Travel-planning tips for Manila

Travel-planning tips for Manila

Nov 7, 2025 | General interest, Kiwanis Convention, News | 0 comments

Start getting ready for the 2026 Kiwanis International Convention

By Julie Saetre

Mark your calendar for June 24-27, 2026. That’s when the 2026 Kiwanis International Convention will be held in the vibrant, bustling City of Manila, capital of the Philippines. Manila is known for its mix of historical significance and modern sensibilities — from culture to cuisine and more. 

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to experience one of Kiwanis’ fastest growing areas, while getting all the education, fellowship and networking you need to be the best Kiwanis leader possible. And you’ll do all this amid the camaraderie of your Kiwanis family! 

It’s never too early to get ready. We have some helpful hints as you start making your travel plans. 

Getting there and back
Kiwanis International does not handle individual or group travel arrangements — but past convention attendees have found group travel arranged by their districts to be convenient and beneficial. Some tips:  

  • District leaders can work with a travel agent to coordinate group travel for members and promote the opportunity to district clubs. Check for Kiwanis members in your district who are travel agents. Establishing a long-term working relationship with someone who is familiar with Kiwanis and our conventions will be beneficial for everyone. If you hope to join a district travel group, find out if there is anything planned. 
  • Keep in mind that group travel often requires deposits with deadlines, as well as a minimum number of travelers on the same dates. 
  • A group of 10 or more traveling on the same date also can contact an airline’s group travel department to check on possible discounts. Again, deposits and deadlines often apply. 
  • If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, pay special attention to cancellation penalties on any airline tickets you’re considering. Also, after you book, periodically check the current fare for your chosen flights. Many times, if your fare goes down, you’re guaranteed the difference as a credit for future travel.  
  • Protect your travel investment with trip insurance from a well-recommended and researched provider. Determine the level of coverage you need for trip interruption/cancellation, medical emergencies, lost/delayed baggage and other considerations that are important to you. 
  • For travelers from the U.S., consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This free service helps ensure that the State Department can accurately and quickly contact you in case of emergency. 

Where to stay
Hotel information and reservation links for Kiwanis International’s designated hotel block and other locations will be available soon. Selecting a hotel in the designated Kiwanis block ensures you will be with fellow Kiwanians and within walking distance to the convention site.  

Travel documents
Here’s what you should know about what to take with you: 

  • You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your stay. 
  • For residents of Canada and the United States: Currently, a VISA is not required for a stay that does not exceed 30 days. You must hold a valid ticket for the return journey to your country of origin or your next country of destination — and your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your Philippines stay. Since VISA requirements can change, check for updates from the U.S. State Department and Canada Travel and Tourism. 
  • All travelers to the Philippines must register with the Philippine Travel Information System no later than three days before their arrival. This will generate an eTravel QR code to use at check-in or arrival. The QR code will expedite your entry into the Philippines. 
  • For additional information on traveling to Manila, refer to your home country’s official government travel website. Examples include: 

Join us in Manila
Save the dates June 24-27, 2026, on your calendar and begin planning your trip to the 2026 international convention today. We can’t wait to see you in Manila!