Automatic Teller Machines are
available in the major cities. Money
changers are open nearly 24 hours
in the big cities. Credit cards are
widely accepted, sometimes with a
3 - 3.5% a charge. A passport or
similar I.D. may be required.
Tipping- Tips of 10% of the billing
amount are common practice.
Whether or not to tip is a personal
decision. Taxi drivers may try to get
their cut by saying they have no
change. In most restaurants and
hotels, a 10% service charge may
be included.
Health- No immunization is
needed for The Philippines. Yellow
fever vaccination is required if you
come from infected areas. Ask your
doctor for advice about malaria
prophylaxis. It is recommended
only for a few isolated islands.
Dengue fever is prevalent in some
dive regions as well so mosquito
repellent is recommended.
Be wise and carry health
insurance and a small medical kit
with the mosquito repellant. The
more you go off the beaten track,
the more necessary it is to take
additional precautions. Hospitals
are available in Manila, Puerto
Princesa and Cebu. Ladies should
bring sanitary supplies as usually
only “napkins” are available locally.
Drinking bottled water is also
advised as many areas do not have
Cowboy, Matapalay potable water supplies.Market onions