Getting Around

Navigating this megalopolis can be a challenge.  However, there are several options to choose from ranging from buses, trains, tricyles, jeepneys, ferrys to private car rentals, taxis etc.

Taxis are also available to be hailed on the street or you can line up at the nearest designated taxi stand in commercial areas.  For your convenience, you may also want to use the GRAB booking app

A helpful app to have is Sakay.ph which provides directions and routes across different modes of public transportation.It can also give you a general idea of how much it will cost to travel certain routes and how much walking is required between different locations.  

Weather

The Philippines is a tropical country with two climate seasons – wet and dry.  Rainy season begins in June and last through early October while the dry season starts in late October through the month of May.  Temperatures are highest in the summer months between March and April while the coolest time of the year is between November and February. 

 

Currency

Other than the airport, you can change your money for  Philippine Pesos (Php)  at major Department Stores like SM, Rustan’s and Robinson’s.  There are also various stand alone foreign exchange shops in commercial areas and shopping malls.  Rates do vary widely so make sure that you do your own research and go to reputable place like Czarina, Sanry’s and Kabayan.   ATMs are also easy to find and will accept cards from issued by foreign banks.

 

Medical Care

Should you require medical care during your visit to Manila, state of the art medical facilities with excellent doctors and nurses are available. 

St. Lukes Medical Center, Global City   Rizal Drive cor. 32nd St. and 5th Ave., Taguig       (02) 8-789-7700

Makati Medical Center   2 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City     (02) 8-8888-999

The Medical City  Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City      (02) 8-988-1000, (632) 8-988-7000

Asian Hospital     2205 Civic Drive, Filinvest Corporate City Alabang, Muntinlupa City     (02) 7-771 9000

 

Medical Emergency Quick Response is also available thru LIFELINE by dialing 16-911 from a local phone or by downloading an App on your mobile device.