Entry Regulations Visitors may enter for 21 days without visa provided they have ticket for onward journey. Generally, visas and special permits (Hongkong and Taiwan) may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates. Only holders of valid passport are allowed entry except for those stateless persons and those from countries with which the Philippines has no diplomatic relations.
   
Airport Fees P750 per person for international departures, and P200 per person for local departures. This may change without notice.
   
Customs Baggage Declaration form issued on board must be filled out before disembarkation to facilitate Customs examination. Visitors carrying more than US$3,000 are to declare the amount at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) counter near the Customs area.
   
Transport Metered and fixed rate Taxis are available in key cities nationwide. Jeepneys and buses are inexpensive ways of getting around most places. In Metro Manila, light railway system (LRT) is available. LRT 1 connects Monumento to Baclaran passing through Taft Avenue and Avenida Rizal; LRT 2 connects Avenida Rizal to Santolan, Pasig City passing through Legarda St., Aurora Blvd. Sta.Mesa, Manila, and Cubao. MRT (Metro Rail Transit) traverses the length of EDSA (E. delos Santos Ave) from North Avenue to Taft Avenue, Pasay City.
   
Communication Most national newspapers/dailies are in English. Television shows are in Pilipino and/or English. Cable TV is available in all urban areas. Mobile telephone is widely available. Texting (SMS) is very popular making the Philippine the Texting capital in the world.
   
Shopping There are variety of great buys at reasonable prices to select from – South Sea pearls, jewelry, apparels, souvenirs, delicate embroideries, cigars, gadgets and gizmos, handicrafts, accessories, among others.

Duty Free Philippines (DFP) shops are in or near major airports.

Big malls – Ayala Centers, ShoeMart, Robinson’s, Gaisano, Plaza Fair are located in urban cities nationwide.
   
Dining Savor exotic Filipino cuisine. A tasteful blend of Asian, American, and European fair. Fresh seafood and exotic fruits are year round. Mangoes are not to be missed.

Gourmet restaurants are available in popular tourist areas.
   
Entertainment & Culture Music is close to the hearts of Filipinos. Live band entertainment can be found in key cities. Urban centers have comedy bars, live music, museums, and cultural dances while you enjoy your company.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is the bastion of Filipino artists as well as foreign performing artists.

Casino Filipino the friendly entertainment mecca is open 24/7.
   
Tipping Tipping is not required but appreciated. A 10% service charge (SC) is charged in most establishments.