Popular resorts in the Philippines. Features of national cuisine. What to see in Bantayan

The Philippines is the most beautiful island nation in Southeast Asia. Comfortable climate and romantic atmosphere of the resort attract many tourists from all over the world. It's heavenly picturesque corner planets from magnificent beaches, waterfalls, rice terraces and a variety of coral reefs.

The Philippines will appeal to both fans of serene languishing under the sun, and lovers of active pastime. Hiking, cycling, skydiving, mountain climbing and other exciting activities can offer it amazing place. How to organize a vacation in the Philippines on your own - our step-by-step instructions.

The Philippines is an island nation with the fifth longest coastline in the world.

The seas surrounding the Philippines are the South China, the Philippine and the Sulawesi Sea.

The archipelago consists of more than 7,000 islands, the largest of which are Luzon, Mindanao, Mindoro, Palawan, Visayas.

The capital city of Manila is located on the island of Luzon.

Time difference with Moscow: + 5 hours.

The main resorts of the Philippines

Boracay is a favorite place for tourists for an unforgettable beach holiday. Despite the small size of the island, it has many clean white beaches. A developed tourist infrastructure will allow travelers with different incomes to find suitable accommodation for themselves. This is an ideal option for diving and snorkelling, plus a fun night life, a large selection of bars and restaurants will not let you get bored.

An interesting resort - the island of Bohol is also available for self-study. It attracts tourists with its lush tropical vegetation, chocolate hills, interesting historical buildings, unique wildlife, endless opportunities for diving and underwater photography.

Palawan is rightfully considered the best place for a secluded beach holiday. No wonder this archipelago is a national park of world importance. Virgin exotic flora and fauna, varied undersea world, majestic rocks, primeval caves - all this and much more can be seen by visiting the island.

Fans of respectable hotels, high service and cultural attractions can recommend Cebu - the oldest island in the Philippines. The place will appeal to those who wish to enjoy the vibrant nightlife, interesting scuba diving and the hospitality of the colorful locals.

Climate in the Philippines

In general, the state is located in a hot climate zone with a high level of humidity. However, there may be some differences in the weather on the eastern and western sides of the archipelago.

Philippine meteorologists distinguish four types of climate that affect the length of the dry and rainy seasons:

1. On west coast the dry season lasts from mid-November to the end of April. The rest of the time - rains;
2. A climate with no dry season as such, while maximum amount precipitation falls from December to the second decade of March, and their minimum amount falls on the spring months: the end of March - May.
3. The climate is similar to the previous one, when it is impossible to specify a certain period of the year with a minimum number of rainy days. Precipitation falls evenly throughout the year. The third and second types of climates are characteristic of east coast Philippines.
4. Weather conditions due to the short dry season (December-February or March-May). Such climate prevails more often in the central part of the country.

Given these features, the best time to relax in the Philippines is the period from January to March.

Advice! Even if the dates of the planned trip fall on the best climatic period, you should first clarify the conditions for the rest on the selected island. So, for example, February in Boracay is the time of algae bloom, which means that to swim in the azure sea you will have to walk three meters through a slightly slippery mass.

Particular attention should be paid to the rainy season. For the Philippines, there is no feature of the greatest amount of precipitation at night, as is the case in most countries of Southeast Asia. Rains in the archipelago are floods, cancellations of air and ferry flights, the danger of typhoons.

The most dangerous month in terms of typhoons is August.

How to get to the Philippines

Only possible way visit the archipelago - by plane.

There are 10 international airports, the largest of which are located in Manila and Mactan Island (Cebu).

There is no direct flight from Russia to the Philippines.

Residents of the central region can build a flight to the Philippine capital or Cebu Island with a transfer in Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore and other cities.

Far Easterners have the opportunity to make an air flight with a connection in Seoul, Beijing and other Chinese airports.

A flight from Moscow to Manila, which is optimal in terms of price-duration ratio, via Guangzhou in February 2019 will cost 320 euros, while the travel time, including transfers, is almost 16 hours.

While a flight from Khabarovsk at the same price will take 35 hours and will include two transfers in China. A shorter flight, taking into account connections, will cost 470 euros, and you will have to spend no more than 10 hours on the way.

Entry procedure

Important! Russian citizens have the right to stay in the Philippines without a visa for no more than 30 days.

To enter the country, you must have a foreign passport valid for at least six months on the date of departure, a completed migration card and confirmation of the date of return departure (copy itinerary receipt or e-ticket).

customs procedure and passport control is generally standard, the result of its passage is a stamp in the passport with the date of entry and permission for a 30-day stay.

If 30 allowed visa-free days are not enough for a tourist, then upon entry, you can request permission for a 59-day stay. A similar stamp is placed instead of a 30-day one. The service is paid.

By the way! If the need for a long stay has already arisen in the country, such an extension can be issued at any of the 44 Immigration Offices located in most major cities.

