Press Releases
Feb
Boracay Airport – A Backpackers Guide
Boracay Airport, everything you wanted to know about flying and getting to Boracay. There are two airports that serve Boracay Island, allowing travelers to easily get in and out of the popular tourist destination. The most commonly used one is Caticlan Airport (also referred to as Boracay Airport or Godofredo P. Ramos Airport), which currently accepts small aircraft only. Caticlan Airport is the fastest way to get to Boracay Island. The other airport is Kalibo International Airport. It is much larger and is one of the busiest airports in the Philippines. It is however less popular due to the fact that it is much father from Boracay Island. Compared to the 30 minutes it would take you from Caticlan to Boracay, getting from Kalibo to the Island takes around 2 hours. An Overview Of Boracay Airport – Getting in and out Coming from other airports, many first-time travelers are surprised at just how small Caticlan Airport actually is. The upside is that going through the airport takes very little time, usually five minutes. Additionally, it is virtually impossible to get lost. In fact, there is only one exit so it is impossible to miss. Recent reports indicate that the small quaint airport will be no more. Plans are underway to expand the airport in response to increasing traffic figures. The new Boracay Airport will be able to accommodate larger aircraft, serve international airlines (currently serves airlines operating within Philippines) and handle more travelers. As expected with a small airport, the facilities are few and limited. There is only one 2-level visitor lounge where you can access free Wi-Fi. If you are hungry, there is a food stall within the lounge. Other facilities include; • ATM terminal. • Charging stations for laptops and cellphones. • Breastfeeding lounge. • Restrooms. With the reported expansion, more facilities are bound to be available. Boracay Airport Airlines and Destinations The limiting size of Caticlan Airport and in particular the short runway means that only small locally operating aircraft can use it. Tourists coming in to Boracay Island usually use the airport to get from the capital, Manila. If you are coming in from outside Philippines, do not expect to land at Caticlan. Once you land at one of the international airports in the Philippines you will need to take another smaller flight to Caticlan from where you can proceed to Boracay Island. If you do not want to fly via Manilla or Cebu then you will need to find a flight to Kalibo Aiport and transfer by boat from there. Please note that landing at the airport can be rough due to the short runway. If you are not so comfortable with small airplanes or a rough landing, consider using the larger Kalibo International Airport and prepare yourself for the longer boat transfer. Airlines operating at Caticlan airport and their destinations. Cebu Pacific Airlines This airline flies to both Kalibo International Airport and Caticlan Airport. If you are flying out of Caticlan, possible destinations using this airline are Manila and Cebu. Visit their website at www.cebupacificair.com for information of times, destinations and prices. Air Philippines This airline operates between Manila and Caticlan Airport, with the flight time being around one hour. For more information on charges and booking visit this website. Seair Airlines (South East Asian Airlines) Image courtesy of www.airplane-pictures.net South East Asian Airlines boats of the fastest flying time from Manila to Caticlan (approximately 45 minutes) thanks to the new generation German-made Dornier 328 aircraft. From Caticlan airport, the airline’s destinations include Manila and Puerto Princesa. You can find their online center…
Feb
Drugs in the Philippines – Backpacker Advice
Image courtesy of www.dougrichardson.com Busted for drugs in the Philippines – All of the reasons you need to steer clear of the gear in the Philippines Lets talk about Drugs in the Philippines – We have all heard the story, ‘a guy gave me some weed then he told me he was a cop and that I was under-arrest’ – or ‘ I took a couple of pulls at a club and then the club got busted’ or ‘ I was in a KTV with a guy smoking pot and we ALL got busted, or,…well you get the idea. We are covering the drug laws in the Philippines – a country considered be in the top 20 for the most severe penalties in the world for drug use and drug trafficking. If you are going to be backpacking in the Philippines then you should be aware of the severe, almost draconian laws on carrying even the smallest amount of the most ‘accepted’ recreational drugs, and certainly be educated and well read on the subject before you leave. The following article sheds some perspective on exactly what you are risking, and unless you want to be featured on one of those low budget American TV documentaries in twelve years time you may be advised to give drugs a miss during your time in the Philippines, no we mean like really….read on. The Philippine Law on Drug Possession is Unforgiving Image courtesy of sfltimes.com Philippine law against drugs or Republic Act No.9165 is very strict, just like other Asian countries. Below is a brief run down on the minimum amount of drug possession in the Philippines and its penalties. Under Section 11 of the Republic Act No.9165, a prison term of 12 to 20 years including a fine ranging from P300,000.00 to P400,000.00 for less than five grams of opium, morphine, heroin, cocaine or cocaine hydrochloride, marijuana resin or marijuana resin oil, methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu”, “ecstasy”, “Dr. Death,” GHB or “club drug,” psychedelic drugs such as TMA, LSD, and other similarly designed without having any therapeutic value or less than 300 grams of marijuana. Let us say that again – A prison term of 12 to 20 years for less than 5 grams of