Banks & Currency Exchange--Currency can be changed at banks (Monday through Friday from 9am to 3pm) and hotels, but for a more favorable rate try one of the money changers scattered throughout the city centers and at the airport. All major currencies are accepted, but you will have more luck with U.S. dollars.

Post Office--Most hotels offer mail service. Rizal Park Post Office, located by the park, near the Manila Hotel in Ermita, is not too busy. They are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, and Saturday until noon. If you are in Makati, a more convenient location is the Makati Central Post Office at Gil Puyat Ave., Makati. The hours are the same.

Telephone--For calls within Manila just dial the number. From a hotel you usually have to dial 9 for an outside line. Directory assistance is 114.

Transit Information--If you have any questions on routes and prices you can call the 24-hour tourist hotline at tel. 2/524-1660.