Backpacking PhilippinesIf you do want to head for genuinely unchartered territory, then why not go backpacking Philippines. With 7107 islands, the Philippines offers truly ‘off the beaten track’ backpacking potential. Although the hotspots of South East Asia are an essential, there is no denying that elements of the mainland are now well established destinations, and a visit to Thailand or Vietnam isn’t as ‘out there’ as it was 20 or 30 years ago. Also, despite being sat alongside some of the most spectacular, isolated and tranquil areas of the world, parts of the Philippines are also well developed (but still offer good value for money), and English is widely spoken. With perfect beaches, plenty of culture and the chance to escape the travelling hubbub, you may well ask: why don’t more backpackers come here?!
Return from Backpacking Philippines to Backpacking World Where is it and what’s there?Situated east of ‘mainland South East Asia’ and north of Indonesia, the islands that make up the Philippines have a population of 92 million. 60% of the population reside on two of the islands and the country has as many miles of coastline as the entire US.The beaches, sea-life and tropical features match any of the Philippines’ South East Asian counterparts (or anywhere else for that matter!) and there are rainforests, mountains and wildlife aplenty. If you are going to go backpacking Philippines then it is definitely worth committing at least a couple of weeks (a couple of months maybe..!): it can take time to travel around and – if you’re going – you want the time to settle in to the distinct Filipino vibe! The climateThe Philippines have a tropical climate. The rainy season commences in June and runs through to October (typhoons are also possible during this period), while the hottest season runs from March to May. The eastern coast – exposed to the Pacific – is also generally wetter than the west.Essentially, if you’re prepared for the rest of the region, then you’ll be fine here. And make sure that you take something to wear in the water: with over 7000 islands, it’s hard to avoid the beach... Getting there and visasUnless you fancy a very very long boat journey, you will arrive in the Philippines by air. Most likely into the capital Manila’s airport. There are regular (and cheap) flights from Singapore or, if you’re coming from further afield, then most major airlines fly here. There are also relatively major airports in Clark and Davao. It is definitely worth planning your route – bear in mind that getting around an archipelago isn’t as straightforward as a landmass! If it is viable, then flying into one ‘end’ and out of the other is a great option. Otherwise you will end up going back over your tracks and there’s so much in the Philippines that retracing your steps equals missing out on new experiences.European and American passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to 21 days. Extensions are available to allow you to spend up to 2 months and can be purchased in all of the main cities... You’ll probably end up needing one! Return from Backpacking Philippines to Backpacking World Getting aroundFor many, the South East Asian experience is forever associated with one mode of transport: buses. And these are often not good associations... Bus travel can be a pain and when it’s your primary mode of transport can send you a little mad after a month or two. So... it’s almost a blessing that buses are not really a viable mode of transport in the Philippines. If you do travel by bus, then it will never be far and for the seasoned backpacker a pleasure.Most journeys will be undertaken either by plane or by boat. For longer journeys internal flights are reasonably priced and a good option, for mid range journeys and for getting from island to island, the only real option is to travel by boat. With so many possible journeys (7000 islands, you work it out!), there are also an impossible number of boats and types of craft. Some on the main routes are fast, efficient and reasonable priced. Some (in less populated areas) can be less safe. If goes without saying that you’ll need to employ common sense – if it’s getting dark, it looks like there are too many people on a rickety boat and there’s a typhoon forecast: maybe wait until the morning! For longer journeys, apply the same common sense, and then your budget will dictate how comfortable your journey is... From luxurious air-con equipped cabins, through to less pleasant but “fine if you’re on a budget” shared cabins, to staying on deck... Things to do• Scuba diving – No surprises that with this much coastline, the diving is amazing. From coral diving to exploring World War 2 wrecks and from beginner courses through to more challenging dives: the Philippines is the home of Asian diving and there are numerous places to hire equipment or to have lessons.• Swimming with whale sharks – The town of Donsol (about 14hrs bus ride from Manila) is host to whale sharks and there are numerous organised tours which will put you up close and personal with them. Be sensitive however, and take heed of any instructions in terms of not touching or harassing the sharks. They are harmless and unsurprisingly their biggest threat is from humans. For your best chance of swimming with them, get there between December and May. • Shopping – If you need a break from beaches or beach based activities then it may come as a surprise to hear that Manila has some of the biggest ‘malls’ in the world, and certainly the largest in South East Asia. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, the sheer vastness of the malls merits a visit. • Volcano trek – It may be the world’s smallest, but Taal is an active volcano. You can trek there on organised tours and see the current crater, as well as the wider crater in which it sits – believed to be the original mouth of the volcano. A humbling experience. Regardless of how much time you are planning to spend around South East Asia, you could conceivably spend all of your time backpacking Philippines and have as many experiences as you would travelling throughout the region. The islands have such a diverse range of cultures and possible experiences, and – despite the fact that most of the population can speak English – it is still 100% South East Asian in character. On a practical level you need to commit a decent amount of time to the Philippines and – once there – you’ll be glad if you have time to spare. Return from Backpacking Philippines to Backpacking World
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