Coupon taxis are located immediately at the exits of the arrival terminals. You want to go "right" not left, to look for the "metered" taxi stand (yellow cabs) and there are signs that will direct you. Be prepared to wait in line, but they are much cheaper than coupon rate taxis. Yellow cab meter rates begins at P70. Recently, the LTFRB has passed a law that requires large green stickers with Hotline numbers posted on the rear windows and read doors of all taxis. If you hail a taxi without this large green notice, do not use them. Corruption is under attack these days and things are looking better. White taxis in the NCR are even cheaper (starting at P40) but are also required to have the new LTFRB green label posted. DO NOT believe a driver when he tells you his meter is not working. Happy travels!
Oh I have another suggestion, If its your first time, I would exchange at least several hundred dollars at the airport, in which they will only give you large (500 and 1000 peso) bills on the exchange. I would then adivse quickly breaking down some of that by purchasing snacks, meal, etc at the airport and only give them large bills, so they have to break them down. If they say then dont have change, cancel your transaction and go to another snack shack. Heres why. I have found that if you have only large bills and your taxi bill is say 550 pesos and all you have is 1000 peso bill .... they give you this convincing innocent look and say " no change" do you have smaller? ( in hopes that you dont and have to give them a nice tip). If you dont have smaller change your stuck with giving them a fat tip.
Here`s what I do at times with cab drivers and the "I dont have any change" excuse. Lets say the fare is 200 pesos. I ask the driver if he has change for 500. Of course he will say "No" hoping to get the big tip. So then I pull out the 200 that I actually have and give it to him. I then tell him "It`s too bad you dont have change for 500, I was going to use the change to give you a tip" It`s amazing how quickly they come up with the change.
For those on long flights - ear plugs and sleeping mask (is a soft material eye cover you put around you head that covers your eyes. These prevent light from penetrating allowing you to sleep easier). To help prevent jet lag, do whatever you do regularly during the time of day when you land. If it is at night, go to sleep. If you land during the day, stay up no matter how tired you are. Taking a nap will mess up your time clock.
As someone who has visited the Philippines several times (as my wife is Philippine) I found this video interesting. Just one thing for the next one - not everyone who comes to the Philippines is from the USA, there's lots of other countries out there. Where I live, there's no such thing as Delta, and you definitely don't want to go there via Japan as that's the long way round! Anyway thanks, and I look forward to more interesting videos.
My wife,I who is a Philippina, fly to the Philippines at the end of each yr.to go to Cainta where her house is,quite beautiful it is i might add,We fly EVA Air,from Kennedy Airport in N Y,stop over in Taipai for 2 hrs then on to the Philippines. The flight with them is always great,great food, stewardess, nice comfortable seats.Of course we bring American currency, We r picked up by my Stepsons friend who has a big Toyota Hi Ace van.Once we r setteled at the house,we go out to exchange r money to peso.My stepson takes us to a place where the dollar is worth the most pesos.Right now 1 American Dollar is worth around 48.70.So we do not have problems of getting to the house,making change at the airport tipping etc.Much simpler.
If you need to go to either terminal 2 or 3 after exiting the international airport, Their is a bus shuttle that is on the right hand side. As soon as you walk out of the doors turn right, walk about 30metres and there is a FREE shuttle service that leaves every 20mins. Remember to tip the dong who loads your bags in the back of the bus. The bus travels (through) the airport and doesn't have to go all around the streets to get to the other terminals. You will go to terminal 2 first and they will call out "Terminal2", Then the bus goes to terminal 3.
Philippine Life my connecting flight is at terminal 2, PAL would not transfer my luggage to my connecting flight? I have to get it and take it to terminal 2 for my connecting flight, really ...
You can save money by flying to Qatar...but it's not worth it IMO. Also you, or your Filipino Spouse do not need a "throw-away" ticket if you are flying with your Filipina Spouse, even if she has become a Citizen of another country. I know this video was directed at first time visitors, so they would not be married, but I wanted to comment because there has been a lot of confusion about it. Great tips!
Good advice overall. However, luggage straps are the single-most cause of luggage jams in airport baggage handling systems (I was a 30+ year airline employee). Best just to make sure your bag(s) are securely closed. Some bright colored tape for easy identification is good. Also, I have never been asked for an onward-going ticket at immigration in Manila and I have flown there dozens of times. I have been asked to show one when flying a Philippines airline to Manila from Hong Kong though, such as PAL or Cebu Pacific.. Not much of a problem, being a retired airline employee; its easy to get a standby itinerary on my smart phone, if necessary. For those of you who aren't, a one way ticket to Guam from Manila is quite cheap on either PAL or UAL, if you're planning to stay awhile. My taxi advice is to take a "yellow" taxi. They're clean and well-regulated - not much more cost than a regular taxi - maybe 20% more. If the line is long (I've waited for an hour) you can get a "coupon" taxi for a little more, but you'll leave immediately. If you are not alone, keep in mind that the "coupon" taxi fare is on a per person basis, so it might be worth the wait for a "yellow" taxi. Beware of people trying to "hustle" you for rides. They can be quite aggressive. Nice video, Kevin, keep it up!
I have flown on Korean Airlines and Air China to the Philippines. The trip on Korean Airlines was from Seattle-Tacoma to Seoul to Cebu City. A fantastic airline - attendants were amazing the plane was in great shape and the food was tasty. Incheon Airport in Seoul is spotless and easy to get around. Lots of shopping if you're into that as well. The direct flight to Cebu (Mactan Airport) was nice as you avoid the transfer in Manila. My next trip was from Vancouver, BC to Beijing on Air China. It was not the same experience as Korean Airlines as the crew were much more business-like. Food was good plane was good everything worked as expected. That trip went from Beijing to Manila and then we had to transfer down to Cebu. As I am married to a filipina, when we pass through immigration we present our marriage contract and ask for a balikbayan visa - as a legally married spouse I get a one year visa so you can avoid the need to get a tourist visa extended. Obviously if you aren't married to a filipino citizen, this doesn't apply. Also, we made a mistake when going from the international terminal in Manila over to the domestic terminal - we did not get a shuttle bus, rather we took a taxi - a yellow cab - which cost us around 300 pesos. The taxi was immaculate and the driver very friendly and professional. He loaded and unloaded our luggage for us which was appreciated. It was very, very early in the morning and we were tired so paying for a taxi rather than waiting for a shuttle was not a big deal. During our return trip to Canada, the wait at the international terminal in Manila was excruciating because of a major renovation that was underway. There were so few places to sit and many of the small coffee shops and such were temporarily closed. This was a few years ago, so it's probably not an issue now. Also, when we transferred from the domestic to the international terminal, they were in the middle of an brown out, so because of that, we had to wait outside of the terminal building. There are xray machines at all entrances and since there was no power, they couldn't be used. It was damn hot and humid outside so be aware that sometimes there can be unplanned inconveniences like that. Another piece of advice is that some banks here in Canada offer a service where you can order foreign currency ahead of your trip so that when you land you are cash-in-hand ready to go and don't have to use an expensive currency exchange service when you get to your destination. I also call my credit card company and tell them where I will be travelling so that they can monitor for suspicious activity. It's an extra piece of mind to be sure. It may also help you avoid a delay processing a transaction that you are legitimately involved in when the card company expects to see activity from outside of your normal area.