a class A or class B drug and less than 300 grams of a class C drug. Meaning if you were 21 when arrested for a ‘joint’ you would be leaving the ‘joint’ when you were 33 years old. Even If You Are Tested Positive for Drugs in the Philippines A person who is found to be positive for the use of any restricted drug, after a confirmatory test, shall be imposed a penalty of a minimum of six months rehabilitation in a government center for the first offense. Rehabilitation centers in the Philippines are not what you may think of in the UK or USA, generally its hard labor and community work in prison. Rehabilitation is just a nice word for it. If you get caught with drugs in the Philippines Under no circumstances sign anything admitting your crime, get a lawyer and let the lawyer advise you. Speak to your embassy, in very few cases will they be able to intervene or even help you. If you can pay your way out of it then do so, if you have a local friend then ask them to help you try and make the problem go away. Of course – the best way not to get into this situation is to stay away from drugs all-together whilst in the Philippines. If you really can not…
Feb
Philippines Culture & Politeness Advice For Backpackers
Philippines Culture & Politeness – Do’s and don’ts when backpacking the Philippines Having an understanding of Philippines culture and how to be polite can only improve your trip, and of course help you avoid potentially awkward situations. In essence it would be great if you are amiable, show kindness, respect and good manners. Filipinos are sensitive and some take offense easily. In general the people are a happy lot and make friends easily. Philippines Backpacking Do’s: Image courtesy of blog.fliptrip.ph How to address people Filipinos often use “Sir” and “Ma’am” or “Madam” as a term of respect especially in the workplace. Filipinos give importance to titles of respect, and considers rude to address anyone older, or with a higher rank, by just their first name. Foreigners may use familial words like “Tita” (Aunt) , “Tito” (Uncle) for the older relatives of your Filipino friends. For the regular guy on the street, “kuya” (brother) or “ate” (sister) would be acceptable. This is also applicable to your — taxi drivers, waitresses, salesgirls, security guards, etc. When talking to someone older than you, you may use the word “Po” as a sign of respect, such as, “How are you, po?” Be amiable, friendly and polite Filipinos are by nature very friendly. Being friendly will earn you best friends. They also enjoy a good laugh. According to a 2015 Gallup poll, Filipinos rank the fifth happiest people in the world. They can take anything in stride even in the most trying circumstances. Take time to laugh with them and you’ll see their genuine appreciation. Filipinos enjoy making fun of one another, and it is normal for friends to engage in verbal jousting — a little jab at your faults. Be careful not to lose your temper. Engage in the “fun” word war instead of seriously defending yourself. A sense of humor and a little humility will help you get along with the locals. Filipinos dislike arrogance and pretension. Don’t forget to say Thank You for the kind gestures you receive from your Filipino friends. These hospitable folks will definitely find your appreciation gratifying. And when you see people, either grown ups or kids wave to you, acknowledge them and simply wave back. Image courtesy of becomingfilipino.com Look up your local friends If it’s your second visit or more, do check out your old Filipino friends. If you’ve kept in touch, let them know you’re coming. They will always do all they can to extend a helping hand — they’ll take you around town and play tour guide for you and even treat you to meals. If they have plans for you that you’re not interested in or are uncomfortable, graciously decline and thank them, and just say you have to be somewhere else. Join In the fun Filipinos like many other Asian nationalities are fond of dancing and singing, they also have an intense sense of fun. If there is a tour, activity, party or dancing to be done it is best if you join in the fun, sitting on the outside looking in will drive concerned looks from your guests who will think you are not having a good time. If in doubt – join in. Do keep an open mind Filipinos have a number of customs, beliefs and habits in their culture. To name a few, there is the infamous “Filipino time” — usually late than the agreed upon time, especially in informal situations. Filipinos are bound by a mix of religion and superstition. Majority of the people are Catholic with some adhering to folk beliefs and traditions. This is especially…
Feb
Boracay Accommodation Guide
Boracay accommodation guide – where to stay on Boracay Island Philippines Boracay accommodation options are varied to say the least. It is amazing how the fairly small island of Boracay hosts hundreds of hotels. It is an indication of just how popular the Philippines Island has gotten in the last few years. From the often-packed White Beach to the windy Bulabog Beach, Boracay’s beaches are lined up with numerous hotels, backpacker hostels and guest houses all providing accommodation options for a wide range of budgets and stay types. The Mad Monkey Boracay – One of the most popular budget / backpackers / Hostels on the island The hotels vary in type and prices to accommodate different kinds of travelers. If you are traveling as a large group and want something cheap and with a party vibe, look for hostels, forget any previous hangups you may have, the reality is that Boracay’s hostels are more akin to hotels these days, offering private rooms as well as the obligatory shared dorm. If you are traveling on a small budget, there is plenty of budget Boracay accommodation that offers a quieter stay, check out the local guesthouses and budget hotels. If your budget is bigger, go