WHEN TO TRAVEL TO THE PHILIPPINES
Choosing the right time for your trip to the Philippines can make all the difference. It's important to consider weather elements, seasonal events and busy tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.
Location
Climate
Weather in the Philippines: between dry and rainy seasons
The climate in the Philippines is tropical, with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Each season has its own advantages and disadvantages for travelers.Dry season: November to April
The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit the Philippines. Temperatures are pleasant and the sun shines almost every day, allowing you to take full advantage of the magnificent beaches and outdoor activities. December to February are particularly popular for their mild, sunny climate. However, this period also corresponds to the peak tourist season, with higher prices and large numbers of visitors to popular sites.Rainy season: May to October
The rainy season in the Philippines is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. Nevertheless, the rains are often short-lived and can be followed by sunshine. June to September are the wettest months, with typhoons a possibility. If you're prepared to brave the fickle weather, the low season offers the advantage of lush green landscapes, more affordable rates and fewer tourists. In short, the best time to visit the Philippines depends on your preferences and your tolerance of the weather. For a sunny stay, opt for the dry season, while the rainy season is more suitable for travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility.Major cultural events in the Philippines
The Philippines is a country rich in traditions and popular festivals. Participating in one of these events can be an unforgettable experience during your trip. Here are some of the country's most important cultural events:- The Sinulog Festival (January): this religious festival is held every year in Cebu City, in honor of Santo Niño, the infant Jesus. Festivities include processions, traditional dances and street performances.
- The Panagbenga Festival (February): this flower festival takes place in Baguio, in the north of the country. Throughout the month, the town is decorated with flowerbeds and hosts parades, concerts and exhibitions.
- The Pahiyas Festival (May): This festival is held in Lucban, Quezon province, in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. Inhabitants decorate their homes with fruit, vegetables and other elements representing the fertility of the earth.
- The Kadayawan Festival (August): this festival is celebrated in Davao City to thank the gods for abundant harvests. Festivities include tribal dances, float parades and culinary competitions.
Public holidays in the Philippines: things to bear in mind when planning your trip
There are many public holidays in the Philippines, some of which can affect the opening of shops, transport and tourist sites. Here is a list of the main public holidays:- January 1 - New Year
- April 9 - Day of Courage
- May 1st - Labour Day
- June 12 - Independence Day
- August 21 - Heroes' Day
- August 25 - National holiday
- November 1 - All Saints' Day
- November 30 - Bonifacio Day
- December 25 - Christmas
- December 30 - Rizal Day
Tips for choosing the best time to visit the Philippines
To choose the best time to go to the Philippines, you need to consider several factors:- Your priorities If you prefer good weather and seaside activities, opt for the dry season. If you're looking for authenticity and want to avoid the crowds, the low season may be a good choice.
- Cultural events If you'd like to attend one of the country's many popular festivals or celebrations, find out the dates and locations of these events before booking your plane tickets.
- Public holidays Public holidays: take public holidays into account when planning your itinerary, to avoid business and tourist site closures.
- Your budget High season: high season generally means higher prices for accommodation and activities. If you want to save money on your trip, low season may be a good option.
Insurance
Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.
Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.
Flights
Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.
In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!
Immigration statistics for the Philippines
Located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands. In recent years, the country has experienced significant economic growth and an increase in the number of expatriates moving here. The main nationalities present in the Philippines are American, Japanese, Chinese and Korean.Change in the number of foreigners living in the Philippines
The number of foreigners living in the Philippines has grown considerably over the years. According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), an estimated 200,000 foreigners were living in the Philippines in 2010. This figure rose to almost 300,000 in 2015, an increase of 50 % in just five years. The upward trend has continued ever since.Most popular visas in the Philippines
There are several types of visa for entering and staying in the Philippines. Visa applications generally depend on the reasons why a foreigner wishes to come to the country, whether for tourism, work or study. Here are the most frequently requested visas in the Philippines:- Tourist visa Visa: This is the most common and easiest visa to obtain for visiting the Philippines. Nationals of many countries, including the Franceare visa-free for stays of less than 30 days.
- Work visa : To work in the Philippines, you generally need to obtain a work visa and a work permit. These documents are issued by the Philippine embassy or consulate in the country of origin.
- Student Visa Student visa: People wishing to study in the Philippines generally need to apply for a student visa. This type of visa allows you to stay in the country for the duration of your studies, and can be renewed annually.
- Retiree visa The Philippines also offers a special visa for retirees called the "Special Resident Retiree's Visa" (SRRV). This visa offers several advantages, including the possibility of living in the Philippines indefinitely and benefiting from tax exemptions on certain sources of income.
Visa application trends
Visa applications for the Philippines have risen steadily in recent years. For example, student visa applications increased by 17 % between 2017 and 2018, while work visa applications saw an increase of 10 % over the same period. This upward trend reflects the growing attractiveness of the Philippines as a destination for foreign students and professionals.International tourism figures for the Philippines
Tourism is a key sector of the Philippine economy and represents a major source of revenue for the country. The Philippines is particularly popular with Asian tourists, with Japanese, Koreans and Chinese accounting for a significant proportion of international visitors.Number of international tourists
According to data from the Department of Tourism (DOT), around 8.3 million foreign tourists visited the Philippines in 2019, an increase of 15 % on 2018. The majority of these visitors came from Asia, closely followed by North American and European tourists.Popular tourist destinations
The Philippines offers a wide variety of tourist destinations, from white sandy beaches to verdant mountains. Among the most popular sites are :- Boracay White Beach: This small island is famous for its heavenly beaches, including White Beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
- Palawan Puerto Princesa: Located in the west of the archipelago, this province is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, diving spots and the navigable underground river of Puerto Princesa.
- Cebu Cebu: The province of Cebu, which includes the eponymous island and several surrounding islets, offers a multitude of tourist attractions, including magnificent beaches, historic sites and a lively nightlife.
- Bohol The Chocolate Hills: This island province is famous for its Chocolate Hills, a collection of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills covered in vegetation that turns brown in the dry season.