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Philippines holidays: Discover the vibrant culture and tropical islands
The Philippines is a tropical destination just waiting to be explored. With over 7,000 islands, you'll find stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush jungles. Whether you're diving in Palawan's hidden lagoons, surfing the waves in Siargao or partying on Boracay's white-sand shores, there's an adventure for everyone. But it's not just about the scenery – Filipino culture is vibrant. From the delicious street food to the warm and welcoming locals, every moment here feels special. Discover historical sites in Manila, chase waterfalls in Cebu or take a boat ride through the Chocolate Hills in Bohol.
Are you ready for a tropical escape? Check out deals and offers on flights to the Philippines.
Philippines at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 13 hours 10 minutes
Main airport: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Population: 120.8 million
Language: Filipino and English
Currency: The Philippine Peso
Time zone: Philippine Standard Time (GMT+8)
Getting to the Philippines from the UK
While you won't find direct flights from London, you can catch one-stop flights with airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines. Philippines flights depart from London Heathrow (LHR) or Manchester (MAN). Your journey will typically land at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB). These are both perfect starting points for your tropical adventure. You can save money with early bird deals or last-minute flights to the Philippines.
Once you land, Manila's city centre is just seven miles away, while Cebu's downtown is about nine miles away. From the airport, you can easily get transportation to hotels in the Philippines.
When is the best time to visit the Philippines?
You can visit the Philippines any time of the year, but the ideal time to visit depends on what you want to do. The Philippines has two major seasons: the rainy season (June to November) and the dry season (December to May).
The dry season is the ideal time for a Philippines beach holiday due to the high temperatures and clear blue skies. It's the peak season for hitting the white-sand beaches of Palawan, Boracay and Siargao. You can go island-hopping, diving or snorkelling in Coron and Cebu. If you love hiking adventures, this is the time to trek up Mount Pulag or Mount Apo for breathtaking views. Don't miss the Sinulog and Ati-Atihan festivals in January, where the streets explode with music.
If you want to save money on your Philippines travel, you can visit during the rainy season. Expect lower prices on flights and hotels. While some islands get heavy rains, places like Cebu, Bohol, and Davao still enjoy plenty of sunshine. Surfing in Siargao is incredible from August to November. Plus, it's the best time for whale shark encounters in Donsol and Oslob.
Things to do in the Philippines
Go island-hopping in Palawan
There's no better way to explore Palawan's crystal-clear waters, hidden lagoons and pristine beaches than by boat. Start in El Nido, where you can glide through the Big and Small Lagoons, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs and relax on the Seven Commandos Beach. In Coron, dive into Kayangan Lake, known for its unbelievably clear water or visit the WWII shipwreck dive sites. Don't forget to stop at Shimizu Island for a beachside feast of fresh seafood.
Swim with the whale sharks in Oslob
Have you ever dreamed of swimming alongside a whale shark? In Oslob, Cebu, you can make that dream a reality. These gentle giants, locally called butanding, glide gracefully through the crystal-clear waters, giving you an unforgettable, up-close encounter. Hop on a boat at sunrise, gear up with a snorkel and dive in as these massive yet harmless creatures swim right beside you.
Surf in Siargao
Siargao is a surfing capital. This laid-back island is home to Cloud 9, one of the world's most famous surf breaks that'll challenge even the pros. If you're a beginner, there are gentler waves at spots like Jacking Horse and Quicksilver, where local instructors will have you surfing in no time. After a thrilling surf session, hop on a boat to Sugba Lagoon for a swim.
Hike to the Banaue Rice Terraces
Trek through the Banaue Rice Terraces, a 2,000-year-old wonder carved by the Ifugao people. Known as the 'Stairway to Heaven', these emerald-green terraces stretch far. The hike takes you through lush trails, hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Along the way, you'll meet friendly locals and maybe even try some freshly harvested rice. It's a workout, but totally worth it for the cultural experience.
FAQs about Philippines holidays
Q: Is the Philippines a safe holiday destination?
A: Yes, the Philippines is generally a safe holiday destination, especially in popular tourist spots like Palawan, Boracay, Cebu and Siargao. The locals are warm and welcoming, and most areas cater well to travellers. However, like anywhere, it's good to stay alert, watch your belongings in crowded places and be cautious in less touristy areas.
Q: What is the most beautiful island in the Philippines?
A: The most beautiful island in the Philippines is Palawan, and for good reason. With its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, it's a paradise. El Nido and Coron boast breathtaking landscapes perfect for island-hopping, snorkelling and diving. Whether you're kayaking through Big Lagoon or exploring Kayangan Lake, Palawan's beauty is simply unmatched.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Philippines?
A: The dry season is the best time to explore the Philippines. The weather is ideal for beach holidays, island-hopping and outdoor adventures. If you love festivals, January and February bring vibrant celebrations like Sinulog and Ati-Atihan. The wet season, from May to October, sees fewer crowds and lower prices but occasional typhoons.
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