Exploring How Filipinos Travel, Shop, and Pay During the Festive Season"

Its  the holiday season—at least for Filipinos—and with it comes a surge in holiday shopping, travel, get-togethers, and festive activities. With the season being a peak time for getaways, Filipinos prioritize experience-driven travel, with Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan being top destinations. Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar survey reveals a significant shift in how Filipinos plan and pay for their travels, showing a growing preference for contactless payments alongside the continued use of cash.

Travelling for new experiences, shopping

For Filipino travelers, the holiday season is an opportunity to explore new experiences and create lasting memories as travel peaks in December, with 32% of surveyed respondents planning domestic trips and 23% choosing international destinations.

The survey found that most Filipinos travel to relax (80%) and seek new experiences (43%). While sightseeing remains the top activity (82%), experiencing local cuisine and dining (67%) and shopping (67%) are also key priorities. This shows that Filipinos are looking for destinations that offer a blend of leisure, entertainment, and adventure.

 

Singapore, a long-time favorite, emerged as the top destination for Filipino travelers over the past 12 months, with 38% of respondents visiting the city-state. Singapore continues to draw Filipino tourists with its vibrant blend of urban attractions and rich cultural experiences. Its close proximity to the Philippines, ease of access, and wide range of activities makes it an ideal choice, especially during the holiday season.

Hong Kong remains a favorite at 31%, particularly for travelers who enjoy combining shopping with festive celebrations. Its expansive retail scene and diverse culinary offerings make it appealing to Filipino families seeking both luxury and bargain shopping experiences.

 

Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes, festive markets and shopping districts alongside its deep cultural heritage, is another popular destination, with 30% of Filipinos visiting to experience the Land of the Rising Sun.

 

As Filipinos head overseas, many are also drawn to the Philippines as a tourist destination. Inbound travel to the Philippines is also on the rise, with the country welcoming 3.66 million international visitors from January to August 2024—a 10.14% increase from the same period last year, according to the Department of Tourism. Additionally, data from the World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) forecasts that international and domestic tourism spending will reach P715.6 billion and P3.7 trillion, respectively, surpassing 2019 figures by 5.7% and 1.8%.

 

Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: “At Visa, we are committed to ensuring a seamless, secure, and convenient experience for Filipino travelers heading abroad and for inbound visitors to the Philippines. We recognize that tourism plays a vital role in the economy, contributing to job creation and overall growth. We’re working to support the Filipino government's efforts to enhance tourism by improving digital payment methods and providing tourists with an enjoyable experience, which will help to further drive economic development and strengthen the tourism industry.”

 

Visa helps drive the growth of tourism in the Philippines by leveraging its global network and collaborating with local markets to promote the acceptance of Visa cards, creating a more enjoyable payments experience for tourists. In the Philippines, Visa supports small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by providing tools and knowledge for cashless transactions such as the SME Online Toolkit. Post-COVID, Visa launched the POSM Visibility Initiative to enhance marketing materials in tourist hotspots. Additionally, Visa partnered with the Pacific Asia Travel Association to conduct finance and digital skills workshops for tourism SMEs and Department of Tourism officials, benefiting 120 participants across Southeast Asia including Laguna in the Philippines. 

 

Shift in Payment Preferences: Contactless and Cash

A key trend emerging in Filipino travel habits is the shift toward contactless payments. In a survey commissioned by Visa done by YouGov in Aug 2024 reveals that 66% of Filipino travelers now prefer using contactless methods like mobile wallets and tap-to-pay cards, while 67% said they will likely get cards with contactless features.

 

"As cross-border travel continues to grow, Visa sees a tremendous opportunity to remain a key part of the traveler’s journey. The convenience and security of digital payment options give travelers greater confidence when making transactions abroad—whether they are booking accommodation, dining, or shopping. Our goal is to continue supporting travelers at every stage, from planning and booking to the entirety of their trip, by encouraging the use of Visa for a seamless, secure, and hassle-free payment experience," Navarro added.

 

Despite the rise in contactless payments, 71% of holiday travelers still carry cash as a backup, particularly in areas where digital payment infrastructure may not be as widely available. The continued use of cash illustrates that there is some way to go towards full contactless payments,  especially for holiday destinations that have not fully shifted to cashless payments.

 

As the holiday season approaches, the preference for more experience-driven travel, combined with evolving payment methods, reflects the changing dynamics of how Filipinos shop, pay, and explore the world. Whether through cash or contactless payments, the essence of Filipino travel remains centered around creating memories and sharing moments with loved ones—values that are as enduring as the destinations themselves.

