Accommodation and Shopping in Philippines: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Many hotels accept USD cash deposits, which are returned at checkout after recording serial numbers. While credit cards work in Manila malls, it is advisable to carry cash for islands, with BPI ATMs offering withdrawals up to 40,000 PHP.
From real experience
Hotel security deposits in the Philippines: Many hotels accept USD cash for deposits.
If paying in USD, the reception will typically record the bill serial numbers, seal the cash in an envelope, and return it upon checkout. It is recommended to contact the hotel in advance to confirm currency acceptance, as some hotels may offer better exchange rates than local shops.
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For travelers looking to pay for accommodation in the Philippines using USDT, inquiries should be directed towards specific aggregators or booking platforms that explicitly support cryptocurrency payments.
Standard travel aggregators may not offer this option. Researching platforms that integrate crypto payment gateways is recommended.
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Credit cards are accepted in many establishments in Manila, especially in malls.
However, it is advisable to carry cash. ATMs are available, with BPI ATMs dispensing up to 40,000 PHP per transaction. The withdrawal fee is typically 250 PHP. Card acceptance may be more limited on islands.
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Luxury retail stores in Manila often require customers to present a passport for purchase registration, especially when paying with virtual cards or non-local credit cards.