Survival Guide - Philippines

Custom & Etiquette
In whatever you do in Philippines, it is best that you first gain an understanding of the culture. Be patient and considerate of cultural differences. Generally speaking, Philippines is a melting pot of different cultures owing to the diversity among the people that inhabits the country. An integral part of every countries culture is its code of conduct that is followed strictly by all and is expected to be followed by every visiting tourist. Initial greetings are formal and follow a set protocol of greeting the eldest or most important person first. A handshake, with a welcoming smile, is the standard greeting. Close female friends may hug and kiss when they meet. Use academic, professional, or honorific titles and the person's surname until you are invited to use their first name, or even more frequently, their nickname.

Healthcare
Be sure to find out on what vaccinations you may need before arriving in Philippines. Your doctor will determine what you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. Get your vaccinations at least 4–8 weeks before your trip to allow time for your vaccines to take effect and to start taking medicine to prevent malaria, rabies, Hepatitis A, etc if you need it. Although yellow fever is not a disease risk in Philippines, the government requires travellers arriving from countries where yellow fever is present to present proof of yellow fever vaccination. Be safe than sorry. Take all the necessary immunization before arriving in Philippines.

Money & Banking
It is always safe to keep the local currency in hand. If you need to change money, do it at authorised money exchange counters. Cash advances are available on most common credit/debit cards e.g. American Express/Visa/MasterCard, but this facility is available only from the main branch of the Bank of China in most Chinese cities. A fee of 3%-4% will apply. The Bank of China has an ATM network that will allow cash advances from major credit / debit cards and ATM cards. Check with your credit card provider for this information before leaving your home country. It is advisable to change only the money that you need for you trip as it may be difficult to change back to you preferred currency. RMB is now readily convertible in Hong Kong. You can convert unused RMB to another currency in China by producing the receipts for your original purchase of RMB in China. This exchange is done at the airport as you leave China.

Eating Out
When it comes to eating out options, you will be spoilt for choice. Apart from authentic Chinese food, you can also find in abundance fast food and Western options. Until and unless your disgestive system is immuned to the local conditions, do not venture out to eat in roadside eateries.

Transportation
In China, getting around is not a problem. There are many different choices to get around. You can travel around by pedi-cabs, bus, train, taxi, subway and so on.