Everybody must, at some point in their lives have wished to travel. I’ve known some, who’ve travelled like there was no tomorrow and end up waking up each morning in a different city, in a different hotel. Because, to some, traveling, is their one and only passion,...
Great Tips for a Wonderful Holiday in the Philippines
Everybody must, at some point in their lives have wished to travel. I’ve known some, who’ve travelled like there was no tomorrow and end up waking up each morning in a different city, in a different hotel. Because, to some, traveling, is their one and only passion, like always being in love. It’s their lifeblood. You and I, may not have the same priorities or the same passion beating in our hearts, but admit it, you did once dreamed of travelling alone or go on an adventure. Don’t you just love the rush of exciting adventures and discovering new places?
But what place would be the ultimate experience, an adventure trip that you would not forget ?
The Philippines. Because of its strategic location on the globe, the Pearl of the Orient, as it is fondly called by historians and travelers, have the most favorable and ideal climate for travel.
So, to have that awesome holiday, I have gathered :
12 great tips to help you get the most out of your Philippine trip
1. Forget the perfect plan. Flexibility is the key.
Avoid travelling with a definite plan. Of course, it would save you precious time but even the best-laid plans, stiff itineraries, at some point, one way or another , will tend to go off -rail. A too-detailed,well-crafted plan would lose the thrill of a spur-of-the-moment decision to do things that you have not even considered yet. I think many would agree that the best travels are the ones that were least planned. So, don’t overdo your travel plans. Loosen up! You are supposed to enjoy not stress out.
2. Saying no ain’t a mortal sin.
Be always mindful that, it is YOUR vacation. It’s nice to listen to suggestions but the final decision is yours. Never allow someone to push or force you into doing things you don’t feel like doing, most particularly, vendors or hawker. If you have trouble saying “No” to people, then this is the best practice for you. Say a firm “No, thank you.” If they still persist, best thing to do is ignore them. Don’t allow them to pressure or bully you into purchasing or even considering their merchandise.
3. Be Knowledgeable. Read the paper. Go online.
What’s super-duper more updated than your travel guide? Of course the local papers and magazines, of course. In case you haven’t noticed, you’re not living in the prehistoric era anymore. Today’s technology has helped a lot in the industry of travel and tourism. Scoping out travel sites in your mobile phones via the world wide web through wi-fi would be the best option you’d want to take when you lose your guide, or vice-versa. In the Philippines, unless you are planning to stay in the countryside in the midst of the rice fields, everybody has access to internet connections.
4. A guide is just a guide, not an answer to everything.
Sad part, the saying “change is the only thing that’s constant”, applies to travel too. Restaurants fold, and sometimes, hotels burn down. For all you know, the travel guide on your hand is an out-dated edition. It could be unreliable at some point, but don’t allow it to get to you. Remember, it is only a guide. Nothing beats talking face to face with the locals and other adventurer-seekers. It is still the best option you’ve got to find out what’s hip and what’s not in town .
5. Learn the Language.
It would not hurt to learn a few “hi’s” and “hello’s” in the local language or dialect. If you plan to stay for more than a few days, this is probably the best advice. You have no excuse not to learn the language , at least the very basic. This, in fact, would probably give them a great impression on you.
6. Mingle With the Locals.
Don’t be afraid to ask somebody. After all, adventure also means making new friends. Unless you’re out of luck and they told you to buy a guidebook instead, it will never hurt to ask your hostel’s landlord. Who knows he could be the best guide you could ever have.
7. Got No Reservations? Don’t Fret. No Biggie.
If it is not peak season in places with heavy tourist volume, you do not need a reservation. Most would welcome you as their guest with or without a reservation. But ,if you have set your eye and heart on that special place, then reserve anyway. Do not freak out if you don’t have one. Just remember, most places do not accommodate advance booking anyway.
8. Pack Light, Pack Big
Huh? You’re going on a holiday in a tropical place, not going to a military mission in the North Pole, so pack appropriately. Leave your portable stove, sleeping bag, tent, 10 books to read, a dozen underwear and jeans. The Philippines is a tropical country, so you might as well have thought of bringing light and airy clothing. We said pack big because for sure you will be accumulating stuff too. You’ll need something to store that fake Gucci bag you got from Divisoria for granny, don’t you think? Be careful though in trying to bring in or out of the country some fake items.
9. Most Importantly, Take Your Noggins With You.
Some people left their brains at home because of the ‘amnesia-effect of excitement. Many did their stupidest things while on travel. So do pack your ‘sentido comun’ with you. It won’t hurt since it could actually increase chances of you and your company having a great time.
10. Got Insurance?
As a follow up to tourists who cannot be stopped from doing stupid things, that is, brainless antics, would really need this. Don’t be shocked if your discounted policy won’t pay up. The details of your policy would not actually be significant to you when you’re already dead but it would make things uncomplicated for your family to fly your body, which is a long and tiring process, and expensive too. Having your mom’s address tattooed under your arm won’t help. Look for a comprehensive travel insurance.
11. Not everything you need to know about your host country is true.
While it could sometimes be true that a man could be casually looking at you yet thinking of his escape route when he snatches your cellphone, do not treat everybody as if they’re going to rip you off. You won’t be in the Philippines if you think it’s that bad anyway.
12. Do less to do more, But never skip the highlights.
Don’t try to see everything in too little time. Slow down and see less, but choose to see the Philippines highlights. If the need to cram and see everything arise, then going with an organized tour is your best option.
Planning your trip will always pay off, but leaving yourself open to possible changes is a sure winner. Try your best to learn the basics of the language or dialect to help you communicate with the locals rather than waste time staying away from them. A guidebook is still your best friend, but don’t freak out when things do not go as it is stated in it. There are other sources that you could us, mainly, talking to people. Maintain being levelheaded. Pack appropriately and keep your sanity!
