Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Philipinnes
The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,641 islands. It is located in Southeast Asia, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, South China Sea, and Celebes Sea. The country is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. It was colonized by Spain (1565-1898), the United States (1898-1946), and occupied by Japan (1942-1945). The Philippine Revolution (1896) led to its independence from Spain, declared on June 12, 1898. Filipino culture is a mix of Malay, Spanish, Chinese, and American influences. The Jeepney is a popular mode of transportation, originally repurposed from U.S. military jeeps.​
Philipinnes Facts
Transport
The best option for travel in the Philippines:
​Local Transport
The easiest way to travel locally when visiting various islands in the Philippines is to travel by a jeepney or a tricycle (motorbike taxi).
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Air Transfer Between Islands
Depending on which islands you want to visit there could be both air and sea transport available.
When I travelled in the Philippines, I opted for air travel as the flight prices were pretty cheap and the travel time was significantly faster.
Air Asia​
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Sea Transfer Between Islands
As I travelled between Islands by air, I cannot recommend which sea transport liners to go with. However there are a number of operators between islands:
Cultural Facts
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Filipino people are so friendly and kind and nearly everyone spoke perfect English!
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Filipinos love Karaoke!
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Dress modestly in churches and rural areas.
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Always smile—it’s part of Filipino culture! 😊
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Haggling is common in markets, but do it politely.
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Be patient—traffic in big cities like Manila can be crazy.
Tourist Advice
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Vaccinations - be sure to check with your doctor about vaccinations and Malaria tablets, depending on the zone and cities you are visiting!
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Bugs Spray - Bring bugs spray with you.
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Data Roaming - Look into buying an E-Sim card before arriving or buy a sim card at the airport on arrival.
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Revolute is a great travel bank to have, being accepted everywhere. I also purchased my E-sim card on the app before travelling.
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Safety - Manila is not as safe as the islands, so be more vigilant with your belongings and where you travel to!
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Security Checks - A lot of shopping centres had security checks before going into in Manilla.
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Airports - The airports on the islands are so tiny! El Nido for example, does not have any restaurants or shops, just a waiting area and the plane arrives directly in front of the doors from this area.
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Airport Fun Fact - The baggage claim in some airports, is just an airport worker handing out bags, a funny experience coming from big international airports!
Boracay
Facts about Boracay
Boracay is a small 10.32 km² island in Aklan, Western Visayas, Philippines, known for its white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and crystal-clear waters. It is a top tourist destination offering luxury resorts and exciting activities. The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP), and the main languages spoken are Aklanon, Filipino, and English.
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Boracay is a very busy island with a lot of tourists, it is also a lot more built up and modern in comparison to other islands, there are a range of restaurants with a variety of international food to choose from, there is also a Starbucks on the beach.​
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Boracay was temporarily closed in 2018, the government shut it down for 6 months for rehabilitation.
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No more wild parties on the beach, after the cleanup, strict environmental laws were enforced.
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Plastic use is limited, visitors are encouraged to avoid plastic waste.
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Tourist entry is regulated, you need to book a hotel before arriving.
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Places to Visit
White Beach
The most famous beach, with powdery white sand and a stunning sunset views.
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Puka Shell Beach
Less crowded, known for its unique puka shells.
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Ariel’s Point
Perfect for cliff diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.
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Bulabog Beach
The best spot for kite surfing and windsurfing.
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Willy’s Rock
A unique volcanic rock formation with a small Virgin Mary shrine.
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Getting There
From Manilla: 1 hour Flight
Airports Near Boracay: Caticlan Airport (MPH)
Closest, only 10-15 minutes from Boracay. Once you land, you will take a bus to the port, and a short boat ride to Boracay. Tickets can be bought on arrival to the bus parking lot, outside the airport.
Feliz Hotel, Boracay
Feliz Hotel, is located right in the centre of Boracay, surrounded by restaurants, bars and shops. With only a 2 minute walk to the beach, it was perfect for our stay!
The hotel also features a rooftop pool, bar and restaurant and an indoor/outdoor downstairs restaurant.
