With the 7,107 islands that make up the Philippines, there are more than hundreds of tourist spots a traveller can visit. Travelling this tropical country is an exciting and enjoyable experience. The country is endowed with rich wildlife, marine biodiversity, white sandy beaches, waterfalls and majestic terrains. Whatever activity a traveller wants to do, there would always be a great place in the country that could match it up.

For any traveller, there are always these tips one should keep in mind. One is considered a stranger, and the place is as well something new as well. Here are some good tips in travelling Philippines:

•  When travelling, just carry those that are necessary. As much as possible travel light, just pack light and pack smart.

• Travelling in the Philippines can be hot especially during summer. Wear light clothes and tag along with you some cotton tees, shirts, pants and walking shorts. Bring as well a hat with brim to protect you from the heat of the sun as well a pair of sunglasses with UV protection. Sneakers and/or sandals as well are a must.

• Have your important documents photocopied, such as passport and tickets. Keep them in other location so you would still have a company in case you’ll lose them.

• Remember, you are in a vacation. Do not bring many valuables. A decent watch and some  accessories can do. However, if you did bring along some valuables, have them deposited in a safety box in the hotel safe.

• Have your belt bag with you where you can place your money, passport and other valuables when you’re on the road.

• Do not leave your bag and other valuables unattended.

•  Take note of the Philippine currency. The coins are in denominations of 1, 5, 10 and 25 centavos, Php 1.00 and Php 5.00, Php 20.00, Php 50.00, Php 100.00, Php 500.00 and Php 1,000.00.

• When you travel the Philippines, take note of its seasons. June to August is the country’s typhoon season. The temperature is moderate and the hotel rates are cheaper, however it is advisable to take into consideration of the stability of the seas. As these months are typhoon season, winds can be strong thus crossing the islands by sea or lurking over the countryside can be difficult.

•  March to May is the season of summer. It is where the seas are calm and you get to enjoy the beach. Temperatures may become extremely hot, however.

• November to February are the best months to visit the country. The weather is cooler and you get to experience the longest Christmas celebration in the world.

• Choosing your accommodation depends mostly of the place you want to see and the activities you want to do. It’s better that you do your research beforehand. When you already had chosen your destination, check on the hotels within the area and their amenities, services and facilities.

• When eating, it is polite to keep your hands above the table at all times, so as not to appear greedy. The Philippines has many turo-turo eating establishments where you’ll approach the counter and simply point the food you want to order.

• Filipinos speak and understand English, so communicating with the locals wouldn’t be hard. The country’s national language is Tagalog, but there are other languages spoken in different regions.
•  When you are in the Philippines, consider the culture of its people. Most Filipinos are conservative. Therefore, a traveller must speak, act and dress modestly.

• Do not talk about religion and politics especially to strangers. Sometimes, heated arguments can spark during these conversations especially when you’re drunk.

•  If you’ll visit Mindanao, where some areas are inhabited by Muslims, do dress conservatively.