Transport in the Philippines

You can travel between the islands by ferry or by air; almost every island has an airport.

Air Transport

Local carriers: Zest Air (Air Asia), Philippine Airlines, AirphilExpress, Cebu Pacific Air, SEAIR.

Important! Availability of the airport does not guarantee direct flights with other islands. Often, to get from one airport to another, you need to make a transfer in Manila.

Some airports apply a system of fees at departure, it can be included in the ticket price, or it can be collected in cash on the day of departure. The amount is on average 100 pesos.

Water transport

Boats, ferries, small boats and even sailboats run between the islands. The choice is entirely up to the traveler. It is worth considering that the movement by sea is organized by both large companies and smaller firms and even private entrepreneurs.

Advice! It is preferable to travel on ferries and boats of large companies, which, as a rule, are in better condition, which is noticeable even externally.

The price of tickets depends on two factors - the distance and the carrier company. Additionally, you will have to pay a port tax - from 10 to 30 pesos.

Wheeled transport

The most popular way of cruising around the islands is Jeepney - something between a military jeep and a minibus, usually covered with bright stickers on the outside. It is possible to get into such a car by simply waving your hand at the roadway. The fare will cost about 10 pesos.

Tricycles are a kind of motorcycle taxi, where a booth for passengers is attached to a motorcycle. Travel on such a unit will cost about 8 pesos per 1 km.

Motorcycles are the most common mode of transportation for locals.

Manila has an excellent bus network, as well as an LRT light metro.

In addition to Manila, buses operate mainly on intercity routes.

Taxi - inexpensive option move around the city or within the resort. The cost of the trip is 12 pesos per 1 km. You can book a car at the hotel or just stop on the road.

Important! Before the taxi car starts moving, it is important to make sure that the driver understands where you need to be taken and turned on the meter.

Where to stay

Choosing a hotel is the second question after choosing a route.

There is a wide range of accommodation options in the Philippines: from ascetic bungalows to luxury hotels.

Advance booking can be made on the websites www.roomguru.ru, www.booking.com, if we are talking about hostels and hotels. The www.airbnb.com resource is suitable for choosing private apartments

Worth knowing! The cheapest housing in the Philippines is not suitable for those who are squeamish about insects or reverent for comfort. By saving on housing, you save on the amenities, and often the sanitary side of your residence.

On the island of Boracay, the most economical option for 2-bed accommodation offers the Blue Bamboo Hotel, where a day will cost from 10 euros.

The Marnin’s Place hotel can be distinguished as optimal in terms of price-quality ratio, a night in which will cost from 16 euros. Or a more expensive 4-star hotel Coast Boracay, the cost of accommodation in which is from 137 euros per night.

On the island of Bohol, famous for its Chocolate Hills, you can find an accommodation option - from 7 euros per night - hostel Dormitels.ph Bohol.

The best in terms of "price-quality" are the Open Doors Haven Hotel, where accommodation in a budget 2 local number will cost 11 euros, or a little more expensive Imagine-Bohol, offering apartments for 26 euros per day.

Similar prices for accommodation are observed on the islands of Palawan and Cebu.

Money

The national currency is the peso. Far from everywhere in the country, with the exception of large cities and resort areas, you can pay for bank card, so you will either have to carry cash with you, or use local ATMs.

When withdrawing money from a card in almost any ATM, a fee of 200 pesos is charged. The allowable amount of a single withdrawal is an average of 10,000 pesos.

Currency exchange at a rate close to the officially established one can only be carried out in large cities. At the resorts, the exchange will be less profitable, plus a service fee of up to 10% is applied everywhere and tips are accepted for the staff of the exchange office.

It is preferable to bring dollars with you.

Planning a budget

Expenses within the country, in addition to accommodation, consist of several blocks:

Safety

1. Observe the rules of personal hygiene, wash hands before and after eating;
2. Drink only bottled water;
3. Fruits and vegetables must be thoroughly washed and rinsed with water from a bottle before eating;
4. For the safety of personal belongings, it is enough to keep an eye on your pockets and wallets in crowded places.

What else do you need to know

1. The Philippines is a rather poor state, especially in the provinces and small islands. A “rich white” tourist is literally overwhelmed by crowds of beggars, most often children.
2. Filipinos are an open and hospitable people, ready to help. But, returning to the wording "big rich tourist" in big cities, there are often facts with people who want to help not out of kindness, but for financial gain. Therefore, before agreeing to help, make sure the helper's intentions are disinterested.
3. Do not book to visit major cities for more than 1-2 days. A trip to Manila is unlikely to leave positive emotions, although it will certainly be educational. The reason for this is the widespread noise, not too clean streets and insane overcrowding, supplemented by tourists.
4. Allow extra travel time when planning your trip. Literally any type of transport is delayed in the Philippines: from buses to planes. The reason is that one of the character traits of the locals is laziness and slowness.
5. Be sure to take an adapter for sockets.
6. Be prepared that when you enter a store or bank, you will be searched and searched. This is how local security measures are manifested.
7. Do not pay attention to the fact that wherever you have to pay, the amount will be more on average by 10 pesos. Tips, fees, bonuses are common practice in the country.

