Best time to travel and dive
(Last updated April 2010)
The climate in the Philippines is tropical, with March to May being the hottest months. The rainy season starts in June and extends through October with strong typhoons possible. The coolest months are from November to February, with mid-January to end of February considered the best for cooler and dryer weather. Locations exposed directly to the Pacific Ocean have frequent rainfall all year. Air temperatures range between 25°C (77°F) during the night and 35°C (95°F) during the day depending on season. Humidity is high year round.
Health
As with all travels you should make sure that your usual immunisations such as polio, tetanus, etc. are current.
Malaria is endemic in many provincial regions of the Philippines but does not affect the capital Manila. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended.
Thypoid vaccine is recommended for all travellers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
Medical kit suggestions
- Analgesic
- Insect repellent
- Anti-seasick medicine
- Sun tan lotion
- Sunburn Cream
- Band aids (some large ones)
- Ear Drops- alcohol / vinegar base. Daily use will prevent outer ear infections.
- Antibiotic ointment for coral cuts. See your physician.
Currency
The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso.
International credit cards are accepted in major hotels, on liveaboards and dive resorts.
Departure taxes
A departure tax of PHP 750 applies for international departures. Children under two years of age and transit passengers are exempt.
Electricity
Most of the Philippines is 220 Volt 60 Hz with the older 2-prong plug formerly used in the USA (not polarized or grounded). It's best to bring items that work universally and are marked with a 100V-240V 50/60hz compatibility to avoid voltage concerns.
Certification requirements & dive gear hire
Please remember to bring your certification card with you. All certified divers must present their certification cards in order to dive.
Liveaboard dive operations in the Philippines offer the possibility to hire dive equipment at extra cost. Tanks, weights and air fills are included in all cruise packages.
Please note that the Philippines have INT tank fittings. If you have DIN fittings on your regulator, make sure you bring an adaptor.
General travel insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled travel arrangements, Diversion Dive Travel strongly recommends that suitable travel insurance is purchased at the time of booking. A comprehensive Travel Insurance policy covers any losses suffered as a result of cancellation due to medical circumstances, related medical expenses incurred whilst abroad and cover against loss or damage to baggage and personal items.
Clothing suggestions
Casual & comfortable clothing including a light jacket is recommended, as evenings can get cool and liveaboards usually keep their air-conditioning high in all indoor areas. Please keep sun protection in mind and be advised to respect local customs by not wearing swimsuits, short shorts, or other inappropriate clothing in towns, villages or public places.
Tipping
This is a very personal decision, tips are your ways of expressing satisfaction. On boats it is customary to give the tip to the Skipper and ask it be distributed amongst the crew. In resorts you leave the tip with the manager as they usually run Christmas Clubs and other community collections.
Safety
The Philippines are a fascinating country. Like any other place in the world it has its downsides as well. The travel advisories of some countries do warn to take extra caution if you travel to the Philippines. As a rule of thumb, you are very safe in your resorts, on your dive boats, in hotels and with your tour guide. Use normal caution around airports and in bigger cities, avoid being out at night alone, especially in bigger towns.
