Iloilo City City Guide

Local dishes like La Paz Batchoy and Pancit Molo are must-tries. International cuisines are widely available. Vegan and vegetarian options exist, especially in cafes. Some places serve food 24/7.

The nightlife focuses around Smallville Complex and Festive Walk with bars and live music.

Strong coffee culture with local and international cafes. Specialty coffee shops are growing.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Restaurants often add a 10% service charge. Taxi fares are usually rounded up. Small tips are common for other services.

SIM cards are easy to get at the airport, malls, or convenience stores. Smart and Globe are the main providers. Registration with ID is required.

Considered clean compared to other Philippine cities, especially in commercial and tourist areas. Waste pickup is regular but recycling is limited.

Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and stores like 7-Eleven operate 24/7. Some eateries and fast food chains also stay open late. Hospital ERs are always open.

Major supermarkets like SM, Robinsons, and Puregold carry international and local products. Wet markets open early for fresh produce and seafood. Bargaining works in markets but not supermarkets.

Cards work in malls, big supermarkets, and nicer restaurants, but cash is needed for small vendors, markets, and local transport like jeepneys and tricycles.

ATMs are common in malls, banks, and convenience stores. BDO, BPI, and Metrobank branches are widespread. Expect international withdrawal fees depending on your bank.

Iloilo has institutions like Central Philippine University and University of San Agustin. International School Iloilo teaches mainly in English. Admission rules vary.

Small but growing community. Meetups are informal and organized online. More nomad-friendly cafes are appearing.

Iloilo River Esplanade and other parks provide ample green spaces for relaxation and exercise.

Iloilo River Esplanade is a popular, safe running spot with good air quality.

Several gyms offer modern equipment and group classes across the city.

Tennis courts exist in sports complexes and private clubs. Equipment rentals might be available.

Padel courts are rare but may be found in newer sports centers.

Yoga studios offer styles like Vinyasa and Hatha with drop-in classes in English.

Gyms offer classes in Taekwondo, Karate, boxing, BJJ, and Muay Thai. Drop-in policies vary by gym.

No skiing due to tropical climate and no snow.

Kayaking and paddleboarding can be done on the Iloilo River. Sailing and windsurfing are limited and found mostly outside the city.

Surf spots are far, requiring travel to other islands or remote Panay locations.

Good dive sites in nearby Antique and Guimaras. Dive shops and certification available in the city.

Hospitals like Western Visayas Medical Center and Iloilo Doctors have English-speaking staff. Private hospitals offer quicker service. Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Watsons are common and open late.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink straight. Boil or filter it, or buy bottled water which is cheap and widely sold.

Playgrounds and parks like Iloilo Esplanade suit families. Kid-friendly cafes exist. Attractions include museums and the river esplanade.

Generally accepting city with safe spaces and some pride events. Legal protections are still developing.

Some parks and cafes allow pets. Veterinary clinics and pet shops are common. National import rules apply.