FAQ Sabang Divers

Valid passport (has to be valid for at least 6 months at the date of entry) for a 21 day stay. Tourist visas from 21 to 59 days are available at consulates and embassies. Visas can be extended at the Commission on Immigration in Manila or here in Puerto Galera. You have to have a valid return or onward ticket.

Philippine Peso; 1 US$ = approx. 45 Pesos. (current exchange rate)
We accept payments in any major currency as well as in Philippine Peso.

Tagalog. English is very widely spoken in the Philippines.
In addition the Sabang Inn has German speaking staff available.

220 Volt AC, 60Hz, US type outlet, You will need an adapter for European appliances

No mandatory vaccinations. (With the exception of yellow fever if you are coming from an infected area) Malaria prophylaxis is recommended only for a few islands (Palawan).

Can be changed at Banks and "Money Changers" or in large hotels and resorts.
Exchange rates for traveler's checks are usually 1-2 Pesos below the regular cash rate!

VISA , Master cards and American Express are accepted only in large Resort and Hotels and in Tourist areas. Surcharges of up to 10% on credit card transactions are normal due to the lack of banking facilities in the rural areas. Some banks in Manila will give you cash advances on credit cards without surcharge. (Equitable Bank). Don't rely on your credit card too much when traveling off the beaten track in the Philippines. Restaurants and small hotels will usually accept cash only!
We do not accept any credit cards or cheques. However it is possible to pay with credit card in the Sandbar Boquete Beach Club (+6.5%).

Generally the weather is good year round. It is dry from December until mid-July, the rainy season from mid July to the end of August. Summer is from April to August. If you come here for the Diving, a 3mm suit will do from April to early December (28 degree water). In 'Winter' time (December to March), consider bringing a 5mm, or hooded vest under a 3mm suit (22-25 degree water).(current weather)

Seasons:

High season is traditionally late December to early May, although the area is busy at weekends throughout the year and during any Asian Holiday. The traditional low season, May and June, September and October often has the best weather and diving conditions. If you are considering a vacation during the major public holidays: Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year and Easter, book at least several weeks in well in advance, it can get really tough to find a room!

What to bring:

Leave your winter clothes at home! The same thing holds true for formal wear ( unless you plan to visit some fine dining restaurants in Manila). Here on the beach you'll need nothing but a few T-shirts and shorts, because, really, nobody dresses up to go out for the evening here! "Beachwear" is being sold by vendors everywhere, a t-shirt and a pair of shorts can be bought for about 5-7$, so don't spend money at home to buy yourself some summer clothes!

Medical Facilities:

This is a brief overview of facilities and services available to you if you were taken sick or injured whilst on holiday. Puerto Galera is full of adventure and fun, but it is a remote destination in terms of comprehensive medical care.
We have a full Emergency Assistance Plan in our resort, that covers communication with other resorts, local hospitals and chambers. It also covers evacuation by sea and Air Force Helicopter. We have a full O2 kit and first aid kits.

In Puerto Galera: There is one 'lying in clinic'. This is a basic doctor's surgery. Puerto Galera also has two pharmacies.

In Batangas: Batangas is about one hour 30 minutes from Puerto Galera by boat and does have at least one reasonable hospital 'St. Patrick's' that is equipped with a full pharmacy, life support equipment and operating theatre.

In Manila (120km from Puerto Galera): Comprehensive medical care is available at 'Makati Medical Center and 'V. Luna Hospital' / Chamber. This would be the most likely destination in the event of serious illness or injury. The hospitals provide 'European standard' of care. Manila is about 3 hours by boat and ambulance or about 40 minutes by helicopter from Puerto Galera.

In Subic Bay (200km from Puerto Galera): The main operational recompression chamber for the Philippines. Accessible by road, seaplane or helicopter. Allow a minimum of two hours from the moment of notification to reach the chamber.