The best months, the typhoon months, and the cheap stays

December to May is dry and the diving and beaches are at their best; June to November brings rain and typhoons, especially on the eastern side, with lower prices and real risk of cancelled boats. Guesthouses and homestays are cheap and welcoming across the islands; book ahead for Holy Week (Easter), Christmas, and Chinese New Year, when the whole country travels. Cash dominates outside cities; ATMs are scarce on small islands, so withdraw before you go.