Philippines Travel Guide For Backpackers & Digital Nomads
Why you should visit the Philippines!
The Philippines is an amazing travel destination, ideal for backpackers, digital nomads, and adventure seekers alike. With its stunning white-sand beaches, friendly locals, and incredibly affordable cost of living, it offers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty and cultural richness.
With over 7000 islands, you wont find a shortage of beaches, water sports and party places!
For digital nomads, the country’s budget-friendly living, vibrant culture, and strong internet, make this an ideal homebase.
For backpackers, you can’t beat the cheap food, amazing parties, and plenty of hostels with great vibes!
Plan your next adventure with this comprehensive travel guide to Philippines.
Philippines at a Glace
Tagalog
Philippine peso
N/A
Adobo & Sinigang
Yes
Smart, Globe & Dito
No
Check CDC
A, B, C
Grab
March - June
+63
Yes
Yes
Yes
Cash
July - February
911
PHILIPPINES TRAVEL GUIDE: RELATED ARTICLES
Looking for more info about the Philippines? Check out all the blog posts written on travel to the Philippines and start planning your trip!
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Philippines Visa Requirements
How to apply for a visa for visiting the Philippines?
Americans and a few other countries are exempt from needing a visa to visit the Philippines for a stay up to 30 days. If you intended to stay longer visit one of the immigration offices, and pay your fee a week before your visa is to expire.
If you are just a tourist, then no visa is needed. But if you are coming to live or for business, there are additional requirements found on their government website.
Is there a digital nomad visa in the Philippines?
In this Philippines travel guide blog, you will learn that the Philippines offers a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) for digital nomads, allowing visitors to stay and work there permanently, but you must be at least 35 years old and fulfill financial requirements, like depositing money into a Filipino bank account, amongst a few other rules
How to extend my Philippines Visa?
Visit any of their immigration offices, have cash, your passport and address where you are staying. Fees are dependent on length of stay and if you will rush your visa.
Quality of Life
Working
If you are thinking of doing some remote work or working in the Philippines you’ll be happy to know that, there are many cafes and coworking spaces all over. There are even foreign companies that operate here. The philippines is very remote work and digital nomad friendly.
Nightlife
The nightlife in the Philippines is one of the best in Asia. You can find Luxury clubs, bars, gogos, kareoke, you name it, it exists. For more about nightlife, check out these posts.
Best Places To Party In Poblacion Makati
7 Best Places for Nightlife in the Philippines
Dating in the Philippines
If you are a foreigner, you wont have any trouble dating. Ironically, western men are sought out and highly held. That being said, many women can be opportunist. Don’t be surprised to have some company but to pay for everything. If you aren’t wanting this, do not begin the friendship or relationship by offering food or drinks. If sexually active, use protection, or you risk becoming a father in a country where abortion is illegal, and where you may be treated as an ATM by the woman and her family.
Not every female has bad intentions, many are looking for love and adventure, just like any person would. You will know a persons intentions very quickly. I would say the manila and cebu are the best places in philippines for singles.
Pros And Cons Of The Philippines
1. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to Western living, the Philippines has cheaper living costs. With an average monthly spending limit of $1,000–$1,500, you can live comfortably.
2. Warm and Hospitable People
Filipinos are known for being friendly people. Don’t just take my word for it, say hello to a local
3. Amazing Scenery
Beautiful beaches, jungles, and mountains may be found in the tropical paradise that is the Philippines. There are numerous outdoor activities you can engage in, like hiking, surfing, island hopping, and many others.
4. English is widely spoken
Many locals are fluent in english, which makes it easy to communicate and make friends.
5. Lively Nightlife
Its hard not to make friends. The nightlife in manila will make you want to stay longer
How to visit the Philippines
How to travel to the Philippines by air?
Flying to the philippines tips 101! You will find the cheapest flights with AirAsia or Cebu Pacific, though their flights are often delayed. Depending where you are coming from it may be cheaper to first fly to, Singapore, Thailand or South Korea, then take a second flight to the Philippines.
Best Cities In the Philippines
Looking for the best places to travel in the philippines? Look no further!
Palawan and Siargao are the top tourist destinations for travellers and backpackers in the Philippines. Manila or Cebu city, are ideal for digital nomads in the Philippines, due to better infrastructureand many day trips from the city center.
Your choice will mainly depend on if you prefer, cities, mountains, or beaches. You should include every major city in your philippine travel bucket list, to really enjoy everything the Philippines has to offer for a first time traveller.
1. Manila
If you love the city life, an abundance of cafes and coworking spaces, Manila is the place for you. Manila is a good city for digital nomads because it has a high-speed internet connection and a well-developed tech infrastructure. Additionally, Manila offers a low cost of living compared to other major cities, making it an affordable location for digital nomads to work and live in.