Craig Hartel I am traveling to Manila, via JFK on Air China. Did you have any problems with transfers between flights in Beijing? First time using this carrier, got good ticket price. I have used Eva in past, and it was great. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you, Steve
srd722 It was easy going through Beijing - no baggage or transfer issues. You go through two very thorough check points. The first is to examine your boarding pass and passport - expect a very professional interaction during the first one. No idle chat or anything they are all business. After you are done that you will eventually go down to the second check point. Here they will again check your passport and will take a picture of you. Feet on the markers on the floor and look at the web cam. They will then do the x-ray check of your carry-on luggage. Mine was also physically checked after even though they did not indicate an issue. I had a brief chat with a supervisor so it's a bit friendlier there. After you pass that you're into the departure terminal and off you go to your gate. We actually hired a ride because our gate was at the far end and we were short on time. I was glad to do that saved us a run =). When you come back from the Philippines to Beijing, MAKE SURE YOU GET YOUR BOARDING PASS IN MANILA! A lady on our flight didn't have hers and she got sent to a "special checkpoint line" and she did not make our flight back to Canada. There were a couple of younger guys in line in front of us and they were kind of screwing around a bit. An immigration officer did not like their behaviour and they got sent to the "special line" as well. They were fortunate because they did make the flight but just barely. I would not hesitate to travel through Beijing in the future. The airport is immaculate and easy to find your way around. Shops are hideously expensive - US$6.00 for a cup of coffee...we decided to just drink from the water fountain. =)
srd722 You're most welcome! I hope you have a great trip! By the way, if you have lots of time during your transit through Bejeing, and a few extra dollars to spend, you can hire a driver and a translator to take you on a tour of the Forbidden City and Tianamen Square or even a portion of the Great Wall. It's fairly expensive, and depending on the weather and/or amount of smog, it may be worth a side trip if you have a long time between flights. Unfortunately when we went through, the smog was so terrible it was just not worth the cost. Not a lot of photo opportunities! :)
You don´t need buy extra return ticket if you stay longer than 30 days, its enough with your round trip ticket even if the return is several months later. Immigration knows we can extend our visa easy in wich immigration office you want in Philippines and you can also extend visa direct in immigration in airport but remember have pesos with you. I have travel to Philippines in four years now every winter and stay 3 to 6 months and have never have problem with immigration in airport, sometime they ask me how long i stay and i say 3 months and also tell them i extend my visa in the place i live. I live in Europe sweden but i think the rules is the same for us. 30 days free visa when arrive and then after that extend one month and after that 2 month at time.
Clarifying...I am arriving May 24 in MNL....Return ticket is for October...is that ok, or do I need to purchase a ticket for a return within the first 28-days...thank you.
I've never had a visa landing and never had trouble attaining my 21-27 day visa. As you said, they are easily extended. I've stayed two months on two different occasions. Never had my luggage inspected. But I'm in a wheelchair and that may be the reason. I bring about a throw pillow case amount of instant coffee as gifts. Double bagged in zip locked snack size. Chocolates are also good as gifts. Smaller containers 10mg of perfume, (Amazon in bulk) deodorant and 'Udderly Smooth' body lotion. All my little secrets for practical but, exquisite gifts.
For those flying to Cebu, I highly recommend Korean Airlines. Very competitive fares, plenty of legroom, and excellent in flight care and service. I fly out of Chicago with a four hour layover in Seoul before the final leg to Cebu. No Manila at all!
+Kevin Sanders My final destination is in northeast Mindanao, so for me Cebu is perfect. After that it's a 45 minute flight to Butuan. I would like to visit my cousin's grave in the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial but Clark is probably out of the way for that trip.
Excellent video and info. I just want to add that EVA AIR is now flying out of Chicago straight to Taipei then switch planes to either Manila or Cebu. I always fly EVA and I am very happy with their service and departure and arrival time. Not to mention cheap tickets if people are flexile with dates. I am flying out of Los Angeles to Cebu on first week of November for 546 dollars round trip.
I envy you guys in Chicago and very lucky that you have cheap flight from ORD to MNL. I live in Indianapolis which is 3.5 hrs away from ORD and I found out those flights from ORD were really cheap compare to any parts of the U.S. EVA air is the cheapest next ANA,DElta and Korean Airline. But I chose Indiana to exit even thought much expensive because I don't wan to drive to Chicago just to get cheap ticket, maybe on my next vacation I will do that.
Yes there is a way to protect your belongings in your case that is for checked in luggage do not buy a case with a zip as they are so easy to get into I have had my Samsonite case now for 10 years and it’s never been broken into , yes it was expensive but it’s worth it in the long run , it has 3 locks in strategic places on the case
I flew Chicago to Japan to Manila on my first trip. Chicago to Japan to Cebu on my 2nd trip. Great advice on the long flights. I personally carry a back pack and a hidden passport pouch in the front of my pants for my passport and cash. I bought my ticket from cheapoair both times. Prices are great but customer service isn't the best.
Great information given as I plan on traveling to the Philippines next year. My goal is to go there mid July of next year at the very earliest to find a place to live in. After I have the place to live in, I will return back to the U.S. To close out and finish up final details as I'm planning to move back to the Philippines for good and live out my life there.
I wouldnt recommend going there in July. The weather is too crazy because its the start of the rainy season. Be prepared for typhoons and constant rain.
Uber is Manila as well as Grab Taxi. While at the airport you can buy a prepaid smartphone chip that comes with prepaid data of various amounts. I took an old iphone and the lady in the kiosk inserted the chip and set it up. Within 15 minutes, I was good to go. If you dont want to do the phone route, Grab Taxi has a booth that will call a Grab Taxi for you and accept payment for the ride. For those that do not know what Grab is, it is a service similar to Uber that tracks it's drivers and there is no need to hand over any money. These are a very viable option for getting from the airport to the hotel.
Very helpful tips. My solution for easily identifying luggage: put a strip of yellow duct tape on each side. Really stands out? Incidentally, I’ve been to Philippines 14 trips! My current wife and baby live there. Jim
hey thanks kevin going over in july for 2 weeks with a friend ill be easy to spot ill be the tallest in country lol im 6 foot 5 been once before but spent it in the hospital, my head destroyed a cieling fan
I do have one suggestion. If you feel your taxi driver is being less than honest with you, ask him for his taxi registration number and his name. (usually its posted somewhere on or in the vehilce but its good to ask anyway). Write it down, look at your watch, ( like your denoting the time). This tends to honest them up pretty quick.