Knowing these simple rules, a well-planned budget and a plane ticket bought on time will significantly save on an independent trip to the Philippines in 2019. The duration of the flight to the place of rest pays off with the unique sights of the archipelago, the beauty and warmth of the island beaches.

The atmosphere of self-traveling in the Philippines - in the video:

Our compatriots have already mastered the nearby hot countries, and now they want something more! And they are doing it right, because on our land there are still a huge number of countries that are in no way inferior to the sea resorts that are familiar to us, and possibly even surpass them in many ways.

If you have long been tormented by the question - where is it better to relax, do not hesitate: in the Philippines you will find what you have been missing for so long!

What is this state? It is located in Southeast Asia, and has one unique feature: its territory is located on more than seven thousand islands! These patches of land are washed by several seas and the Pacific Ocean at once, and the favorable tropical and subequatorial climate makes local flora and fauna incredibly rich and varied.

Istanbul is called the city of contrasts, but in the Philippine Islands the whole country is filled with them! Everyone, even small island ok has its own unique microclimate and features for recreation, and large cities combine historical and architectural monuments belonging to different eras and cultures. Very close to each other can be luxurious hotels and shantytowns where the poor live.

What are the weather seasons on the islands?

Since the state is located near the equator, there is no winter here in our understanding. high season called the period from October to April, in the summer there are frequent typhoons and rains, but not for long, so this does not prevent tourists from getting a great vacation.

The most even climate without suddenly flying hurricanes and with little rain is on the islands of Mindanao, Cebu, Bohol, Samal. In general, the air temperature, even in the coldest season, does not fall below +25 degrees, so you can safely forget warm clothes at home.

Where is the best place to relax in the Philippines?

Of course, a lot depends on your preferences and cash in your wallet. Of course, Boracay and Palawan are the most interesting in terms of education, they are advised to visit first of all by all connoisseurs.

The capital of Palawan, Puerto Princes, is a very interesting place in itself. But in the vicinity there are many incredible places for excursions: a crocodile farm, a garden with many butterflies, picturesque waterfalls and underground river where you can sail by boat. The main attraction of Palawan is the El Nido archipelago, which includes 45 small islands. Here are the magnificent sandy beaches, picturesque waterfalls, thermal springs, and many, many wonderful, lushly colored and fragrant tropical nature! Undoubtedly, this is one of the best places to relax in the Philippines.

Another important tourist centre-, one of the smallest and most beautiful islands in the Philippines. Its heart is White Beach, 4 kilometers long, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, the second most important is Pukka-Shell Beach. It is the capital of water activities - surfing, diving and snorkeling. There are few opportunities for shopping here, but all kinds of tropical fruits are countless here.

The most popular among diving enthusiasts is the island of Negros. It got its name from the black volcanic mountains visible from everywhere on the island. There are several diving centers here at once, and local underwater beauties invariably attract tourists from all over the world. Here you can see dolphins and even whales - that is why people especially willingly come here on vacation with children.

If you spent all the money on tickets, go to Samal Island. It has the lowest prices on everything - and the beaches are as magnificent as on other islands. And if you take a ferry to the city of Davao (only 15 minutes on the way), you will be taken to world capital durian, a unique tropical fruit known for its heavenly flavor, reminiscent of creamy hazelnut ice cream, and the terrible smell of rotten meat, cesspit and garlic.

If you want to combine the seemingly incompatible, then it is best to relax in the Philippines on the island of Cebu. It has a wonderful climate - rains and typhoons are rare. The beaches, as elsewhere on the islands, are simply gorgeous. The coastline is built up with comfortable hotels, and very close by there are many restaurants, nightclubs, discos and shops for inexpensive shopping. Plus - located on the island ancient capital Philippines - the city of Cebu, where a tourist who is not indifferent to historical and architectural monuments, will find a lot of interesting things.

We must not forget about the capital - Manila. It's amazing interesting city, all the sights of which are difficult to describe. We can only say that spending a few days in this Asian metropolis will be informative and interesting in terms of shopping.

Seven thousand islands of the Philippine archipelago offer tourists such a varied vacation that travelers, without leaving this prosperous and hospitable country, can see and experience all the adventures of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia and Hong Kong at the same time in one trip.

In terms of the diversity of natural beauties, beach and ocean opportunities, the brightness of cuisine and the originality of culture, the country has left all the countries of Southeast Asia far behind. All this scattering of tourist treasures makes it equally good for those who have a tight wallet and those who never pay for air.

A few tips and directions for those who do not have much experience in saving on long-distance travel, quality preparation for the trip - and the Philippines turns from a dream into a fabulous reality.

