Countries worldwide have lifted restrictions that were first imposed in 2020 to slow the spread of COVID-19; now is the time to return to our favourite destinations! “Revenge Travel” has emerged as an exciting new way for people to break away from their routine and reclaim the time lost from the pandemic! Just look at how Boracay is welcoming visitors again after its two-year cleanup—if there was ever a time for sunny escapes, it’s definitely now!
@discoverist.sg hello 2023! who’s dreaming of their next getaway already! #fyp #explore #beachvibes #boracay #beachdayeveryday #beachlife
What You Need To Know Before You Go
Having just returned from a revitalising getaway in Boracay, here are 5 things you need to know before you go!
1. Travel Document Requirements
Before traveling to Boracay, make sure you have your passport and visa ready. Depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a travel visa beforehand. It is important to check with the Philippine Embassy for the most up-to-date requirements. As of 22 December 2022, entry requirements for both domestic and international tourists to Boracay have been simplified. This means that travellers no longer need to register and submit travel documents ahead of their trip.
What is essential are the following:
- Valid Passport
- Vaccination Certificate (For Singaporeans, you can get your vaccination certificate here)
- Hotel Booking confirmation email (Highly recommended to stay in accredited hotels by Boracay Department of Tourism)
For unvaccinated individuals, they will need to produce a negative RT-PCR result taken within 72-hours prior to departure.
2. Cash is always king
Boracay is famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, but it can be costly if you are not careful! Make a budget for your trip that includes all expected costs such as transportation (etrikes). You should budget at least SGD$50 (1900PHP) per day for food and drinks, as well as water sports activities.
A typical ride from the hotel (if you’re staying in Station 1 area) to D’Mall is usually around 100php to 150php. E-trike drivers accept only cash. You can also choose to walk from Station 1 to D’Mall but that’ll take at least 20 minutes.
It is strongly advised to bring enough cash. While credit cards are accepted in restaurants and cafes, cash is preferred in the smaller shops and beach activity operators in Stations 2 and 3.
Depending on where you’re staying, 5-star hotels usually have ATMs, but transaction fees apply, so exchange sufficient cash ahead of your trip to avoid extra expenses.
There are plenty of water sports operators on the beach, and you can haggle the prices on the spot.
Order your pesos online and collect them before your flight here!
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3. Cost of Airport + Jetty Transfers
There are additional fees involved if your hotels/hostels don’t provide airport and jetty transfers. Be aware of these extra costs and plan your budget accordingly.
Here is a list of fees collected (in cash) at Caticlan Jetty Port & transport fares:
Environmental fee — PHP 150 per person.
Caticlan Jetty Port terminal fee — PHP 150 per person.
Caticlan to Boracay ferry — PHP 50 one-way fare per person.
On your way back to Caticlan (from Boracay). The same amount is collected at Cagban Port/Tambisaan Port minus the environmental fee.
Highly recommended to book hotels that provide airport + jetty transfers for their guests, which will make your trip easier, especially if you’re travelling with families and children.
4. Getting around Boracay
Boracay Island’s primary modes of transportation are eTrikes (electric tricycles) and shuttle vans. From the main road, which is about a 5-minute walk from White Beach, you can easily charter or share an eTrike.
Hotels and resorts located outside of White Beach usually provide complimentary shuttle service to and from D’Mall shopping centre.
5. The Best Time to Visit
If you’re looking for the best time to travel, the season you choose can make all the difference. There are three major tourist seasons in Boracay that cater to beach-goers, sun-seekers, partiers, and more.
During the super peak season, events like Ati-Atihan Festival (3rd weekend in January) and Labor Day Weekend draw thousands of travelers to partake in beach parties, traditional fiestas, and plenty of fun in between.
From December to May (except major public holidays), take advantage of the peak season when it’s most convenient for beach lounging – just be aware that this is also the hottest time of year.
For a more laid-back holiday atmosphere, plan your travels for June through December (outside major public holidays). This is considered low season when things slow down with fewer tourists; but rain doesn’t spoil the fun! The monsoon season runs from mid-June until August.
