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A Long Awaited Reopening: Guidelines in place to ensure tourists can visit the Philippines in the safest way possible

A Long Awaited Reopening: Guidelines in place to ensure tourists can visit the Philippines in the safest way possible

With Covid-19 still changing the way we live, the Philippines has been hard at work to implement a strict protocol of guidelines that ensure tourism can resume under stringent international hygiene and safety standards

Iva Agüero
@philandiva

More than ten months since it began, the Covid-19 pandemic is still prevalent throughout the world and its far-reaching consequences are affecting industries and economies across the board. Strict travel restrictions brought tourism to a halt but as Stephen Hawking once said, the measure of “intelligence is the ability to adapt to change”.

In the spirit of adaptability and preparedness, the Philippines is one of the first countries that is slowly but surely reopening its doors to visitors. In a brave show of solidarity with its people, the Philippines recognises the importance of the tourism industry for their economy and has prioritised setting protocols in place that will accelerate the return of tourism while maintaining the safety and wellbeing of all those involved as the utmost priority.

With a lot of information out there and the horizon changing quickly, things can get confusing so we decided to put together a simplified summary of the guidelines and safety measures in place for travel during Covid-19.

Across the Filipino Archipelago most tourism protocols are based on a strict and methodical accreditation process. Establishments in the hospitality and tourism sector must adhere to international standards of safety and hygiene so that they can be well equipped to welcome travellers while protecting their safety and the safety of their own staff.

In order to make sure that the hospitality and tourism industry abide by the rules and regulations, the Department of Tourism has set in place a series of accreditations required to operate. From tour operators to restaurants and accommodation, only businesses that have secured a DOT accreditation will be allowed to reopen and operate in the “New Normal”.

If you are wondering what these regulations look like, below is a list of the changes enforced by the DOT in compliance with international Covid-19 safety and hygiene standards.

Tour Operators

The Philippines has such a wide variety of activities  to offer that opting for a tour operator takes the stress out of holiday planning. If you are looking to travel by bus, van, rest easy as the following measures are in place to guarantee a safe and pleasant journey.

  • Routine monitoring of staff’s temperature
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) available for all on-duty staff with special training provided to educate staff on PPE use
  • Use of masks, face shields, and other personal protective equipment for staff and customers
  • Vehicles to be routinely cleaned and disinfected
  • All trips will be documented to ensure effective contact tracing
  • Reduced seating capacity for all vehicles
  • Physical barriers erected with screens placed between driver and passengers

Restaurants

Food is an amazing and integral part of discovering Filipino country. Don’t worry, the pandemic will not get in the way of enjoying the countries variety of national delicacies. Extra bonus actually for the social distancing implemented will make for less crowded restaurants and keep you away from noisy diners!

  • Restaurants will  prioritise and encourage cashless and contactless payment options
  • Reduced seating capacity at  each restaurant
  • Signing of a health declaration form upon entry for effective contact tracing
  • Routine sanitisation and temperature checks at all entrances
  • Physical distancing even for those dining in groups and screens in place to separate diners seated face-to-face from each other at tables
  • Use of masks, face shields, and other personal protective equipment for staff and customers

Accommodation

The Philippines already had a reputation for striving to keep their homes and hotels spotless. Now with Covid-19, expect establishments to be pristine while the warm welcome of Filipino hospitality remains unchanged.

  • No handshakes at entry. Instead, you will be welcomed with a warm Mabuhay greeting and big  smiles that will shine through the masks that hide them
  • Online bookings are preferred as well as pre-payment and contactless payments
  • Rigid health declaration system, which involves screening
  • Routine health checks for staff to ensure guests’ safety
  • Physical distancing and markers to help remind guests of the safety distances that need to be respected
  • Use of masks, face shields, and other personal protective equipment in public areas for both guests and staff
  • In-room sanitisation kits for guests provided
  • Medical-grade equipment for sanitisation and temperature screening at all entrances
  • Assign and create a COVID-19 holding facility within the establishment in the event there is a symptomatic guest
  • Thorough, routine disinfection of facilities and rooms
If you don’t live in the Philippines but are eager to plan your next trip there post-COVID, visit philippines.travel and DOT’s official Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The photos used in this article were taken prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Philippines still tops our bucket list

The Philippines still tops our bucket list 

After more than a year and a half of discovering this amazing country, you would think we had seen enough.Yet all we want to do is go right back!

Iva Agüero
@philandiva

First times are always special. The first time you ride a bicycle on your own, your first kiss, your first love, your first adventure. The same is true for travel. There’s a sense of wonder that usually comes hand in hand with a new place.

However, the thrill wears off eventually and soon, we find ourselves racking our brains for the next destination. Like most people, we have a long bucket list of places we would love to visit and we’ve been lucky enough to check a bunch of places off the list. But, there is one country that keeps staying right up there at the top of the list, no matter how many times we’ve been there and no matter how much time we’ve spent there.  You guessed it, it’s The Philippines. So while we sit here and daydream about our next holiday there, let us try to explain in three points what makes this country so unique and welcoming for travellers:

1 – The Variety

More than 7,000 islands to discover

The archipelago of the Philippines is made up of over seven thousand islands. Let that sink in for a second,  Seven. Thousand. Islands. For land travellers and sailors alike – these are magic words.

