Fascinating, buzzing and vibrant, the Philippines is a world away from mainland Southeast Asia, both in terms of geography but also culturally and spiritually. Thanks to over 350 years of Spanish rule, the country has strong Catholic influences which are still there to see at every turn. Indeed, whenever you visit the Philippines, you’re likely to come across a colourful town fiesta (festival) as well as stone churches which have stood untouched for centuries.
Shopping malls, modern American chain restaurants and widespread spoken English certainly give the Philippines a very westernized feel. However, the country still maintains its own distinct identity which the Filipinos themselves are immensely proud of. Friendly, warm and wonderfully positive, you’re bound to fall in love with this fascinating country and the welcoming people who live there.
If rest and relaxation are your thing, the Philippines has an abundance of stunning beaches and tranquil parkland. If you fancy trying your hand at surfing, there’s a good chance of catching some waves that form on both coasts if the conditions are right. The Northern Palawan area is also idea for kayakers, and Boracay and Pagudpud (North Luzon) are dream destinations for kiteboarding. If you’re feeling super active, jungle hiking is a must, as are mountain biking and canyon touring too.
So whatever you’re thinking of doing on your Philippines vacation, you’re sure to come back with memories to cherish forever.
5 Things You Need to Know About The Philippines
Here are five things you may not have known about The Philippines, which you’ll want to make note of before packing your bags:
Time Difference: UTC +8 hours
Currency: Philippine peso
Native Language: Filipino and English
Weather: The Philippines has five types of climates: tropical rainforest, tropical savanna, tropical monsoon, humid subtropical, and oceanic (both are in higher-altitude areas) characterized by relatively high temperature, oppressive humidity and plenty of rainfall.
Sales Tax: 12%
Flying to The Philippines from Canada
Here’s everything you’ll need to know about flying to The Philippines from Canada, including flight times and entry requirements.
Flight Times
Flights from Canada to The Philippines generally take around fifteen hours, with direct flights available from Toronto and Vancouver.
Flights from other cities in Canada, such as Calgary and Montreal, will have to take indirect routes, which will take a little longer.
Entry Requirements
Canadians may enter the Philippines for up to 90 days for tourist purposes without a visa. You will need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining after you’ve returned back to Canada.
Airlines That Fly to The Philippines
The following airlines offer direct flights from Canada to The Philippines:
- Air Canada
- Hong Kong Airlines
- Philippine Airlines
10 Must-Dos in the Philippines
If you’ve never visited The Philippines before and are wondering what the ‘must-see’ sights and attractions are, here are our top ten:
- Tubbataha Reef
- Mayon Volcano
- Malcapuya Island
- Mt. Pulag National Park
- Tinago Falls
- Banana Island
- Ariel's Point, Boracay
- Aguinid Falls
- Sunken Japanese Wrecks
- Banaue Rice Terraces
Book Cheap Flights to The Philippines with Globehunters
If you’re searching for your once in a lifetime trip to The Philippines, then look no further than Globehunters. You’ll find the best deals on flights, hotels and car hire with us, and every booking is protected by for extra peace of mind.