Getting There
From Boracay:1.5 hour Flight
Airports: Caticlan Airport (MPH) - El Nido (ENI)
Once you arrive in El Nido, you can organise a private transfer with your hotel or take an outside tricycle (motorbike taxi). Make sure you have cash!
Hotel and Hostel
During my stay in El Nido, I split my time between a hotel and hostel. Both equally as nice, with similar amenities. However, if you are looking for a sociable crowd, you are solo travelling or want to make some friends, the hostel is the better choice for you!
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Frendz Hostel:
Amazing rooftop pool and bar, sociable downstairs common area with a restaurant and bar. It has both private and dorm rooms. Amazing views and great value! There is also a tour office in their premises to book your day excursions and they accept card!
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Cuna Hotel
Located next to the Frendz Hostel, is a quieter option, best for couples! It also offers a rooftop pool, bar and restaurant, however the pool view is slightly obstructed and smaller than the hostel. It has an ATM on site.
El Nido
Facts about El Nido
El Nido, located at the northern tip of Palawan, Philippines, spans 465.1 km² and includes 45 islands and islets. It is famous for its limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, hidden beaches, and rich marine biodiversity, making it a top eco-tourism destination. The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP), and the main languages spoken are Filipino, English, Cuyonon, and Palawano.
El Nido is a backpackers paradise with a variety of hotels and hostels to choose from. There are so many fun activites and places to see if you base yourself in El Nido for at least a week! It is important to note:
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El Nido has no big airports , the nearest airport is Lio Airport (ENI) or you can fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS) and take a 5-6 hour van ride. Once you arrive at the airport if you do not jhave prearranged transfer, you can pay in cash for a tricycle (motorbike taxi) transfer, it is certainly an experince on their bumpy roads!
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Cash is King, many remote places don’t accept credit cards, so bring enough cash.
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No ATMs in remote areas, the town proper has limited banking facilities.
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Eco-Tourism Fees Apply, A ₱200 environmental fee is required for island tours.
Places to Visit
El Nido has a variety of fun day ecursions and island adventures to choose from. The best way to see all of their hotspots, would be to book one of their island tours: Tour A, B, C, D, which will bring you from the beach on a full day excursion. More information below!
Bacuit Bay
Home to stunning limestone karsts, caves, and hidden beaches.
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Big & Small Lagoons
Crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs, perfect for kayaking.
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Secret Lagoon
A secluded paradise accessible through a small rock opening.
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Nacpan Beach
A 4-km stretch of golden sand, known for its peaceful vibe.
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Shimizu Island
A top snorkeling spot with colorful coral reefs and marine life.
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Tour Details & Tips
Duration: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Included: Boat ride, life vest, buffet lunch, snorkeling gear (sometimes), tour guide
Cost: Around ₱1,200 - ₱1,500 (22-27 euro per person) (excluding ₱200 environmental fee)
Best Time to Go: November to May (dry season)
What to Bring: Waterproof bag, sunscreen, extra clothes, dry bag, cash for rentals​.
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How to book: Click here for Get Your Guide, or organise it a day before from the Frendz Hostel!
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El Nido Tour A
Facts about El Nido Tour A
Tour A is the most popular island-hopping tour in El Nido, known for its stunning lagoons, crystal-clear waters, and limestone cliffs. It's perfect for those who want to explore El Nido’s most iconic spots!
Places to Visit
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Big Lagoon
One of El Nido’s most famous attractions, featuring turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs.Ideal for kayaking and swimming (kayak rentals available).
Small Lagoon
A hidden paradise accessible through a narrow rock opening.
Best explored by kayak or swimming inside.
Secret Lagoon
A secluded lagoon hidden behind limestone cliffs.
Visitors enter through a small hole in the rocks to find a peaceful, enclosed swimming area.
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Shimizu Island
A top snorkeling site with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Great for underwater photography and fish-feeding.
Seven Commandos Beach
A white sand beach lined with coconut trees, perfect for relaxing.
Offers refreshments, beach volleyball, and swimming.
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Tour Details & Tips
Duration: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Included: Boat ride, life vest, buffet lunch, snorkeling gear (sometimes), tour guide
Cost: Around ₱1,200 - ₱1,500 (22-27 euro per person) (excluding ₱200 environmental fee)
Best Time to Go: November to May (dry season)
What to Bring: Waterproof bag, sunscreen, extra clothes, dry bag, cash for rentals​.
