I am excited that 7 more days and I will be flying the friendly skies to visit my sweetheart in Davao Philippines.
I have started this thread so that I can ask some questions about preparations I will need to make before I leave and after I arrive there. I'm sure I will think of more questions as the days draw closer and I will post those as well.

Questions before I leave next week:

1- Is there a web site that I can visit to inform me what I can and cannot take on the plane such as personal items like shampoo, vitamins, electronics, etc?

2- How many pesos should I have on me when I land in Manila because I have heard that I will have to pay a fee to leave the airport there and pay a fee when I land in the airport in Davao as well?

3- I was told that the water is treated in Davao and it is very safe but i will still drink bottled water but is there any precautions I need to take when I shower in the water?

4- what food should i stay away from and what foods are safe to eat?

5- has anyone had a problem as an American in the Manila airport?

6- since my mobile phone wont work in the Philippines is there a prepaid phone that can be purchased to take with me?


I will have more questions in the next few days:

Thanks

Main thing is to stay in Davao [fairly safe] and don't travel North. Like to South Cotobato!!! Muslims and Abu "eat" puti there!

I am excited that 7 more days and I will be flying the friendly skies to visit my sweetheart in Davao Philippines.
I have started this thread so that I can ask some questions about preparations I will need to make before I leave and after I arrive there. I'm sure I will think of more questions as the days draw closer and I will post those as well.

Questions before I leave next week:

1- Is there a web site that I can visit to inform me what I can and cannot take on the plane such as personal items like shampoo, vitamins, electronics, etc?
there must have for sure (google is the best place to search) and better yet, call your airport and or the airline and see what standard precautions they're taking in terms of carry-on items... last time we travelled last nov. i brought my laptop, my big camera that was placed in a camera bag, my small digi cam, PSP, a lot of wirings and other electronics to keep us busy while waiting on the next flight lol

2- How many pesos should I have on me when I land in Manila because I have heard that I will have to pay a fee to leave the airport there and pay a fee when I land in the airport in Davao as well?
there's a money changer inside the airport, and usually my husband just change $200-300 into peso (P8000-12000 equivalent) just to start and when you pay the taxi driver, or whenever you pay over something, dont take all your bulky money and count in front of them... always keep a small amount in one pocket for little expenses and the rest is in your secured bag/pocket (i always remind my husband that as a bad habit)

3- I was told that the water is treated in Davao and it is very safe but i will still drink bottled water but is there any precautions I need to take when I shower in the water?
water is good but for sure try to drink the bottled water just to be safe. and since you'll be staying in the hotel, for sure the water is (very) safe for shower/bath purposes lol... you'll be fine (at least basing on husband and 2 of our american friends who stayed w/ us)

4- what food should i stay away from and what foods are safe to eat?
it depends on your stomach... food is safe in a restaurant but there might be some engridients that you're not used to (like my husband doesnt like coconut in his food which is pretty common in phil)... dont worry everywhere you go, there's an american style of food and very familiar to your liking especially in davao

5- has anyone had a problem as an American in the Manila airport?
base in our experience not really (except that our wakeboard bags were still in san fran and we're in manila already lol)... its a safe place just be extra careful though (as an SOP for travellers)

6- since my mobile phone wont work in the Philippines is there a prepaid phone that can be purchased to take with me?
yes you can do that or just like me, i called my provider at&t to unlock my extra phone coz im going to phil and i wanted to use that phone in phil as my local phone (buying sim card in phil)
i wish you luck! happy trip and God bless!!!

I will have more questions in the next few days:

Thanks

Glad to see you are going to Davao. It's by far my favorite city in PI. I tell americans going to PI to stay in Airport in Manila and catch a plane to another city in PI.

Once i arrive in PI, i go to Mercury store and buy Lomitol over the counter and take it. That way I can adjust to PI food rather quickly.

I drink the water in Davao, and i eat mainly street food or restaurants. Lots of delicious food in PI.

I am not a fan of Jollibees and Chow Kins is nasty to me.

You will not have any problems in Manila Airport.

My rule of thumb when I am in PI is someone comes up acting weird or acting strange then you should draw back and punch them in the face, thank god i have not had to do this. I have never had a problem in PI.