 

Safety Protocols for Dealing with Unruly Passengers

Passenger cooperation is fundamental to the safety of any flight. The journey becomes safer and more comfortable for everyone onboard when passengers adhere to safety protocols and follow the flight crew’s instructions. However, as anyone who’s gone to  flight school or attended cabin crew training, it’s possible for passengers to become unruly during flight. An uncooperative passenger not only disrupts service but also compromises the safety of the flight. 

As an aircraft crew member, it is crucial to be prepared to handle such situations with a calm, measured approach. Understanding how to effectively manage unruly passengers is essential for maintaining control and ensuring a safe environment. Here’s a list of the protocols and strategies that you should implement when faced with such a scenario. 

Clear Communication

Maintaining clear and consistent communication with passengers is one of the most effective ways of preventing disruptive behavior. From the moment passengers board the aircraft, it’s important to establish a tone of authority mixed with friendliness. You can do this by clearly explaining safety procedures and emphasizing the importance of compliance. Setting expectations in this manner can often preempt disruptive activities. 

If a situation arises, ensure that you continue to communicate clearly. Keep using simple language while maintaining a calm tone. This not only helps in de-escalating tension but also reassures other passengers that the situation is under control.

Early Identification

Recognizing potential trouble early on is key to preventing situations from escalating. Make an effort to pay close attention to passengers who exhibit signs of distress, agitation, or intoxication. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from becoming bigger challenges later in the flight. For example, if you notice a passenger becoming increasingly agitated during boarding, a simple conversation to assess their concerns might help diffuse their anxiety. By staying vigilant, you can often stop a problem before it starts.

Calm and Firm Approach

When confronted with an unruly passenger, it’s critical to maintain a calm and firm demeanor. After all, your ability to remain composed under pressure will influence how the situation unfolds. Approach the individual with a non-confrontational tone, clearly stating what conduct is unacceptable and what the expected behavior is. Offer them an opportunity to correct their actions while making it clear that non-compliance will not be tolerated. This balance of calmness and firmness can often prevent the situation from escalating further.

Team Coordination

Effective teamwork is essential when dealing with unruly passengers. Coordinating with your fellow crew members allows you to address the situation without causing unnecessary alarm to other passengers. Develop a system of discreet signals or code words that can alert your team to a potential issue. This allows everyone to be on the same page and respond in a unified manner. By working together, you can manage the situation more efficiently and ensure that it is handled with minimal disruption to the rest of the flight.

Engagement

Sometimes, a disruptive passenger just needs someone to listen to them. Engaging the passenger in conversation can be an effective way to diffuse tension. Ask them questions about their concerns or what might be bothering them. Showing empathy and understanding in this manner can make the passenger feel heard and valued, which can often lead to a de-escalation of their disruptive activities.

Limited Alcohol Service

Alcohol consumption can be a significant contributor to unruly conduct on flights. Monitoring and, if necessary, limiting a passenger's alcohol intake is a critical preventive measure. If you notice a passenger becoming inebriated or showing signs of intoxication, it’s important to discreetly cut off their alcohol service. For example, you can offer them water or a non-alcoholic beverage instead, and calmly explain that you’re concerned for their well-being. 

Passenger Isolation

If a passenger becomes excessively disruptive, isolating them from other passengers can be an effective strategy to keep the situation under control. This may involve relocating the individual to a different seat, preferably one that is less visible to others, to minimize their impact on the flight. When isolating a passenger, do so calmly and respectfully, explaining that the move is to ensure their comfort and the comfort of others. By physically separating the unruly passenger from the rest of the cabin, you can often reduce the tension and regain control of the situation.

Restraints

In extreme cases where a passenger poses a significant threat to the safety of the flight, the use of restraints may be necessary. Crew members are trained to use restraints such as handcuffs or seatbelt extenders to secure a passenger who is out of control. This should always be a last resort, used only when all other de-escalation techniques have failed. When using restraints, ensure that the process is done as discreetly as possible to avoid alarming other passengers. 

Captain’s Authority

The captain of the aircraft holds ultimate authority in handling unruly passengers. It is important to keep the captain informed of any serious disruptions so they can make informed decisions about the safety of the flight. The captain’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the situation and can sometimes prompt the passenger to comply with crew instructions. In situations that are beyond the control of the cabin crew, the captain may decide to divert the flight or request law enforcement to meet the plane upon landing. 

