paid in Philippine pesos only, applies for local flights within the Philippines.

Travelers are advised to check with airport or tourist information counters as airport departure fees may change without notice.

  

DRINKING WATER

 

While water in metropolitan Manila and in key cities and towns is potable and considered safe for drinking we recommended you boil all drinking water or drink only bottled water.

Bottled water is available in many hotels, restaurants, resorts, supermarkets, and convenience stores.

  

DRIVER’S LICENSE

 

A driver’s license from your home country is accepted for a period up to 90 days.

You are normally required to produce an International Drivers Permit for any period in excess of 90 days.

Terms and conditions for hiring a car vary widely. We therefore advise you to check with one of our agents when booking a vacation so that we can advise you based on your particulars and preferences.

   

ELECTRICITY

 

Mostly 220 volts, 50 to 60 HZ; Plugs are of the flat two-pin U.S type. Exceptions are Baguio (110 volts) and some top end hotels which offer both 220 and 100 volt outlets. Travelers should check with their hotel reception to confirm what voltage applies.

  

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS  

Most visitors including those from the U.S may enter the country without visas and may stay for 21 days provided they have tickets for onward journey and a passport normally valid for six months beyond their intended stay. 

Visitors seeking to visit longer than 21 days should consult their nearest Philippine embassies and consulates for details of conditions and associated costs.

 

TOURISM SEASON

 

While diving is possible all year round, the optimal season is generally from   November to May in line with Philippine’s “dry” season. Visibility normally peaks about April/May time.

Christmas and New Year periods are very popular with divers, consequently hotels are extremely busy.

 

 

VACCINATIONS

 

No specific vaccinations are necessary unless you have visited a yellow fever zone within six days before entering South-East Asia.

However, we always suggest that you speak to your family physician or specialized travel clinic for a personal recommendation before visiting any tropical destination. As most vaccines don’t produce immunity until at least two weeks after they are given, allow sufficient time for consultation before departure.

 

 

  

WATER TEMPERATURES AND WETSUITS

 

A balmy 72F to 77F during the cooler months of December to March: 77F to 82F during the warmer months of April to November.

 

Most divers should be comfortable in a 1mm - 3mm wet suit, depending on the season and the individual.