Oh and another suggestion that ONLY applies to foreigners married to a filipino. On immigration, go thru the line thats says Phillipine Citizens instead of the normal line (with your wife at your side of course). You can stay one year or less with no visa fees. This link is an Aussie embassy link but the same applies for the US. www.philippineconsulate.com.au/balikbayan-one-year-visa-free-stay.html
I went twice in 2010 and never asked for a Visa, I knew I could stay up to 21 days, but maybe then you didn't have to get a Visa for 21 days. When I took a taxi to the Linden Suites in Manila the taxi cost me $42, and when I left to come home, I had the Hotel call for me one and the cost with them was $42. My luggage didn't make it the first time so I went the second day back to the Airport to pick up my luggage and flagged my own Taxi and the charge was 300 pesos, he asked me if I wanted him to wait for me and I told him yes. He didn't have the clearance to park at the Terminal itself, we had to park in a parking lot, but the walk was not too far. He walked with me and showed me where I had to get a pass to go into the Terminal in exchange for my Driver's license. When I got my luggage and returned to the Pass place, I gave them the pass and got my driver's license back, The taxi driver took my bag and carried it to the car and brought me back to the Hotel. 600 pesos total, about 12usd, far cry from 84usd the other taxi's charge.
Nice job, Kevin. Regarding taxis, I would add don't use COUPON taxi's, which tend to hang out at the international terminal exits. These are more expensive. You want a YELLOW taxi, and they are yellow - coupon taxis are usually white. Ask airport personnel to direct you where to pick up the yellow taxis - AND INSIST they run their meter. Also, specifically in the Philippines, be careful of money changers in the city. They can magically fool you... use the airport/bank for a bit of cash initially but then use a reputable ATM is what I would recommend.
The “forwarding ticket” requirement begins at the airline desk where you begin your flight, not with Philippines immigration when you arrive. You will never even get on your flight to begin with if you don’t have that ticket.
Sorry to say but this is not my experience going to Manila, I was advised to buy a throwaway ticket which was a complete waste of money. I stayed for two months, I immediately got one month free, it was really easy to extend my visa for the second month in the Robinson mall
A very good video Kevin and very informative. I live here and anyone visiting the Philippines should look at your video to be better prepared. Things are somewhat different here.
29 days for sure. I always pre arrange my ride with the hotel I am staying at no matter where I am staying. I guess if you are flying on to another island you would be stuck with a cab if you are flying out of terminal 3 as it is across the street. it actually took me 45 minutes to get from terminal 1 to terminal 3, so allow yourself enough time if you haven't done this before. Interesting stuff. Thanks for the video. Aloha
Forms - only got the immigration / health form. No customs forms handed out. I did stop at the customs counter , asked if needed to declare my prescriptions.. they said that's fine.. and waived me on. As for tourist visa - 30 days for me. I visited in Nov 2015. Arrived @ Terminal 3. If that makes any difference.
michelle j are you an American citizen and do you have a passport? If so, that’s pretty much all you need. You’ll pretty much fill out a customs form on the plane and they’ll stamp your passport in the airport
Thank you Kevin that's a lot of help I don't feel like I'm walking into the unknown .. With the process I'll be flying out of California I've sent for my visa already in hopes that it will be less for me when I Arrive... Thank you Will Martun
It is not exclusively for Americans it’s for all countries, if your returning after a visa run they will ask more questions than normal no matter what your nationality is so just because your an American does not mean you have exclusive rights to enter the country over everyone else
Something to be aware of that I fell for. as someone says below there are free Shuttle Buses between the Terminals.Do NOT fall for some helpful guy offering to flag one down for you as you head for the area airport staff have directed you to. The guy will get you a ride very quickly and jump in as well but part way through the trip you'll be told how much the the fare is for the trip,it's an illegal taxi not a shuttle bus and if there's a meter I certainly didn't see one. In my case I possibly didn't handle it very well and got angry,mostly with myself really,which could have created a bad situation. As it was I gave them a lot less than they asked for and there was no problem,in fact they stayed friendly throughout and what I gave them was less than a bus ride into town back home,it was just the principle of the thing that annoyed me. So,go where you're told to go and don't listen to any different,likewise at any airport follow the locals to the official taxi areas,don't be persuaded by the many guys touting for business just outside the door who have friends driving up and down the road.I had no problem at all with customs or baggage anywhere in PH,quite the opposite in fact,everyone exceptionally helpful and friendly.
I just returned from a 3 Dec to 29 Jan visit, not my first, but I wasn't asked about any return ticket, and never have been. I got my visa extension just before Christmas. They never said a word when I entered with a 2 month ticket.
But I never show a return ticket, I never have one until I print out my boarding pass when I get to the airport to depart. They've never even asked me how long I'm going to stay, they just stamp the date of the 30 days I'm supposed to be gone by.
You stated a ml earlier about leaving to go to another airport? I am pi g to be traveling to the Davao City. How do you think I should go about getting there?
Kevin Sanders okay I will do that. I have a few years before I depart. I just want to avoid procrastination lol. If I have any more questions I will know where to come.
hi kevin I have also gone Delta 2 times from fort Lauderdale it was about 23hours fly time and it was flawless the only issue I had was when they stamp my passport and put the wrong return date by a week so it cost me 100 USD to leave I had round trip and told her the date but I did not look them my friend who lives there told me they do it all the time to raise revenue richard
I take quit a few prescriptions , will that be a problem? I have a bad back and take pain pills for it , I'm a little worried they may be taken from me , vacation over , I plan on keeping them on me but still worries me some , sorry , this is the last question Kevin , thanks for your help
Jack Ogez I went to Cagayan de Oro back in March and had several different prescriptions in a carry on bag with me and was never confronted about them. Kevin Thanks so much I love your idea of the fanny pack, the way of locking, and marking your luggage.
I heard that visitors also have to fill out a form stating that you are in good health. I also heard the coupon cabs are a good choice leaving the airport
Also dress smart and have some proof of income and do not get cheeky with an immigration officer they are more strict these days than years ago if you try to cheek an officer they will not let you into the country
Idk if you actually need to get a visa ahead of time before you go home it may save time but to get it processed ahead of time before I go I'm spending $30 on it for a 30 day visa or 59 day vision 59 days is the max that they can issue 14 over here at the Philippine Consulate Office in the US
I need to go to manilla , but I was told to fly to cebu because it's safer , no bullet hassle , then fly my gf to cebu and vacation in cebu , and when I want to go to manilla take the boat there , big boat not sure what it's called , because I need to see her family ,kids
Did you get any shots before you came , I've heard there are a few I need to get , I don't plan on going out in the jungle , but water bad , food can be bad , so many things to look into lol
Hi thank I just been to the Philippines for the first time on a short holiday and when I got my bag it had been opened and my laptop was going I told the airport and thay said there was nothing they could do happen about it i then when t to Singapore and Thailand and all was well I wish I had seen the video before I went
subscribed! thanks so much for sharing your experiences and insights. your video helps me a lot especially the tsa lock thing. I will buy that at Walmart the American tourister TSA approved key locks only 5$.
my husband is a US Citizen and just booked a ticket for the Philippines for 29 days. Is he gonna have a problem ?and he has a roundtrip ticket going back to US. thanks in advance
Hey Kevin I know you did a video on marriage and if I remember right he talked about the K-3 visa didn't cover the cost that was included about the K-3 visa and when she came back to the United States with your wife thank you
I've bought tickets for a 33 days stay in the Phillipines. will I have trouble when entering the country and will I have to extend my visa even though I'll be over for a few days?
hey thanks kevin going over in july for 2 weeks with a friend ill be easy to spot ill be the tallest in country lol im 6 foot 5 been once before but spent it in the hospital, my head destroyed a cieling fan
Hi Kevin, I had a question. So I will be traveling to Manilla this May but im going straight to Cebu as soon as i land. Is it just better to book the flight from Manilla to Cebu in advance or when i land in Manilla?
