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 Australia

Here’s everything you’ll need to know about flying to The Philippines from Australia, including flight times and entry requirements.

Flight Times

Flights from Australia to The Philippines generally take around eight hours, with direct flights available from Sydney, Perth and Alice Springs.

Flights from other cities in Australia, such as Darwin, Canberra, Brisbane and Melbourne, will have to take indirect routes, which will take a little longer.

Entry Requirements

Australian passport holders are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa if they intend to stay for 30 days or less for pleasure or business purposes. This is provided they have pre-planned return or onward travel to another country and their passports are valid at least six months beyond the end of their stay.

Airlines That Fly to The Philippines

The following airlines offer direct flights from Australia to The Philippines:

- Cebu Pacific
- Qantas
- 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 ATOL and IATA for extra peace of mind.