The sheer number of islands means that you can travel short distances and see landscapes change right before your eyes. If you are on a boat, a short sail will bring  you from an imposing limestone coast to a delicate  white sand beach. On land, the same road will offer the  possibility to explore distinctly different backdrops in the blink of an eye. 

You can leave the sprawling and cosmopolitan metropolis of Manila in the morning, drive along  stunning coastlines and find yourself watching the sun set behind the prefect cone of the Mayon volcano. With so many islands, the beautiful sceneries are endless and there is no way you won’t fall in love with the Philippines.

Marvelling at the symmetrical beauty of Mount Mayon

While filming for Dreamcatchers, we were lucky enough to criss-cross the country searching for  stories of people that have changed their lives and made their dreams come true in the  Philippines. Each of our Dreamcatcher stories takes place in a stunning location, all visually striking yet so different: From the limestone islands of Palawan, up the pine forests of Sagada, and down to the perfect waves of Siargao, we couldn’t believe the variety of picture perfect beauty and ambiance that this relatively small country had to offer.

2 – The Biodiversity

Face to face with a Filipino Tarsier in Bohol

With climate change becoming an unavoidable reality, the Philippines is one of the most important and largest biodiversity hotspots in the world. If you love nature and everything that thrives in it, you will love the Philippines.

Home to an incredible range of plants, animals, birds and underwater life, you can find two-thirds of the Earth’s biodiversity and 70-80% of the world’s plant and animal species here. We had the privilege of swimming alongside rare dugongs for the  first time on the coast of Busuanga. In Bohol we discovered the Filipino Tarsier, one of the cutest animals we’ve ever seen. In Apo Reef, we marvelled at the the world’s second largest contiguous coral reef and some of the healthiest underwater ecosystems we have ever witnessed.

We swam with millions of sardines in Cebu, Turtles in Bohol, Sharks in Palawan, and we know this wasn’t even half of what we needed to discover under the beautiful bodies of water that can be found in the Philippines.

3 – The People

Lastly, but most important of all, the thing that makes us want to return to the Philippines time and time again is the people. The Filipino generosity of spirit and their kindhearted, joyous nature is infectious.

Everybody that you meet is kind, open and eager to share a smile with you. Phil and I were moved time and again by so many random acts of kindness that we witnessed during our travels in the Philippines. Filipino people take pride in being welcoming, polite and warm-spirited. Their goodwill comes so naturally and just for that alone we will return to the Philippines again and again.

Because being amongst kind people makes you naturally strive to be a better person – and if that’s not reason enough for everyone to visit the Philippines then we don’t know what is!

If you don’t live in the Philippines but are eager to plan your next trip there post-COVID, visit philippines.travel and DOT’s official Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The photos used in this article were taken prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cruise Control: Slow but Safe Travels When Planning Your Next Road Trip

Cruise Control: Slow but Safe Travels When Planning Your Next Road Trip

With international travel still a ways away, now is a great time for anyone in the Philippines to discover the amazing destinations surrounding them

Iva Agüero
@philandiva

When it comes to choosing holiday destinations, we often look at the far off destinations because the grass always seem to be greener on the other side. Sadly, we often end up overlooking the amazing possibilities just outside our doorstep.

Once we let the idea of travelling  far and  fast take a backseat, land travel becomes the obvious choice. You will find that there are so many discoveries to be made along the way.

One of the best things about a road-trip is that the trip becomes as important as the destination and you have the freedom to stop, take a detour and let yourself be amazed by new experiences along the way. This is what happened to Phil and I while we were filming for Dreamcatchers, as we drove a car around the incredible island of Luzon, in one of our favourite road-trips to date.

Discovering Filipino history on the streets of Vigan

One of the things that struck us on our Luzon  road trip was the great infrastructure and ease of traveling. Well maintained roads and clear signage made it super easy to navigate from one pit-stop to the other.

Vigan was our first stop out of Manila and it immediately transported us to another time. The cobbled streets and charming facades of the buildings reminded us of the rich history of the Philippines while the empanadas delighted us with their fusion of Spanish influence and delicious local ingredients.

Sand Dunes of Laoag

As we drove from Ilocos Sur towards Ilocos Norte we couldn’t help but stop in the surprising sand dunes of Laoag. Here, visitors are invited to grab a board and surf down the sides of the dunes, or get an adrenaline rush speeding through the dunes on an ATV. A few sandy tumbles later and we were back in the car continuing our journey north.

Patapat Viaduct on the Northern coast of Luzon

Rounding the northeastern tip of Luzon we drove through the striking Patapat Viaduct and enjoyed the magnificent view along the north coast before heading into the jungle of Adams, a small mountain town lost in time among the rice fields and the mountains that may sound familiar from a previous article that we wrote (yes, I like that place a lot)!

For those seeking cooler weather, the Mountain Province of the Philippines will show you that you don’t need to travel to Europe to stay in a log cabin and sip hot chocolate! From Sagada all the way down to Baguio you can enjoy a chilly breeze and changing landscapes as you drive through imposing pine forests, ancient terraced rice fields and lush strawberry farms.

As we drove down from the mountains and into the plains, heading back to Manila after a few weeks in the car, we couldn’t help but wonder one more time at the variety of  picturesque sceneries we saw along the way as well as short distances and beautiful roads that had more than lived up to expectations in one of our most epic road-trip to date.

