If you are planning to visit Bantayan Island of Cebu, another beautiful place on earth not yet spoiled by commercialism, then this entry deserves your attention. If you are from Metro Manila on a red-eye flight but of course not literally as you might be offloaded due to medical condition, upon arrival at the Queen City of the South you can take a friendly cab going to the North Bus Terminal with approximately 100-150php metered taxi bill if you are lucky to have a God-fearing taxi driver. The public transport leaves at around 0200hrs for Hagnaya Port and will cost you 170-230php. The trip is about 3 to 4 hours long and I suggest that you catch some power naps to better save energy before you arrive at your final destination – Bantayan Island.
The boat trip from Hagnaya to Bantayan island is about one and a half hours depending on the season because the trip could last more than 3 hours if the weather is blowing more wind to the sea and even if the trip lasts longer the price remains at 150php per passenger. It’s a bonus but not a convenience for a short trip but we have no other means to control the weather, not even if post “peace” on Facebook.
Please take note of the following reminders:
1. It is advised to bring beauty bars, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, Sunblock, and other look-enhancing kits with less jewelry as you are not going to an Oscar Awards.
2. Tuck in the budget allocation approved by your treasury department and store smaller bills to make all payment transactions quick and easy. Remember there is only one ATM (Allied Bank) on the island and you don’t want to read an OFFLINE sign and be an instant beggar. Coin purse will also help you in this endeavor.
3. During the off-peak season it is best that you scout for the cheapest accommodation once you arrive on the island, however, if you are coming in for the Holy Week, don’t hesitate to book your resort the earliest possible time or you will end up dreaming about this trip.
4. There are pharmacies on the island but sometimes they don’t have it all, so you better load up your pillbox and keep them safe and handy.
5. Bottled water and energy drinks can be purchased on the island so keep them out of the worry list.
6. There are many restaurants, eatery, and barbeque stalls or if your accommodation allows you to cook then you can make a short trip to the market.
7. Telecom signal is good and credits can be purchased at convenience stores.
Useful link:
Boat Trips in Cebu: http://www.cebuboattrips.com/
Now that you have ideas on how to get there, don’t start dreaming about it because it will not take you to Bantayan. Do some planning and start your trip map to adventure!
*Prices quoted are based on July 2011.
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