What budget should we plan for the Philippines and which payment method to use?

Hi there, We’re heading to Cebu, Bohol, Negros, and Siquijor soon. Our guide is handling hotel and ferry reservations, and we’ll pay day by day. Is it easy to pay for accommodations by card, or is it better to have cash? Also, any idea about the cost of living? Is 1000 € per person for 3 weeks enough for accommodation, food, and ferries? That’s the estimate he gave us. Thanks in advance! 😊

Hi there, What I can tell you is that cards are increasingly accepted, but Filipinos still prefer cash. In larger establishments, card payments should be free, but in smaller places, you might have to pay a small percentage extra to cover the commission. For the budget, the current exchange rate is 69 PHP for 1 €. Since I haven’t been back since 2024, I’ll let those living there give you the latest info on the cost of living.

Thanks so much! 😊

hi, I spend quite a bit of time in the Philippines, and for the past few years, I’ve been sticking to cash. ATM withdrawals are expensive due to the fixed fees imposed by Philippine banks and the low maximum withdrawal limit. I bring some cash with me and exchange it upon arrival—some exchange bureaus offer rates close to the commercial rate, but not at Cebu Airport 😉. I have cash sent to me via WorldRemit or Remitly, which I withdraw from pawnshops like Palawan or M Lhuillier. Around 50,000 or 60,000 pesos at a time. There are pawnshops everywhere.

For the cost of living, budget around 1,000 PHP per person per day for meals—less if you eat at small eateries. There are decent hotels in Cebu for 25 to 30 €, and of course, more expensive options. In cities, most decent hotels accept cards without fees. Have a great trip!

Thanks so much for this super detailed answer! 😊