Trifter

This archipelago of 7.107 islands has the best pristine white sand beaches, exotic animals, fruits, beautiful women, hospitable locals, varying cultures in different regions, lagoons, mountains, rivers, surf spots, you name anything that has to do with adventure and the Philippines definitely has it. Most of all, it has in store for its visitors mysteries and wonders that are unique to any country in the world.

Image via Wikipedia

The Philippines is one of the most ideal destinations for backpack traveling (also known as backpacking) because of the affordability and the ease in which one can get around without having to shell out too much money. So, for you backpackers out there who are planning to schedule a trip to this island of smiles, here are ten essential tips that should be helpful:

Dress Down

The Philippines is located just above the equator, which makes it very humid, especially during the day. Rainy or dry season, it is humid all year round. It’s best to wear breathable clothes such as cotton shirts and tank tops and shorts so prevent yourself from sweating too much. Bring an extra change of clothes in your bag, if you can.

Book in advance

The tourism industry in this country is one of the major industries that keeps the country afloat, because of its beautiful island beaches and unique hospitality that hotels offer. It is advisable to book your flights (if you plan to fly domestic) and accommodations in advance, especially if it’s Peak and Super Peak (yes, there is such a thing) seasons. Peak season is normally around summertime (March to May), while Super Peak seasons are during national holidays (Christmas season, holy week, labor day weekend).

Always bring insect repellant

Especially in the provinces where mosquitoes are more abundant, lathering a generous amount of insect repellant or lotion on your skin regularly is a must. Mosquitoes are normally harmless and only leave an annoying itch on the surface of your skin, but one must take precaution especially in areas where dengue and malaria are rampant. Better yet, get a malaria vaccine before venturing into the outer, more remote provinces.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help

Filipinos are known around the world for their unparalleled hospitality. If you should find yourself lost or in need for directions, don’t hesitate to ask the locals for help, because they will sure do what they can to help you find your way.

Always give tips

Unlike in some Western countries, bills at restaurants and bars don’t usually include tips for the servers. It’s a common courtesy to leave some cash behind after you pay your bill. Tips are also given to cab drivers, normally if your change isn’t that big (for example, paying 80 pesos for a 70-peso cab ride and letting the driver keep the change). Think that it might be a little too much? It’s a known fact that almost everybody in the country is underpaid, anyway. Share a little of your blessings

Explore your food options

Aside from dining in fancy restaurants in the malls and in hotels, explore the locality in which you’re in and try the authentic Filipino food that can be found on the streets and in little eateries. Street foods such as fish balls (the vendors roam around cooking fish balls in carts sell 10 pieces of this delicious snack for as low as 5 pesos), banana-que (sugared banana on a stick), banana fritter (sugared banana cooked inside a wanton wrapper) and isaw (chicken’s intestines) are among the locals’ favorites.

Open your mind and explore

Deviate from the usual tour packages that offer a set of fixed locations to visit. Aside from the inconvenience of adjusting to an entire tour group’s schedule, you really aren’t experiencing much; it’s just like being led around in a museum exhibit. Try to explore and walk around town, chat with locals, learn about the culture and what’s special in that locality. They usually know best.

Support ecotourism

Ecotourism has a lot of benefits. Aside from it being a form of tourism that focuses on saving natural resources, it’s also a mechanism to sustain the local industries in a particular area. For example, if you’re looking to tour an island nearby, choose to hire a local boatman to take you there, instead of asking the hotel for assistance. It will keep the economy sustainable in indigenous communities. It is also usually a lot cheaper, on the part of the tourist.

Always bring cash

There are certain areas in the Philippines that still lag behind places like the capital (Manila) and its neighboring regions. In these remote provinces and islands, it’s a real challenge and sometimes a headache to look for ATMs, since a lot of them have none. Withdraw enough cash for your trip and have them exchanged in the city, if you can. Otherwise you’ll end up having your money exchanged for a whole lot more, especially if foreign exchange centers are rare in an area.

Respect the culture

Filipinos are big on respect. It’s part of their culture to show respect to their elders, visitors and basically everyone around them. If you haven’t taken the time to observe how hospitable and kind the Filipino people can be, a warm and sincere smile should be enough to help you fit in in this rich and diverse culture.