Post-Incident Reporting

After dealing with an unruly passenger, document the incident thoroughly. This includes gathering witness statements and detailing the actions taken by the crew. Post-incident reporting ensures that there is a clear record of what occurred, which can be crucial for any legal proceedings that may follow. Additionally, it helps airlines improve their protocols by learning from past incidents. 

Knowing how to deal with unruly passengers is a vital skill for any aircraft crew member. The ability to manage these situations calmly and effectively not only ensures the safety of everyone on board but also helps maintain the overall integrity of the flight. By mastering these techniques, you contribute to a safer, more pleasant experience for all passengers and crew members alike.

9 Budgeting Tips for First-Time Travelers Abroad

Embarking on your first trip abroad is an exciting milestone but it comes with a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to managing your money. It’s crucial to manage your financial resources so that you can enjoy your trip without the worry of overspending or the stress of running out of money.

Here are some of the budgeting tips that you should consider before and during your first trip abroad: 

Plan Ahead

One of the most crucial steps in preparing for your trip is planning ahead. Start by researching your destination well in advance. Specifically, look into the average costs of flights, accommodations, food, transportation, and activities, as well as the exchange rate between your country and your destination. By doing this, you can set a realistic budget that covers all your major expenses. Planning ahead also gives you time to save up for your trip, allowing you to avoid last-minute financial stress. 

Aside from researching costs and currency exchange rates, verify if you can use your payment cards and access your online digital banking services provider upon arriving at your destination. For instance, Maya offers its users a free physical card when you open a Maya Savings account. You can then fund the card using the money in your digital savings account. If you aren’t able to use your bank accounts in your destination abroad, now would be a good time to think of alternatives to how you can access your funds during your trip.

Set a Budget

A realistic budget is the foundation of any successful trip. Early into the planning phase, determine how much you can afford to spend and then allocate funds for different categories such as transportation, lodging, meals, and entertainment. Make sure you understand your financial limitations and prioritize your spending so that you’re less likely to run out of funds. Having a clear budget helps you avoid unnecessary expenses and ensures that you have enough money for the entire duration of your trip. Additionally, it allows you to plan for special experiences without compromising your overall financial stability.

Once you’ve figured out how much money you need to save, it’s easier to start building your funds for the trip. For convenience and bigger savings, you can open digital accounts like Maya Savings, which offer higher interest rates compared to traditional banks.

Track Your Spending

Keeping track of your expenses while traveling, whether locally or abroad, is essential to staying within your budget. Make a habit of listing down the items that you are buying or paying for, be it meals, souvenirs, or towel rentals. This practice helps you identify areas where you might be overspending, thus allowing you to make adjustments as you go. Tracking your spending also provides a sense of control and prevents financial surprises. You can use a simple notebook, a spreadsheet, or even budgeting apps to log your expenses daily, depending on what you’re comfortable with. 

Use Budgeting Apps

Digital wallets and budgeting apps are handy tools for managing your finances on the go. You can use these to input your expenses in real time, categorize your spending, and compare it against your budget. These apps often come with features that support multiple currencies, making it easier to handle foreign exchange rates. 

Look for Discounts

Taking advantage of discounts can significantly reduce your travel costs. Many attractions, museums, and transportation services offer discounts for students, seniors, or those who make advance bookings. To make the most of these, research available discounts before your trip and carry any necessary identification to prove your eligibility. Booking tickets online can also provide savings, as many sites offer lower prices compared to on-site purchases. 

Avoid Peak Seasons

It’s much cheaper to travel during off-peak seasons, with many hotels and airlines offering promos and discounts during this period. Peak seasons often coincide with school holidays and major festivals, leading to high demand and thus higher prices and crowded tourist spots. By choosing to travel during less popular times, you can enjoy lower costs and a more relaxed experience. 

Use Public Transportation

If you’re traveling to places with excellent public transportation systems, then opting for trains and buses over taxis or car rentals can save you a lot of money. Many cities offer day passes or travel cards that provide unlimited travel for a set period, which can offer you a lot of bang for your buck. In addition, using public transportation gives you a chance to experience the local way of life and explore off-the-beaten-path areas.

