Hy, an my trip to Boracay in November I have to change in Manila - is there shuttle to the domestic airport - or is it okay to take a taxi - if yes how much would it cost. does anyone have good tips for a first time traveller to the Philippines - thx

What airline are you taking to Manila? PAL has it's own terminal seperate from the rest. Once you are in the Philippines are you taking PAL to Boracay?

We will fly with AirFrance into Manila - and then as far as I know - our flight to Boracay was booked by our Hotel in Boracay - we will take SeaAir.

ttt

Since you will be using Air France you will be landing at the old airport. I believe there is a shuttle going to the old domestic airport. You can also take a cab just make sure it is an authorized airport cab so you will not get overcharged in the rates. It is a bit of a hassle (just like in other SE Asian countries!) but believe me, it is worth it on your way to paradise!

Have fun on that SeaAir flight from Manila to Boracay. The most exhilarating and terrifying flight of my life. Before I took that flight, I didnt know that there were commercial airlines where you could open the window. Assuming things havent changed in the last two years, will be in, max, a 19 seater. I should have known I was in for a wild ride when they not only weighed the luggage pre-boarding, but lined up the passengers and weighed each of us as well. They then took the list of passenger weights and the list of luggage weights, grabbed a pad and pencil and added it all up.

Have you ever been on a plane that leaked when it rained?

I am trying to picture the airport--you should be in the same terminal--just switching from International to Domestic. All airlines that are not PAL are in the same terminal. If you do need to switch on the outside there are a billion taxi's (all licensed and reputable--they are the ONLY ones allowed in the terminal). We looked for a regular cab (non prepay) and you cannot get one unless you hike to the freeway. These cabs are all legit--also the price is set, no bargining. I don't know the cost--it should be inexpensive. If you buy a pass from one of the desks, you can pay in USD or credit card.

I would also say that you can ignore "tying" your bags together. The only people who will touch your bags are the porters. I don't know what country you are flying from but the porters take USD as tips with no problem. The push carts are free and remember that it is really easy to get directions as everybody speaks english.

Have a great time--it is a really fantastic country and Boracay is PARADISE!!!!

I know I'm into an adventure trip..I've never been to Asia- I'll be flying into Manila from Austria. I don't assume they'll take Euro - sound I change into some Pesos?
Any more tips????

Hello. I live in the Philippines and the airport is pretty safe now. Just be aware of what's around you and always keep your things close to you. A lot of the airport employees will want tips but you don't have to tip them unless they really go out of their way. They will accept Euro when you hire transportation. It would be good to have some Philippine pesos with you though. If you go around Manila, make sure you don't wear a backpack on your back (a lot of tourists do this), there are lots of pick pockets. Try not to wear real jewelry. Bring lots of insect repellant spray like Off!, and just don't bring too much cash. It is hard to cash or use traveller's checks in the Philippines though so don't use those. I think that's about it. Have a fun trip!