Visa, vaccinations, money

If your visit to the Philippines does not last more than four weeks, then there will be no hassle regarding an entry permit. For more than a month, those who have a lot of free time and an unlimited bank account spend in the archipelago.

Despite the fact that the Philippines is a developed and civilized country, some vaccinations will come in handy:

• if you want to enjoy without any restrictions local cuisine, eat not in hotel restaurants, not in establishments for tourists, then you need to be vaccinated against hepatitis A;
• if you like to travel from one fishing village to another, to see with your own eyes how real Filipinos live, a typhoid vaccine will make you feel more confident;
• lovers of the virgin jungle, impenetrable rainforests, you need to think about vaccination against encephalitis.

All these precautions are not a prerequisite for visiting the Philippines, but to be sure, this recommendation should not be neglected.

The Philippine peso is the most preferred currency in the country. You can also pay in dollars, but all prices are instantly rounded down to your unfavorable side. You can pay with cards in large cities and in the main ones. In short, cash is indispensable.

Road

There are no direct flights from Russia to the Philippines. Will have to fly through China (the most a budget option). The flight from Moscow to Guangzhou, from Guangzhou to Manila is operated by China Southern.

The total travel time will not exceed 15 hours. The waiting time at the flight connection point can be up to 8.5 hours. But this is not scary at all, moreover, it is even profitable. During this time, you can go to bus tour through the most beautiful city in China (up to 10 euros per person, trip duration 3.5 hours). Air ticket (round trip) for one person - from 447 euros.

A flight via Beijing costs a hundred euros more, via Singapore - the same story.

Hotels

Tourist accommodation in the Philippines is not as cheap as in Cambodia or Vietnam. If we talk about the capital, Manila, then for less than 20 euros per day it is almost impossible to find a room even in a very modest hotel. But the bulk of tourists travel to the Philippine archipelago not for the sights of the capital.

On the island of Luzon, the largest of all the Philippine islands, a place in a hostel will cost 5-6 euros, and a private room - 8-9 euros. Double room in an institution with a comfort level of 3 * - 13-15 euros.

A small hotel room with a private beach - 29-37 euros (buffet breakfast). Accommodation in a family pension - from 10 euros. In this case, a separate room is provided to the guests, and all amenities are shared with the family of the owners of the house.

If you are counting on European-level comfort, then get ready to pay at least 30 euros per day for housing. Cheaper hotels offer very modest conditions, you will not find a TV in the room, and the shower will most likely be on the floor. Two parameters that guarantee the vast majority of hotels in the Philippines - a high level of service and cleanliness.

Cuisine and food prices

Features of national cuisine

Filipino cuisine is an amazing combination of Asian and Spanish culinary traditions, with a touch of American food preparation. Such a complex cocktail has spawned many completely unusual and unique flavor combinations.

Of course, local dishes are not distinguished by such exotic brightness as in neighboring countries, are appreciated here Tasty food and offer it on every corner. Tourists have nothing to fear from very spicy food, and there are very few exotic dishes that a traveler from the Old World is not prepared for.

It seems incomprehensible that, despite the widest opportunities to have the freshest fish and seafood on the table, most Filipinos are convinced meat eaters. However, to visit the archipelago and not try the special local fish dishes is an unforgivable mistake.

Only here you can try special red lobsters and crabs, amazingly prepared tuna on the archipelago, and dishes from sea bass, milk fish and sharks will make you forget all the previous taste experience.

Among the most common dishes, a special impression can be made:

• Bangus - fish casserole with raisins in sour sauce;
• Lechon - a pig baked whole, under a crispy crust;
• Chicharon - a popular appetizer made from pork skin, fried until brittle, served with a special vinegar filling;
• Kare - oxtail soup, hearty and fragrant. A bowl of this soup may well replace a full meal;
• Adobo is fried meat marinated in vinegar. Favorite addition to the dish is mashed pork liver or coconut cream;
• Halo-halo is an inexpensive but very popular dessert made from pieces of fruit and a special sauce made from milk and crushed ice;
• Rice cakes - dozens different types of this delicacy will not harm the figure, but will bring a lot of pleasure to the sweet tooth.

A particularly tasty and unusual dish is crabs boiled in sprite. Spices give the dish a unique piquancy.

Of the exotic and unusual dishes, Balut can be considered the most common in the Philippines. A boiled duck egg with a germ is not the most pleasant sight, but locals confident in its usefulness, especially for men. The taste of the dish is really unusual, only the most courageous tourists dare to try it.

About prices

You can eat very cheaply in the archipelago. If your desires are limited to rice (there are thousands of different recipes in the archipelago), sweet rice buns and water, then expenses are limited to two euros per day.