Eat Like a Local

In many places, street food markets, local cafes, and family-run restaurants often offer delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of popular or high-end dining establishments. Additionally, consider booking accommodations with kitchen facilities. Doing so gives you the option to prepare some of your meals and save on food expenses. Exploring local grocery stores can also be a fun and budget-friendly way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Limit Souvenir Shopping

Souvenirs can quickly add up and blow your budget if you're not careful. So, even before you leave for your trip, set a limit on how much you’ll spend on souvenirs and stick to it. Moreover, instead of buying numerous trinkets, focus instead on meaningful items that capture your travel experience. Consider practical souvenirs that you can use, like local spices, textiles, or handmade crafts. By being mindful of your souvenir spending, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and keep your luggage weight in check.

Proper budgeting is crucial for having a more enjoyable and stress-free trip. With careful planning and mindful spending, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories and fully enjoy your first international adventure. 

What to Visit, Do and Eat this 2022

Global hospitality company Airbnb today launches its first-ever Airbnb Travel Guide to the Philippines. With domestic tourism on the rebound and the country reopening its borders to both international visitors and balikbayans, the Airbnb Travel Guide 2022: The Philippines aims to inspire travelers to rediscover the country in style.

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan, shared, “The Philippines has officially reopened to the world and we are seeing a promising rebound in both domestic and international travel, buoyed by the surge in overseas travelers keen to visit their loved ones and enjoy the wonders of the country. Our inaugural Airbnb Travel Guide 2022: Philippines aims to provide a source of travel inspiration and stir in people a desire to travel to and around the Philippines, and to explore new destinations safely and responsibly.”

 

The Airbnb Travel Guide 2022: The Philippines showcases the hottest and most underrated destinations to visit, and off-the-beaten-path hidden gems unbeknownst even to most locals. It also shines a spotlight on thrilling activities, unique delicacies and the most extraordinary Airbnb stays across the country. 

 

Airbnb’s Top 5 Hottest, Most Underrated Destinations: Thinking of exploring more provinces this year? Airbnb reveals its five favourite lesser-known destinations: beautiful Sorsogon where nature is always around the corner,  the rugged and magnificent  island of Catanduanes, mystical enchanting Siquijor, untouched waterfall paradise Biliran and finally Zamboanga Peninsula with its cherry-hued beaches. 

Top 5 Extraordinary Airbnb Stays: Wherever you are in the country, there’ll always be a unique Airbnb Stay waiting for you — hosted by Superhosts ready to provide you with their best tips and tricks to live like a local. Those wondering what a rural tabing-ilog lifestyle feels like can explore this rustic treehouse by the riverside in Balamban, Cebu, while camping enthusiasts can book themselves a vintage airstream suite on top of a hill in Calaca, Batangas. Read on for more amazing Stays including a private island paradise in Palawan and magical glass treehouse amidst pinewood forests.

 Top Must-Try Travel Activities: For those who never leave a place without a thrilling experience for the books, Airbnb recommends some of the most unique and adrenaline-pumping activities across the country, including a zipline over seven waterfalls in North Cotabato and a Pinoy-style go-kart one can ride down the hills of Valencia, Negros Oriental.

Top 5 Fantastical Treats for the Tastebuds: Capping off a trip with a good meal is a definite must, and Airbnb unveils its top 5 most interesting delicacies in the Philippines for locals and tourists alike. Be warned - this isn’t for the faint of heart! Challenge your tastebuds and tummy with dishes including betute tugak (deep fried stuffed frog) and tuslob-buwa (mix of pig’s brain and liver simmered in a series of aromatics and spices).

 

Top Airbnb Travel Tips: Make health and safety your top priority, and go local so the community can benefit from your travels! Bring small bills along and check out smaller neighbourhood shops run by local artisans. Finally, follow the Philippines Department of Health’s public health standards – wear your masks properly, ensure a physical distance of at least 1m, and wash your hands and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers regularly.

 

Head on to ​​https://news.airbnb.com/airbnb-travel-guide-2022-the-philippines/ to check out Airbnb's full travel guide.

 

ProtectNow.com have the power to compare a full range of vehicle,home,travel, and personal accident insurance products

ProtectNow.com: All the best insurance products at your fingertips

ProtectNow.com
is an online platform that will enable users to conveniently compare and select the most ideal insurance products from a comprehensive list provided by some of the country’s leading insurance companies.

“We are living in the best of times and in the worst of times with the confluence of technological advancements and natural disasters. With ProtectNow.com, Filipinos have the power to compare and personalize their insurance plan according to the coverage that they can afford and the insurance company that they prefer,” said Jonathan Batangan,PJLI Insurance Group head during the website’s launch at the New World Makati Hotel.