Cell phones: take a tri band world wide phone and have it unlocked over there. Cost is about 4 bucks. If not buy a cellphone over there and use it. PI people text as rule.

1. things life shampoo, shaving cream and things in tubes should be in your check in bag or you may have to throw it away. I had to throw mine away.
2. Not to much cause the ATMs work over there. I was able to get money out of BDO ATM machines and it avoids the exchange rate but there is an international transacation fee of about 2 dollars I think.
5. Just know if people seem to be really helpfull getting you a taxi or finding things or getting phones to work they arnt just doing it to be nice but want some money. On person was trying to help me and led me to a car that was charging 30 dollars to take me to my hotel, I found a taxi that charged about 5 dollars.

1. things life shampoo, shaving cream and things in tubes should be in your check in bag or you may have to throw it away. I had to throw mine away.
2. Not to much cause the ATMs work over there. I was able to get money out of BDO ATM machines and it avoids the exchange rate but there is an international transacation fee of about 2 dollars I think.
5. Just know if people seem to be really helpfull getting you a taxi or finding things or getting phones to work they arnt just doing it to be nice but want some money. On person was trying to help me and led me to a car that was charging 30 dollars to take me to my hotel, I found a taxi that charged about 5 dollars.

1- Is there a web site that I can visit to inform me what I can and cannot take on the plane such as personal items like shampoo, vitamins, electronics, etc? http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

2- How many pesos should I have on me when I land in Manila because I have heard that I will have to pay a fee to leave the airport there and pay a fee when I land in the airport in Davao as well? you can pay in USD dollars

3- I was told that the water is treated in Davao and it is very safe but i will still drink bottled water but is there any precautions I need to take when I shower in the water? dont drink the shower water

4- what food should i stay away from and what foods are safe to eat? no salads no shellfish

5- has anyone had a problem as an American in the Manila airport? main check in area go to the far right lane, the other lanes are for locals only, dont mess up here or you'll have to wait an additional 45-60 minutes

6- since my mobile phone wont work in the Philippines is there a prepaid phone that can be purchased to take with me? get a cell off ebay with their bandwidths, i dont remember right now but I have bought 2 so far for 40 bux delivered. have your girl send yoy a pre-paid and programed with her cell number sims card you can put in ahead of time, that way you can text her when you arrive. She will be in the parking garage straight infront of the exit of the airport, acrodd the street...look at the sighn that says last name a-?lower level and the other letters upper level. There will be thousands of people waiting there so wear something that will catch her eye cause you will not find her.


Bring something to help you sleep through the flight, it's brutal man!

I also never had to resort to anything like that in Davao. but then my wife did work for 911, so if anyone gave me trouble, I'd would have TFD take care of them. just joking.

you've been given alot of good advise. you'll have a great time in Davao. but like traveling anywhere, be aware of your surroundings. should a problem occur, dial 911, just like here.

lol TELL ME ABOUT IT!
my first flight goin back to phil was a scary one coz of turbulence mixed w. excitement... too tight of a chair (economy) gosh... turbulence made me cry ... from phil to the US though was a lot better coz i was so fatigue and drained that i slept most of the whole flight... but its WORTH IT!

You wont have to pay anything at the airport when you arrive just when you leave. I was in Davao in 2003 and wasnt to bad. Make sure are always with someone. I have been many times since then but only go to Manila or Makati now. When you land in Manila you will need to find a way to get to the other airport for flights with in the country because the international airport is different. If you need a taxi just walk outside to the left after you get your bags and you will see a little building to get a taxi. Airport taxi is the best way to go and honest. When you are in Davao make sure you get to see Jackridge. Where are you staying, when I was there I stayed at Marco Polo hotel and it was nice. What company do you have your cell phone with now? Most companies will unlock the phone for you if you tell them you are going to travel international. I have T-Mobile and had this done with 4 different phones, just make sure its tri band. When you arrive just go to a local mall and get a Globe sim card for your phone. Everyone there likes to text so be ready. Dont exchange your US dollars at the banks in the airport. You will get a much better rate at a money exchange in one of the malls.