Food in street canteens (namely, local residents eat in them) is a little more expensive: breakfast - 0.50 euros, lunch - two euros, dinner - 2-3 euros. Total: 4.5-5.5 euros. The canteens serve only national dishes. Despite the fact that at first glance these establishments are very suspicious, the food here is very tasty, and the food is absolutely healthy and safe.

There are a huge number of restaurants and cafes for tourists in the Philippines, but they are never crowded. Lunch here will cost 8-12 euros, and if with beer, wine or strong alcohol (there are no problems with drinking in the country, the country is Catholic), then 17-20 euros.

Italian pizzerias or Chinese restaurants are popular here, the average check is 10 euros. It is customary in the country to encourage service personnel with an amount not exceeding 10% of the order value.

It is best not to buy water, but to take it in special vending machines in your dishes, this allows you to save up to 5-7 euros per day.

Self-catering will cost a little more than food in street canteens. Be careful with alcohol - a liter bottle of rum (excellent quality) - 1.7-2.2 euros!

Where to visit and what to see?

The most impressive impression is made on European tourists magnificent nature Philippines. Of all the natural beauties not to be missed:

• The Banaue Rice Terraces are more than ten thousand square kilometers of rice cultivation areas, carved into the mountains with the help of hands and the simplest tools back in the 1st millennium BC. You can get from Manila ( night bus, journey - 7 hours, ticket - 11 euros), it will take two days to visit (overnight - 10 euros, guide services - 5 euros);
• Palawat is a group of islands with a developed tourism infrastructure. The best beaches, great diving opportunities, magnificent scenery, protected areas- Basically, this is what tourists come here for. Quite an expensive pleasure: the road from the capital is by plane (52 euros round trip, housing - from 20 euros for a modest room);
• Beaches are one of the main wealth of the Philippines, more than 30,000 kilometers of white-sand ocean shores are ready to receive several million tourists every year, convenient beach possible on most of the country's islands;
• Chocolate Hills is a natural masterpiece of the island of Bohol, located near the resort of Carmen. You can get there by ferry or plane. The journey does not take much time, tickets are within 30-40 euros;
• Volcanoes Taal and Mayon - the first - the smallest active in the world, Mayon - is famous for its ideal geometric outlines. Walk with a guide - from 7 euros per day;
• Diving is the best in the world. Plenty of schools that issue certificates different levels. Bright flora and fauna of the ocean, crystal clear water.

In all major cities of the archipelago can be found in the Gothic or Baroque style. These are churches built by the Spanish colonizers. In each temple you can find an altar painting of the Spanish school of painting, sculpture, and unusual interiors.

Good to know

The Philippines is a fairly calm and prosperous country. However, it is worth remembering some rules that will make your vacation on the archipelago truly cloudless:

• Visits to those islands where the Muslim population predominates should be avoided. These are places of inter-religious conflicts. However, no one sells tours to these islands, and local residents will always warn if a foreigner has a desire to go to unstable parts of the country;
• Stealing on the streets of the cities of the Philippines is rare, but such cases are happening more and more often. Immediately contact the police, the criminal will be found, and the money and valuables will be returned. The best option is to have only copies of documents with you, never carry all the money with you, store valuables in a hotel safe;
• Do not forget about tips, often only this money makes up the income of the attendants. The reward depends on the quality of work, and can range from 5% to 10% of the restaurant bill, or 20-25 pesos (0.50 euros) for porters, taxi drivers, etc.;
• Have good health insurance with you (not just mandatory!), otherwise, you will have to pay medical care pay very dearly;
• Do not pay attention to beggars, if you give a child chewing gum or candy, the next day a "flock" of 10-15 children will demand sweets;
• Beware of pimps who lie in wait for naive Europeans in large cities. They bring nothing but trouble to travelers.

Have a nice trip to the very beautiful country Asia!

Main trump cards Philippine Islands— their nature, exotics and locals. The incredible beauty of landscapes, tropical forests and national parks attract travelers from all over the world. Clear water and snow-white beaches give the country the status of a paradise. And the Filipinos are always very sociable, smiling and ready to help any tourist. The archipelago consists of more than 7 thousand islands, each of which stands out for its own recreational features.

Location selection

The best islands of the Philippines, popular with most tourists, can be represented as such a list: Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Palawan, Panglau, Negros, Bantayan. Selection criteria are individual for each tourist. If main feature selection - the opportunity to actively spend time, then any part of the archipelago will do. Diving, snorkeling and kiting are developed at the highest level. For divers, this is a real expanse - the rich underwater world, combined with clear waters, opens up new facets of this hobby.

Other key criteria, especially for family trips, are often:

• low cost of living;
• safety and tranquility;
• developed beach structure;
• low prices for food and entertainment;
• lack of tourist congestion.

Boracay equal in beach holiday No. white sand texture resembles powder, and hotel complexes located in the shade of branched palm trees. As the sun goes down, the active nightlife begins. This is one of the best options for young people. The entertainment infrastructure is developed very widely - bars, restaurants, discos. But all these pluses led to a large influx of travelers. So for those who are looking for solitude, Boracay is unlikely to suit. And the prices are above average.

