posted by Vacation Home Rentals on Jan 31
For first time western visitors to the Philippines, first impressions are likely to be created by the first hotel at which they stay. Fortunately, hotels in the Philippines tend to be good value, and of a comparable standard to those you might find in the west. As elsewhere, hotels in the Philippines do reflect price, but you sometimes find exceptionally good value.
The chances are, if you are going to the Philippines, the capital Manila will be your initial destination, and departure point. Both cities have international standard hotels such as Shangri-La, Intercontinental and Marriott. First time visitors to the Philippines need not worry about their hotel accommodation, as they are as likely to find a decent hotel for their budget here as they are in other countries.
The cost of living in the Philippines is low compared to western countries, and Asian countries such as South Korea and Japan, and this can mean you can get a higher standard of accommodation than you might be used to elsewhere for the same price. However, it is essential to shop around for the best price for the hotel of your choice, as offers can vary. If you know somebody local, then it can be best to get them to book for you before your arrival.
There are many good standard Philippines hotels, so first time visitors need not worry about finding decent accommodation. The Ermita and Makati districts of Manila have a good selection of hotels, and are convenient locations to travel to and from the international airport. If you have not booked in advance of your flight, then there are accommodation kiosks in the arrival lounge where the staff will only be too pleased to help you. A hotel in Manila, Philippines can be as good as just about any capital city.
Manila is not only the capital, but the hub for foreign visitors to visit other parts of the country. Manila arrivals are often destined to other parts of the country, but may find that an overnight hotel stay is inevitable. be sure to check whehter the hotel you are considering has an airport transportation service; preferable free. Taxis are plentiful should you wish to, or have to, be independent.
Like any capital city, there are many restaurants in Manila which provide international food, while fast food addicts can always get their fix nearby. The larger hotels have their own restaurants, which can be reasonably good quality and value. I personally had one stay where the food was not good value and disappointing in quality, but generally speaking you get what you pay for.
The Philippines is noted for the warmth and hospitality of its people, and having lived there for 8 years I can certainly vouch for that. The more remote the place you go, the greater the friendliness seems to be. Philippines Travel is as much about meeting the hospitable people as it is about seeing all the beautiful tropical islands. However, even Manila seems very friendly compared to London, and Cebu City has wonderfully friendly people, as does the rest of the Cebu province.
Tourists who stay in hotels in the Philippines) for a week or more, and travel outside the capital, will find a beautiful country of over 7000 islands to choose from. Most have no hotels as such, but many do have beach resorts, white sand beaches, clear blue seas, and excellent diving. But wherever you go, the biggest impression is likely to be the warmth of the Filipinos, especially towards foreign visitors.
If you have time, be sure to take a one hour flight to Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Palawan is the Philippines Last Frontier, a wonderful province with more than a thousand islands with white sand beaches, many uninhabited. It is a paradise found with no comparison anywhere in the world.
