MileHacker Logo
Siquijor Travel Resources

Siquijor Travel Resources

Siquijor The Visayas, Philippines Travel Guide

Essential Apps for Your Journey

Navigation & Communication

  • Google Maps / Maps.me:

    Download offline maps of Siquijor before your trip. This helps navigation even without an internet connection.

  • Google Translate:

    Save the offline Cebuano/Filipino language pack for basic communication with locals.

  • Booking.com / Agoda / Airbnb:

    Use these apps for accommodation research, booking, and managing your reservations.

  • WhatsApp / Messenger:

    Widely used by locals, resort staff, and tour operators for convenient communication.

  • Airline's App / Ferry Booking Apps:

    Check flight and ferry statuses, manage bookings, and receive updates.

Useful Websites for Planning

  • Philippine Department of Visiting:

    The official tourism website for the Philippines covers general information about destinations and travel advisories. Tourism.gov.ph

  • Philippine Bureau of Immigration:

    For detailed, up-to-date information on visa requirements and entry procedures. E.immigration.gov.ph

  • Local Siquijor Government/Tourism:

    Search for official Siquijor provincial tourism websites or municipal government sites for local events or distinct island advisories. (No specific URL provided for local government)

Other Digital Content

Social Media Accounts

Search for "Siquijor tourism" pages on Facebook and Instagram. Many local businesses, resorts, and tourism boards maintain active social media accounts.

Podcasts About Siquijor

Search for travel podcasts featuring Siquijor. Many travelers and content creators share personal experiences, tips, and visual guides.

Online Communities and Forums

Join Facebook groups like "Philippines Travel" or "Siquijor Backpackers." These communities offer real-time advice and insights.

Language Learning Resources

Basic Phrases & Beyond

  • Beyond "Salamat po" (Thank you), learning more Cebuano phrases is good.
  • A little effort in the local language receives warm reception.
  • It fosters meaningful interactions with locals.

Learning Tools

  • Utilize language apps such as Babbel, Duolingo or Memrise.
  • Online resources provide additional learning opportunities.
  • These materials assist in acquiring more Cebuano/Filipino phrases.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

  • No specific Siquijor-only guidebooks are widely available.
  • Comprehensive guidebooks about the Philippines (e.g., Rough Guides, Lonely Planet) feature Siquijor.
  • These offer general overview information on attractions and culture.
  • Local maps are often available at ferry ports or accommodations.

Books About the Destination

  • To deepen your understanding, read books on the Philippines' history.
  • Explore its heritage or folklore for valuable context.
  • Works focusing on Visayan culture or Filipino mystical traditions are pertinent.
  • Fiction set in the Philippines also offers cultural insights.

Local Publications

  • Local newspapers or community bulletins provide insights into current events.
  • They share info on local happenings.
  • Details on specific town fiestas may appear.
  • These offer a grassroots perspective on island life.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Hotline

  • National Emergency Hotline: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
  • This serves as the the universal number for emergencies in the Philippines.

Hospitals

  • Siquijor Provincial Hospital: +63 (35) 480 9205 (Siquijor Municipality).
  • Western Siquijor Provincial Hospital (San Juan, check local directories).

Police & Accommodation

  • Philippine The National police force (PNP) Siquijor: +63 (35) 480 9222.
  • Your accommodation staff offers local assistance during an emergency.
  • They help contact relevant authorities.

Lost Document Procedures

Immediate Steps

  • Report lost or stolen documents immediately to the local police (PNP).
  • Obtain a police report from the authorities.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance with replacement travel documents.

Embassy and Consulate Information

  • Keep the contact details (phone number, address) for your home country's embassy.
  • Embassies are usually located in Manila or Cebu.
  • They assist with lost passports, medical emergencies, or legal issues.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Monitoring & Following Instructions

  • Monitor local news and weather advisories, especially during typhoon season.
  • Heed any instructions from local authorities.
  • Follow evacuation orders or advice to stay indoors.

Ferry Cancellations

  • Be aware that rough seas due to bad weather result in ferry cancellations.
  • Such cancellations disrupt travel plans.
  • Always check ferry schedules with the port authority.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and Films

Search for travel documentaries or vlogs featuring the Philippines and Siquijor on streaming platforms or YouTube.

Music and Art

Explore Filipino folk music, notably from the Visayan region, to get a feel for the local sounds. Contemporary Filipino pop music is also popular.

Online Communities

Join Facebook groups dedicated to "Philippines Travel" or "Siquijor Backpackers." These communities offer real-time advice plus tips.

Essential Emergency & Medical Information

Keep emergency numbers and hospital locations readily accessible. Your accommodation staff assists in emergencies.

Responsible Travel Pledge

Ways to Give Back to the Destination

Beyond Financial Contributions

  • Respect Local Environment:
  • Support Local Businesses:

    Support local businesses and community initiatives.

  • Engage Respectfully:

    Engage in respectful cultural exchange with local people.

Environmental Commitments

  • Minimize Waste:

    Reduce reliance on single-use plastics by bringing reusable items. Dispose of all trash properly.

  • Recycle:

    If recycling facilities are available at your accommodation, separate your waste.

  • Respect Marine Life:

    When underwater exploration, do not touch corals, fish, or any marine animals. Maintain a safe distance.

Cultural Commitments

Respectful Interaction

Approach local traditions and beliefs, especially those concerning traditional healing, with an open mind and genuine respect. Avoid judgment or mockery.

Dress Modestly

Adhere to local customs regarding dress, notably when visiting sacred sites, churches, or local homes.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, and respect their decision if they decline. Prioritize privacy.

General Cultural Respect to Maintain

Interactions and Local Spirit

  • Engage with locals in a polite and friendly manner.
  • Learning a few basic phrases in Cebuano shows your effort.
  • Understand Siquijor's unique spiritual reputation is deeply ingrained in its character.
  • Approach the island's unique spirit with curiosity and reverence.

Behavioral Awareness

  • Avoid any actions that could be seen as disrespectful.
  • Disrespect includes local customs, elders, or religious practices.

Sustainable Practices to Commit To

Environmental Care

  • Minimize Waste: Use reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags.
  • Dispose of all trash properly in designated bins.
  • Respect Marine Life: Do not touch corals, fish, or marine animals when diving or snorkeling.
  • Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose sunscreens free of harmful chemicals.

Resource Conservation

  • Conserve Resources: Be mindful of your water and energy consumption at your accommodation.

Responsible Travel Statement

Support local businesses, minimize your environmental footprint, and always approach cultural differences with respect. Your actions contribute positively to the destination and its communities.