Reaching the Philippines by air is a straightforward and easy process for most travellers. International visitors will most commonly arrive in the capital city, Manila, at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the primary hub for Philippines Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific, and Philippines AirAsia, alongside a variety of other local and global airlines.
PAL is the nation’s flag carrier and only full-service network airline, as well as the first commercial airline in Asia. The company’s fleet of Boeing, Airbus, and De Havilland aircraft operate scheduled non-stop flights out of hubs in the cities of Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to 33 destinations in the Philippines and 40 locations in Asia, North America, Australia, and the Middle East.
Known for its warm Filipino hospitality, PAL supports the global economy through air cargo and charter services while serving the travel needs of Filipino citizens, businesspeople, tourists, and families from across the globe.
Keep in mind that unless you are flying from the west coast of North America, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, or Vancouver, the majority of flights involve a small layover before arriving on the islands.
Dry season in the Philippines is from November to April, when tourists will be able to avoid the turbulent weather patterns and typhoons that form from June to October.
Once you have arrived in the country, transportation options include taxis, tricycles, motorbikes, colourful jeepneys, buses, minivans, ferries, and island-hopping flights.
The latter is just as common as buses in the Philippines, so it is highly recommended to make use of the local airports when venturing to different areas of the country. Alternatively, a plethora of ferries can offer you an overnight trip to different islands – just be sure to find your sea legs before boarding!
On land, you’ll immediately notice the vibrant kaleidoscope of colours, patterns, and energy of the local jeepneys – a true icon of Filipino culture.
Jeepneys stem from the aftermath of World War II, when the US military left behind a fleet of jeeps that were cleverly repurposed, quickly becoming the most common mode of public transport within the country.
The jeepneys of today, typically hand-painted and adorned with a mirage of decorative stickers, can accommodate 12 to 24 passengers and still symbolise the resilience, adaptability, and innovative spirit of the Philippines.
If you are looking for a more private mode of transport, consider renting a motorbike to explore the islands, or if you are able to splurge on your holiday, a private boat to venture from beach to beach at your own leisure.
No matter how you decide to explore the vast collection of islands that comprise the Philippines, you will find treasure, adventure, and warm hospitality at every stop, making your trip truly one of a kind!