I'm Wondering do you still have to go thru customs if its a stop flight. lets say..you arrive from the states to Manila, but your destination is Davao.
What about bringing medication into the Philippines? For example Oxycodone, Diazepam, etc. Is a letter from your doctor a good idea stating the purpose & amount?
well if they cant get there after your very plain description on how to do it then they might as well not bother, as said its very straight forward entering phil. good video on how to do things right.
Appreciate the help. Im heading to the phillipines in a few weeks and I was a little nervous about the trip but your tips seem easy to follow. One thing I did have a question about is how does ur phone work there? Do they have WiFi at the airport because then I could just use fb messenger or some other app like that to message my friend there so they kno that I made it on time or if I'm held up waiting on the luggage. U kno something like that. What would u recommend?
@@ThePhilippinesAccordingtoKevin So what could I do? Maybe buy a cheap phone here n buy a SIM card from there or something. Or just have my friend wait for meat a certain location inside the airport until I can male it to them.
Thank you Kevin, nice video, you made me feel better flying there, I want to fly to Alona Beach, is it best to fly to Manila first?? Which route would you go if flying from the USA,
Loved your video. Wished I watched it earlier. I want to move and retire in Philippines. I bought a tick for April 3 and will arrive April 5. However I messed up and got my round trip 6 months later instead of a couple of weeks later. What should I do
yeah, you mean COUPON taxi's which tend to hang out at the international terminal exits. You want a YELLOW taxi, and they are yellow - coupon taxis are usually white. Ask airport personnel to direct you where to pick up the yellow taxis - AND INSIST they run their meter.
Hi Kevin. one more question. I arrive in manila the 19th of this month and heard I might need a transient visa to stop over in Vancouver Canada for even just one hour then fly on to manila l well start from Portland Oregon. but I googled it and I think it says that u.a. citizens are exempt.please can u let me know for sure if I did would I even have time to get one.Thank you for your advise.
i got my ticket in February thru expedia total round trip 750 dollars my flight is next month i been to phillippines 5 times and all my tickets were below 900 dollars and i live in south texas
+Kevin Sanders Flying out of Houston On March 15, 2016. Will be my first trip to the Philippines. Cost $815 with ticket protection. I am very excited about it.
hello,, im going to phil. to be with my girlfriend, her and her brother are going to meet me there at airport. im a little paranoid cuz of stories i heard of being mugged and ect. is it safe for me, my first time in pi. also im on a prescription medication for anxiety. i will be taking with me around a months worth with doctors written proof of my meds. will i have issues with bringing my meds. thank you
There is a difference between citizens of USA or Europe when it comes to the visa entering the Philippines? When I arrive in Philippines I get a 30-day tourist-visa. It used to be 21 days but for the last couple of years it's 30 days. So not 29 days but 30.
+Kevin Sanders Yeah I think so; Passport and Visa Requirements For Travel to the Philippines; "Every country, including the Philippines, requires a passport for all visitors and tourists to enter. But unless you plan on staying for more than 30 days, you do not need a visa as long as your passport is valid for at least 6 months and you have a valid return ticket. If you do plan on staying longer than 30 days, you will need to get a tourist visa. www.thephilippines.com/p/passport-visa.html#.VsjskpzhDIU
Clarifying...I am arriving May 24 in MNL....Return ticket is for October...is that ok, or do I need to purchase a ticket for a return within the first 28-days...thank you. I am married to a Filipina, but she will not be flying with me...
hi sir... i dont understand. If I stay 6 months and have a departing ticket for the 6 month date after my arrival. Isnt it proof that I ll leave the country? Do I still need a throw away ticket?
Thank you for the information, How about when fly in to Mania and have a lay over for your next flight? do you still go threw custom our you wait till you reach next airport?
Coupon taxis are located immediately at the exits of the arrival terminals. You want to go "right" not left, to look for the "metered" taxi stand (yellow cabs) and there are signs that will direct you. Be prepared to wait in line, but they are much cheaper than coupon rate taxis. Yellow cab meter rates begins at P70. Recently, the LTFRB has passed a law that requires large green stickers with Hotline numbers posted on the rear windows and read doors of all taxis. If you hail a taxi without this large green notice, do not use them. Corruption is under attack these days and things are looking better. White taxis in the NCR are even cheaper (starting at P40) but are also required to have the new LTFRB green label posted. DO NOT believe a driver when he tells you his meter is not working. Happy travels!
Oh I have another suggestion, If its your first time, I would exchange at least several hundred dollars at the airport, in which they will only give you large (500 and 1000 peso) bills on the exchange. I would then adivse quickly breaking down some of that by purchasing snacks, meal, etc at the airport and only give them large bills, so they have to break them down. If they say then dont have change, cancel your transaction and go to another snack shack. Heres why. I have found that if you have only large bills and your taxi bill is say 550 pesos and all you have is 1000 peso bill .... they give you this convincing innocent look and say " no change" do you have smaller? ( in hopes that you dont and have to give them a nice tip). If you dont have smaller change your stuck with giving them a fat tip.
Here`s what I do at times with cab drivers and the "I dont have any change" excuse. Lets say the fare is 200 pesos. I ask the driver if he has change for 500. Of course he will say "No" hoping to get the big tip. So then I pull out the 200 that I actually have and give it to him. I then tell him "It`s too bad you dont have change for 500, I was going to use the change to give you a tip" It`s amazing how quickly they come up with the change.
For those on long flights - ear plugs and sleeping mask (is a soft material eye cover you put around you head that covers your eyes. These prevent light from penetrating allowing you to sleep easier). To help prevent jet lag, do whatever you do regularly during the time of day when you land. If it is at night, go to sleep. If you land during the day, stay up no matter how tired you are. Taking a nap will mess up your time clock.
Your advice is spot on,I've been to the Philippines four times,with no problems whatsoever,thanks again
If u know somebody in the Philippines, it is best to have them find a ride to come pick you up at the airport.
Mari443Garrett1 true
As someone who has visited the Philippines several times (as my wife is Philippine) I found this video interesting. Just one thing for the next one - not everyone who comes to the Philippines is from the USA, there's lots of other countries out there. Where I live, there's no such thing as Delta, and you definitely don't want to go there via Japan as that's the long way round! Anyway thanks, and I look forward to more interesting videos.
