20 Things You MUST Know Before Visiting the Philippines (2026 Guide)

Planning your first trip to the Philippines? This complete 2026 guide walks you through the entire journey - from your passport and the free eTravel QR code, to landing at Manila's NAIA airport, getting a SIM card, using Grab, riding jeepneys, island-hopping to Palawan, Cebu, Bohol and Siargao, handling pesos, GCash and ATMs, staying safe, and the food you absolutely cannot miss. Official eTravel registration (free): https://etravel.gov.ph CHAPTERS 0:00 - 7,641 Islands (What Most Travelers Get Wrong) 0:58 - Planning: Passport, eTravel & When to Go 2:20 - Landing in Manila: Immigration, SIM, Money & Grab 4:04 - Culture: Respect, English & Hospitality 5:26 - Food: Adobo, Lechon, Street Food & Water Rules 6:32 - Getting Around: Grab, Jeepneys & Island Hopping 7:43 - Money: Cash, GCash, ATMs & Budget 8:56 - Safety: Scams to Avoid & Emergency Numbers 10:00 - The Philippines You'll Never Forget 11:17 - Before You Book Your Flight Subscribe for complete Philippines travel guides: itineraries, budgets, and island-by-island breakdowns.