The best kept secret in Asia

Well, it is not so much of a secret anymore! People are now clueing into the beauty of The Philippines as it's quickly becoming the place to visit in Asia.

Quick Summary

Top Tip: The pull of paradise islands such as Palawan is strong, but don't overlook the north of Luzon. Here you'll find stunning rice terraces and a very different side of The Philippines.
Currency: Philippino Pesos
Visa: The Philippines offers a visa on arrival for most nationalities staying up to 30 days.
Safety: On the whole, The Philippines is very safe, especially if you stick to the tourist areas. There are some parts of Manila which are dodgy (avoid Mindanao), but the majority of the country is safe.
When to go: The Philippines has similar seasons to the rest of South-East Asia
- Peak Season: Dec - April (avoid Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter as the whole country is on holiday and hotels get fully booked)
- Off Season: Rainy season between May and October
Walk My World Cost Index: $$$ - The main tourist hubs like Palawan and Coron can be some of the most expensive places in South-East Asia. Places like Siquijor and parts of Cebu are a lot cheaper.
- ATM charges in the Philippines are shocking ($6-7 USD per transaction + your bank fees), so try to withdraw as much as possible each time.