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Resources & References

Resources & References

The Visayas, Philippines

Digital Resources

Helpful apps for the destination

  • Grab

    Useful for limited ride-hailing services in Tagbilaran and Panglao.

  • Google Maps

    Important for navigation; download offline maps of Bohol before you arrive.

  • Google Translate

    Helpful for language assistance; download offline Cebuano/Filipino language packs.

  • WhatsApp

    Widely used for communicating with tour operators, hotels, and locals.

  • Booking.com/Agoda/Airbnb

    For accommodation bookings and finding deals.

Helpful websites for additional planning

  • Philippine Department of Tourism

    Search for official information on attractions, travel advisories, and general tourism guidelines.

  • Local Bohol Tourism Office website

    Check for local updates, events, and specific island information (if available).

  • Major airline websites

    Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia Philippines for flight bookings and schedules.

  • Ferry operator websites

    OceanJet, SuperCat, Lite Ferry for ferry schedules and online ticket purchases.

  • Social media accounts

    Official tourism pages for the Philippines or Bohol on Facebook and Instagram can provide inspiration and updates.

Print Resources

Recommended guidebooks and maps

Local tourist maps frequently available at airports or hotels for Panglao and Bohol. These provide useful layouts of attractions. General guidebooks on the Philippines (e.g., from Rough Guides, Insight Guides) can provide broader context. Ensure you select recent editions for current information.

Books about the destination history, culture, fiction

"The Philippines: A Past Revisited" by Renato Constantino: A historical perspective. "Noli Me Tángere" or "El filibusterismo" by Jose Rizal: Classic Filipino novels that provide cultural insight into the country's history and society. Look for local literature from Boholano authors if available, to gain a specific island perspective.

Local publications worth picking up

Local newspapers in Tagbilaran (e.g., Bohol Chronicle) can provide insight into current events and local issues.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency numbers and contacts

  • National Emergency Hotline: 911 (direct access to emergency services across the Philippines)
  • Police: 117
  • Your Embassy/Consulate in Manila: Search for the current contact details of your country's embassy or consulate. Keep this information readily accessible.

Hospital and clinic locations

  • Tagbilaran: Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital (public), Holy Name University Medical Center (private). These are the main hospitals.
  • Panglao: Smaller clinics are available for minor medical issues. For serious conditions, an anticipated transfer to Tagbilaran or Cebu.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and films about the destination

  • Search for documentaries on Philippine culture, wildlife (tarsiers, marine life), or historical events. These can provide context and visual appreciation before or after your trip.

Music and art to experience before or during the trip

  • Listen to OPM (Original Pilipino Music) or traditional Filipino folk songs. This can immerse you in the local cultural atmosphere.

Online communities and forums for travelers

  • Join Facebook groups for travelers in the Philippines or Southeast Asia. These can offer recent advice, connect you with other travelers, and answer specific questions.

Important Safety Information

Lost document procedures

  • Report immediately to local police for a police report. This document frequently necessary for insurance claims and when applying for replacement documents.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate for assistance with emergency travel documents or a replacement passport.

Natural disaster protocols

  • Monitor local news and weather advisories, especially during typhoon season (July to October).
  • Follow instructions from local authorities and your accommodation staff during any natural disaster. They will guide you on safety procedures or evacuations.

General Precautions

  • Exercise general caution as in any travel destination.
  • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

Language Learning Resources

Apps and Online Tools

  • Duolingo or similar apps can help you learn basic Cebuano or Tagalog phrases.
  • Even a few words can elevate your interactions with locals.

Social Media and Podcasts

Online Communities

  • Join Facebook groups for travelers in the Philippines or Southeast Asia.
  • These can offer recent advice, connect you with other travelers, and answer specific questions.

Digital Content

  • Search for travel podcasts or YouTube channels featuring Bohol for visual and audio insights into the island's attractions and culture.

Essential Pre-Departure Steps

Return Trip Preparation

  1. Reconfirm your onward flights or accommodation in your next destination.
  2. Ensure your passport validity meets the requirements for your next destination.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  1. Purchase souvenirs in advance of your departure day to avoid rushing.
  2. If you plan to ship large items home, confirm procedures and costs with local courier services in Tagbilaran.

Digital Resources Spotlight

Offline Maps

Download Google Maps for Bohol for navigation without internet.

Translation Apps

Utilize Google Translate with offline Cebuano/Filipino language packs.

Local SIM Cards

Purchase a local SIM from Globe or Smart upon arrival for connectivity.

Lost Document Procedures

Steps to Take

  • Police Report

    Report immediately to local police for a police report. This document frequently necessary for insurance claims and when applying for replacement documents.

  • Embassy/Consulate Contact

    Contact your country's embassy or consulate for assistance with emergency travel documents or a replacement passport.

Important Considerations

  • Copies of Documents

    Keep digital and physical copies of all essential documents (passport, visa, etc.) stored separately from the originals.

  • Safety Measures

    Take precautions to prevent loss or theft of documents by using secure bags or hotel safes.

Further Digital Resources

Travel Blogs and Influencers

Local travel bloggers or influencers who cover Bohol often share recent tips and experiences.

Podcasts and Audio Content

Search for travel podcasts featuring Bohol for audio insights into the island's attractions and culture.

Documentaries and Films

Look for documentaries on Philippine culture, wildlife, or history to gain context.

Time-Saving Tips Revisited

Efficient Routing

  • Plan inland tours to cover the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River Cruise, and Man-made Forest in one loop.
  • Many tour operators present this as a standard "countryside tour."

Pre-Booking Benefits

  • Booking flights and popular accommodations in advance suitable, especially during high season or Philippine holidays.
  • Ferry tickets can also be pre-booked online for convenience, saving time at the port.

Group and Family Travel

Managing Group Logistics

  • Book transportation (vans, ferries) and tours in advance for groups to secure availability and potentially group rates.
  • Negotiate group rates for accommodations or private tours.

Family-Friendly Aspects

  • The Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River Cruise, and beaches are suitable for children.
  • Pack child-specific sun protection and insect repellent.
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