• DINING OUT Filipino food is an exotic, tasteful blend of Oriental, European, and American culinary influences. There is a wide variety of fresh seafood and delectable fruits. First class restaurants offer gourmet specialties as well as Filipino cuisine.

• When shopping in a public market or as the Filipinos call them “tiangge”, it is perfectly acceptable to haggle for the cheapest price.

• ENTERTAINMENT Metro Manila is the center of entertainment and cultural activities. The premier venue for the performing arts is the Cultural Center of the Philippines. The hubs of nightlife activities are at the Ayala Center and The Fort at Bonifacio Global City in Makati, Timog and Tomas Morato Avenues in Quezon City, Eastwood in Libis, Quezon City and Remedios Circle in Malate. For visitors who want to try their luck at the gaming tables, there are casinos in Metro Manila and in the cities of Angeles, Olongapo, Tagaytay, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, and Laoag.

• Tipping is expected for many services. The standard amount is 10% of the total bill. Tipping is optional on bills that include a service charge.

• SHOPPING - Visitors can choose from an exciting selection of great buys at reasonable prices: South Sea pearls, handwoven cloths, embroidered fineries, terra-cota, porcelain, coral and mother-of-pearl home accessories, among others. Big malls are located in Manila, Makati, Mandaluyong, Quezon city and EDSA, while handicraft, antique, and curio shops abound at the Ermita District in Manila. Duty-Free Philippines near the NAIA is the country's largest duty-free outlet.

• TIPS ON TIPPING - Tipping is expected for many services. The standard practice is 10% of the total bill. Tipping is optional on bills that already include service charge.