Covid-19 Road—trip checklist:

Choose a car rental service that you trust

We had a great experience with Hertz Philippines during our road trip. They go the extra mile to get you to your destination safely and now even offer to deliver the car directly to your home address. Of course they also apply rigorous hygiene and safety standards. Regardless of who you choose as your provider, make sure that they have adequate cleaning and safety regulations in place.

Plan your itinerary in advance

Check the reopening policy of places you plan to visit. For example, Baguio has introduced a travel regulation system called Visitor Information and Travel Assistance (VISITA) that serves as an extra layer of security to ensure their guests a safe and stress-free stay.

Know your pit-stop options

While spontaneity is a wonderful part of traveling, keep your options open by having a list of accommodations and activities that have already been vetted by the local tourism authorities.

Put together your Freedom Playlist

Don’t forget the music! As you venture out for what may be your first post-Covid trip, put together a playlist with the best vibes to celebrate the epic adventure. If you’re traveling in the car, blast your music and sing along at the top of your lungs. If you’re travelling by bus, maybe best to keep the noise down… although who knows – maybe your fellow travellers will be up for an impromptu karaoke session!

Stopping for snacks is definitely a bonus of any road trip

For up to date travel information, please visit philippines.travel/safeph and DOT’s official Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The photos used in this article were taken prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Thinking of traveling but want to maintain a safe distance? Have a look at our top 6 picks of Filipino destinations where isolation and beauty go hand in hand

Thinking of traveling but want to maintain a safe distance? Have a look at our top 6 picks of Filipino destinations where isolation and beauty go hand in hand

If part of your planning involves searching for destinations where it is easier to avoid the crowds, this is the perfect list for you!

Iva Agüero
@philandiva

As sailors and natural explorers, Phil and I often prefer going off the beaten path. There is something uniquely exciting about discovering places that seem a little more remote, where the horizon is uninterrupted by signs of civilisation and where the only noises you hear come from the animals, plants and insects around you.

Travel can be a great way to rest and recharge but holidays often come with unintended stress. The planning, the preparation, the logistics and even the other travellers can all get in the way of an opportunity to really relax. It is in moments of solitary exploration that we are able to unplug completely, dive inwards and experience a stillness within ourselves. The hustle and bustle of everyday life slowly subsides and the cares melt away once we find ourselves alone and face to face with the splendour of these filipino landscapes.

With the world slowly adjusting to life and travel during a pandemic, now is the chance to venture a little further and seek out destinations where social distancing comes naturally. They may be a little harder to access but having been there ourselves, we can tell you it’s more than worth the journey!

Below is our list of top 6 social-distancing friendly destinations in the Philippines. Starting from the most accessible and ending with the most adventurous!

Maricaban Bay at the North of Busuanga with striking views and amazing dive sites – Photo taken at El Rio y Mar Resort @philandiva

#6 Busuanga

The largest of the Calamian group, this island is often overshadowed or thought of only as a departure point from which to visit Coron, but the truth is that Busuanga has so much to offer. It is a vast, and sparsely populated island where the concentration of activity is towards the south and the other areas are largely ignored by tourists. Busuanga Island is divided into two municipalities, Busuanga and Coron. The Francisco B. Reyes Airport is located in Coron. The Northeast of the island is particularly beautiful, with many bays to explore and an incredible wealth of diving destinations. Our recommendation, rent a motorbike and explore the northern coast of the island. Both on land and in the water, there is so much to see.

Planning your trip

Busuanga has its own airport and is easily accessible from Manila. Prepare your pandemic- friendly passage by ensuring that you meet all travel requirements before flying. Respect all safety measures at the airport and make sure to find a travel operator accredited by the Department of Tourism. If you are renting a motorbike, ask for the vehicle to be disinfected and bring hand sanitiser along with you to regularly clean the handlebars throughout your trip.

Listen to the Bolo River and look out at Tinaburan Mountain range from Adams – Photo taken at Ilyn’s Homeyplace @philandiva

#5 Adams

Nestled deep in the mountains, the town of Adams is like something out of a storybook. Surrounded by forests, rice fields and waterfalls this is a destination for travellers looking to unwind and listen to the sound of the Bolo River rushing past. Perched at the north of the island of Luzon, Adams is accessible by car and once you turn off from the main highway, small winding roads will take you further up the mountain. From Adams you can visit up to 18 different waterfalls, with Anuplig being the most famous. The area is surrounded by virgin forests and you can hike up to “Lover’s Peak” for 360 views of the Tinamburan Mountain range. This peaceful spot is perfect if you want to stay in Luzon but feel like you are completely tucked away in the forest.

Planning your trip

As it is accessible by land, you can visit Adams by taking a bus or car. Land transport services now require their employees to use PPE so expect your driver to be wearing a facemark and shield as well as gloves. The number of passengers will be limited with buses running at 50% and vans allowing only two passengers per row. Book your trip ahead of time or rent a car to be more independent!

Perfect spot to cool off after a long hike through the mountains of Adams – @philandiva

#4 Linapacan

Linapacan is part of the Calamianes Group of Islands, located in Palawan Province.

A gem sitting right above the island of Palawan, Linapacan is a well-kept secret. This island is home to some of the clearest waters in the Philippines and has even made international headlines as one of the top 35 places to swim in before you die! The island’s unique shape means there are many bays to discover and you could have a beach playground all to yourself.

With little accommodation available on the island but so many bays to explore, we recommend camping. While filming for Dreamcatchers we met two travellers that had decided to spend a month circumnavigating Linapacan on inflatable kayaks. If your idea of a good time is cruising over crystal waters in the day and camping on deserted beaches at night, this is the place for you from April to June!