My wife,I who is a Philippina, fly to the Philippines at the end of each yr.to go to Cainta where her house is,quite beautiful it is i might add,We fly EVA Air,from Kennedy Airport in N Y,stop over in Taipai for 2 hrs then on to the Philippines. The flight with them is always great,great food, stewardess, nice comfortable seats.Of course we bring American currency, We r picked up by my Stepsons friend who has a big Toyota Hi Ace van.Once we r setteled at the house,we go out to exchange r money to peso.My stepson takes us to a place where the dollar is worth the most pesos.Right now 1 American Dollar is worth around 48.70.So we do not have problems of getting to the house,making change at the airport tipping etc.Much simpler.
If you need to go to either terminal 2 or 3 after exiting the international airport, Their is a bus shuttle that is on the right hand side. As soon as you walk out of the doors turn right, walk about 30metres and there is a FREE shuttle service that leaves every 20mins. Remember to tip the dong who loads your bags in the back of the bus. The bus travels (through) the airport and doesn't have to go all around the streets to get to the other terminals. You will go to terminal 2 first and they will call out "Terminal2", Then the bus goes to terminal 3.
nice share. so I will take a bux=s from terminal 3 to Cubao or Ortigas which is near from my house.
Philippine Life my connecting flight is at terminal 2, PAL would not transfer my luggage to my connecting flight? I have to get it and take it to terminal 2 for my connecting flight, really ...
You can save money by flying to Qatar...but it's not worth it IMO. Also you, or your Filipino Spouse do not need a "throw-away" ticket if you are flying with your Filipina Spouse, even if she has become a Citizen of another country. I know this video was directed at first time visitors, so they would not be married, but I wanted to comment because there has been a lot of confusion about it. Great tips!
Good advice overall. However, luggage straps are the single-most cause of luggage jams in airport baggage handling systems (I was a 30+ year airline employee). Best just to make sure your bag(s) are securely closed. Some bright colored tape for easy identification is good. Also, I have never been asked for an onward-going ticket at immigration in Manila and I have flown there dozens of times. I have been asked to show one when flying a Philippines airline to Manila from Hong Kong though, such as PAL or Cebu Pacific.. Not much of a problem, being a retired airline employee; its easy to get a standby itinerary on my smart phone, if necessary. For those of you who aren't, a one way ticket to Guam from Manila is quite cheap on either PAL or UAL, if you're planning to stay awhile.
My taxi advice is to take a "yellow" taxi. They're clean and well-regulated - not much more cost than a regular taxi - maybe 20% more. If the line is long (I've waited for an hour) you can get a "coupon" taxi for a little more, but you'll leave immediately. If you are not alone, keep in mind that the "coupon" taxi fare is on a per person basis, so it might be worth the wait for a "yellow" taxi. Beware of people trying to "hustle" you for rides. They can be quite aggressive.
Nice video, Kevin, keep it up!
I have flown on Korean Airlines and Air China to the Philippines. The trip on Korean Airlines was from Seattle-Tacoma to Seoul to Cebu City. A fantastic airline - attendants were amazing the plane was in great shape and the food was tasty. Incheon Airport in Seoul is spotless and easy to get around. Lots of shopping if you're into that as well. The direct flight to Cebu (Mactan Airport) was nice as you avoid the transfer in Manila. My next trip was from Vancouver, BC to Beijing on Air China. It was not the same experience as Korean Airlines as the crew were much more business-like. Food was good plane was good everything worked as expected. That trip went from Beijing to Manila and then we had to transfer down to Cebu.
As I am married to a filipina, when we pass through immigration we present our marriage contract and ask for a balikbayan visa - as a legally married spouse I get a one year visa so you can avoid the need to get a tourist visa extended. Obviously if you aren't married to a filipino citizen, this doesn't apply.
Also, we made a mistake when going from the international terminal in Manila over to the domestic terminal - we did not get a shuttle bus, rather we took a taxi - a yellow cab - which cost us around 300 pesos. The taxi was immaculate and the driver very friendly and professional. He loaded and unloaded our luggage for us which was appreciated. It was very, very early in the morning and we were tired so paying for a taxi rather than waiting for a shuttle was not a big deal.
During our return trip to Canada, the wait at the international terminal in Manila was excruciating because of a major renovation that was underway. There were so few places to sit and many of the small coffee shops and such were temporarily closed. This was a few years ago, so it's probably not an issue now. Also, when we transferred from the domestic to the international terminal, they were in the middle of an brown out, so because of that, we had to wait outside of the terminal building. There are xray machines at all entrances and since there was no power, they couldn't be used. It was damn hot and humid outside so be aware that sometimes there can be unplanned inconveniences like that.
Another piece of advice is that some banks here in Canada offer a service where you can order foreign currency ahead of your trip so that when you land you are cash-in-hand ready to go and don't have to use an expensive currency exchange service when you get to your destination. I also call my credit card company and tell them where I will be travelling so that they can monitor for suspicious activity. It's an extra piece of mind to be sure. It may also help you avoid a delay processing a transaction that you are legitimately involved in when the card company expects to see activity from outside of your normal area.
Craig Hartel
I am traveling to Manila, via JFK on Air China. Did you have any problems with transfers between flights in Beijing? First time using this carrier, got good ticket price. I have used Eva in past, and it was great. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you, Steve
srd722 It was easy going through Beijing - no baggage or transfer issues. You go through two very thorough check points. The first is to examine your boarding pass and passport - expect a very professional interaction during the first one. No idle chat or anything they are all business. After you are done that you will eventually go down to the second check point. Here they will again check your passport and will take a picture of you. Feet on the markers on the floor and look at the web cam. They will then do the x-ray check of your carry-on luggage. Mine was also physically checked after even though they did not indicate an issue. I had a brief chat with a supervisor so it's a bit friendlier there. After you pass that you're into the departure terminal and off you go to your gate. We actually hired a ride because our gate was at the far end and we were short on time. I was glad to do that saved us a run =).
When you come back from the Philippines to Beijing, MAKE SURE YOU GET YOUR BOARDING PASS IN MANILA! A lady on our flight didn't have hers and she got sent to a "special checkpoint line" and she did not make our flight back to Canada. There were a couple of younger guys in line in front of us and they were kind of screwing around a bit. An immigration officer did not like their behaviour and they got sent to the "special line" as well. They were fortunate because they did make the flight but just barely.
I would not hesitate to travel through Beijing in the future. The airport is immaculate and easy to find your way around. Shops are hideously expensive - US$6.00 for a cup of coffee...we decided to just drink from the water fountain. =)
Craig Hartel
Thank you for your insight. I will make I am prepared. Look forward to experience.
srd722 You're most welcome! I hope you have a great trip!
By the way, if you have lots of time during your transit through Bejeing, and a few extra dollars to spend, you can hire a driver and a translator to take you on a tour of the Forbidden City and Tianamen Square or even a portion of the Great Wall. It's fairly expensive, and depending on the weather and/or amount of smog, it may be worth a side trip if you have a long time between flights. Unfortunately when we went through, the smog was so terrible it was just not worth the cost. Not a lot of photo opportunities! :)
Craig Hartel Thank you for sharing knowledge. I recommend Korean Airlines because of superb experience I had with it.
