Philippine Tour

[kbal]

Hi,

Planning to tour few places in Philippine for 4-5 days including a weekend in late June. Heard that Manila would be crowded. Hence planning to go to Bohol (Tagbilaran), Cebu and Boracay. However I am on a tight budget, so wondering whether the trip would be fine or not. I got hotel offers in Tagbilaran and Boracay for around 200HKD per night for two. Tripadvisor.com says that both hotels are very highly praised. It is a lean season there. Weather report forecast for the places during that period says around 30% chance of precipitation, generally cloudy. Cebu Pacific seems low cost flight solution both domestic and international transport by air in this region.

Now I would like to have comments from experienced expats on the above trip plan. I would like to know whether the logistics are okay and whether I am missing something. I won't stay in Cebu, but will make a half day trip there from Bohol by fast ferry (Takes 90 minutes) to do local sight seeing, mainly the old churches, Magellan's Cross, etc and come back by late afternoon. I am also a bit nervous about Cebu Pacific. Since I am arranging this trip myself, so not yet sure about the Visa requirements also, but guess there is a visa on arrival system there. I would really appreciate any kind of help on making this tour.

Oh, yes, I shall go with my wife!

Thanks!

KBal

[hullexile]

Assuming you don't have an odd passport then no need for a visa (3 weeks allowed).

As stated in your other thread Cebu Pacific are fine.

It is entering the rainy season so expect heavy rain at times.

I would not try to pack too much in, just relax and enjoy. Bohol, Cebu and Boracay seems like one too many for a 4-5 day trip with half the time spent travelling, but everyone is different so that is up to you.

[MovingIn07]

Bear in mind that NOTHING works efficiently in the PHilippines - plenty of delays, traffic, incompetance etc etc ... all usually done with a smile but I would not try to organise something that requires tight connections!

Manila may be crowded, but you won't understand much about Philippine culture without seeing it....

And I agree with Hullexile - don't try to crowd too much in!

[jayinhongkong]

I'd also recommend staying on Alona Beach rather than in Tagbilaran. Tagbilaran is not the nicest city, but Alona Beach on Panglao Island is about 40 minutes away and is mindblowingly beautiful.