Bohol is predominantly chosen by those who welcome eco-tourism. A world-class attraction is the picturesque chocolate hills. Popeyed monkeys live here - tarsiers. An entire park is dedicated to animals. The infrastructure is poorly developed, there are also few nightlife activities, so the main attraction of the territory lies in the coastal zone.

Panglao is located near Bohol, and the coastline is better there, but the price tags for accommodation are not the most reasonable. In shops, on the contrary, you have to go across the bridge to Bohol. The constant movement from Bohol territory to Panglao does not suit everyone. The beaches are crowded, from morning until sunset, foreigners and locals gather.

Palawan is distinguished by its main attraction - a park consisting of a network of caves that are connected by an underground river. Rest is considered comfortable, but also expensive. In addition to the pricing policy, travelers are not satisfied with the remoteness of this part from the main archipelago and the lack of a permanent power supply. But for lovers of untouched nature and solitude, the place is perfect. This is the safest part in the archipelago - there are no volcanoes nearby, and earthquakes do not occur.

Negros was chosen by divers. This is the main positive side of the item. Another advantage is a large number of spa salons. The beaches are small volcanic sand. It will be quite possible to retire away from the main tourist flow. Fans of wandering through the jungle will also find something to do.

Cebu is predominantly a sightseeing holiday. Cebu highlights many historical attractions, scope for shopping, beautiful nature and ideal climatic conditions. But the underdeveloped beach infrastructure is not suitable for everyone, because most vacationers are looking for a good coastal zone in this island nation. However, the small island of Bantayan is located very close to Cebu. Bantayan satisfies all of the above criteria. Its size is very large, there are shops and good internet. At the same time, it is small for large crowds of travelers and local vacationers. The coastal zone here is no worse than in Boracay, and the prices for accommodation and food are much lower. It is often called a lost paradise due to the lack of crowds of tourists. For families and holidays with children, the place will be an ideal destination. There are three cities on the island territory - Santa Fe, Bantayan, Madridejos. The first one is in great demand.

Which island in the Philippines to choose the tourist decides independently, depending on the preferences and nature of the holiday. The local currency is Philippine pesos. One dollar is equal to 49 pesos, 1 peso is equivalent to 1.25 rubles.

How to get there?

In order to move to Bantayan, you need to sit on ferry crossing in the city of Hagnai. Ferries leave every 30-60 minutes depending on the time of day. However, flights may be canceled if there are not enough passengers for the trip. A ticket in 2019 costs 170 local units, the journey takes 70-80 minutes.

You can get to the station from Cebu City by bus. To do this, you should find the Northern Bus Station next to the large supermarket "SMcityCebu". At the station, you need to find buses going to Hagnay. Travel time will be approximately 3.5 hours. Fares range from 120 to 180 pesos, depending on the type of carrier. Old cars without air conditioning are cheaper.

From here you can also take a specialized route that goes right to the island, as it is transported by a cargo ferry. There are only 4 of them per day: at 12 am, at half 4 am, at 10 am and at 12:30.

If the departure is planned from Boracay, then from the city of Iloilo you need to take a passenger boat— Bungy. Boats move only on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Departure at 9 am. On other days the ships move in the opposite direction at the same time. The journey will take about 3.5 hours. But it is worth considering that due to low tides, the schedule may be different.

Bantayan is often combined with Malapascua Island. From here you need to get to the port of Mayo, where you can take the bus route for 18 pesos. You should get off at the Don Pedro stop, and then get on a tricycle (motorcycle with a sidecar) to Hagnay. The fee is 15 local units. Transport will deliver to the ferry station, as in the first case.
Upon arrival at the port of Santa Fe, you can also use the tricycle. You can bargain with drivers, and any route will not cost 25 points. First, everyone announces a price of at least a hundred.

Accommodation

Where to rest in the Philippines if the Bantayan territory is chosen? Of the three settlements stands out Santa Fe. There are high-quality deserted beaches, the most beautiful landscapes, cleanliness and tranquility. The town of the same name with the island is intended for the most part for grocery shopping and sightseeing. This is a large market square, many catering outlets and ATMs. Madridejos is famous for the ruins of the fort, which are suitable as a landscape for a photo shoot. There are practically no tourists there.

Housing prices start at 500 pesos for a room in small hostels, and from 1000 for a hotel on the first line. Holidays in December are considered the peak of the tourist season, which is why housing may increase in price. Some hotels offer discounts for longer stays. For an average cost of 800 p., you can get a double room with a private bathroom, TV, wardrobe and fan. For a minimal fee, there may be no bathroom or closet, only beds and chairs.