You don´t need buy extra return ticket if you stay longer than 30 days, its enough with your round trip ticket even if the return is several months later. Immigration knows we can extend our visa easy in wich immigration office you want in Philippines and you can also extend visa direct in immigration in airport but remember have pesos with you.
I have travel to Philippines in four years now every winter and stay 3 to 6 months and have never have problem with immigration in airport, sometime they ask me how long i stay and i say 3 months and also tell them i extend my visa in the place i live. I live in Europe sweden but i think the rules is the same for us. 30 days free visa when arrive and then after that extend one month and after that 2 month at time.
Clarifying...I am arriving May 24 in MNL....Return ticket is for October...is that ok, or do I need to purchase a ticket for a return within the first 28-days...thank you.
I've never had a visa landing and never had trouble attaining my 21-27 day visa. As you said, they are easily extended. I've stayed two months on two different occasions. Never had my luggage inspected. But I'm in a wheelchair and that may be the reason. I bring about a throw pillow case amount of instant coffee as gifts. Double bagged in zip locked snack size.
Chocolates are also good as gifts. Smaller containers 10mg of perfume, (Amazon in bulk) deodorant and
'Udderly Smooth' body lotion.
All my little secrets for practical but, exquisite gifts.
For those flying to Cebu, I highly recommend Korean Airlines. Very competitive fares, plenty of legroom, and excellent in flight care and service. I fly out of Chicago with a four hour layover in Seoul before the final leg to Cebu. No Manila at all!
+Kevin Sanders My final destination is in northeast Mindanao, so for me Cebu is perfect. After that it's a 45 minute flight to Butuan. I would like to visit my cousin's grave in the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial but Clark is probably out of the way for that trip.
+drb166... you are exactly right , Korean airlines is the best way to Cebu, very good servcie
drb166 I'm flying out of Chicago to Cebu in 2 weeks. Do they make you fill out a customs form to declare my electronics and etc..??
For traveling to Cebu, try Asiana Airlines it's as good as Korean Airlines and cheaper, I have been using them for 3 years now.
Excellent video and info.
I just want to add that EVA AIR is now flying out of Chicago straight to Taipei then switch planes to either Manila or Cebu. I always fly EVA and I am very happy with their service and departure and arrival time. Not to mention cheap tickets if people are flexile with dates. I am flying out of Los Angeles to Cebu on first week of November for 546 dollars round trip.
I envy you guys in Chicago and very lucky that you have cheap flight from ORD to MNL. I live in Indianapolis which is 3.5 hrs away from ORD and I found out those flights from ORD were really cheap compare to any parts of the U.S. EVA air is the cheapest next ANA,DElta and Korean Airline. But I chose Indiana to exit even thought much expensive because I don't wan to drive to Chicago just to get cheap ticket, maybe on my next vacation I will do that.
Ditto on 'EVA Air'. A little better in everything. Lavatory has flowers, food is excellent, comparatively... Etc. Very impressed!
Yes there is a way to protect your belongings in your case that is for checked in luggage do not buy a case with a zip as they are so easy to get into I have had my Samsonite case now for 10 years and it’s never been broken into , yes it was expensive but it’s worth it in the long run , it has 3 locks in strategic places on the case
I flew Chicago to Japan to Manila on my first trip. Chicago to Japan to Cebu on my 2nd trip. Great advice on the long flights. I personally carry a back pack and a hidden passport pouch in the front of my pants for my passport and cash. I bought my ticket from cheapoair both times. Prices are great but customer service isn't the best.
as always, a very thoughtful and thorough video, thanks for the info and tips Kevin
Great information given as I plan on traveling to the Philippines
next year. My goal is to go there mid July of next year at the very
earliest to find a place to live in. After I have the place to live in, I
will return back to the U.S. To close out and finish up final details
as I'm planning to move back to the Philippines for good and live out my life there.
I wouldnt recommend going there in July. The weather is too crazy because its the start of the rainy season. Be prepared for typhoons and constant rain.
Uber is Manila as well as Grab Taxi. While at the airport you can buy a prepaid smartphone chip that comes with prepaid data of various amounts. I took an old iphone and the lady in the kiosk inserted the chip and set it up. Within 15 minutes, I was good to go. If you dont want to do the phone route, Grab Taxi has a booth that will call a Grab Taxi for you and accept payment for the ride. For those that do not know what Grab is, it is a service similar to Uber that tracks it's drivers and there is no need to hand over any money. These are a very viable option for getting from the airport to the hotel.
Very helpful tips. My solution for easily identifying luggage: put a strip of yellow duct tape on each side. Really stands out?
Incidentally, I’ve been to Philippines 14 trips! My current wife and baby live there.
Jim
JAMES ; I was curious about how many times in one year you can or get a tourist visa for visiting the Philippines. Thanks
hey thanks kevin going over in july for 2 weeks with a friend ill be easy to spot ill be the tallest in country lol im 6 foot 5 been once before but spent it in the hospital, my head destroyed a cieling fan
I do have one suggestion. If you feel your taxi driver is being less than honest with you, ask him for his taxi registration number and his name. (usually its posted somewhere on or in the vehilce but its good to ask anyway). Write it down, look at your watch, ( like your denoting the time). This tends to honest them up pretty quick.
Oh and another suggestion that ONLY applies to foreigners married to a filipino. On immigration, go thru the line thats says Phillipine Citizens instead of the normal line (with your wife at your side of course). You can stay one year or less with no visa fees. This link is an Aussie embassy link but the same applies for the US. www.philippineconsulate.com.au/balikbayan-one-year-visa-free-stay.html
Not putting an address down on an immigration form is a very big deal these days as they need to know your not going to be sleeping in a park
I went twice in 2010 and never asked for a Visa, I knew I could stay up to 21 days, but maybe then you didn't have to get a Visa for 21 days. When I took a taxi to the Linden Suites in Manila the taxi cost me $42, and when I left to come home, I had the Hotel call for me one and the cost with them was $42. My luggage didn't make it the first time so I went the second day back to the Airport to pick up my luggage and flagged my own Taxi and the charge was 300 pesos, he asked me if I wanted him to wait for me and I told him yes. He didn't have the clearance to park at the Terminal itself, we had to park in a parking lot, but the walk was not too far. He walked with me and showed me where I had to get a pass to go into the Terminal in exchange for my Driver's license. When I got my luggage and returned to the Pass place, I gave them the pass and got my driver's license back, The taxi driver took my bag and carried it to the car and brought me back to the Hotel. 600 pesos total, about 12usd, far cry from 84usd the other taxi's charge.
I own a taxi company in the us but your best bet now in Manila is to download the grab app and use grab cheaper and safer.
Nice job, Kevin. Regarding taxis, I would add don't use COUPON taxi's, which tend to hang out at the international terminal exits. These are more expensive. You want a YELLOW taxi, and they are yellow - coupon taxis are usually white. Ask airport personnel to direct you where to pick up the yellow taxis - AND INSIST they run their meter. Also, specifically in the Philippines, be careful of money changers in the city. They can magically fool you... use the airport/bank for a bit of cash initially but then use a reputable ATM is what I would recommend.