Stunning islands dot the horizon around Linapacan – @philandiva

Planning your trip

Linapacan can be accessed by air from Manila via Coron or El Nido. Regular boats are available in Coron and El Nido going to Linapacan. Book a seat in advance as travel operators will be operating at reduced capacity in compliance with the travel guidelines during the New Normal. There is very little accommodation available in San Miguel, the main barangay of the island so we recommend an extended camping trip so you can explore more on your own!

The Rice Terraces of Bayyo Village, Bontoc, Mountain Province. They can be viewed along the way to Banaue, Ifugao from Bontoc – @philandiva

#3 Batad & Sleeping Beauty Mountain

Granted the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site, this destination is a voyage back in time to appreciate ancient rice terraces and impressive irrigation systems that are still a wonder to this day. 1,500 meters above sea level in the Ifugao Province in Luzon, you can find this terraced wonderland that offers social-distancing friendly hikes for miles and miles. The town of Banaue offers a wide variety of delicious local eateries and from this starting point you can decide how far and how long you want to hike to visit the other areas such as the Batad or Mayoyao Terraces.

Phil and I decided to visit Batad and we could not stop marvelling at these amazing feats of ancient engineering and how the local Ifugao culture is still preserved to this day. Hiking up and down the mountainside, expect to be amazed at staggered terraces as far as the eye can see. While driving to Banaue, Phil and I also stopped at the Sleeping Beauty Mountain for incredible views.

Planning your trip

Book accommodation in Banaue at an establishment that has the necessary accreditation issued by the Department of Tourism. From Banaue you will be able to plan many stunning hikes in the area. You’ll be spoilt for choice with many delicious restaurants in town and they all be DOT-accredited for your safety.

Disinfectant mats at entry, 1 meter minimum between tables and diners and transparent dividers between facing guests will be in place to ensure that you can enjoy the local delicacies in a safe setting.

#2 Apo Reef

If you are looking to swap your face mask for a snorkel while on holiday, head to Apo Reef Natural Park. This incredible landmark off the coast of Mindoro holds a treasure trove of underwater life and is the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef. One of our favourite places to visit, this destination is only reachable by boat, making social-distancing all that much easier. If you’re not lucky enough to have a friend with a sailboat don’t worry, you can still visit! There are liveaboard boats from Coron, Palawan to Sablayan, Mindoro Occidental that cater to dive enthusiasts.

From your live aboard you can snorkel or dive to your hearts content as you discover an underwater kingdom home to turtles, sharks, rays and so many more magical creatures. Above the surface the ever changing colours of the water will take your breath away and don’t be surprised if you can see straight down to the reef by just leaning over the side of the boat.

Planning your trip

Commercial boats are available from Coron, Palawan to San Jose, Mindoro Occidental then land travel to Sablayan, your jump-off point to Apo Reef Natural Park. As snorkelling and diving are the main activities in Apo Reef, dive operators will be regularly disinfecting equipment but consider buying your own mask and snorkel. You will be wanting to spend most of your days in the water so it is a good investment!

Hiking the breathtaking Rapang Cliff – @philandiva

#1 Itbayat, Batanes

If the recent world events have you feeling like the apocalypse is upon us and you want to travel to a place that feels like the edge of the world, head to Batanes. The last inhabited islands at the north of the Philippines were one of the ultimate highlights of our time spent in the country. Itbayat is the northernmost inhabited island and is reachable by boat during summer. This gargantuan piece of uplifted coral offers adventurous travellers the experience of a lifetime. Rugged mountains and sprawling coastlines offer unparalleled views on the Philippines Sea. Itbayat is one of those rare destinations that offers an epic adventure with landscapes straight out of Lord of the Rings. For those wary of crowds, rest assured if you make it to Itbayat, you will not see another person or traveler for miles around.

Planning your trip

From Manila the fastest way to reach Batanes is by air. You can fly directly to Basco but be aware that the Batanes group of islands is very exposed and subject to extreme weather so check that you have a good weather window before booking. Book your tour in advance; there are very limited and spartan accommodation available. From there you will take a four-hour boat ride to Itbayat. There is very little tourist accommodation available on the island so book everything in advance to ensure your stay and also minimise on-site payments.

There are very few options for restaurants on the island so we suggest bringing plenty of snacks and planning meals in advance. You will need a local guide to visit Itbayat. Tour guides and homestays are exceptions to the stricter regulations under the New Normal but should still be accredited. It’s easy to find a knowledgable and friendly guide who will be happy to share their hometown and local culture with you.

For up to date travel information, please visit philippines.travel/safeph and DOT’s official Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The photos used in this article were taken prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

*Disclaimer: Test before you travel
A negative RT-PCR result not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours prior to travelling to Boracay is mandatory. Travellers are strongly advised to observe strict quarantine immediately after undergoing the test until the date of travel to the island.

Boracay the first to bring back the fun in the Philippines!

Boracay the first to bring back the fun in the Philippines!

What does visiting a paradise island feel like during Covid-19?

Philippe Estiot & Iva Agüero
@philandiva

It has been a long time since we thought about making travel plans. Recent world events could be mistaken for the plot of a zombie movie but the New Normal is now upon us and it is time for every country to adjust.

