Natural riches and multiculturalism.
The Philippines stand out from the rest of Southeast Asia not only geographically, but also in terms of religion and culture. The result of more than three centuries of Spanish domination, Catholicism is predominant. Exuberant fiestas, unique Hispano-Philippine architecture and centuries-old stone churches remain from this colonial period. Shopping malls, fast-food outlets and the omnipresent English language bear witness to the influence of the Americans, who succeeded the Spanish. Despite these foreign occupations, the country has managed to preserve its own identity. Welcoming, warm and unfailingly optimistic, the local people never fail to charm visitors.
A seaside destination par excellence, the Philippines is made up of some 7,107 islands, some of them very large, such as Luzon and Mindanao, others simply uninhabited sandy islets.
GMT+7
Philippine Peso
(PHP)
+63
Some words and expressions in the language
The Philippines time zone is GMT+8:
When it’s 2.30pm in France, it’s 9.30pm in the Philippines (summer time).
Up-to-date vaccinations :
You can travel to the Philippines without a visa. The entry stamp affixed on arrival by the immigration service authorizes a stay of up to 30 days, on presentation of a passport valid for at least six months after the end of the stay in the Philippines and a return or onward air ticket.
For further information: website of the Embassy of the Philippines in France.
An extension of up to 29 days can be obtained on site, for a total stay of up to 59 days, after payment of a fee of 3,030 pesos. This procedure is carried out at the Immigration Office (Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila) or at one of the regional offices of this service. If the extension is not requested in time, a fine of 1,000 pesos is also levied.
On departure at the airport, travellers must pay a tax of 200 pesos in Manila (less in the provinces) for domestic flights and 550 pesos for international flights (unless the tax is included in the ticket price).
For travelers coming on business or to attend conferences or seminars, it is advisable to contact the Philippine Embassy in Paris in advance to request a specific visa, if necessary.