for a luxury resort, these are normally less expensive than you would find in the West and are a great option for families. Here is a selection of some of the best accommodation on Boracay Island. The Best Backpacker Hostel Accommodation on Boracay Island If you need to be told what a hostel is then we guess it is unlikely that you will be staying in one, however if you are young (under 35) or young at heart (under 95) and want to have an active and social stay with oodles of fun then you should consider staying in a hostel and give them just as much consideration as a hotel. Hotels can be more fun and much more social, and the hostels on the island are not representative of what would spring to your mind when the word ‘hostel’ is mentioned. Many of the hostels on Boracay offer private rooms, lush surroundings and facilities that would put many of the hotels in your local town to shame, so at least check them out before you make your accommodation decision. MAD MONKEY HOSTEL BORACAY OK, So this is our hostel, as well as writing guides we obviously run hostels, what we can offer the carefree backpacker about to head to Boracay? How about good vibes, happy people and the only large hostel pool on the Island. Located just 60 seconds walk to Bulabog Beach the most popular kite and windsurfing beach in Cambodia and just a few minutes walk from White Beach and Station 2 The Mad Monkey is perfectly located to be within striking distance to the nightlife without being in it. That being said – The Mad Monkey is a party Hostel – so only go if you expect to party, ideal for everyone between 18-35 that wants to meet others and have an awesome time. Find out more information about this Boracay Hostel here MNL Beach Hostel Boracay Image courtesy of dutch on the move Starting at just $20 per person per night, MNL Beach Hostel is perfect for backpackers wary of overspending. The hostel provides two options for guests; private rooms and dorm rooms. Private rooms are ideal if need your own private space. Amenities include a rain shower, air conditioning and a bath towel. Dorm rooms are available in different sizes; 4, 6, 8 and 10 bed dorms. There…
Feb
Filipino Phrases – Essential Backpackers Guide
Image courtesy of twomonkeystravelgroup.com Simple Filipino phrases – Tagalog terms for the Philippine backpacker Knowing some Filipino phrases can really help you make a positive impact when you visit, knowing just a few important Tagalog words will certainly score you instant brownie points, and will certainly help improve the quality and experience of your backpacking trip to the Philippines. For many travellers, the Philippines is not as “exotic” as other Asian countries. People wear Western clothes, visit malls, and are mostly Catholics or from Christian-based religions. Compared to other Asian countries, almost everybody speaks English in the Philippines. It is the language of government, businesses and schools. Major newspapers and magazines are in English. Movies, music and television are also predominantly English, mostly from America. The Filipino language basically originated from the Tagalog language — one of the major languages spoken by people from the Tagalog regions in the island of Luzon. It is predominantly spoken in Metro Manila, the national capital of the country. During the last half century, it has absorbed many foreign expressions, mostly American English and a lot of Filipinos combine Tagalog (Filipino) and English words when speaking, called Taglish. Below is a list of common Tagalog words you might want to learn when traveling to the Philippines. Filipinos love it when foreigners try to speak their language and these Filipino phrases should give you a great head start. TIP: Tagalog words are pronounced as they are spelled. Filipino Greeting Phrases Image courtesy of facebook/idreamedofthis Filipinos are generally warm and welcoming to foreigners. They are always helpful and hospitable. They are also very accommodating and its easy to befriend them. In 2015, there were more than 5 million visitors to the Philippines. Welcome Mabuhay Hello Kamusta/Hi/Hello Good morning Magandang umaga Good afternoon Magandang hapon Good evening Magandang gabi How are you? Kamusta ka? I’m fine, thank you. Mabuti naman, salamat Long time no see Matagal na tayong hindi nagkita Take care Mag ingat ka Please come in Pasok po kayo Feel at home Huwag kang mahiya Happy Birthday! Maligayang kaarawan! Merry Christmas! Maligayang Pasko! Happy New Year! Manigong bagong taón What’s your name? Anong pangalan mo? My name is… Ako ay si…. Filipino Phrases for Getting around & asking for directions Image courtesy of MegaCitizens.com You can approach anybody and ask for directions. They are all eager to help. Just choose whom to ask. It’s better to approach a policeman or security guard. And as much as possible, never travel alone for safety reasons. And don’t flash your gadgets or cash in public except within safer environments, here are some Filipino phrases to help you get around. Where is….? Saan po yung…? What time is it? Anong oras na? Are you sure? Sigurado ka? Left Kaliwa Right Kanan Go straight Diretso lang Where do you live? Saan ka nakatira? Sorry, I beg your pardon? Pasensya na, paki ulit po? Can you speak slowly, please? Paki ulit po ng dahan-dahan I don’t understand Hindi ko maintindihan I don’t know Hindi ko alam When? Kailan? Tomorrow Bukas Now Ngayon How much? Magkano? Stopping a jeep/bus/taxi Para po Here’s my fare Bayad po Stop Hinto Go Go/andar Thank you Salamat po What is this? Ano ito? Excuse me (when passing through) Paraan po I am lost Nawawala ako Can you show me? Pwede mo ipakita sa akin? It’s near here Malapit lang dito It’s far from here Malayo dito I’m looking for (name) Hinahanap ko si… One moment Sandali lang Hurry! Bilis! Help! Saklolo! Thief! Magnanakaw! I’m okay Okay lang ako It’s urgent! Ngayon na!…