Siquijor, often called the “Island of Fire,” is a surprising gem within the Philippines known for its mystical charm, white sand beaches, and luxurious inland jungles. While it may be less commercialized than different tourist destinations, its raw beauty attracts an increasing number of travelers each year. If you’re planning a visit to this magical island, discovering the precise lodging is key to a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Nevertheless, there are a number of frequent mistakes visitors make when booking hotels in Siquijor—mistakes that can turn a dream vacation right into a frustrating experience.
1. Booking Without Researching the Location
Siquijor is small however spread out, and not all hotels are situated conveniently. Many tourists book hotels which are removed from the main points of interest like Paliton Beach, Cambugahay Falls, or the town of San Juan, which is the hub for most resorts and restaurants. In the event you’re not careful, you could end up in a distant space with limited transportation options. Always check the gap from your hotel to the places you plan to visit and guarantee it’s in or near a well-related area.
2. Ignoring Transportation Availability
Unlike more developed islands, Siquijor has limited public transport options. Should you book a hotel removed from the ferry terminal or principal roads without considering tips on how to get round, you would possibly find yourself stranded or counting on costly tricycle rides. Some accommodations 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 can be deceiving. While a spot may look dreamy online, reality may be different. In Siquijor, many small resorts and inns use old or highly edited photos. Always read the latest reviews and check for guest-uploaded images to get a more accurate picture of what to expect. This helps you keep away from unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
4. Not Checking Air Conditioning and Power Backup
Power interruptions are comparatively widespread in Siquijor, particularly throughout storms or peak seasons. Not all lodging have backup generators, and a few budget stays may not provide air conditioning. When you’re sensitive to heat or can’t do without electricity, make positive to check in case your chosen hotel has a reliable energy backup system and proper cooling options.
5. Overlooking Wi-Fi and Mobile Signal Power
In case you plan to work remotely or keep related during your trip, don’t assume all places have reliable Wi-Fi. Internet connectivity could be hit-or-miss on the island, particularly in rural areas. Earlier than booking, confirm with the hotel if they have stable internet service and good mobile signal coverage. Checking online evaluations for comments about connectivity can even help.
6. Ignoring Cancellation Policies
Journey plans can change, especially 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 money if you might want to rebook or cancel. Opt for lodging with versatile cancellation terms when possible.
7. Forgetting to Confirm Reservation Directly
After booking through on-line platforms, it’s a smart move to achieve out directly to the hotel to confirm your reservation. Smaller resorts may not always replace their availability in real time, and double bookings can happen. A quick email or phone call can prevent the hassle of arriving only to find out your room is not available.
8. Assuming All Hotels Settle for Credit Cards
Cash is king in Siquijor. Many hotels, especially family-run inns and beachentrance cottages, operate on a cash-only basis. Even people who advertise card payments might have machines which might be usually offline. Convey enough Philippine pesos to cover your stay and different expenses, as ATMs are limited and typically unreliable.
Siquijor promises a serene, unforgettable expertise—however only when you avoid the widespread pitfalls in booking your stay. By researching your options thoroughly and knowing what to expect, you’ll be free to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without any unwelcome hotel surprises.
