Essential Resources: Sabang

Online Toolkit

Useful Apps

Google Maps:
Download offline maps of Palawan and Sabang.
WhatsApp:
Widely used for local communication with operators.
Google Translate:
Offline Filipino/Tagalog language pack for interaction.
Your Airline's App:
Flight status, check-in for domestic connections.
Weather App:
Monitor forecasts for rain or typhoon advisories.

Informative Websites

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park:
Presents accurate permit details.
Philippine Department of Tourism:
Presents general travel advisories and information.
Online Travel Agencies:
Booking.com and Agoda for accommodations.
Travel Blogs and Forums:
Deliver firsthand accounts and practical tips from others.
Social Media Accounts:
Search for "Palawan tourism" for updates.

Tangible Guides

Guidebooks

Philippines guidebooks from reputable publishers cover Palawan extensively.

Physical Maps

A physical map of Palawan assists in geographical orientation, especially without service.

Local Literature

Reading Philippine history or local fiction broadens your cultural perspective.

Safety & Support

Important Contacts

National Emergency Hotline: 911 (police, fire, medical nationwide).
Philippine National Police (PNP): Dial 117 (routes to 911).
Travel Insurance: Keep your emergency contact number accessible.
Sabang: Small local clinics for basic first aid.

Procedures

Puerto Princesa City: Palawan Adventist Hospital for serious conditions.
Embassy/Consulate: Manila contact for lost passports or legal issues.
Lost Documents: Report to local police immediately for a report.
Natural Hazards: Monitor local news and advisories; power outages possible.

Deepening Connection

Visual Stories

Documentaries on Palawan's biodiversity or the Underground River formation.
Films about Filipino culture or history for broader context.
Experience the beauty of the region through film.
Explore the natural wonders visually.

Sounds & Creativity

Listen to traditional Filipino folk music.
Discover contemporary Filipino artists and their sounds.
Explore Filipino art online, from crafts to modern painting.
Appreciate the local aesthetic through various art forms.

Learning & Community

Join Facebook groups like "Palawan Travel" for peer advice.
Travel forums offer wealth of user-generated content.
Use language apps like Duolingo or Babbel for basic Tagalog.
Learning local words fosters connection and shows respect.

Safety & Preparation Updates

Important Safety Notes

Health Reminders

Stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
Use high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen.
Apply effective insect repellent.
Consult a travel doctor before your trip.

Personal Security

Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, leave.

Environmental Awareness

Do not touch or disturb wildlife.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
Dispose of all trash properly; leave no trace.
Support local conservation efforts where possible.

Wellness & Comfort

Pre-Trip Health

Discuss vaccinations with a travel health professional.
Inquire about malaria prophylaxis for Palawan.
Assemble a comprehensive first aid kit.

During Your Stay

Drink only purified or bottled water.
Use insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk.
Protect yourself from sun exposure with hats and clothing.

Connectivity & Communication

Staying Connected

Expect varying Wi-Fi strength in Sabang.
A local SIM card from Globe or Smart is recommended.
Local calls are more affordable with a Philippine SIM.

Device Management

Carry a power bank for your devices.
Universal power adapter for charging.
Upload important documents to a cloud service.

Preparation Checklist

Travel Essentials

Lightweight, breathable clothing.
Reliable dry bag for water activities.
High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen.
Personal toiletries and medications.
Small backpack for day trips.

Document Preparedness

Original passport and photocopies.
Visa (if applicable).
Travel insurance policy details.
Flight and accommodation confirmations.
Underground River tour vouchers.

Traveler Categories

Business Travelers

While not a main business hub, Sabang suits unique corporate retreats or incentive trips.

Photographers

Stunning karst landscapes and diverse wildlife offer endless photographic opportunities.

Ecotourism Enthusiasts

Ideal for those seeking direct engagement with nature and conservation efforts.

Urgent Note

Always prioritize your well-being. In any emergency, reach out to local authorities or your embassy.

Arrival & Departure

Welcome to Palawan

Airport Protocols

Clear Immigration and Customs:
Have passport, visa (if valid), and onward ticket ready. Follow signs.
Pick Up Local SIM Card:
Purchase a local SIM (Globe or Smart) from airport kiosks. Register it immediately.
Withdraw Local Currency:
Use an ATM at the airport for Philippine Pesos. This is a first chance for cash.

Sabang Orientation

Locate Your Transfer Van:
Proceed outside the terminal to find your pre-arranged van or shared services.
Familiarize Yourself:
Walk around your accommodation area. Locate the main beach, pier, local eateries.
Initial Purchases:
Ensure enough cash for immediate expenses; buy water or snacks from local stores.

Getting Settled

Immigration & SIM

Clear immigration and customs with documents ready.

Currency Access

Withdraw Philippine Pesos from an airport ATM.

Transfer to Sabang

Locate your pre-arranged van or shared van service outside the terminal.

Farewell Considerations

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs in Sabang or Puerto Princesa.
Shipping larger items internationally can be costly and slow.
Check home country customs regulations for imported items.
Be mindful of restrictions on certain shells or animal products.

Pre-Departure Timeline

Reconfirm your van transfer time back to Puerto Princesa 24 hours prior.
Budget 2.5-3 hours for the van journey to Puerto Princesa Airport.
Allow extra time for airport check-in and security procedures.
Add more buffer for international flights from Manila/Cebu.

Travel Document Review

Final Document Check

Boarding passes (printed or digital).
Passport validity for your onward journey.
Any required visas for your next destination.
Confirmation for your next flight.

Packing for Departure

Pack liquids in carry-on according to airport security (100ml).
Consider checking bags if you have many souvenirs.
Double-check that nothing is left behind at accommodation.
Return any rented items like snorkel gear.

Sustainable Shopping

Souvenir Selection

Purchase souvenirs in Sabang or Puerto Princesa before final departure.
Support local artisans and their crafts.
Look for items that genuinely represent local culture.
Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species.
Choose durable and practical souvenirs.

Shipping & Customs

Be aware that shipping larger items internationally can be costly and slow.
Inquire about rates and procedures at major post offices in Puerto Princesa.
Check your home country's customs regulations for any import restrictions.
Certain shells or animal products may face restrictions.
Plan purchases with your luggage allowance in mind.

Departure Logistics

Van Transfer

Reconfirm your van transfer time from Sabang back to Puerto Princesa at least 24 hours in advance.

Time Allowance

Budget at least 2.5-3 hours for the van journey to Puerto Princesa Airport.

Airport Buffer

Allow additional time for airport check-in and security. Add more buffer for international flights from Manila/Cebu.

Physical Backups

Print hard copies of all reservations (flight, hotel, tour). These serve as reliable backups if your phone battery dies or connectivity issues arise.

Essential Resources