Siquijor, often called the “Island of Fire,” is a surprising gem in the Philippines known for its mystical charm, white sand beaches, and luxurious inland jungles. While it could also be less commercialized than different vacationer destinations, its raw beauty attracts an growing number of travelers each year. When you’re planning a visit to this magical island, finding the best accommodation is key to a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Nonetheless, there are several widespread mistakes visitors make when booking hotels in Siquijor—mistakes that can turn a dream trip into a irritating experience.
1. Booking Without Researching the Location
Siquijor is small but spread out, and not all hotels are situated conveniently. Many tourists book hotels which might be far from the main points of interest like Paliton Beach, Cambugahay Falls, or the town of San Juan, which is the hub for many resorts and restaurants. In case you’re not careful, you would end up in a remote space with limited transportation options. Always check the space out of your hotel to the places you propose to visit and guarantee it’s in or close to a well-connected area.
2. Ignoring Transportation Availability
Unlike more developed islands, Siquijor has limited public transport options. Should you book a hotel far from the ferry terminal or major roads without considering the right way to get around, you would possibly end up stranded or counting on costly tricycle rides. Some lodging offer transport services, so inquire about shuttle options or motorbike rentals earlier than finalizing your booking.
3. Falling for Overly Edited Photos
Photos on booking platforms might be deceiving. While a place may look dreamy on-line, reality can be different. In Siquijor, many small resorts and inns use old or highly edited photos. Always read the most recent critiques and check for guest-uploaded images to get a more accurate image of what to expect. This helps you avoid unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
4. Not Checking Air Conditioning and Power Backup
Power interruptions are relatively widespread in Siquijor, especially throughout storms or peak seasons. Not all accommodations have backup generators, and a few budget stays could not offer air conditioning. If you happen to’re sensitive to heat or can’t do without electricity, make sure to check in case your chosen hotel has a reliable power backup system and proper cooling options.
5. Overlooking Wi-Fi and Mobile Signal Strength
In the event you plan to work remotely or stay connected throughout your journey, don’t assume all places have reliable Wi-Fi. Internet connectivity can be hit-or-miss on the island, especially in rural areas. Earlier than booking, confirm with the hotel if they’ve stable internet service and good mobile signal coverage. Checking on-line evaluations for comments about connectivity may help.
6. Ignoring Cancellation Policies
Journey plans can change, particularly when dealing with ferry schedules or unpredictable weather. Some hotels in Siquijor have inflexible cancellation policies. Always read the fine print to make sure that you won’t lose cash if it is advisable rebook or cancel. Go for accommodations with flexible cancellation terms when possible.
7. Forgetting to Confirm Reservation Directly
After booking through online platforms, it’s a smart move to succeed in out directly to the hotel to confirm your reservation. Smaller resorts might not always update their availability in real time, and double bookings can happen. A quick email or phone call can save you the hassle of arriving only to find out your room isn’t available.
8. Assuming All Hotels Accept Credit Cards
Cash is king in Siquijor. Many hotels, especially family-run inns and beachentrance cottages, operate on a cash-only basis. Even those that advertise card payments could have machines which are often offline. Bring sufficient Philippine pesos to cover your stay and other bills, as ATMs are limited and generally unreliable.
Siquijor promises a serene, unforgettable experience—but only if you happen to avoid the widespread pitfalls in booking your stay. By researching your options completely and knowing what to expect, you’ll be free to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without any unwelcome hotel surprises.
