Philippines

South East Asia is a large region but one of the easiest places to hop around. Because of the large amount of tourist activity, the region has ensured that there is a worry free system in place to make sure people can get from A to B without a hassle. Trains, boats, ferries, and cheap flights of all varieties are available to people can freely (and cheaply) travel around.
Once to your destination, city travel is also inexpensive and of great variety. Grab a taxi, tuktuk, or motorbike for efficient city travel.

Best to visit during dry season! Typically between May and September. Rainy season makes it difficult to travel around the less populated areas because of mud! The shoulder months of October snd November are also good, as it is less crowded but the weather is still lovely

Typhoons usually occur between late May and December. Monitor news and other weather information sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.
The Philippines is located on the Ring of Fire. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are common too.
South East Asia is a very safe place to travel. Besides occasional theft, you are not likely to experience safety concerns.
As like any place you travel to, be conscious of your surroundings! Don't put yourself in shady or uncertain situations.
Always keep in touch with friends and family.

Accommodation is cheap in the Philippines and there is an abundance of different types depending on your budget.
Make your bookings on Booking.com, Agoda and AirBnb

With 183 living languages to speak of, the Philippines is one of the most linguistically diverse countries on the planet.
The two official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English. Filipino is the national language, and the official status of English is a holdover from its time as a U.S territory between the years of 1898 and 1946

Snorkeling with whale sharks. We did this in Mexico (Isle Mujeres) instead and had a much better experience.

AirBnb, Agoda and Booking.com for accommodation

Tripped Travel gear backpack
Tripped Travel Gear packing cubes
Quick dry towels
Swimsuit cover up
Reef safe sunscreen
Hiking shoes or sandals
Swimwear and towels
Snorkeling gear
Rain coat
Waterproof phone case and floaty
Portable phone case
Small first aid kit
A universal plug adaptor
Motion sickness tablets

Try the street food! Best way to get the best food for the best price. Their shaved ice or halo-halo is the perfect sweet treat to beat the heat. Adobo, Kare-Kare and Lechon (full roasted pig) are the top 3 dishes in the Philippines as well.