3- I was told that the water is treated in Davao and it is very safe but i will still drink bottled water but is there any precautions I need to take when I shower in the water? dont drink the shower water


Good advice!

Happy trip anyways..

LOL, funny, but wise

I don't think you need to take precautions on the shower thing.

I heard that Davao has the safest drinking water in the world. How true? (to anyone who knows this)

Yeah, it's still safer to drink bottled water.

Watch out for the ice cubes!! Maybe OK if you drink "Hi octane" drinks!!

i don't think it is nice to say that they eat puti there, i live in manila and i, myself is scared to go to some places in mindanao but i don't scare people like that esp if the person is askin abt what to do and what not..
i understand that there are really bad exaggerated news that u guys have seen.. but just that it is not nice to make comments like that joke ot not.. esp if u havent been there.. IMO

[/quote]
Main thing is to stay in Davao [fairly safe] and don't travel North. Like to South Cotobato!!! Muslims and Abu "eat" puti there!
[/quote]





and also i dnt think it is proper to say that muslims eat puti...
im not a muslim but i dnt think it is proper to make an offensive and discriminating comment like this..
this makes me mad..

*Watch your back, be alert!
*Medicines you're used to.
*Mosquito repellent, can be purchased here. Prevention for "Dengue" hemorrhagic fever caused by day biting mosquitos which prefers to feed on humans. LOL, just a reminder.

My fiance' was so alert about this 'coz he was warned by friends in the medical field there. But there was one big mosquito here which he loves the most to bite him, hahaha!

Have a safe trip and enjoy every moment with each other.

LOL All, I really like your sense of humor. Kahit sa chat palagi mo kaming pinapatawa. Nakunan ng isang line wrinkles ko

What can I say?

good advice sis!
i suggest buy OFF spray repellent, that's what my husband used and its effective

Hmmpphh tumalab ba sa'yo sis? Baka ibang OFF yan sis ha! baka EKAT OFF ur.......haha, joke lang. Di naman nila maintindihan, LOL.

Miss ya, muahhss!

loka loka ka talaga haha . hope to you see in the chatroom ,., miss ya! ,. ok ok

That's good Riza, overloaded na kasi minds natin about this process eh. Need to crack jokes sometimes.

well, im from DIGOS, nearby city, just 1 hour trip from davao. i always go there when i do my duty at hospitals. my fiance really liked davao a lot than in manila. people here in davao are much friendly, i can say.

Regarding q1: you cant bring liquids, gels inside you carry bag.. . you need to put it in your check in bag.

WATER: water is safe here. but for you, it would be safer to drink bottled water.

SHOWER water: it is safe, but don't drink it. typical PI use pale and bucket... no shower.

Cellphones: read tallcoolone's (my fiance) advice...

HAVE A SAFE TRIP TO PI..

I love being in Phil, I find people there relaxing to be around.
At the same time, I realize being white is like holding up a poster for the bad guys " I have more money than you"
That said, be comfortable but prepared. Never leave your walet in your back pocket in crowds. Wondering around at night, better use street smarts.
I noticed some charge card receits have full card numbers on them, take extra care.
Bring two small cards with your emergency phone #s and maybe... your on line passwords to bank account.
One duplicate card for your walet, and one kept as secured with your passport/important doc.(in case your walet says bye bye).
Never leave camera, or important docs in hotel room.

Phone # you should have------------------Your doctor, your banks, your charge card emergency #, your fiancee # s, ...

You could also register with our state dept on line.

Call your doctor and inquire about travel shots, in my state one goes to a travel clinic to get the prefered shots for a given country. Also these travel clinics also give you information about the nearest modern hospitals to Phil, in case some serious happens. I think the closest, most modern hospitals are Singapore and Hongkong.
My motto, be prepared so you don't have to worry!

Sorry if I offered more info than your asked for

It may not be nice to say, but it's probably the truth.

ABU Sayaf (Al Queada Trained) and Muslims are my two main concerns in PI.

They are jealous of Americans, and part of thier religous training is to kill Americans.

If I had to go to a dangerous area, I would hire an armed PNP officer to bodygaurd me.