One additional thing travellers don’t know you can find amazing hikes around the Philippines, even within 1-2 hour drives from manila.
2. Cebu City
One of the top Philippines destinations, The city itself can be explored within a few days, but you are only a few hours from beaches and adrenaline filled excursins, like diving with the sardines. Cebu nightlife is wild, especially if you stay at a local hostel called Mad Monkey. Internet is strong here and there are a few growing coworking spaces.
Some of the country’s best beaches are located here, including Bantayan, Malapascua, Camotes, and Sumilon. Some other important attractions in Cebu are the Temple of Leah, Sirao Garden, and Kawasan Falls.
3. Davao City
Davao City offers a variety of activities and attractions, including outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it a well-rounded destination for both work and leisure. A lesser-visited place, come here for a more local filipino community and cheaper living costs, while keeping a strong internet connection.
Some best places to visit here include the Davao Museum of History and Ethnography, Mount Apo, Eden Nature Park, Crocodile Park, Davao Baywalk, and Philippine Eagle Center
4. Baguio
Baguio has many attractions, including Burnham Park, the Botanical Garden of the Philippines, and the World War II Memorial Park. Fun activities for tourists here include trekking, ziplining, and ghost-hunting tours.A city with a major university, you will enjoy cooler weather and a young crowd, with some very nice cafes and night markets.
5. Palawan
Just like Sirgao, Palawan is another popular tourist destination and digital nomad spot. You will find many travellers here dotting the cities cafes and hostels. If you love beaches and swimming, this place is for you. Popular destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers, offering activities like island hopping, snorkeling, and kayaking, as well as luxurious resorts and vibrant local culture
6. Siargao
Siargo is the favorite travel destination in the philippines. This city offers a peaceful environment with a laid-back lifestyle that can boost productivity and creativity. Explore its many beaches. If you enjoy water sports, nightlife and beaches then Siargao is one of the best places in philippines for vacation.
Other Cities To Visit In The Philippines
Although Siargao, Cebu and Palawan are the most popular regions in the Philippines, there are many other places to go in the philippines that are beautiful.
1. Tagaytay
There are plenty of leisure and outdoor activities for both locals and tourists. Also, most of the land area is green, and Taal Lake’s stunning view is awesome. Tagatay is one of philippines best tourist spots, with many coffee shops around the area with a good view of the lake.
2. Lipa City
For all beach bums looking for some peace, this destination is the best. There are various beach resorts and fine white sand or rocky shores. Many opportunities are also available, including walking and mountain climbing.
3. Santa Rosa
Several historical sports, nature parks, hot springs, and a famous theme park called the Enchanted Kingdom are located in this region. Here, open spaces and rich natural surroundings are accompanied by many shopping spaces.
4. Vigan
It is a historic city on the northern side of the country. Their culture has a fusion of Spanish and Chinese influences originating from residents of the area. Many travelers take a ride in the horse-drawn kalesa all through the streets and appreciate the colonial architecture.
5. Subic
Quite popular among adventure-seekers, there are several places to enjoy thrilling rides, beautiful beaches, and diving points for shipwrecks. What’s more, it has excellent shopping and dining options.
6. Legazpi
One of my favorite spots, was exploring Mayon Volcano, an active volcano on Manila Island. Check out this
Philippines Travel Itinerary
To travel the Philippines I reccomend a minimum of 2 weeks. Here is a rough breakdown of how much time is ideal in each area.
3 days to 1 Week in Palawan
4 days to 1 week in Boracay
Cebu city/MoalBoal/Bohol – 1 Week
2 days – 1 week in Manila
See this philippines travel map to get an Idea of the top destinations.
Popular Philippines Tours
Philippines Travel Budget
You can easily travel the philippines on a budget regardless of your travel style.
How Much does it cost to travel in the Philippines?
A backpack traveller can travel the Philippines with about $50 a day, with shared accomodation, a more moderate traveller for about $100 a day with private accomodation.
How much does it cost to live in the Philippines?
The cost of living in the Philippines for a digital nomad can average between $800 – $1500, depending on the area you decide to stay in. Please see the breakdown below.
Transportation
One-way bus or metro tickets in the Philippines cost less than $1, making public transportation comparatively inexpensive. Taxis and Grab are other options; they run about $3 to $5 each. Transportation can be $50 – $100 a month. The best way to travel philippines is generally via Grab or local jeepneys.
Flying within the Philippines is a great option, but it can cost you a lot, for example,$40 – $100 per domestic flight. So, it is best to stick to ferries if you are short on cash. Expect to pay between $4-$6 per public ferry ride. Many decent long-distance buses also run across some of the bigger islands.
Accommodation
Low budget travel philippines is very possible.