There’s one country we know well and hold close to our heart. It’s a place we have sailed around for more than a year and where our sailboat Dali is currently berthed, a country who’s economy strongly relies on tourism: The Philippines.

Luckily, as we are slowly returning to more conventional way of living, this dream destination for travellers from all over the world has been hard at work to prepare a safe return for visitors. From air and land travel to hotel accommodation and beachside activities, comprehensive guidelines have been carefully thought to protect everyone from beginning to end. In this way, we will now be able to marvel again at its pristine beaches, incredible rock formations and stunning mountains, or simply to drink an ice cold beer while watching the sun set on another day in one of our favourite countries in the world.

So what does visiting one of its most stunning beaches during the New Normal look like? We were curious to find out what traveling to world famous Boracay now feels like.

For starters, the journey is a lot less crowded. No more elbowing your neighbours for a few inches more of space on the plane from Manila! Travel operators must obtain special certifications and respect social distancing practices that include physical barriers between passengers, drivers and regular disinfecting.

When packing your bags, just make sure don’t forget the New Normal Essentials! With a strict no mask, no boarding policy, you should come prepared with your own mask. Hand sanitiser is readily available wherever you go, along with paper towels and first-aid kits.

The tough few months we’ve lived through did not change what we like most about the Philippines: the Filipino hospitality. Rarely have we travelled to a country where we felt more welcome, and this has not changed a bit.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you’ll hear a friendly and familiar “Mabuhay” and although the masks keep mouths hidden, it’s impossible not to notice the big smiles in the twinkling eyes of the hotel staff. Check-in is smooth, with contactless forms of payment for hotel bookings are preferred, or even paying online when you make your booking.

After filling a Health Declaration Form and having your temperature taken, it’s time to go to your room. Only single or double occupancy rooms are allowed and a meter between you and your neighbour’s bed is recommended. It all seems a bit like a scene out of a sci-fi movie, but all the precautions are worth it once you step out onto the blinding white sand of Boracay.

With less tourists, you’ll have the stunning beaches all to yourself! There will definitely not be anyone to photobomb your selfies so if there was ever a time for perfect beach photos – this is it!

We are always sailing to remote islands on the hunt for empty beaches. Realising we can now find this in the famous destination of Boracay makes us look at this whole situation in a new way. The surreal situation we have lived through did have a positive impact on our planet and now is the time to enjoy it! It’s been years since the water was so clear here.

Feet in the sand and looking out at the bright turquoise water on the shore to the dark blue hues in the horizon brings profound sense of freedom, even if wearing a mask on the beach is a stark reminder of this New Normal world. Once you take off your mask for a swim and you’re floating in the crystal clear water, the troubles of the last few months quickly slip away.

It’s the dawn of a new era and being able move freely has become a new type of luxury for us all. As Boracay reopens, a wave of optimism washes over the Philippines. It feels like the start of a new chapter, with more good news just around the corner.

Below is a summary of the guidelines to follow in order to have hassle-free fun in Boracay when it reopens

 

Test before you travel

  • A negative RT-PCR result not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours prior to travelling to Boracay is mandatory.

 

Book in DOT-accredited establishments only

  • To ensure safety and the quality of service, all travellers are required to pre-book in DOT-accredited hotels and resorts issued with a Certificate of Authority to Open. You can find the list of these accommodation establishments here.

 

Register your visit online

  • Access http://aklan.gov.ph and click the Online Health Declaration Card button then choose Boracay in the “Where To?” page.
  • Fill out the required fields and submit. A confirmation with instructions will be displayed. 
  • Save a copy of the Health Declaration Card (HDC) on your smartphone or have it printed. 
  • Attach a copy of the HDC together with a copy of your RT-PCR Negative Result, confirmed flight and booking details, and your valid ID, then email it to touristboracay@gmail.com with this subject format: OHDC – Family Name, First Name (example: OHDC – Dela Cruz, Juan). Registration for multiple tourists and their documents can be sent in one email. 
  • Wait for the email response within the day. If approved, a copy of your HDC and Tourist QR Code will be sent back to you. Present these to authorities in the borders for scanning.

 

Follow port of entry guidelines

  • Airlines are advised that the Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan, Municipality of Malay will be the only port of entry for tourists traveling by air. A central point shall be established to screen tourists travelling by land, air, or sea.

 

Familiarize yourself with local health and safety facilities and guidelines

  • Stringent health and safety guidelines, emergency response protocols, and a COVID-19 Laboratory are in place as you enter Boracay.
For up to date travel information, please visit philippines.travel/safeph and DOT’s official Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The photos used in this article were taken prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

*Disclaimer: Test before you travel
A negative RT-PCR result not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours prior to travelling to Boracay is mandatory. Travellers are strongly advised to observe strict quarantine immediately after undergoing the test until the date of travel to the island.

Get ready to pack your bags!

Get ready to pack your bags!

Philippines sets the wheels in motion with Certificate of Authority to Operate for hotels and resorts

It’s no secret Phil and I love to travel and with our boat waiting for us out of the water in Subic Bay, we often find our minds wandering to the Philippines. Who hasn’t sat at home during these long weeks and clicked past hundreds of old holiday photos or scrolled through #travelinspo?

What we wouldn’t do for a dip in the crystal waters of Bacuit Bay, a breath of fresh air in Batanes or a hike through the rice terraces of Batad. The Philippines has something for every traveler, with  a vast variety of landscapes and adventures at every turn.