On the funny side.
If your traveling in the city. Suddenly a wild... eyed lalaki dives at your car door and rants... Babae sir ?
Your quick answer needs to be Hindi, hindi po, no, no &^%* thanks, or get away would work.
Lol, my Zen yelled at me some for having my window down. She got a little nervous for my safety.

You will be fine, have fun !

too much of the news exaggeration.. IMO..
if we're too stupid not to know stuff then maybe we would think that video from the cfo seminar applies to all americans then..
just don't generalize, that's my point, not all muslims are bad.. it is wrong to generalize!
i don't wanna argue..

some are just mainly ingnorance for droppping such statements... and i think tallcoolone no offense but your logic doesnt seem to be so logical...
ABU Sayaf (Al Queada Trained) and Muslims are my two main concerns in PI.
They are jealous of Americans, and part of thier religous training is to kill Americans.

its like having a statement that says
abu sayyaf kills people
abu sayyaf are moslems
therefore moslems are killers

which i dont think is a proper thing to say... although i believe you're at risk in phil (there's always danger wherever you go. regardless of ones city and country)... lets just being fair to our moslem brothers... they're being oppressed so much that somehow some of them lead them to believe that the world are against them... having these kind of comments makes them even hate you (american) more... can you blame them? we do all have freedom of expression but lets just be careful what we say... there are moslems in this forum too you know and other beliefs...

*sigh* i can't edit my previous post..
i would just like to add..
dnt think that they only target americans..
and i dnt think that two main concern of our country are abu sayaf and muslims..
just too much of the news exaggeration...
not all stuff we hear or see from the tv are 100% true..
not because muslims are associated with crimes and all, we can make comments like that..
don't generalize, not all muslims are bad..
well, maybe u should come with ur fiancee's cfo seminar so ul realize what im sayin..
like if we're too stupid to believe the thing on that video..
i don't think u would appreciate that..

i agree..
and i believe that ignorance is never an excuse..

Its funny reading this..

I like to thank the Americans here in VJ for giving such a helpful pointers to a fellow American and his 1st visit to the Philippines..

Hey forgiven..

Enjoy the Philippines, Just follow the pointers and you will be alright, Locals understand English, they might not speak it well but they understand it..

my thoughts to you is go to the US Embassy and register yourself as a tourist staying in the Philippines..

Also one more thing... Never negotiate with Taxi Drivers meaning asking for how much to go to a place.. Taxis in the Philippines have meters.. Let the taxi meter work for you.

Good Luck and Have Fun!!

In Davao, you have to eat Durian..."fruit of the kings".....better than balut! Good luck on your trip and have a good time.

vitamins and electronics are ok but generally speaking liquids are not allowed except 5oz. or less that are put in special bags.



Maybe 2k pesos might do it.




Like you, my fiancee and I drank bottled/filtered water. I wouldn't recommend drinking out of any taps but that's my policy here in the U.S. also, water quality is sketchy everywhere.



As a general rule my fiancee warned me not to eat foods sold off the streets kasi she said they might not be cooked properly tapos there could be bacterias. Everything else is fine. The foods in the Philippines are very good and more healthier then U.S. foods.



I didn't, I was more nervous about flying into China but that was ok. You shouldn't have any problems anywhere truthfully.




hmmm, I couldn't use my cell either but my fiancee had an extra cell so I used hers and bought a sun chip/card.

I beleive that can be done online.





I disagree, it is optional. my wife tried to get me to, but I wouldn't give in. I couldn't get past the smells like hell part, to find out if it tast es like heaven.

Hehehehe.. I was watching this documentary called Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern..

He tried a Durian Fruit and he explained the taste being rotten mushed Onions..

Yuck!!

I can't eat something that doesn't smell good... Doesn't matter if it taste good..

I haven't even tried eating such fruit...you're right, it's yucky but yummy for others It'splenty in our area but I never put my fingers on it

good advice




i remember when my husband and i were having groceries in SM and he smelled the durian, he said what the f*ck is that smell (take note: we were still a bit far away in the fruit section)lol! i told him that yeah it smells bad but they say it taste good. i haven't tried durian too but the durian candy is kinda ok for me.

