Mountains surround Manila on three sides. Because of its picturesque location, Manila is often called the "Pearl of the Orient".

Climate

Manila has a tropical climate with abundant rainfall and gentle winds. Temperature ranges from 23°C – 36°C (73.4°F – 96.8°F), December to February being the coolest. Humidity ranges from 71% – 85%.

Clothing

Light and casual clothing is suitable for most occasions. Slightly more formal and appropriate clothing will be needed to places like mosques and temples.

Customs

Visitors are advised to fill in the Baggage and Currency Declaration Form before disembarking. Importing or exporting of more than US$3,000 will have to be declared at the Central Bank of the Philippines counter, located at the Custom area.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 220 – 250 volts, 60 cycles AC.

Emergency Call Numbers

Health

A certificate for vaccination against yellow fever is required for those coming from infected areas. Visitors are advised to drink only boiled and bottled water.

Local Area Information

Manila, being the largest city of Philippines, comprises of an area of 246 square miles (636 square kilometers). The city is located on central Luzon Island, on the eastern shore of Manila Bay, at the mouth of the Pasig River, just west of Quezon City. It is the commercial, administrative, and cultural center of the Philippines.

Mobile Phones

Network accepted in Manila is Analog, GSM and CDMA.

Public Phones

To make a call from a payphone using coins, one need to deposit two peso coins and wait for the dial tone, which is normally delayed by a few seconds. You can then dial the number of the party you need to call. You can also make calls using credit cards and phonecards.

Shopping & Business Hours

Most shops are open from 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

• Banks: Open from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Some operates on Saturdays too, from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
• Government offices: Open from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on weekdays.
• Offices: Open from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and some are open on Saturdays.

Taxes

A tax of 12% will be levied on goods and services. Some restaurants will add a 10% service charge to the bill.

Time Zone

GMT +8.

Tipping

Tipping, though not a custom, is up to one's preferences.

Visa

A valid passport for at least 6 months is required for stays up to 21 days. Any longer stays more than 21 days will require a temporary visitor's visa from the Philippines Embassy or Consulate in your country.