Practical Information: Boracay

Local SIM Cards

Globe Telecom and Smart Communications are the main mobile providers. SIM cards are readily available at airports (Caticlan/Kalibo) or on Boracay itself.

SIM Card Information

Tourist SIM packages present generous data allowances.
Activation calls for passport presentation for registration.
SIM cards themselves hold low costs (₱40-₱100).

Internet Access & Postal Services

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Mobile data (4G/LTE) coverage across Boracay offers reliable internet access.

Connectivity & Mail

Wi-Fi quality varies; manage high-speed expectations.
A local post office on the island permits sending postcards.
Courier services like LBC also hold branches for expedited shipping.

Language Barriers

Filipino (Tagalog) and English are official languages. Aklanon is the local dialect.

Linguistic Assistance

English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
Communication generally flows easily for English speakers.
Rosetta Stone can aid language learning for deeper immersion.

Essential Phrases

Learning a few basic phrases in Filipino (Tagalog) shows respect and deepens interactions.

Tagalog Basics

Hello: Kumusta (koo-MOOS-tah)
Thank you: Salamat (sah-LAH-mat)
Yes: Opo / Oo (OH-poh / OH-oh) (Opo is more respectful)

More Useful Phrases & Connectivity

Additional Phrases

Please: Paki- (pah-KEE-) (prefix to a verb)
No: Hindi (heen-DEE)
Excuse me: Pasensya na (pah-SEN-sha nah)
How much?: Magkano? (mag-KAH-noh?)

Digital Connectivity

Consider Airalo for eSIMs for immediate data access.
A Solis Wi-Fi portable device ensures consistent internet.
Google Translate app with offline packs offers language assistance.
Good morning: Magandang umaga (mah-GAN-dang oo-MAH-gah)

Communication Ease

English proficiency makes communication straightforward for visitors.

Business Hours & Schedules

Grasp Boracay's operating hours for activity planning.

Retail & Dining Hours

Shops (D'Mall, Souvenirs) generally operate from 9:00 AM until 10:00 PM or later, especially in peak season. Restaurants typically serve breakfast from 7:00 AM, lunch from 11:00 AM, and dinner until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM.

Nightlife & Necessities

Bars operate from evening until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM. Many convenience stores (7-Eleven, etc.) operate 24/7, presenting access to snacks and necessities at any hour.

Banking & ATMs

Banks typically open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday. ATMs are widely available, especially in D'Mall, Station 2, and major resort areas. Most accept international cards.

ATM Access & Fees

ATMs are prevalent across Boracay's main areas. Be aware of potential international transaction fees charged by your bank.

Financial Considerations

ATMs accept major international cards (Visa, Mastercard).
Verify your bank's withdrawal limits and international fees.
It is generally wise to carry some local currency.

Holiday & Seasonal Impacts

The Philippines observes numerous public holidays, many tied to Catholic traditions.

Planning Around Events

Holy Week (Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday) creates very high crowds.
Expect booked accommodation and higher prices during major holidays.
During the low season (July-October), some smaller establishments might close.

Travel During Holy Week

Expectations

Very high crowds.
Accommodation fully booked.
Higher prices across services.

Operational Adjustments

Many businesses may close.
Some services operate with limited hours.
Transport can become very crowded.

Timing Your Visit

Plan well in advance if traveling during public holidays to avoid disruptions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Grasp local practices for respectful interaction.

Greetings & Dress

A simple "Hello" or "Kumusta" works well. Filipinos are generally friendly. Handshakes apply for formal introductions.

Local Interaction Tips

A nod or smile expresses common acknowledgment.
Beach/Resort: Swimwear and casual beach attire are fine.
Town/Restaurants: Wear a cover-up over swimwear.

Dining & Photography

Refer to dining sections for detailed customs. It generally shows politeness to wait for seating.

Social Graces

Do not start eating until everyone is served.
Photography generally permissible in public areas.
Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.

Cultural Sensitivities

Awareness of local taboos enhances respectful interactions.

Points of Caution

Show deference to elders; this forms a deeply ingrained cultural value.
The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic population; show respect for religious sites.
Best to avoid discussing sensitive political topics unless with trusted local friends.

LGBTQ+ Considerations

The Philippines generally maintains tolerance towards the LGBTQ+ community, especially in tourist areas.

Acceptance in Boracay

Public displays of affection are generally tolerated, yet discretion is advised.
Boracay counts as one of the country's more accepting destinations.
Same-sex marriage is not legalized, but social acceptance remains strong.

Critical Etiquette Points

Reminders

Keep public displays of affection minimal.
Do not point with your finger; purse lips or use your chin.
No photography in certain restricted areas, like private residences.

Cultural Respect

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).
Be quiet and respectful inside churches.
Remove hats before entering religious buildings.

Deepening Cultural Connections

Local Phrases

Please: Paki- (pah-KEE-)
No: Hindi (heen-DEE)
Excuse me: Pasensya na (pah-SEN-sha nah)

Local Gestures

Pointing with lips or chin is common.
The 'Mano Po' gesture shows respect to elders (hand to forehead).
A respectful demeanor always goes a long way.

Local Warmth

The Filipino people are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors.

Accessibility Information

Boracay's infrastructure, while improved, presents challenges for travelers with mobility needs.

Mobility Infrastructure

Boracay's post-rehabilitation infrastructure has wider, paved main roads and pedestrian pathways along White Beach. However, the sandy beach itself and reliance on tricycles still present challenges.

Points for Consideration

Many establishments, especially older ones, may have stairs.
Tricycles, the main local transport, are not wheelchair accessible.
The sandy beach poses a natural barrier for mobility.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

The White Beach pathway is accessible for walking. Willy's Rock is accessible by wading during low tide.

Navigating the Island

Most establishments might possess steps.
No dedicated accessible public transport exists.
Some larger resorts may offer accessible vans or golf carts for guests.

Support for Impairments

No specific, widely advertised services exist for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Communication Assistance

High English proficiency among locals can aid communication for hearing impairments.
Consider preparing visual aids or communication cards.
Pre-planning with tour operators or hotels is advisable.

Resources for Accessibility

Contact specific hotels and resorts directly to inquire about their accessibility features.

Finding Information

Consult online forums or disability travel blogs for firsthand accounts.
Local tourism offices might offer limited assistance.
Always verify information directly with service providers.

Planning Note

Advance planning and direct communication with service providers greatly enhance accessibility.

Practical Information