I Would take my chances anywhere in Mindanao alone on the street at night versus any US inner city. I think most of warnings are much overblown. Just pay attention around you the same as if you were in any big city in the US.

Especially in Davao, many consider it the cleanest and safest city in PI. The mayor there definately has the right idea. It is tops on my list for a place to build our retirement home. If your budget is not too tight Stay at the Marco Polo It is a true 5 star hotel for 1/4 the price you would pay in the US or Europe for the same quality.

As far as food goes if your worried Stick to things that have been cooked to 150+ degrees, that pretty much kills anything that you have to worry about. Don't bother with beef products in PI the quality is horrible, If you like fish try Lapu Lapu, fresh Tuna or Bangus most of the others are too strong for American palates. For sure try some Lechon, Kinilaw, Adobo, Buko, Halo-halo. The best mango's in the world come from that area in Mindanao.

The main thing is be respectful and have patience service is generally much slower there than we are used to. But the warmth and hospitality of the people are like no where else in the world. If you go in With an open mind and look at it as an adventure you will have a great time.

Just drink bottled water when you're here in Davao City to make sure.

My fiance said bring foods 'coz some airlines starve you during the long flights.
He swears he'll never board PAL again from Seattle to Manila 'coz they offered very little food (not enough for an American) and water.

You will be safe here in Davao City.

Happy trip. .

forgiven, don't worry too much, fleur will have you covered. It is too bad i was not able to meet her yet but we did exchanged text messages and she already have a planned itinerary of the places she wants you to visit and the hotel that you will be staying in just opened last year so I am positive it would still be in perfect state and would be clean.

Just try to have fun and enjoy Davao and don't ever leave without trying our durian and mangosteen.

I hope to be able to meet you and Fleur when I get back from the interview... and I hope and pray that when you and Fleur meet face to face for the first time, the online magic will be there stronger and more real just like it was and will always be for me and my Ricky.

Have a safe trip, good luck to both of you and may God give you guidance and wisdom always.




tallcoolone: pls do not generalize all Muslims. I am a Christian but my sister's husband is muslim which makes my nephew and my niece muslims also and I have several Muslims close friends that is why I AM PERSONALLY OFFENDED BY YOUR NEGATIVE GENERALIZATION OF ALL MUSLIMS.

Least you are not aware, THERE ARE SEVERAL MILLIONS AMERICANS WHO ARE MUSLIMS ALSO.

pls don't flaunt that "all muslims are.... and... they are jealous of americans" thinking that you have... not for any Muslims and not for any Filipino.... it is soooo... well, i'm just recalling what some of my friends who are working/have worked on call centers said

This made me I tried a bit of durian and it was as awful tasting as it is smelling. I only tried a bit of durian ice cream (cuz my sweetheart forced it in my mouth) and that tasted okay, but even the ice cream smells bad like something rotting. Hehehe

I laughed at your post cuz I can picture myself saying that too.

Scott

For durian eaters like me, Durian smells like hell but taste like heaven ... but it does need getting used to.

my wife has tried to convince me of that, but no way!
don't worry forgiven, there are plenty of other yummy fruits to eat in Davao.

I appreciate the valuable information that has been presented here. The days are counting down and tomorrow and Monday I will be getting everything ready to go. We will be sure to post some photos here during my visit. Thanks everyone

here's an online link

http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwha020.html

I agree... Tell your doctor about your upcoming trip so he/she could give you the proper travel shots. My then fiance (now husband) got sick when he came back from the Philippines the first time he visited me. He was so miserable because he caught some kind of bugs (virus) from mosquito bites and other air-borne viruses. The second time he visited me, he went to see his doctors first and gave him some shots. He was also given doxycyline that he had to take everyday while he was in PI. It worked because he didn't get sick when he went home. As for water, instead of using ice cubes to make your water icy cold, put your bottled water in a cooler filled with ice. Or semi-freeze them and then keep them in a cooler.



I believe liking durian is an acquired taste. I tried the candied ones and still not so fond of it. When my husband and I were watching Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, he asked me what's wrong with the fruit for Andrew Zimmern to puke everytime he would try it, I told him "Sorry hon, I don't know coz I have never tried that fruit. But according to others who liked it, it tastes very, very good if you can ignore the foul odor". We have oriental store here that sells durian and I always ask him if he's up to trying it. He's answer? "Heck no!" No offense meant to durian lovers here...