With the pandemic still present in our everyday lives, most of us can only sit back and daydream about travel. Confinement and movement control orders have made memories of sunny beaches and exotic destinations all the sweeter in our minds… Not to mention that our bucket list of dream destinations grows longer with each week that sit at home.

Luckily, there are good news just around the corner! The Philippines is stepping up to the plate and has been hard at work behind the scenes to ensure that safe domestic travel can resume.

What does this mean? It means that not long from now hotels, resorts and restaurants can begin to reopen! Tourism based business can apply for free to secure a DOT Certificate of Authority to Operate so that they can be sure to welcome their guests in compliance with safety regulations.

A little extra planning will go a long way on both sides. Guests will be asked to fill out a Health Declaration Form upon check-in, while hotels and resorts must commit to providing up to date information on Covid-19 as well as informing the guests of all the safety measures in place at the establishment. Make a little extra room in your luggage for face-masks but don’t worry if you forgot your hand-sanitiser as hotels and resorts will be providing sanitation kits for each guest.

With tourism starting during the pandemic, you can rest assured that hotel rooms have never been this clean! Rigorous disinfecting of linens, surfaces and spaces – combined with physical distancing – will give you a less crowded and sparkling clean hotel experience.

If the community quarantine is starting to weigh on you, think of this as a ray of sunlight peeking through the clouds. Soon the wonders of the archipelago of the Philippines will be open again for us to come marvel at.

A hike to Kagayan Lake or a snorkel in Apo Reef, the question on everyone’s mind right now is, where will we go first?

For up to date travel information, please visit philippines.travel/safeph and DOT’s official Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The photos used in this article were taken prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Above The Clouds: Climbing Mount Kinabalu

As the sun rose over the turquoise waters of Pulau Tiga, 30 nautical miles south of Kota Kinabalu, I made my way out of my comfortable bunk and onto the deck of my boat. The soothing swell of the South China Sea put a smile on my face. As I looked up to the horizon, I saw the powerful mountains of Borneo, and, rising above all, the magnificent rugged crest of Mount Kinabalu.

The tallest mountain in Malaysia gives its name to the city that lies at its feet, Kota Kinabalu. This city would be our next port, and climbing the mountain our next challenge, a dream I had been pursuing for many years.

A few hours later, we secured Dali’s lines in our berth at the Sutera Harbour Marina and made our way to the Amazing Borneo Tours office in town. They would be taking us up the mountain, providing a guide, accommodation and food during the three days and two nights it would take us to attempt the hike.

Any fit person with the necessary determination can climb Mount Kinabalu. We were told it is a tough but safe hike, yet although we have had some mountaineering experience in the past, our fitness level worried us: it was at a low after too much time spent in the city and the marina.

Our first night was spent at Sutera Sanctuary’s Lodges near the Kinabalu Park Headquarters. We felt refreshed by the low temperature but concerned by the clouds that covered the mountain with fog and rain. On a rainy day, the climb cannot be attempted. We started praying to the weather gods that watch over us at sea. Hopefully they would have their say on mountain weather as well. We went to sleep in our comfortable double bunk beds, dreaming of sunny mountaintops.

Dinner with a view at Balsam Restaurant

The next morning the clouds parted for a few minutes and revealed the mountain from a shorter distance. What a sight! Due to the tropical climate, Mount Kinabalu has the particularity to culminate at over 4000 meters while being free of all snow, a sight I had never witnessed before. The jagged granite rock speaks of the history of time and I stood still in front of the power of this mountain.

Aki Nabalu seen from the Park Headquarters

It was time to hike. A lot of steps have been carved in the soil of the mountain and facilitate the climb, but my muscles were out of practice indeed. The first section goes through the humid rainforest and we were panting and sweating but slowly making our way up. The many rest stops came as a relief. We could drink water, adjust our clothing according to the change of temperature, and entertain ourselves with adorable fat squirrels fed by the many tourists that attempt the climb everyday.

Kinabalu Forest Iva
Kinabalu Squirrel
Kiabalu Forest Phil

The second section got us into the rainy clouds, but the vegetation changed and revealed little fluffy trees and colourful flowers that made us feel as if were strolling through a carefully designed Japanese garden. Enthralled by the beauty of nature, we pushed through the last of the 6 kilometres that brought us up to Laban Rata, the base camp for the climb to the summit.

Bonsai Pines, Rhododendrons and Shrub Raspberries

Balcony at Laban Rata Lodge

2AM Smiles

We were extremely impressed with the quality of the facilities that we found at 3200 meters. A nice restaurant with an exceptional view, great food and very soft mattresses, an incredible achievement, taking into account the fact that every single piece of equipment has been carried up the mountain by human power. We shared our room with a lively bunch from Sarawak. Our night was short, as we had to wake up at 2AM for a very early breakfast.

The excitement grew as we started climbing in the dark. The sky was clear, and it felt as if we quickly made our way up the last steps that led us out of the trees and onto the rough granite rock that lies bare at the top of the mountain. The half moon was smiling above us and we barely used our headlights to find solid grip at every step taking us further up. I felt like I was on another planet, a soft cold breeze pushing me towards that goal I had been dreaming of for so long. Ropes helped us through the more technical passages, and we arrived at a gentle slope as the light started illuminating the sky in the east.

