Philippines over xmas new year

wookie66

Just for info an update on my travels having just returned from the Philippines over xmas new year. Wow - what an amazing country. I would highly recommend this place to anyone - takes a bit of time and effort to get there but the rewards are incredible. Fabulous warm friendly people, stunning world class diving and easy to travel around. Would advise a few things though as follows:
-Be flexible in your travel plans since changing weather can lead to canx at short notice of flights ferry crossings etc
-Travel light since constant 30 degrees at sea level and many of the airlines eg CebuPacific who were great only allow 10kg checked in baggage
-Take plenty of cash to exchange or use ATMs and be prepared to spend some dosh since it is slightly more expensive than Thailand Vietnam etc
-Make a big effort to talk speak get to know the locals and your travels will be even more rewarding since Filipinos are such warm friendly hospitable people
-If you can afford it tip around 50pesos and notice the level of service you receive double esp at resorts / bars / clubs
-Don't try and pack in too much since the distances are great given Philippines consists of many islands, I would suggest three or four places at most over three weeks. I visited Manila, Cebu City, Moalboal, Bohol, Panglao Island and Borocay during my 25 day visit and had to scrub Palawan since didn't have time!
-If you dive I highly recommend Moalboal (2hrs from Cebu City) and Panglao Island. If you like partying you wont be disappointed with Boracay and Cebu City
-Highly recommend carrying a tablet (ipad mini / Nexus 7 or similar) since wifi is everywhere + makes booking your travels so much easier

I mainly used Booking.com for all accom, Cebu Pacific for internal flights all easy to book online and Malaysia Airlines (via KL) since they use the A380 airbus which is excellent for economy long haul passengers

More than happy to provide any travel advice for those considering a visit