ProtectNow.com allows users to easily compare a full range of vehicle, home, travel, and personal accident insurance products, for free. Its search engine generates a list of products according to the user's budget, needs, and preferences to ensure that each and every quote provided are personalized and tailor-fitted.

The website also enables users to take full control of their policies with their own insurance dashboard. Here, they can monitor their insurance policies and transactions and file and submit documents for insurance claims. It is also equipped with a live chat and help desk feature to connect users to an insurance analyst in real time.

Payment of premiums via the website is convenient and hassle-free. Users can simply choose to pay through PayPal or at any of Cebuana Lhuillier's close to 2,500 branches nationwide.

Already, PJLI Insuranceis hoping to expand ProtectNow.com to include more financial products and servicescategories, partner with more insurance companies, as well as offer microinsurance. The website will soon cater to a global market and for every insurance policy availed, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to OurHelp.com, an online platform that provides insurance for free to those who cannot afford to pay for insurance coverage.

For more information, please visit www.protectnow.com or email at support@protectnow.com

With the AirAsia Credit Card, traveling becomes more accessible, fun, and even more rewarding

"Travel makes one modest, you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world"




Undoubtedly the generation that has been setting trends, millennials have the constant desire to reinvent themselves and discover more of the world around them. It is no wonder that one activity that has been defining their different lifestyles is traveling.

Millennials are always on the quest for fresh experiences and new stories that they can share with their friends and family. It is through traveling that they discover a passion for thrilling adventures and a thirst to connect with various communities as they go from one place to another.

Why millennials travel

“I love getting introduced to new tastes, beliefs, art, and people,” shares Frankie, a 25-year-old freelance brand journalist. Like many other individuals her age, she has flown to popular international destinations such as Hong Kong and South Korea. And for her, nothing beats immersing in the moments where she gets to learn a new culture.

Her most recent trip to Korea was the first time she explored the home to many K-dramas. But her one week stay in Seoul proved that the country is best experienced in person, she narrates, “I enjoyed every single day of my vacation. From going to the best tourist spots, to tasting their popular street food, there wasn’t a single dull moment. I even had an amazing time just walking around the area.”

Another traveler, Michelle, testifies that the beauty of traveling is being able to learn different cultures, meeting locals, and trying out local delicacies. The 27-year-old recalls the first time she fell in love with traveling was when she flew to the province of Samar.

“I had my first plane ride in 2008 and it was very memorable because it was also the time that I met our relatives in Samar. Throughout the trip, our relatives toured us around town and I witnessed the different wonderful rock formations and their amazing beaches,” says Michelle. She adds that it was the trip that inspired her to soon fly to Boracay, Cebu, Tacloban, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Korea.

Powering a lifestyle of travel

“The rule of thumb for trips is that you should do whatever you can fit in the limited time you’re there because who knows when you’ll get another chance to,” advises Frankie. As an impulsive traveler, she relies on the power of technology to maximize her travel experience. “Technology is the best. I’ve received so many discounts and deals from apps made for travelling such as tickets, accommodation, and passes to tourist spots.”

Meanwhile, Michelle shares the statement that resonates with a lot of millennial travelers today. “You don’t need a lot of money to be able to travel. There are a lot of wonderful places where you can eat, stay, and go to that are not as expensive. Searching online also helps a lot.”

Understanding the needs of the adventurous in this generation of wanderers, RCBC Bankard and AirAsia team up to bring a credit card that powers every millennials’ aspiration for travel. Now, there’s no better way to fly out of the country and experience a rewarding vacation than having the AirAsia Credit Card, powered by RCBC Bankard.

New cardholders get to enjoy up to 8,000 Welcome BIG Points which is equivalent to a free local or international flight. Earning BIG points is also easy as they can continuously receive these rewards by using their AirAsia credit card for their purchases. These BIG points can bring them to numerous destinations especially since AirAsia cardholders get first dibs on the Final Call Sale and other promos and seat sales. It also gives awesome travel benefits such as instant BIG Loyalty Platinum membership status upgrade, priority check-in and boarding, and Xpress baggage, where cardholders can claim their bags faster and enjoy their trip sooner.

So, what more are you looking for? With the AirAsia Credit Card, traveling becomes more accessible, fun, and even more rewarding for millennials. Get your own card at www.rcbcbankard.com/airasia.