Before Traveling To The Philippines, You Must Do This With Your Currency
Picture it. You’ve been planning your family trip to the Philippines for months. You have your plane tickets and your bags packed, so you’re all ready to go!
After hours stuck on an airplane, you’re excited to arrive at the international airport in the Philippines… only to be held up in customs! How did this happen?
More than likely, if you are held up in customs, it means that you didn’t declare your currency before you left your home country. Most countries, including the Philippines, have laws about how much money foreign visitors can bring across the border. These laws help them catch thieves and prevent money laundering.
If you declare your currency before you leave for your trip, then when you arrive in the Philippines, you can focus on having fun with your family at any one of the country’s fun and kid-friendly attractions.
We’ll talk about some of our favorite places to visit in the Philippines later in the article. But first, we’re going to explain how to declare your currency before you set foot on the plane.
How To Declare Currency Before Arriving In The Philippines
Before you board your plane for the Philippines, it’s a good idea to fill out the Electronic Baggage and Currency Declaration form, provided by the Philippine government here.
If you don’t fill it out online and submit it before your arrival, you must do it at one of the I-Declare kiosks at the airport when you get there. But this could delay you from getting to your hotel and starting your vacation as quickly as possible, so we recommend following that link instead.
As you progress through the form, you’ll type in information such as your flight details, your identity, and how much currency you plan to bring into the Philippines. It may seem like a lot, but just remember that you’re helping the Philippine government prevent fraud.
The form is straightforward and self-explanatory. The main point you need to know is that you can only bring in $10,000 or 50,000 pesos. For currency amounts higher than that, you must obtain prior authorization from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the central bank of the Philippines.
Once you’ve completed and submitted the form, you’ll automatically receive a QR code in your email. Upon your arrival in the Philippines, show the QR code to the customs officer. Afterwards, you’ll be allowed to declare any valuable goods you may have brought in, or, if you have no goods to declare, you can leave the airport.
Family Friendly Places To Visit In The Philippines
Now that you’ve declared your currency, you’re free to fly through customs with your family and start your vacation!
In case you need some ideas for places to visit, here are some family-friendly attractions that you and your kids or grandkids can all enjoy.
1. Puerto Princesa
Photographed by Elaine Ore
Puerto Princesa is a city situated on Palawan Island. It has just about everything a family on vacation could wish for: luxurious resorts, dazzling views of the Pacific Ocean, places to snorkel and visit with dolphins, and laidback cruises.
But perhaps the best attraction that Puerto Princesa has to offer is the Underground River. One of the 7 wonders of the world, this natural cave system has a river running right through it. Your kids or grandkids will never forget the awe of seeing the cathedral-like cavern ceilings and the religious figures carved into the bare face of the rock, surrounded by dangling stalactites.
No matter where you choose to go in the city, Puerto Princesa is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t want to miss!
2. Bohol
Photographed by Brett Andrei Martin
Bohol is not only a beautiful island filled with great beachside hotels and resorts, but also a fun-filled area to take your family. There’s just so much to do! From sightseeing at places like the Chocolate Hills National Monument and the San Jose Cathedral, to shopping at the enormous Island City Mall, to riding down ziplines at Danao Adventure Park, you’ll never be bored in Bohol.
3. Cebu City
photographed by Hitoshi Namura
If you and your family love history, then be sure to visit Cebu City. Located in the Central Visayas region, this urbanscape features plenty of historical landmarks from 16th century Spanish colonies such as the Basilica del Santo Nino. You’ll also find the old Fort San Pedro, a Taoist Temple, and the Casa Gorordo Museum, along with a host of other incredible museums.
4. Vigan
Photographed by Carlos Ramirez
Vigan City is another great locale to visit in the Philippines if you’re interested in the rich history of this country. One spot you simply can’t miss is Calle Crisologo, which is ranked #1 as the best thing to do in Vigan. It’s a historic district that features cobblestone streets and Spanish-style buildings, with plenty of lovely little shops and restaurants to explore.
Once you’re done at Calle Crisologo, don’t forget to view the Dancing Fountain, the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, and all the other unique attractions that Vigan has to offer!
5. Hundred Islands National Park
Photographed by Farhan Sharief
Finally, if your little ones are interested in wildlife and other natural wonders, you must take them to Hundred Islands National Park.
You’ll find Hundred Islands National Park in the province of Pangasinan. It consists of 124 coral reef islands, 4 of which have been developed for tourism. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of fun activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. There are also a few walking trails in certain areas of the developed islands that you can hike to and take in panoramic views. You may even catch a glimpse of local animals.
Trust us, this will be the highlight of your trip.
Need Help With Your Currency? Moniies Currency Exchange Can Help
If you’re headed to the philppines soon, exchange AUD to PHP to prepare for your next family vacation.