Filippi Erna
DESTINATION
Filippi Erna
The Philippines is slightly larger than Sweden and consists of roughly 7600 islands. For those looking for beaches with diving and snorkeling-friendly waters, this is a destination out of the ordinary. The country has long been somewhat overshadowed by other countries in Asia as a destination for tourists. But that is – rightly – changing. In addition to fantastic diving, the country also offers magnificent landscapes with terraced plantations, mountains and volcanoes, dense jungle and chalk-white beaches. There are many exciting destinations to choose from and the diving is varied. Depending on which part of the country you visit, you have the opportunity to experience different types of diving.
The people are friendly, the prices are reasonable and the food is good. The food culture develops and becomes more and more international but often with a Filipino touch. The Philippines is culturally different from other countries in Asia through its clear heritage from the time as a Spanish colony. It can be seen, among other things, in buildings, names, religion and in the language. Many speak relatively good or very good English. There are over 100 different languages and even more dialects that can differ greatly between different parts of the country. Tagalog is the common language of the Philippines.
Season and a lot to experience
Here it is in season all year round, but the best diving is normally considered to be the period from October to June when it is not as hot and humid as in the summer. Some shifting of the weather and seasons can happen sometimes. Life below the surface offers beautiful corals and rich marine life. Everything from dolphins, whale sharks, manta rays, colorful small fish, nudibranchs, squid, crustaceans, turtles and several shark species to mention a few. Some parts of the country are severely affected by the strong weather systems and winds that occur. They should or can only be visited during selected parts of the year. Other places are year-round destinations and always offer good diving.
The different regions vary in culture, language and diving and there are always areas that are good to dive in. The Philippines is a distinct country for land-based diving although it is entirely possible to go on liveaboard also. Some places can only be experienced with liveaboard.
Travel information Philippines
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Time zone: +8 GMT (default)
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Currency: Philippine peso, PHP. You can exchange foreign currencies at exchange offices or banks, keep in mind that it is illegal to exchange elsewhere. Most major shops, restaurants and hotels accept the usual credit cards including American Express.
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Languages: Tagalog and English. About 70% speak English.
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Water: The tap water in the larger cities is considered drinkable, but we still recommend trying to avoid drinking the tap water and buy bottled water instead. Brushing your teeth or washing yourself in the tap water, on the other hand, is not dangerous. Remember not to drink water from anything other than a bottle with an unbroken cap!
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Visa: Automatically 30 days upon arrival (This applies to Swedish citizens) If you are not a Swedish citizen, please contact your embassy and get information about what applies to you. The visa can be extended on the spot by a further 29 days.
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Health: Contact your local vaccination unit for specific information about what applies to you. Recommendations: Bifolac or similar (ask in the pharmacy), which helps rebuild a good bacterial culture in the stomach and Immodium or Dimor are good against tourist diarrhea.
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Pressure Chamber: Available in Cebu City, Puerto Princesa and in Manila
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Country code: +63
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Electricity: 220 volts. Type A and B (sometimes also C).
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Weather: The climate is tropical with an average daily temperature of 27-30 degrees, but in the mountains the temperature can drop to 6 degrees. The weather is largely controlled by monsoons. The southwest monsoon brings rain in the west during June to September, while the northeast monsoon brings rain in the east during November to March.
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Current Water Temperature and Average Sea Temperature by Month, Batangas (Puerto Galera, Anilao)
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Current Water Temperature and Average Sea Temperature by Month, Dumaguete (Dauin)
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Current Water Temperature and Average Sea Temperature by Month, Bogo, (Cebu Malapascua)
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Current Water temperature and average sea temperature per month, Sipalay
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Current Water Temperature and Average Sea Temperature by Month, Surigao (Southern Leyte)
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Current Water Temperature and Average Sea Temperature by Month, San Jose (Coron)
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Current water temperature and average sea temperature per month, Romblon
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Current water temperature and average sea temperature per month. Breathe
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Tipping: Tipping is not expected but is appreciated. Give what you feel for if you are out at a restaurant, for example. Tipping is most common in taxi transport, where you often round up depending on the amount. Regardless of the amount, it is appreciated.
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Clothing recommendations: Here you dress according to the weather and time of day, so thin summer clothes work well for both men and women. A tip is to bring a sweater or thin jacket for slightly cooler evenings. Also remember not to dress (especially women) too provocatively and avoid sunbathing topless.
