The Visayas, Philippines
A structured approach confirms nothing important gets overlooked before your trip.
Check passport validity (6+ months beyond stay). Research and apply for any required visas for the Philippines.
Book international flights to major Philippine hubs. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medicals and activities.
Consult a travel health professional for vaccinations (e.g., Hep A/B, Typhoid). Obtain necessary prescriptions.
Book domestic flights to Dumaguete (DGT) or Cebu (CEB). Reserve Siquijor ferry tickets during high season.
Reserve your main accommodations in Siquijor. Create a general itinerary for island attractions and activities.
Inform your bank of travel dates. Download offline maps and useful apps for navigation and communication.
Reconfirm all flight, ferry, and accommodation bookings. Obtain some Philippine Pesos for immediate use.
Begin packing with climate-appropriate clothing and documents. Arrange mail, pet care, and inform trusted contacts.
Fully charge all your electronic devices. Organize all essential documents in an easily accessible bag.
Securing bookings ahead of time guarantees a stress-free start to your journey.
A little research significantly enriches your experience and decision-making.
Always check passport validity and visa requirements well in advance. Comprehensive travel insurance from providers like World Nomads is highly advisable.
Proceed through immigration, present your passport and arrival card.
Retrieve your checked baggage from the carousel.
Exchange a small amount of currency or withdraw Philippine Pesos for immediate needs upon arrival.
Purchase a local SIM card (Globe or Smart) at the airport or a local shop for immediate connectivity.
From Siquijor or Larena Port, take a tricycle or habal-habal to your accommodation.
Always agree on the fare before boarding the vehicle.
Once at your accommodation, take a moment to orient yourself. Obtain a local map or use your downloaded offline maps.
Ask your accommodation staff for local tips, directions to nearby amenities, and advice on getting around. They are an invaluable source of local knowledge.
Ensure you have enough PHP for your first few days, especially for smaller vendors that may only accept cash.
Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival. Hydration in the tropical climate is paramount.
Upon disembarking your ferry at Siquijor Pier or Larena Port, you will see numerous tricycles and habal-habals waiting.
State your accommodation's name or location, and negotiate the fare before setting off. Many drivers are familiar with most resorts.
A friendly demeanor upon arrival facilitates smoother interactions with local transport providers and accommodation staff. Filipino hospitality is truly welcoming.
Thoughtful pre-departure activities conclude your Siquijor journey smoothly.
Confirming details for your return journey minimizes last-minute stress.
Consider purchasing travel organization products like those from Eagle Creek. They streamline your packing process and contribute to a hassle-free departure.
This helps you manage souvenirs and ensures all essentials are ready for your journey home or onward to your next destination.
