travel informationPassport
and visa
All foreign participants must have a valid
passport. It is advisable to inquire from the Philippine
consular office or diplomatic mission in your country if
a visa will be needed. Additional information may be
found at this web site:
Climate
The weather in Manila during the conference period is
fairly warm and humid. The average temperature varies
between 23 oC and 30 oC.
Participants are advised to bring light summer clothing.
The conference venue and all major hotels are air-conditioned.
Currency
The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine
Peso (P). Bank notes are used for P10, P20, P50, P100, P500
and P1,000. Coin denominations are P0.05, P0.25, P1 &
P5.
Traveler's
check and credit cards
Traveler's checks and foreign currencies can be converted
into local currency at foreign exchange banks and other
authorized money exchangers. The exchange rate varies but
currently it is approximately at P52 per US $1.
Major
credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express
and Diners Club card, are widely accepted at hotels,
department stores, shops and restaurants.
Tipping
Most restaurants include a service charge of about 10% in
the bill, so that there is no need to tip waiters.
However, the service staff always appreciate extra tips.
Where there is no service charge, customers usually tip 5-10%
to show the customer's appreciation. However, just as in
other countries, tippins is really a personal decision.
Electrical
equipment
Electrical power supply is rated at 220 volts, 60 Hz.
Getting
around Manila
Air-con taxi is the most convenient.
Airport taxis charge a little higher (usually P500 per
trip) and are usually visitor-friendly and safe. However,
a passenger could haggle with the taxi driver for flat
fare arrangements. It will not hurt to show the taxi
driver that one knows more than he thinks so that the
driver will not take roundabout routes. The conference
venue (EDSA Shang-ri La) is about 20-30 minute away from
the international airport. However, during rush hour (early
morning or early afternoon on weekdays) it could take up
to 45 minutes.
Things
to do and see in Manila or other parts of the country
For more information on sight-seeing, shopping, and
travel around the country, please visit the web site:
http://www.lakbay.net.ph
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