The “forwarding ticket” requirement begins at the airline desk where you begin your flight, not with Philippines immigration when you arrive. You will never even get on your flight to begin with if you don’t have that ticket.
Asiana airlines is the cheapest airliner at about 630$ for a round trip ticket on average, best one I ever found.
Sorry to say but this is not my experience going to Manila, I was advised to buy a throwaway ticket which was a complete waste of money. I stayed for two months, I immediately got one month free, it was really easy to extend my visa for the second month in the Robinson mall
People that have one why tickets ,should already know this , but fir most people they take a two way ticket
Trust me the last thing they are looking for is a pair of shoes as 9 times out of 10 they won’t fit them anyway
so true, 1 shoe in 1 bag, and 1 in the other, Really? haha, Paranoya will destroy ya.. lol
A very good video Kevin and very informative. I live here and anyone visiting the Philippines should look at your video to be better prepared. Things are somewhat different here.
29 days for sure. I always pre arrange my ride with the hotel I am staying at no matter where I am staying. I guess if you are flying on to another island you would be stuck with a cab if you are flying out of terminal 3 as it is across the street. it actually took me 45 minutes to get from terminal 1 to terminal 3, so allow yourself enough time if you haven't done this before. Interesting stuff. Thanks for the video. Aloha
+Scott Parnell there are free shuttle busses that connect all terminials.
Scott Parnell you actually get 30 days not 29
so basically all I need is a passport and a plane ticket to get to the Philippines? once I'm there I fill out whatever paperwork is needed
Bill J thanks for you response. I plan on having a round trip ticket when I fly there
My first time was 1985 gee!!! Wat a eye opener big difference to today
Forms - only got the immigration / health form.
No customs forms handed out.
I did stop at the customs counter , asked if needed to declare my prescriptions.. they said that's fine.. and waived me on.
As for tourist visa - 30 days for me.
I visited in Nov 2015. Arrived @ Terminal 3. If that makes any difference.
LukeAU I'm flying into Cebu in 2 weeks. Do you know if I have to fill out a customs form to declare my electronics and etc...??
You don’t need to ask for a visa when you come in they will stamp you with a 30 day visa automatically
Ian Rees will i been good since i’m going to visit the philippines for 5 days? will i need anything like a visa or anything else?
michelle j are you an American citizen and do you have a passport? If so, that’s pretty much all you need. You’ll pretty much fill out a customs form on the plane and they’ll stamp your passport in the airport
Thank you Kevin that's a lot of help I don't feel like I'm walking into the unknown .. With the process I'll be flying out of California I've sent for my visa already in hopes that it will be less for me when I Arrive... Thank you Will Martun
It is not exclusively for Americans it’s for all countries, if your returning after a visa run they will ask more questions than normal no matter what your nationality is so just because your an American does not mean you have exclusive rights to enter the country over everyone else
I just receny flew from Panama city beach to Manila this was my first time flying,I changed planes in Atlanta and Narita/Tokyo .
Very informative video Kevin, I've visited Cebu twice already but it has been almost 15 years. Thank you!
Great channel! I just found and subscribed to you. Cheers
Many thanks for the good advice. I go for the first time later this year, just for a 2 weeks holliday. Your video was very helpfull
Something to be aware of that I fell for. as someone says below there are free Shuttle Buses between the Terminals.Do NOT fall for some helpful guy offering to flag one down for you as you head for the area airport staff have directed you to. The guy will get you a ride very quickly and jump in as well but part way through the trip you'll be told how much the the fare is for the trip,it's an illegal taxi not a shuttle bus and if there's a meter I certainly didn't see one. In my case I possibly didn't handle it very well and got angry,mostly with myself really,which could have created a bad situation. As it was I gave them a lot less than they asked for and there was no problem,in fact they stayed friendly throughout and what I gave them was less than a bus ride into town back home,it was just the principle of the thing that annoyed me. So,go where you're told to go and don't listen to any different,likewise at any airport follow the locals to the official taxi areas,don't be persuaded by the many guys touting for business just outside the door who have friends driving up and down the road.I had no problem at all with customs or baggage anywhere in PH,quite the opposite in fact,everyone exceptionally helpful and friendly.
I just returned from a 3 Dec to 29 Jan visit, not my first, but I wasn't asked about any return ticket, and never have been. I got my visa extension just before Christmas. They never said a word when I entered with a 2 month ticket.
But I never show a return ticket, I never have one until I print out my boarding pass when I get to the airport to depart. They've never even asked me how long I'm going to stay, they just stamp the date of the 30 days I'm supposed to be gone by.
You stated a ml earlier about leaving to go to another airport? I am pi g to be traveling to the Davao City. How do you think I should go about getting there?
Kevin Sanders okay I will do that. I have a few years before I depart. I just want to avoid procrastination lol. If I have any more questions I will know where to come.
Delta lands in Terminal 3, if your taking CEBU-PACIFIC flight to Davao City, it's in the same terminal 3 also. just ask the personnel there.
Where is the best way to find an onward passage ticket? Was checking online and tx were over $220 USD
hi kevin I have also gone Delta 2 times from fort Lauderdale it was about 23hours fly time and it was flawless the only issue I had was when they stamp my passport and put the wrong return date by a week so it cost me 100 USD to leave I had round trip and told her the date but I did not look them my friend who lives there told me they do it all the time to raise revenue richard
I take quit a few prescriptions , will that be a problem? I have a bad back and take pain pills for it , I'm a little worried they may be taken from me , vacation over , I plan on keeping them on me but still worries me some , sorry , this is the last question Kevin , thanks for your help
Jack Ogez I went to Cagayan de Oro back in March and had several different prescriptions in a carry on bag with me and was never confronted about them.
Kevin Thanks so much I love your idea of the fanny pack, the way of locking, and marking your luggage.
Yes!!!! Same question? I also have prescription's? What's up with that?
Good video. Many outstanding tips....thanks for making and sharing
if you're already bought I'm sorry I didn't get them tell them we both kind of look alike trust me
Thanks for all the information you have been posting in your videos. ..very helpful
I heard that visitors also have to fill out a form stating that you are in good health. I also heard the coupon cabs are a good choice leaving the airport
Thanks bro! for the information cause I will be traveling November of 2017 and that was great info. Good tips!!! thanks again!
thank you kevin always good advice
Also dress smart and have some proof of income and do not get cheeky with an immigration officer they are more strict these days than years ago if you try to cheek an officer they will not let you into the country
Where is the waiting area?
Great video Kevin. Thanks for the heads up.
Thanks for the tips. Others have not thought to give me some of these tips.
Idk if you actually need to get a visa ahead of time before you go home it may save time but to get it processed ahead of time before I go I'm spending $30 on it for a 30 day visa or 59 day vision 59 days is the max that they can issue 14 over here at the Philippine Consulate Office in the US
I use delta too , for me I find them the cheapest , it all depends were you live , I'm close to Detroit so it works great for me
skyscanner.com This website looks for the cheapest ticket, also tells you when its the cheapest time to fly.
