Melo Villareal
Whether you are captivated by the outstanding beaches that this part of the world has to offer or you want to experience the splendor of the Banaue Rice Terraces for yourself, the Philippines is becoming one of the most must see places in the world.
Flights to the Philippines from UK
But though staying in this part of Asia will not break the bank, getting there can be expensive, so make sure you choose the right options for you so that you can have the holiday of a lifetime without paying for it forever.
Flying to the Philippines
Due to lack of factual evidence supporting Philippine certified airline’s compliance with the international safety standards, the European Commission have now placed an operating ban on all such types of air carriage.
To ensure you experience the safest flight possible when flying to the Philippines from the UK make sure you book all your flights from the UK and that any internal flights you require are provided by a European Commission certified carrier.
However, booking with a reputable airline does not have to make your journey too expensive. Use comparison sites such as cheapflights.co.uk to find cheap airlines that fly to the region for less than £500 and grab yourself a fantastic opportunity to experience a completely different part of the world.
Airports and Carriers
There are more than 10 international airports to choose from throughout the Philippines depending on your departure zone and your ultimate destination.
From the UK, most travellers will land in Manila Airport (MNL) which is set in the most popular northern area in the province of Pasay, while others may use the alternative Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) which is located towards the centre of the region.
Carriers including Kuwait Airlines and Air China can provide discounted travel to the Philippines on flights which take approximately 13 hours, however a stop would be required along with a change of aircraft extending the total travel time.
For a more luxurious trip, Cathay Pacific and KLM can offer a range of flight options for the more discerning traveller though a single stop is still usually required.
Travel Tips
On entering the Philippines the stamp in your passport will qualify you for vocational residency for up to 21 days so ensure you make the necessary arrangements before entering the country if you plan on staying longer.
Your passport will require than six months validity left from the date of your departure and vaccinations including Hepatitis A and B are required along with typhoid and rabies and malaria for some locations. Make sure you make the necessary arrangements with your local GP before booking your flight as some vaccinations do require long lead in times.
The Philippine Peso is the local form of currency, though the US Dollar is also widely accepted. You can buy local currency at Hotels and department stores as well as banks and exchange shops, however do not be tempted to transact anywhere that hasn’t be licensed as it is an arrestable offense.
Coming Home
When leaving the Philippines to fly home, you will be required to pay a departure tax equivalent to just under £10 per person in the local currency (Pesos), so make sure you have this to hand before you leave your accommodation.
It is also advisable to reconfirm your flight home well within the permitted timescales of your airline just to make sure everything is in order before you leave your accommodation.
Travelling Safely
For all the latest information on travelling to the Philippines, consult the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at http://www.fco.gov.uk/ which will give you advice on where to go and what precautions you should take when considering a visit to any location.
