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By Admin, February 14, 2010

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 majority of international flights into the Philippines arrive at Manila’s international airport, although a few go to Cebu Mactan and other smaller airports. 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.

For tourists and business visitors, hotels in the Philippines of International standard are plentiful. In Manila, there are a some hotels close to the international airport, but most with easy access are in Ermita and Makati. 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. For many travelers,, an overnight stop in Manila is unavoidable, depending on arrival times, connections, and ultimate destinations. Many of the hotels provide transport to and from the airport, sometimes 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. Despite being a capital city, Manila can still seem very friendly and welcoming compared to, say, London.

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. Most people, though, when visiting the Philippines, are most struck be the hospitality of the Filipinos themselves.

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.