I need to go to manilla , but I was told to fly to cebu because it's safer , no bullet hassle , then fly my gf to cebu and vacation in cebu , and when I want to go to manilla take the boat there , big boat not sure what it's called , because I need to see her family ,kids
there are ube express buses at MNL for 150 pesos. cheaper than a taxi if you are not in a huge rush.
I flew last year twice for a month I thought the time is now 59 days also China Air was excellent and very reasonable 690.00 round trip in January
+Dennis B where did you fly from?
+dwsherm1 I flew from JFK in NY it was in January
+Dennis B i just did a search and saw air china had the cheapest flight. Was that what you used?
I believe it is the same but check if there is a China air and Air China
+Dennis B OK, thanks
Did you get any shots before you came , I've heard there are a few I need to get , I don't plan on going out in the jungle , but water bad , food can be bad , so many things to look into lol
Hi thank I just been to the Philippines for the first time on a short holiday and when I got my bag it had been opened and my laptop was going I told the airport and thay said there was nothing they could do happen about it i then when t to Singapore and Thailand and all was well I wish I had seen the video before I went
subscribed! thanks so much for sharing your experiences and insights. your video helps me a lot especially the tsa lock thing. I will buy that at Walmart the American tourister TSA approved key locks only 5$.
my husband is a US Citizen and just booked a ticket for the Philippines for 29 days. Is he gonna have a problem ?and he has a roundtrip ticket going back to US. thanks in advance
Hey Kevin I know you did a video on marriage and if I remember right he talked about the K-3 visa didn't cover the cost that was included about the K-3 visa and when she came back to the United States with your wife thank you
I just went and it is a 30 day visa.
I've bought tickets for a 33 days stay in the Phillipines. will I have trouble when entering the country and will I have to extend my visa even though I'll be over for a few days?
Ronald Rimorin, in my experience, yes, you will have to pay for an extension.
Do you have to declare gifts for friends when entering? Like a skateboard BBALL Thanks
hey thanks kevin going over in july for 2 weeks with a friend ill be easy to spot ill be the tallest in country lol im 6 foot 5 been once before but spent it in the hospital, my head destroyed a cieling fan
Is ok if you have your outbound ticket on your phone, or do you need hard copy of it?
Hi Kevin, I had a question. So I will be traveling to Manilla this May but im going straight to Cebu as soon as i land. Is it just better to book the flight from Manilla to Cebu in advance or when i land in Manilla?
Thanks dear for this valuable information.
Is there a bus from the airport to the city? Or any other transport package other than taxi?
When was the last instance of something being put into someone's luggage , has this problem been stopped is my question ?
I'm Wondering do you still have to go thru customs if its a stop flight. lets say..you arrive from the states to Manila, but your destination is Davao.
What about bringing medication into the Philippines? For example Oxycodone, Diazepam, etc. Is a letter from your doctor a good idea stating the purpose & amount?
Keep your passport and wallet on you at all times
💯
well if they cant get there after your very plain description on how to do it then they might as well not bother, as said its very straight forward entering phil. good video on how to do things right.
you should demonstrate how to use the strap so people can understand how to use trap better okay
Appreciate the help. Im heading to the phillipines in a few weeks and I was a little nervous about the trip but your tips seem easy to follow. One thing I did have a question about is how does ur phone work there? Do they have WiFi at the airport because then I could just use fb messenger or some other app like that to message my friend there so they kno that I made it on time or if I'm held up waiting on the luggage. U kno something like that. What would u recommend?
@@ThePhilippinesAccordingtoKevin So what could I do? Maybe buy a cheap phone here n buy a SIM card from there or something. Or just have my friend wait for meat a certain location inside the airport until I can male it to them.
Great information, thank you very much
Thank you I'm sure will cost more because she also has 4 kids but that figure will give me a rough idea of the expenses
Great tips!
Do you need to provide proof of vaccinations?
Thank you Kevin, nice video, you made me feel better flying there, I want to fly to Alona Beach, is it best to fly to Manila first?? Which route would you go if flying from the USA,
OK, I was just wondering!!
Loved your video. Wished I watched it earlier. I want to move and retire in Philippines. I bought a tick for April 3 and will arrive April 5. However I messed up and got my round trip 6 months later instead of a couple of weeks later. What should I do
Avoid the airport taxis!..they will rape you finicially!. Go stand in line for a city cab, ya the lines are long but its way cheaper.
yeah, you mean COUPON taxi's which tend to hang out at the international terminal exits. You want a YELLOW taxi, and they are yellow - coupon taxis are usually white. Ask airport personnel to direct you where to pick up the yellow taxis - AND INSIST they run their meter.
Now , if I need 45 days, can get extensions at airport , or need to go to Makati???
Hi Kevin. one more question. I arrive in manila the 19th of this month and heard I might need a transient visa to stop over in Vancouver Canada for even just one hour then fly on to manila l well start from Portland Oregon. but I googled it and I think it says that u.a. citizens are exempt.please can u let me know for sure if I did would I even have time to get one.Thank you for your advise.
i got my ticket in February thru expedia total round trip 750 dollars my flight is next month i been to phillippines 5 times and all my tickets were below 900 dollars and i live in south texas
+Kevin Sanders Flying out of Houston On March 15, 2016. Will be my first trip to the Philippines. Cost $815 with ticket protection. I am very excited about it.
That is cheap.
hello,, im going to phil. to be with my girlfriend, her and her brother are going to meet me there at airport. im a little paranoid cuz of stories i heard of being mugged and ect. is it safe for me, my first time in pi. also im on a prescription medication for anxiety. i will be taking with me around a months worth with doctors written proof of my meds. will i have issues with bringing my meds. thank you
There is a difference between citizens of USA or Europe when it comes to the visa entering the Philippines?
When I arrive in Philippines I get a 30-day tourist-visa. It used to be 21 days but for the last couple of years it's 30 days.
So not 29 days but 30.
+Kevin Sanders Yeah I think so; Passport and Visa Requirements For Travel to the Philippines; "Every country, including the Philippines, requires a passport for all visitors and tourists to enter. But unless you plan on staying for more than 30 days, you do not need a visa as long as your passport is valid for at least 6 months and you have a valid return ticket. If you do plan on staying longer than 30 days, you will need to get a tourist visa.
www.thephilippines.com/p/passport-visa.html#.VsjskpzhDIU
Clarifying...I am arriving May 24 in MNL....Return ticket is for October...is that ok, or do I need to purchase a ticket for a return within the first 28-days...thank you. I am married to a Filipina, but she will not be flying with me...
hi sir... i dont understand. If I stay 6 months and have a departing ticket for the 6 month date after my arrival. Isnt it proof that I ll leave the country? Do I still need a throw away ticket?
I'm really hoping they have a direct flight from LA to cebu soon , I've heard there gonna start that soon
Thank you for the information, How about when fly in to Mania and have a lay over for your next flight? do you still go threw custom our you wait till you reach next airport?
i want to to the philipines for two months.will i have to buy another ticket.and where do i buy the forwarding ticket at?