This one is good too... I just registered my husband for our planned trip back to PI. No matter what happens, you have the USEM to help you out in cases like stolen passport, violated rights as a tourist, etc.

--Mae

i worked in call centers.. i know what u mean..

Religions just like ice cream, are just "flavors" but we are all equal in the eyes of God. I lived in Davao for 4 years, had friends from the muslim community, my eldest daughter's Godfather on her baptism in the Catholic church is a muslim. We had very nice experiences with them and been like a family to us. Hire a PNP? PAHINGI NG PERA? Oh yes, they'll be very fast. Not generalizing, I have uncles in that field of work, haha!

Hi There,

I know quite a few kind people already replied. I can let you know my experiences as I worked in Cebu City for three years as an Ex Pat. I traveled throughout the Phils in those three years and never had any issues.

Items to note pertaining to your questions:

Airlines have a 3-3-1 policy. If you carry on your luggage you are allowed no more than 3 ounces of liquids. They will confiscate if you have more. You will need to take them out of your carry on when you enter and have them in a zip lock type bag. If you check your luggage you can take whatever you like in liquid form.

Money- They have currency booths. I do not recomend the airport as your exchange rate may not be as good. You will need to exchange a little just to get to and from once in Davao. I had no issues using my ATM card there. I was never ripped off or anything. Once again, you may not get the best rate as you usually lose 1 peso plus a $2 service fee.....

You pay your exit fee when leaving the Philippines. I take it you are staying under the 21 days so just make sure you have your return ticket as they will ask you for the proof you are not going to over-stay.

Keep all your money/wallet in your front pocket. They are good at pick-pocketing. Be aware of anything that causes you to divert your attention. Example a fight or something. These are sometimes staged to create distractions so another person working with them can snatch your wallet.

Make an extra copy or two of your passport. If you are staying in a hotel use your in room safe for your passport. Just keep a copy with you. Trust me I was there 3 years and never was asked for my passport. DO NOT let your fiancee's family keep your passport. I had a buddy that his fiancee's aunt kept it and would not give it back unless he gave her 5k pesos when he left. NOt all are bad just becareful.

Now as for Davao. You are venturing to the island of Mindanao. In the southern end of Mindanao is where the Abu Saif rebels are. If you stay in the Davao area you will be fine. The Mayor there has done a great job of cleaning up the city. It is a nice city BTW. He does not tolerate thiefs and was in trouble by the government at one time for the way he treated repeat law breakers. Enough said there. He wants tourism so you should be safe.

I can say I have riden my Harley all over the Philippines. I was in Manila, Drove myself to Baguio (Northern Luzon) along with Bolhol, Cebu and Boracay. No problems ever. None. Only problem was wrecking my other bike (LOL). I still have scars on my legs.

As you exit Davao there will be a (was) 200p terminal fee and then Manila zaps you with around 1000 pesos. I am sure it went up since I was there just in November.

As for ice and drinking water. NO to tap water unless you are in an expensive restaraunt. I mean so expensive you will say "this is USA prices". Then the water is safe due to foreigners and wealthy filipinos eating there. Ice too. If you are at other places, be cautious and use bottled. Depending on your hotel I would use bottled water to rinse and for your toothbrush. If you are staying at a 4 or 5 star you are good to go. Just don't swallow the tap water.

Tell your doctor where you are going. He can prescribe you meds that will clear you up in 24 hours just in case you eat or drink something bad.

For first timers visting I recomend chicken, fish and pork. It is not impolite to ask them if the beef is local... If local stay away.
You will have a blast.

I would not ride a jeepnee until you feel comfortbable. Taxi's are cheap there for us and safer....... Ask before you get in the taxi if they have a meter working or else you will pay double or triple and make his day. I have gotten out of taxis in Manila as he would not use the meter.

Be patient as the Philippines takes the long way to do everything. God forbide your fiancee want to take you shopping. Mark one day off your calendar if she does.