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How to book: Click here for Get Your Guide, or organise it a day before from the Frendz Hostel!
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El Nido Tour C
Facts about El Nido Tour C
Tour C is one of the most scenic and adventurous island-hopping tours in El Nido, featuring hidden beaches, snorkeling spots, and stunning limestone formations. It’s perfect for those who love exploring secret coves and rock formations!
Places to Visit​
Helicopter Island
Named for its helicopter-like shape from afar. Known for powdery white sand and excellent snorkeling with rich marine life.
Matinloc Shrine
A historic and abandoned religious site with a breathtaking viewpoint of Bacuit Bay. Perfect for photo ops and learning about local history.
Secret Beach
Accessible only by swimming through a small rock opening.Said to have inspired the novel The Beach by Alex Garland.
Hidden Beach
Surrounded by limestone cliffs, this secluded paradise can only be accessed by boat during low tide. Ideal for swimming and taking stunning photos.
Talisay Beach
A calm and shallow beach perfect for relaxing. One of the best snorkeling spots in El Nido, with colorful corals and tropical fish.
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Getting There
By Tricycle
Duration: 30-45 minutes
How: You can hire a private tricycle to take you directly to Nacpan Beach. It’s a popular option for those who prefer convenience.
Cost: ₱500 - ₱700 (one way), depending on the tricycle and number of passengers.
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By Van
Duration: 45 minutes
How: Van tours or shuttle services to Nacpan are also available from El Nido. You can book these through your hotel or local tour agencies.
Cost: Around ₱150 - ₱200 per person (round trip).
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Nacpan Beach Glamping Hotel
I would highly recommend staying in this hotel. The offer both Glamping pods and an Air BnB Style studio apartment. It also has an on site swimming pool, with a swim up bar, a restaurant, direct beach access, camp fires and their own turtle hatching hut with daily baby turtle releases. Check it out below!
Nacapan
Facts about Nacapan
Nacpan Beach, located 17 km north of El Nido town, is a 4 km-long stretch of golden sand known for its clear blue waters, swaying coconut trees, and peaceful atmosphere. As part of the Twin Beaches (Nacpan & Calitang), it offers a less crowded alternative to other El Nido spots, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sunset watching. While it lacks coral reefs for snorkeling or diving, its gentle waves and warm waters make it ideal for relaxation. Accessible by motorbike, tricycle, or van (about 45 minutes from town), it has a few restaurants, bars, and small resorts, but no ATMs, so bringing cash is essential.
Things to Do​
Relax on the Beach
Nacpan’s golden sand and clear waters are perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Swim in the Clear Waters
The beach has gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming, especially for those looking for a calm beach experience.
Watch the Sunset
Nacpan offers one of the best sunset views in El Nido. Watch the sun dip behind the horizon while enjoying the peaceful surrounding
Explore the Twin Beaches
Walk to Calitang Beach, which is connected to Nacpan via a scenic path. It's a quieter, smaller beach that adds to the area’s beauty.
Beachfront Dining & Drinks
Enjoy fresh seafood or tropical drinks at one of the local beachside restaurants or bars. The area offers a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding.
Beach Massage
Enjoy a massage right on the beach with the relaxing sounds of the waves around you.
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Turtle Hatching
Watch baby turtle's being released into the Ocean from Nacpan Beach Glamping Hotel. Find out more below!
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Turtle Hatching Nacpan
Facts about Turtle Hatching in Nacpan
The Nacpan Beach Glamping Hotel offers a luxurious yet eco-friendly stay on the shores of Nacpan Beach, featuring comfortable glamping tents with beachfront views, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms. The hotel focuses on sustainable tourism and supports local conservation efforts, including the protection of olive ridley turtles. Nacpan Beach is a nesting site for these turtles, and during the hatching season (November to March), guests have the unique opportunity to witness baby turtles emerging from their nests and making their way to the ocean. The hotel works with conservation groups to safeguard the turtles and their habitat, ensuring a memorable and responsible experience for visitors.
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