If the arrival falls at night, it is better to book a hostel for the first night, and in the morning to walk in search of a suitable home, if this option does not suit you. Make a reservation immediately long time it’s not worth it, because during the check-in a lot of minuses can be revealed, and the money will not be returned back. It's easy to rent a house indigenous people offers many options. You should look for signs "House for rent".

Meal fee

A traveler will not remain hungry even with the most modest budget - the price tags for food here are low. However, Filipino food cannot be called diverse either. Many of the proposed dishes consist of the same products - meat, rice with additives, soups. But fruits are presented in abundance.

In the central part of the island there are many cafes, food courts and other food outlets. In food courts, the cost will be slightly higher than in cafeterias.

Review approximate prices for food (in pesos):

• a bowl of soup from 35 to 70;
• small pork skewers - 12;
• unleavened rice - 10, and rice fried with garlic - 25;
• grilled shrimp and squid - 35 and 85 respectively;
• rice with chicken - 85;
• one chicken wing - 40, breast - 45;
• a plate of seafood - up to 50;
• chicken liver - 20;
• tea and coffee - 15;
• beer - 40.

Hard Kock Kafe can be called the cheapest, but its minus is that the menu is very limited. Ice Blue cafe serves fish and pork dishes well. They also offer delicious fruit shakes. Excellent cocktails can be tasted at Cou cou cafe. You should not order European dishes, even if they are on the list - there will be a noticeable strong difference from the usual dishes.

Here you can taste the national treat called dangit - this is fried chicken with rice wrapped in banana leaves. Other traditional food is sold mainly from street stalls. The dish is called egg balut - these are duck eggs in which the fetus has not yet fully developed.

Philippine price tags for alcoholic drinks are not inflated. The local beer San Migue has a pleasant taste, the fee starts from 30 p., it will be a little more expensive in bars. Of the European varieties, you can find Heineken, Corona, Budweiser.
There is also a market in the center, where many fruit stalls are open.

Fruits cost the following amounts:

• mango - up to 100;
• pomelo - up to 80;
• papaya - about 50;
• bananas - about 40;
• apples - from 40 per kg;
• coconut - from 20 per 1 piece;
• tangerines - from 5 per 1 piece.

Beaches and entertainment

It is better to relax in the Philippines on the Bantayan coast. There are three main beaches on the island territory, this is not much, but there are no complaints about their arrangement and quality.

Sugar Beach (sometimes called Kotabeach because of the name of the hotel of the same name nearby). In length, it stretched for 2 kilometers. The water is crystal clear, the entrance to the sea is perfect. Sugar sand is great for playing on it. In January, nearby hotels put up their sunbeds. main feature- a form in the form of the letter V, which is why both sunset and sunrise can be observed from one place.

Alice Beach. It starts from the ferry station and is considered the best place to watch the sunrise. There are always sun loungers and umbrellas, although there are not many of them. The sand is slightly yellowish from shells and pebbles.

Maya beach. It has a very short line, which means that at low tide it takes a long time to get to the water. There is a great hotel nearby.

Other attractions include a boat tour to Virgin Island, which will cost 1200 p. per day, including a delicious lunch. This is the main place for those who are engaged in snorkeling, as the nearest coral reef is located here.

Nature lovers should visit the mangrove garden, the entrance is 50 p. Here you can watch turtles, fish and birds. Oktong Cave is located next to the hotel of the same name, so its guests can swim in the underground pool for free. Other tourists will have to pay 100p.

It is also recommended to visit the ancient catholic church in Sante Fe, visit the tennis court and admire the cockfights. For all visits it is better to rent a motorbike. A simple scooter will cost 200 p. per day, a bike with a semi-automatic gearbox - 250, and a full-fledged motorcycle - 300. It should be noted that the island roads are very bad, with pits and potholes. This is the first minus of Bantayan.

Other negatives include:

• sticky merchants;
• power outages;
• at low tide, the sea becomes shallow, it is inconvenient to swim;
• monotonous food;
• poorly developed infrastructure.

When to go to the archipelago?

Having decided where to relax in the Philippines, you need to decide on the optimal period for the trip. High season is from November to April. It is at this time that water and air are heated to high temperatures, and heavy rains stop. The traveler will have to get used to the fact that his clothes at this time will always remain slightly damp.

In March, most of all, those who want to weather weren't that hot. Divers during this period can observe the spring spawning of fish. Those who are afraid of seismic activity are advised to go here in February, when its values ​​are minimal. But house prices may rise slightly compared to other periods. The heat is on the decline, and you can claim a beautiful and even tan.

If the vacation takes place in September, then you need to take into account that there will still be precipitation, although it will already decline. There will not be many hot days, so the risk of burning is reduced. Many foreigners prefer this particular season because of the possibility of successful fishing.

Where is the best place to go for families with children? If Bantayan is recommended in terms of a relaxing pastime, then in Bohol you can add more varied food to the tranquility, the opportunity to visit marine reserve And more choice clinics in case of unforeseen circumstances. It is quite safe in the coastal zone, the water will only reach the waist for a long time. Preference should be given to central and western parts archipelago. If a typhoon happens, they are the safest.