Reaching the Summit at Sunrise

My breath got shorter due to altitude, but I was on a high. We could finally see the summit, and the lights of the climbers ahead of us set a final goal for our heavy legs. The last steps were slow but determined. The sky finally turned pink as we touched the summit of Mount Kinabalu, 4095 meters above the sea. We had reached our goal. We put on all the layers of clothes we had and enjoyed the breathtaking view.

The next part was pure joy: a couple of hours on top of the world, the sun piercing out of the horizon, playing with the texture of the granite and warming our bodies. I had never seen anything like it. The sweeping clouds far beneath us contrasting with the sharp peaks of the mountain created a feeling of elevation I wished I could hold onto forever. Everywhere I looked, I was in awe. Iva and I looked at each other, a huge smile on our faces, no words needed to express our feelings. The long strenuous journey up the mountain suddenly felt like a forgetful detail of my favourite hike up to this day. I thought of my family, my friends, and the rest of living beings on this planet. All I could wish for was for them to experience a similar feeling, at least just for one short moment in their lives.

Climb Mount Kinabalu

Experience the adventure we went on by booking a 3D2N package that will take you to the summit of Mount Kinabalu at 4,095 metres above sea level!

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The Scariest Thing That Happened to Us While Sailing

The making of Dreamcatchers has been our greatest challenge and has pushed the limits in many areas of our lives. Just when we thought we had our bearings and began writing the scripts for Season One, Phil needed surgery and we found ourselves laptops open, in hospital rooms.

How did we get there?

Flashback to our sail around Indonesia four months prior.

We were in one of the most remote islands of our trip when Phil started experiencing a very deep, sharp pain in his right side. Our satellite phone and SSB radio were not working. We were far, out of reach and Phil’s pain wouldn’t subside.

Everyone always asks me if I find it scary to live on a sailboat. I can honestly say that at that moment, in the middle of nowhere, on a tiny island surrounded by hostile reef, the risk was not the weather, not the boat, but Phil’s health. Not knowing what was wrong with him was much more terrifying than any tropical storm we have ever faced.

Our route and plans changed quickly and we knew we had to sail to Jakarta, the closest big city, to get to a hospital. We knew we were 850km from a diagnostic. There were moments of respite as the pain Phil was experiencing was intense but not constant. It would come and go every few days, always leaving us confused and dreading the moment it came back. We were lucky to still be able to sail, although at times this meant Phil was lying in the cabin, doubled over in pain and I was alone on the deck looking out at the horizon wishing to see Jakarta faster.

The trip gave us time to think and we began to recognise the importance of some of the preparations we had made before our big voyage. A few months prior to our sail to Indonesia we had signed up for an international health insurance. The islands we were sailing to were very remote and we decided to play it safe. We had looked for an insurer that would cover us while were away, in extreme conditions and would repatriate us if things got really bad.

We both had signed up for policies with A+ International Healthcare and then hoped we would never have to use them.

This decision turned out to be one of the wisest we’ve ever made and allowed us to concentrate only on Phil’s recovery. Our Insurer gave us the freedom to choose the country where he got treatment, the hospitals and even the doctors.

We finally arrived in Jakarta and headed straight for the best hospital in the city. The recommended doctor identified a blockage near Phil’s kidney that was causing the pain but said it was not an immediate threat to his health. Phil was prescribed some strong painkillers and we decided to continue our sail to the north of Borneo. Our plan was to leave the boat in Kuching to then travel to Singapore to get the necessary treatment.

In all, Phil had to undergo several surgeries to fix the issue. It was a long and painful process made much easier by our health insurance. Communication with our A+ International Healthcare was excellent, we never had to worry about making payment ourselves and we were able to choose the best country for medical treatment. We decided on Singapore for its state of the art hospitals and followed the recommendation of a friend to select the best surgeon for Phil’s problem.

A+ facilitated the entire thing without any objections or delays. They covered us for private rooms, which made Phil’s recovery more comfortable and even allowed us to continue the post-production of our series.

We have always believed that success can be achieved through perseverance, courage and hard work. It was a difficult time for me, seeing Phil lying on a hospital bed with tubes coming out of his body… and obviously a difficult time for Phil. Yet, more than ever, we held on to our belief.

We didn’t let the surgeries stop us, and from sterile and unlikely environments the scripts of Dreamcatchers episodes continued to take shape.

Phil getting the all-clear from his surgeon, Dr.Michael Wong

10 Favourite Things About Living on a Sailboat

Returning to the boat after long months in the city has made me appreciate even more the little things that make this lifestyle so worthwhile. There will always be things that break down, rust and need repair but living on a sailboat definitely has some pretty amazing upsides.

Here are my 10 favourite things about living on a sailboat:

© phuquocbackpackers.com
10. The Bacteria

Alright fine, it’s not just any bacteria. It’s bioluminescent bacteria and this may sound silly, but at night I fall in love with these tiny underwater stars. Bioluminescence is one of the many incredible and beautiful wonders of nature. There are many types of luminescent organisms, but my favourite is by far the bacteria. A splash made in the dark sparks thousands of tiny blue explosions, and riding the dinghy in the night is like being propelled by a jet stream of glitter. On clear nights we can sit on the deck and look up at the stars, then down at the underwater galaxies that live and sparkle beneath them.
Image Credit: © phuquocbackpackers.com

9. The Scarcity

Perhaps another odd thing to like… Yet living on a sailboat has taught me to really appreciate things I took for granted before. Simple things like freshwater become much more precious when you know how limited your supply is, or how far you have to hike to the waterfall to find it. Even buying groceries is a complex endeavour, usually involving several forms of transport, language barriers at the local market and finding a way to lug everything back on board. The fact that everything is just that little bit harder to do makes life on a sailboat much more rewarding.

