Tagalog for Travelers: Easy Phrases Every Foreigner Should Know
Introduction – “Say Hello the Filipino Way”
Don’t worry, you don’t need to be fluent. Even a simple “Salamat po” (thank you) or “Magandang umaga” (good morning) can instantly make you more likable. As your local guide, let me share some easy phrases every traveler should know — no complicated grammar, just practical words that help you connect.
Why Learn Tagalog as a Tourist?
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Break the ice: Locals get excited when foreigners try Tagalog.
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Avoid misunderstandings: Useful when ordering food or asking for directions.
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Earn respect: Shows effort and interest in our culture.
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Fun souvenir skill: Imagine greeting your Filipino friends abroad in Tagalog!
Basic Greetings & Polite Expressions
These are your go-to phrases when meeting people:
Hello – Kumusta? (koo-moos-ta) → “How are you?”
Good morning – Magandang umaga (ma-gan-dang oo-ma-ga)
Good afternoon – Magandang hapon (ma-gan-dang ha-pon)
Good evening – Magandang gabi (ma-gan-dang ga-bee)
Thank you – Salamat (sa-la-mat)
Thank you (polite) – Salamat po
Yes / No – Oo (oh-oh) / Hindi (hin-dee)
Food & Dining Phrases
Eating out? These will save you:
How much is this? – Magkano po ito? (mag-ka-no po ee-to?)
One order, please. – Isa pong order, please.
It’s delicious! – Ang sarap! (ang sa-rap)
Water, please. – Tubig po, pakiusap.
I’m full. – Busog na ako. (boo-sog na a-ko)
Travel & Direction Phrases
Getting around can be smoother with these:
Where is…? – Nasaan ang…? (na-sa-an ang…?)
To the airport, please. – Sa airport po.
Stop here. – Para po.
Left / Right / Straight – Kaliwa / Kanan / Diretso
How much is the fare? – Magkano po ang pamasahe?
Friendly Phrases Locals Love
If you really want to make friends, use these:
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You’re beautiful / handsome. – Ang ganda mo / Ang gwapo mo.
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Let’s eat! – Kain tayo! (common invite when someone’s eating)
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My friend. – Kaibigan ko.
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Cheers! – Tagay! (used when drinking)
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Take care. – Ingat ka.
When to Use English vs. Tagalog
Final Thoughts – Speak from the Heart
You don’t need to master Tagalog to travel here, but a few words go a long way. Locals will laugh (in a good way), cheer you on, and often help you say it better. The effort is what matters.
So next time you’re in the Philippines, try a “Salamat po” or a cheerful “Magandang umaga!” — and watch how fast the smiles come your way.
Mabuhay, and happy travels!
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