Each traveler is guided by different parameters of where to be in the Philippines. It all depends not only on the traveler's wallet, but also on the age, nature of the trip and personal hobbies. Couples with children are not recommended to go on an excursion to the jungle - there is a risk of meeting snakes and spiders.

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Our stay in China (Guangzhou) has come to an end. My contract at UCWeb ended, which meant I had a choice: renew it, look for another job, or move somewhere else. The craving for new knowledge nevertheless won, and Polina and I decided to go to the Philippines. The stock of money allowed me to live there for quite a long time, and the current possibilities of the Internet made it possible to earn good money online if desired.

The main criteria for choosing a country when moving

countries in South-East Asia quite a lot, we had a difficult choice among:

• Thailand (Koh Samui in particular)
• Vietnam
• Malaysia
• Indonesia (Bali in particular)
• Philippines

The main pros and cons of places to stay

1. Weather - warm weather all year round, no stuffiness like in Guangzhou;
2. The presence of the sea - access to the sea is required, so that if you wish, you could swim at any time;
3. Low prices- the lower the prices in the country, the better - this will allow you to stay there at a lower cost; but at the same time, we tried to avoid places like Yogyakarta with a very low level of economy, where living can be called very uncomfortable.
4. High internet speed is a very important factor. Internet speed should be sufficient for comfortable work, browsing websites and downloading/watching videos if necessary.
5. Presence of beautiful places and attractions nearby
6. Other features such as hot water, electricity, political and other features of the country, the availability of a gym, etc.

What is special about the Philippines?

Why Philippines? Perhaps this is one of the most important questions that we ourselves asked ourselves when discussing the next place of residence. It probably coincided. Firstly, we were looking for a place where life was relatively cheap, so that at minimal cost we could live, work and enjoy the sun, warm weather and the sea. We have already been in Thailand, in Indonesia too, we knew practically nothing about Malaysia, but we had not yet been to the Philippines, and the beauty of the local islands and beaches was simply amazing even in the photograph.

About the Republic of the Philippines

official languages: Filipino, English
Capital: Manila
Currency: Philippine peso
Population:~105 million people
The state is located on more than 7100 islands, the largest of which are: Luzon, Mindanao, Samar, Panay, Palawan, Negros, Mindoro, Leyte, Bohol, Cebu.
Climate in the Philippines~ 24-28 °С
The rainy season lasts from May to November, the dry season (or "high") from November to April

The main pros and cons of the most popular places in the Philippines

So, several places were considered for the move:

Boracay

• Boracay is perhaps the most popular resort in this country.
• Weather - yes (Philippines)
• The presence of the sea - yes
• Low prices - no (this resort has become quite popular recently, which has led to a strong increase in prices for housing, food and recreation)
• Internet - yes
• Beautiful places and attractions - white sandy beach
• Features - party place, with big amount tourists from different countries, including those from Russia, a good level of restaurants and hotels.

bohol

• The presence of the sea - yes (very beautiful beach, as they say on the Internet, but worse than Boracay)
• Low prices - yes (lower than Boracay)
• Internet - yes
• Beautiful places and sights - chocolate hills and tarsiers
• Features - no

El Nido

El Nido (Palawan Island) - beautiful islands, incredible views for snorkeling and diving

• good beaches- Yes
• Low prices - no (lately, El Nido is a very popular place among tourists, hence the prices)
• Internet - no (local operators Globe and Smart catch not very well on El Nido)
• Beautiful places and attractions - yes, the islands near El Nido are on the list of the best places in the world for diving.
• Features - power outage from 6 am to 2 pm

Also considered options with Shargao (Siargao) and Cebu (Sebu). But about Cebu there were unflattering reviews about safety, as well as prices, and Shargao is more suitable for surfers (although there are good places for swimming, far from El Nido).

Why did we choose o. Palawan?

I think the answer is obvious - El Nido. The first thing that our friend from the Philippines answered was El Nido - the most beautiful place in the Philippines with crystal clean water and stunning underwater views.

We really wanted to get to El Nido, but the moment of the power outage was embarrassing, because for us it meant, in practice, the inability to work until lunch. Yes, and many complained about the speed of the Internet. So we started looking at other options on the island of Palawan (Palawan)

And the first thing we noticed - Puerto Princesa - the capital this island.

After reading more about this city, we learned that there are some disadvantages:

• there are problems with the beaches in this city
• lack of attractions and beautiful places

But nevertheless, if you find suitable apartments for living, good Internet, then you can periodically get out to the islands nearby, and from time to time go to San Vicente or El Nido to the north.

In addition, the presence of a gym was important to me, which is more likely in the capital of the island than in a small village.

So we decided to stay in Puerto Princesa on about. Palawan.

Read more about the Philippines in the following articles.