Backpacker hostels can cost around $10-$25 night for a dorm bed. Places other than Manila have a many budget accommodation options. For instance, dorm beds are available for at least $5 a night in Palawan. Many hostels offer Wi-Fi and air conditioning at times. Local guest houses have rooms available for rates less than hostels. You can get one cabin for a couple of dollars per night. Or 300 – 700 a month for long term term stays.
Food
Those who want to save money can have street food for as little as $1. Meals served in tourist-centric eating spots cost up to $20. In Manila and other similar regions of the country, people end up spending loads of money on food and drink. Groceries are about $100- $200 a month.
Activities
The money you spend on activities depends on the location and your travel style. Boracay and Manila, especially, are more expensive, where you can expect to spend $35 daily. You can also learn diving for as little as $25 in some places. Snorkeling is even cheaper; its gear is available for a few dollars on many beaches.
Looking for transportation? Check out Easybook, for all your transportation in the Phillipines.
Money In The Philippines
Gcash
If you plan on staying more than one month, its worth installing and registering with Gcash, a local payment provider that everyone uses. You will need a registered simcard as well.ATMS
Atms in the Philippines , have high fees for foreign cards, be sure to take out larger amounts, and to refuse the dynamic conversion rate, as it is an extra fee.Money Transfers and Exchanges
The best way to exchange money, well there isnt. Be sure you check for correct change, and get a receipt. The better way is to western union yourself money, as there are less fees with that.Budgeting Tips
While its easy to get used to eating out, to save, learn how to shop in local markets, or stick to local food stalls, instead of western food. Additionally, learn how to commute using Jeepneys, instead of taking Taxis.
1. Look for Airline Sales
Mostly, airlines run sales to let passengers grab affordable airfares. Air Asia, for instance, is among the most reasonable airlines servicing Filipinos and travelers. So, it is better to sign up for their newsletter to snap up cheaper than standard rates.2. Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is well-received in the Philippines. It is not only great to meet new people but also helps a lot in saving accommodation costs.3. Walking Tours
Take walking tours in major cities and most of them are almost free and you can also learn about the history.Food and Drinks In The Philippines
What is food like in the Philippines?
For the Philippines backpackers, Filipino food has a strong street food culture, with vendors selling all sorts of delicious and affordable food. Common street foods include lumpia (a Filipino-style egg roll filled with vegetables and/or meat), isaw (grilled chicken or pork intestines), and balut (a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten in its shell). Be sure to also try Adobo, Sinigang and Lechon.
The Water
Do not drink local water, stick to bottled water.
Alcohol
Try local vodka!
Halal Food in the Philippines
Coming Soon
Vegetarian Dishes
Filipino cuisine often features meat, but there are several vegetarian dishes that are still flavorful and delicious. Here are some popular vegetarian Filipino dishes:
- Adobong Sitawa vegetable dish made with long beans or green beans, tofu, and a sauce similar to adobo (made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves).
- Ginataang Kalabasa -a stew made with squash, coconut milk, and vegetables such as spinach or okra.
- Pinakbeta vegetable dish made with bitter melon, eggplant, tomatoes, and onions, cooked in a shrimp paste sauce.
- Lainga dish made with taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and spices.
- Tokwa’t Baboya dish made with tofu and boiled pork, served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili.
- Pakbeta mixed vegetable dish that can be made with various vegetables such as eggplant, squash, okra, and string beans, cooked in a shrimp paste sauce.
- Tofu Sisiga vegetarian version of the popular meat dish sisig, made with tofu, onions, and chili peppers.
Where To Stay
Tips on finding long-term rentals
Check Facebook groups, or book or message an Airbnb host to see if they can offer discounts for long stays.Accomodation Suggestions
Makati
Lub D
Draper Startup House
Cebu City
Mad Monkey
Palawan
Mad Monkey
Bagio
Coming Soon
Davao City
Coming Soon
?
Coming Soon
CouchSurfing
The couchsurfing community is very active in the Philippines, and you may be able to find free housing from a host. The best philippines travel advice is to join this local group, I made so many amazing friends from this social group in Manila.
Volunteering
Another way to find housing is to volunteer using Workaway, in exchange for housing.
Trustedhousesitters
Check to see if there are any pet sitting opportunities, you take care of someone’s home and animals in exchange for free housing.
Digital Nomad Communities and Networking
The best way to find other nomads is to join various Facebook groups. In the Philippines, there are several Facebook groups for digital nomads, expats, and travelers. Digital Nomads Philippines, Expats/Foreigners in the Philippines, and Backpacking the Philippines are three popular groups. Currently there are growing nomad groups within Couchsurfing, Draper Startup House and MundoNomad Network.
