Travel Advice & Information

Little information before you travel to the Philippines

Travel Advisory for Tourists Visiting the Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful and vibrant destination, but it’s important to stay informed before traveling. Ensure you have the necessary visas, health requirements, and travel insurance. The country experiences a tropical climate, so pack light, breathable clothing and be prepared for occasional rain showers. It’s advisable to drink bottled water, use insect repellent, and bring any necessary medications. Public transportation is widely available, though traffic can be heavy in urban areas. Always check the latest weather forecasts, particularly during the typhoon season, and follow local customs and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Travel and Dive Insurance Recommendation

It is highly recommended to arrange for comprehensive travel insurance before departing from your home country. This should include health insurance to cover any medical emergencies that may arise while abroad. Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected situations such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, flight delays, and more.

For those planning to dive, dive insurance is also essential. Dive insurance provides coverage in the event of diving-related accidents, including emergency medical evacuation, treatment for diving injuries, and other specific dive-related incidents.

As the saying goes, “It’s always better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.” Having both travel and dive insurance ensures you’re fully covered for any unforeseen circumstances, allowing you to enjoy your time in the Philippines with peace of mind and confidence.

E-Travel Philippines Entry Requirements

The e-Travel system is a mandatory online travel registration for all foreign nationals and returning Filipino citizens entering the Philippines. It allows for a seamless and efficient entry process by collecting essential health and travel information before your arrival.

Requirements:

e-Travel Registration: All travelers must complete the online registration form at the official e-Travel portal (https://etravel.gov.ph).
Personal Details: You’ll need to provide basic information such as your passport details, travel itinerary, and health status.
Health Declaration: Travelers must also declare their health status, including any symptoms of illness, recent exposure to COVID-19, or contact with infected persons.
Travel Documents: Make sure to have your passport and any necessary visas on hand, as they may be required during the e-Travel registration process.
QR Code: After successfully completing the registration, you will receive a QR code. You must present this QR code upon arrival in the Philippines for verification.

Instructions:

Complete the registration at least 72 hours before your scheduled arrival.
Keep a copy of your e-Travel QR code with you, either digitally or printed, for easy access when passing through immigration.

The e-Travel system streamlines entry procedures, ensuring faster processing at the airport and minimizing delays upon arrival. Make sure to complete the registration ahead of time to enjoy a hassle-free entry experience to the Philippines.

Passport and Visa Information for Tourists to the Philippines

Passport Requirements:

All foreign visitors to the Philippines must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the date of arrival.
Your passport should be in good condition, with no missing pages or significant damage, to avoid any complications at immigration.

Visa Requirements:

Visa-Free Entry: Citizens from many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries, can enter the Philippines without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. However, you must have a return ticket and proof of onward travel.
Extension of Stay: If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension at the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines, allowing you to stay up to 59 days. Further extensions can also be requested for additional fees.

Visa Requirements for Citizens of Other Countries:

Citizens from countries that are not part of the visa-free list will need to apply for a tourist visa prior to arrival at a Philippine embassy or consulate in their home country. Requirements typically include a valid passport, application form, passport-sized photos, proof of sufficient financial support, and sometimes a return or onward flight ticket.

Important Notes:

Always double-check with the Philippine embassy or consulate in your country for any changes to visa policies before traveling.
If traveling for purposes other than tourism (e.g., business, study), different visa types may be required.

Ensure you meet the passport and visa requirements well in advance to avoid any delays or issues upon arrival in the Philippines.

What to Bring to the Philippines

When traveling to Mindoro, particularly during the summer months, expect daytime temperatures to be around 90°F (approximately 30°C), with cooler evenings. The tropical climate means you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses to stay comfortable throughout the day. For evenings, a light sweater or jacket can come in handy when temperatures dip slightly.

In addition to light clothing, there are several practical items you should bring to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free trip:

Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, especially during midday. We recommend packing a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, particularly if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors or at the beach.
Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be common in tropical areas, so it’s important to bring a good insect repellent to protect against bites and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue.
Lightweight Rain Jacket: While the dry season is typically from December to May, brief rain showers can still occur, especially in the tropical climate. A lightweight, packable rain jacket is useful to keep you dry without taking up much space in your luggage.
Flashlight: Power interruptions can occasionally happen in the Philippines, so bringing a small, portable flashlight is a smart precaution. This will help you navigate during blackouts or if you find yourself in areas with limited lighting.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key in the heat, so a refillable water bottle is a great eco-friendly option to carry with you during your travels.
Comfortable Footwear: Whether you’re exploring local markets or heading to the beach, a pair of comfortable shoes or sandals is a must. Waterproof shoes can also be helpful for unexpected rain showers.
Personal Medications: If you take any medications regularly, be sure to bring enough for your entire trip, as local pharmacies may not carry the same brands or types of medication that you’re used to.
Travel Adapter: The Philippines uses 220V electricity with type A, B, and C plugs. If your devices use a different plug type, make sure to bring a suitable adapter for charging.

Finally, packing light is always advisable. The less you carry, the easier it will be to navigate airports, transport, and enjoy your time exploring. A light, versatile wardrobe and essential travel items will make your trip to the Philippines much more enjoyable.

Health Advisory for Your Trip to the Philippines

Before traveling to the Philippines, we strongly recommend that you consult your doctor for personalized advice regarding vaccinations and health precautions. While the Philippines has a range of healthcare services, it’s always best to ensure you are up-to-date with any necessary vaccinations before your trip.

We advise that you bring any regular medications you may need, as local drugstores may not carry the same variety of medicines that you are accustomed to at home. It’s important to be prepared for any medical needs during your stay, especially if you rely on specific medications.

Water Safety: It is not recommended to drink local tap water or use ice cubes made from tap water in the Philippines. Always opt for bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, and rinsing food to avoid potential stomach issues.
Infection Prevention: Small cuts, insect bites, or skin abrasions are common during travel, but they can be susceptible to infection in tropical climates. We recommend cleaning any cuts or bites immediately with antiseptic and applying a band-aid to prevent further contamination. You may want to bring your own preferred antibiotic cream or ointment to ensure proper wound care, as the availability of specific products may vary locally.

By following these simple health precautions, you can help ensure a safe and healthy trip to the Philippines. Always prioritize your well-being, and reach out to a healthcare professional for any concerns before your departure.

About us

Garden of Eden Dive Resort in Sabang, Puerto Galera offers a perfect mix of thrilling dives, simple accommodations, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.