8. The Wind

A more obvious choice, the power of the wind has impressed me time and again during my years on a sailboat. I am still awestruck every time the sails are full, and we are propelled towards our destination by one of nature’s invisible forces (keep in mind the boat weighs about 9 tonnes!). You can see the power of the wind on the waves, with the sea quick to rise to its call. The trace of strong winds on the shores of islands where the trees all slant the same way. And best of all, on hot tropical nights, the cool wind coming in through the open hatches.

7. The Isolation

Living on a sailboat is at times like living in your own personal bubble. You can actually choose how far you want to remove yourself from the world. Far enough so that you don’t see people on the shore, far enough so there’s no land in your horizon, far enough so that no phone signal can reach you, and far enough so that nothing else seems to exist except you, the boat and that moment.

6. The Birds & The Dolphins

Living in nature always introduces you to new and amazing creatures. Living on a sailboat, we are lucky enough to be able to enjoy some animals even without leaving our little floating home. Birds are always a welcome sight; seeing one after four days at sea lets you know you are close to land miles before you see it. Seeing dolphins play and swim alongside the boat is a pretty indescribable luxury.

5. The Moon & The Stars

I have always been partial to the moon for its quiet beauty. In the city it’s easy to forget to look up at the moon and after some time you lose track of its phases. On the water, the importance of the moon takes on a whole new level. It not only provides us with light on dark nights, but also controls the tides. In certain anchorages, the moon determines when we can or can’t go to land!

Image Credit: http://sea007.violet.vn/

4. The Solidarity

One of the most beautiful aspects of living on a sailboat is the sailing community itself. Although its members may come from all walks of life, and live or work on all different types of vessels, I am constantly surprised by the strong camaraderie that unites them. Around a bonfire everyone is equal, and at the end of the day, a sailor will always help out another sailor in need.
Image Credit: http://sea007.violet.vn/

3. The Rain

I must admit that I would feel differently about this if I weren’t living on a sailboat in the tropics. But around these parts, the squalls come and go quickly and bring us welcome relief from the thick humid heat. On land, it’s always impressive when the monsoon season arrives and you see the vegetation swell with vivid lush greens. On board, rain also means plenty of freshwater to replenish the tanks with and more occasions for me to wash my hair!

2. The Intimacy

Philippe Jeantot said that every year spent with your significant other at sea is worth three on land, and I couldn’t agree more! Living with your partner in such a confined space creates a very special relationship. This bond is one of the things I most treasure as it develops through learning from each other, facing engine problems, storms and unknown territory together. You are each other’s Captain and Crew as well as sole source of comfort, frustration, laughter and everything else in between.

1. The Freedom

By far my favourite thing is the feeling of complete freedom that comes with living on a sailboat. As you travel with your floating house in tow, you are completely free to decide on the destination. Sailboats are self-sustainable and with the right weather and preparations you can be free to roam to your heart’s content!

Top 5 Surprising Discoveries during the filming of “Dreamcatchers”

The first season of Dreamcatchers was filmed while sailing aboard our boat Dali around Indonesia. This exciting journey was full of thrills! Here are the 5 surprising discoveries we will never forget:

1. The Mystical Shores of Lake Toba

During the 8 months of our trip we only left our boat once, in the city of Sibolga on the West coast of Sumatra. We rented a car and drove up into the mountains to discover the magical Lake Toba, created thousands of years ago by the biggest volcanic eruption the world has ever seen. The cool air of the mountains, the lovely Batak people and the Tugu graves surrounding the giant lake give this area of Sumatra a very special feel.

2. The Engine Failure

As we reached the most remote island we had visited, Pulau Sanding off the West coast of Sumatra, our engine broke down. We were on a deserted island with no possible outside help, and to make matters worse, our satellite phone and SSB radio stopped working: a tribute to the expression “when it rains, it pours”. Luckily, our boat has sails. We had to dig deep in our mental resources, change our plans and sail towards Jakarta against the strong wind and waves.

3. The Encounter with an Orca

We left Pulau Sanding, with no communication and no working engine, the boat healed on its side and hitting the waves. Our moral was low and we were starting to have enough of this trip. The following might seem hard to believe but it actually happened: 10 seconds after I said out loud “I would love to see a whale to cheer us up” a giant fin came out of the water and headed for the boat. As it got closer, it turned to its side and the black and white body of an Orca came out of the water. Iva and I looked at each other in disbelief. This supernatural event gave us the strength to continue our journey.

4. The Power of Krakatau Volcano

As we dropped our anchor in front of the active volcano of Anak Krakatau, we realized we had discovered our favorite anchorage to date. On one side a perfect black sand beach and on the other, the permanent cloud of smoke forming over the volcano. We had this place all to ourselves, no one around for miles. As we hiked up the black slopes of the living mountain, we could feel the power of nature and witness the passing of time.

5. The Friends We Made On The Way

We spent eight months just the two of us, living on Dali and constantly on the move, travelling from one remote place to the next. This makes every encounter very special. The Indonesians are very open and warm people and we felt welcome every place we went. The times we spent with our Dreamcatchers, sharing their daily routines and collecting their stories, brought us close together and we built true friendships that will last for life.