Meetup.com
| Bounce Back PH |
| Online Filipino Freelancers |
Other
| Small Business Network PH |
| Philippine Marketing Association |
| Filipino Start UP Network |
Coworking Spaces In The Philippines
You cant be a digital nomad without wifi. So below are some spots where one can work comfortably. Dont forget to check my nomad lunch break section for places you can still visit and/or work from during lunch. #nomadworkspace
Manila
Accler8 by UNIONSPACE
Commune Cafe and Bar
Cebu City
The Company Cebu
Bicester Cafe
Palawan
Coming Soon
Bagio
Coming Soon
Davao City
Stash coffe Co
Startupz Co-working Space
?
Coming Soon
Wifi And Internet In The Philippines
I am sure you have heard that the internet in the Philippines can be slow and unreliable, but that has changed over the years. You can now find high speed internet in the Philippines, even Starlink connections.
Still do your research when choosing an airbnb or hostel. But most internet is dependable. Have a local sim card or hotspot handy as a backpack. I used globed with no issues.
How To Get Around The Philippines
Wondering how to travel around the Philippines?
The Philippines has many different options when it comes to transportation. Understanding that it could be tough to figure out the right one, we have covered all main transport modes in the following section:
Tricycle
Ferrys
Jeepneys
Taxis
Grab taxi is your best taxi application. Metered taxis take passengers anywhere within the city for as little as $3 but charges more when you go beyond city limits. Airport taxis are also available, which only serve riders coming to and from the airport and charge higher fees than other taxis. Air-conditioned taxis, called FX taxis, can be common during normal hours waiting for passengers at designated terminals.
Bus
Airlines
Exploring the country by air is the simplest method of traveling among the islands. Some budget airlines are Cebu Pacific Air, Air Asia, Philippine Airlines, and Cebu Pacific, which serve domestic routes on a budget. Normally, a one-way domestic flight costs as little as $12.
Resources
Best Time To Visit Philippines: Weather And Seasons
Safety When Travelling In The Philippines
Is the Philippines Safe?
Though it is generally safe to travel around the Philippines, there are many risks that tourists should avoid. Here are some do’s and don’ts when you are in the Philippines:
Scams In The Philippines
The most common scam is taxis overcharging you. And young women targeting older men, for their money.
Solo Female Travel
Female travel in the Philippines is very safe, people will open make sure a female is safe.
How To Stay Safe
1. Be Modest
Avoid drawing attention to yourself by wearing showy or expensive jewelry. Instead, keep your belongings safe from pickpockets and purse-snatchers roaming everywhere in the metropolis.
2. Watch your drinks
Going to clubs in manila and makati can be a great time, keep your drinks on you to prevent anyone with bad intent taking advantage.
3. Public Buses
Watch your pockets
4. Travel Insurance
Accidents happen, be ready for emergencies and have travel insurance purchased for your trip.
Packing List
Clothing:
- Lightweight Clothes: T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and long sleeves/pants for protection against mosquitoes.
- Swimwear: Swimsuits and a cover-up for the beach.
- Rain Gear: Compact umbrella or light rain jacket.
- Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection.
Footwear:
- Comfortable Shoes: For walking and exploring.
- Sandals/Flip-Flops: For the beach.
- Water Shoes: For rocky beaches or water activities.
Accessories:
- Sunscreen: High SPF for sun protection.
- Insect Repellent: To avoid mosquito bites.
- Reusable Water Bottle: To stay hydrated.
- Travel Adapter: Type A, B, or C for charging devices.
Toiletries and Health Items:
- Personal Hygiene Products: Toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
- First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Hand Sanitizer: For clean hands on the go.
Documents and Essentials:
- Passport and Copies: Keep a copy separate from the original.
- Travel Insurance: For health and travel issues.
- Local Currency: Philippine pesos for immediate expenses.
Electronics:
- Phone and Charger: For communication and photos.
- Camera: For high-quality pictures.
- Power Bank: To keep devices charged.
Final Thoughts: Is the Philippines a good travel destination?
After living in the Philippines for 1 year, I can tell you, that it is an amazing travel destination and place to live. Come for a 2 week vacation or come to live the best digital nomad life!
Common Questions About Philippines
Boracay is famous for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters, making it a dream destination for digital nomads looking to blend work and relaxation. Don’t miss the iconic White Beach, Puka Beach, and Diniwid Beach, as well as attractions like Crystal Cove Island and Crocodile Island.
The Philippines boasts some of the finest beaches and islands in the area, with over 7000 to explore, making it perfect for island hopping. If you adore tropical waters, backpacking here is a must-do experience.
One of the biggest draws of the Digital Nomad Visa is its attractive tax treatment: Exemption from Local Income Tax: Income earned outside the Philippines is generally exempt from local income tax. This means the Philippine government won’t typically tax your earnings from remote work with foreign entities.