Dasmarinas Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Organize your planning into manageable stages leading up to your departure.

Strategic Planning

Phased preparations for a relaxed journey.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and apply for any required visas.

International Flights

Book flights to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Health & Insurance

Consult your doctor for vaccinations and buy travel insurance.

2

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book accommodations and plan your detailed itinerary.

Airport Transfers

Arrange transport from NAIA to Dasmariñas.

Financial Alerts

Notify your bank/credit card companies of your travel plans.

3

Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, tours).

Packing & Docs

Pack for climate and activities; digitize and print essential documents.

Apps & Contacts

Download useful apps and inform family/friends of your itinerary.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure your trip essentials early.

Book These Early

International Flights: Secure your round-trip international flights.
Accommodations: Book all your hotel stays or vacation rentals.
Specific Tours/Activities: Reserve any specific tours or activities, especially if traveling during peak season.
Airport Transfers: Book your transport from NAIA to Dasmariñas.

Pre-Trip Research

Prepare for deep cultural experience and smooth navigation.

Areas to Research

Culture and Etiquette: Read up on Filipino culture and etiquette for considerate dealings.
Basic Tagalog: Acquaint yourself with basic Tagalog phrases.
Local Transportation: Understand local transit options in Dasmariñas (jeepneys, tricycles, Grab).
Travel Advisories: Check current travel advisories for the Philippines from your government.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home remains secure and managed during your absence.

Security Measures

Safeguard your home, locking all windows and doors.
Activate any home security systems.
Consider smart lighting to mimic occupancy.
Check surveillance cameras if installed.

Property Management

Arrange for mail collection or redirection.
Organize pet care if applicable.
Ensure plant care is handled.
Empty trash bins before leaving.

Administrative Tasks

Pay any bills due when you are not home.
Leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a trusted person.
Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy.
Adjust thermostat settings for energy conservation.

Travel Advisory

Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your return date. Review and meet all visa requirements for the Philippines.

Arrival Checklist

These actions simplify your arrival and transition into Dasmariñas.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration and Customs:
Clear immigration and customs procedures at NAIA.
2
Luggage Collection:
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.
3
Local SIM Card:
Get a local SIM card at the airport for instant connectivity.

Orientation Strategies

Pre-arranged Transport:
Locate your pre-arranged transport or book a Grab for your journey to Dasmariñas.
Check-in:
Head directly to your accommodation for check-in and to establishtle your belongings.
Immediate Surroundings:
Familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your hotel or rental. Locate nearby convenience stores, ATMs, and eateries.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Airport Exchange

Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate taxi fares or snacks.

Note: Better rates commonly appear in city centers.

City Exchange

Seek more favorable rates at money changers in malls in Dasmariñas for larger exchanges.

Avoid street-side currency exchanges for safety.

Initial Purchases

Purchase sealed water and any required snacks or immediate necessities.

Local convenience stores are widely available.

Transportation Note

Upon arrival, locate your pre-arranged transport or book a Grab. Confirm the fare or ensure the meter is used for airport taxis.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure from Dasmariñas efficiently to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenir and Shipping

Souvenir Purchase: Acquire souvenirs a few days before your departure to avoid a last-minute rush.
Shipping: Consider sending larger items via international couriers (DHL, FedEx, LBC) if needed, accounting for time and cost.
Weight Considerations: Be mindful of luggage weight restrictions when purchasing items.
Fragile Items: Pack delicate souvenirs carefully or inquire about special handling services.

Pre-Departure Timing

Flight Confirmation: Reconfirm your flight details (terminal, time) with your airline.
Airport Transport: Arrange transport from Dasmariñas to NAIA. Allow ample time, a minimum of 3 hours for travel, as a result of potential traffic.
Airport Arrival: Arrive at NAIA 3-4 hours before international flights to allow for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
Documents Ready: Have all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) easily accessible.

VAT Refund Procedures

Be aware of the local policies regarding tax refunds.

Philippine VAT Policy

VAT Refund System:The Philippines does not generally feature a VAT refund system for tourists.
Check Local Stores:Some duty-free shops may offer tax-exempt purchases.
Inquire Locally:Always inquire at points of purchase regarding any applicable tax benefits for tourists.
Official Advisories:Refer to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for official the latest on tax policies.

Return Trip Preparation

Documents: Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are ready and conveniently located.
Luggage Weight: Check your luggage weight limits to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
Final Checks: Perform a final check of your accommodation for any forgotten items.
Electronics: Ensure all electronics are charged for your journey and that portable chargers are ready.

Final Review

Before leaving your accommodation for the airport, quickly review what you've packed and ensure you have your passport, wallet, phone, and boarding pass.

Double-check that all valuables are secure and nothing important is left behind.

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