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The good news is that Filipinos themselves are warm and welcoming - as underscored in the country's tagline - 'where Asia wears a smile'. Apart from some beautiful, remote tropical islands and legendary scuba diving spots, the archipelago's best resource is the friendliness and laid-back attitude of the Filipino people. Their hospitable and embracing attitude is enough to put a smile on any visitor's face; this is even more the case in the rural areas. The Philippines has some superb all-inclusive luxury resorts spread around the islands which cushion visitors from the general degradation and safety-risks of the cities and towns, and a major plus is that the country is amazingly good-value. Also, the food is delicious, and English is widely spoken.
Independent travelers who like to wander off the beaten track, and do not mind doing without the conveniences of running water and the like, will find plenty to fascinate them in the countryside and coastal parts of the Philippines;
The Basics
Time:
Local time is GMT +8.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin flat blade attachments and two-pin round plugs are used.
Language:
The official language of the Philippines is Filipino, but English is widely spoken. Tagalog is the most predominant of the many dialects or local languages spoken throughout the islands.
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Health:
No special vaccination certificates are required, except by travelers entering the Philippines from an area infected with yellow fever. Recommended vaccinations include typhoid as there are frequent outbreaks of typhoid fever. There is a malaria risk in parts of the Philippines and visitors should seek medical advice before traveling; urban areas are generally considered risk-free.
Customs:
The concept of 'shame' is very important in Filipino culture and visitors should avoid offending or embarrassing anyone in public. Failure to live up to accepted standards of behavior brings shame not only on themselves, but also on their family. Any food or drink offered should be accepted, as this is a sign of hospitality.
Communications:
The international access code for the Philippines is +63. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)2 for Manila. The major towns, cities and popular tourist spots are covered by GSM 900 and 1800 mobile phone networks. Internet cafes are available in Manila and the tourist resorts.
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Contacts
Visa Agencies
Travel Visa Pro, San Francisco, USA. 1-888-470-8472 or www.TravelVisaPro.com
Tourism
Philippine Convention and Visitors Corp, Manila: +63 (0)2 525 9318 or www.tourism.gov.ph
Philippines Embassies
Philippines Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 467 9300.
Philippines Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7937 1600.
Philippines Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 233 1121.
Philippines Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 2535/6.
Philippines Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 346 0451/2.
Philippines Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 472 9848.
Foreign Embassies in Philippines
United States Embassy, Manila: +63 (0)2 528 6300.
British Embassy, Manila: +63 (0)2 580 8700.
Canadian Embassy, Manila: +63 (0)2 857 9000.
Australian Embassy, Manila: +63 (0)2 757 8100.
South African Embassy, Manila: + 63 (0)2 889 9383.
Honorary Consul of Ireland, Manila: +63 (0)2 896 4668.
New Zealand Embassy, Manila: +63 (0)2 891 5358.
Philippines Emergency Numbers
Emergencies:
Airports
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Location: The airport is situated four miles (7km) south of the centre of Manila.
Time: GMT +8.
Contacts: Tel: +63 (0)2 877 1109.
Transfer between terminals: A Jeepney operates between the terminals for P2.
Facilities: Passenger services at Manila airport include shops, restaurants and bars; ATMs, banks with currency exchange, left-luggage and postal services. The airport is hot and uncomfortable, however there is an excellent lounge, the Manila Lounge, which offers showers, clean toilets, drinks, magazines and newspapers for only US$11, or free for Diners Club members.
Departure Tax: P750 (international)
Website: www.miaa.gov.ph
Climate
Manila has hot, humid weather all year round, although it is a little cooler between November and February. The hottest month is May, when the temperature averages 83ºF (28ºC). The rainy season is between June and October, although some precipitation is possible all through the year.
Passport & Visa
Visa Agencies:
Avoid the stress and queues, get a visa agency to arrange your visa.
Travel Visa Pro, San Francisco, USA. 1-888-470-8472 or www.TravelVisaPro.com
Global Visas, London, UK. 0207 190 3903 or www.globalvisas.com
Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Cameroon.
Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Cameroon.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadians require a passport and a visa to enter Cameroon.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans require a passport and a visa to enter Cameroon.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Cameroon.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Cameroon.
Passport/Visa Note: All travellers require confirmed onward or return tickets and all necessary documents for next destination. Visas on arrival can only be issued to those holding a prior approval from Le Delegue General de L'Immigration. All other visas must be acquired before travel to Cameroon.
Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travelers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.
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