Travel Tips

The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures of 25–35°C throughout the year. Inland areas are a little drier, while the coasts offer the charm of island weather—sea breezes and occasional short showers. With no distinct rainy season, the only real change is the wind direction: southwest winds bring more rain from June to September, while northeast winds bring drier days from October to May. These shifts simply add a pleasant breeze to whichever side of the island you’re on.

Water Supply:
From December to June, low rainfall may lead to limited water availability on our island. We kindly ask you to help conserve water during your stay—every drop counts, whether showering, brushing your teeth, or washing dishes. Our resort maintains its own water supply to ensure independence during dry months, though gardens and lawns may appear less lush at times.

Drinking Water:
For health reasons, please avoid drinking tap water. We are happy to provide fresh drinking water in reusable aluminum bottles, free of charge. You may refill them as often as you like during your stay and even take them home with you.

Plastic‑Free Commitment:
Since 2014, our resort has proudly operated without single‑use plastics. This initiative helps protect the environment and conserve our island’s resources. We invite you to support us by avoiding disposable plastic bottles and embracing our sustainable practices.

From Dumaguete Airport:

Comfortable Transfer: Have you booked a transfer with us? Our friendly driver will greet you at the airport exit with a nameplate and bring you to the pier in our air‑conditioned minivan (20–30 minutes). We’ll also take care of your ferry tickets so you can relax and enjoy the start of your holiday.
Flexible Travel: Prefer to organize your own transfer? Taxis and tricycles are waiting at the airport and will take you to the pier in about 20–30 minutes.

Beware of Overcharging: Unfortunately, tourists are sometimes targeted by scams. Tricycle drivers, in particular, may demand excessive fares, especially in busy areas such as piers. A fair price for a ride to the pier is usually no more than 100–200 Pesos per person, so be sure to negotiate.
Stay Calm: Do not let pushy drivers pressure you. If they refuse a fair price, simply choose another tricycle.
Document Everything: If you feel cheated, take a photo of the tricycle’s license number. This information allows you to file a complaint with the relevant authorities.

From Dumaguete Pier: Upon arrival, please proceed to the port building to purchase your ferry tickets. Afterwards, a port fee of 15 Pesos must be paid at a separate counter.
Our Recommendation: For a quick and comfortable crossing to Siquijor, we suggest the Ocean Jet fast ferry. The journey takes only about 40 minutes.
Other Options: In addition to Ocean Jet, several other ferry companies operate on this route. You can find more details under timetables.

From Siquijor Pier: The crossing to Siquijor usually takes between 40–90 minutes. With our transfer service, we will meet you at the port and bring you directly to Kawayan Holiday Resort (approx. 30 minutes by car).
Without a Transfer: If you have not booked a transfer, tricycles, motorbikes, and vans are available for rent at the port.

Cash:

Recommendation: Bring smaller US dollar bills, which can be easily exchanged for Philippine Pesos (PHP).
Money Exchange: Numerous exchange offices are available in larger cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Dumaguete.
Siquijor: We advise against exchanging money in Siquijor, as rates are poor and availability is limited.
Arrival: Exchange a small amount of cash immediately upon arrival to cover airport transfers or porter services.
Porters: Expect to pay around 10 to 30 PHP per piece of luggage. Please be cautious, as some porters may attempt to charge more.

Cash Withdrawals in the Philippines:

Card Acceptance: Most ATMs in the Philippines, particularly in larger cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Dumaguete, accept common European EC, Post, and credit cards for cash withdrawals. Using your EC or Post card is usually the most cost‑effective option.
Fees: Please note that banks typically charge a fee for each withdrawal. We recommend checking your bank’s current terms and conditions in advance.
Withdrawal Amount: The maximum cash amount per withdrawal is usually 10,000 Pesos. Depending on your card and bank, multiple withdrawals per day may be possible.
Siquijor: Only a few ATMs on Siquijor accept international cards. These are located in Siquijor town, San Juan, and Larena. Please be aware that these ATMs may occasionally be out of service.

Additional Information:

Marine Conservation Fees: Divers are required to pay additional government fees ranging from 100 to 300 Pesos. Payments must be made in cash (PHP) on site. These fees are forwarded directly to the responsible authority.

Payment Options in the Resort:
Cashless During Your Stay: All expenses can be conveniently posted to your room bill.
Settlement: Please settle your total bill at least 24 hours before check‑out.
Cash Payments: We accept preferred PESOS. But EURO, USD, and CHF are possible. Please note that we apply our own exchange rate due to currency differences.
Advance Transfer: You may transfer an amount from home directly to your personal wallet. Kindly contact us for account details.
Immediate Bank Transfer: Bank transfers can be made up to 24 hours before check‑out. We apply our own exchange rate due to currency differences.
Wise/Revolut: Transfers are possible either bank‑to‑bank or directly Wise‑to‑Wise / Revolut‑to‑Revolut, 24 hours before check‑out.
PayPal: Payments can be made PayPal‑to‑PayPal.
Credit Card: Credit card payments are only possible online via PayPal, which accepts all major credit cards.

The Philippine Peso (PHP, symbol ₱) is the national currency. We recommend bringing USD and exchanging it locally for Pesos. Please use official sources such as banks or exchange offices. Street money changers should only be used if you are familiar with them and aware of the current exchange rate—always exercise caution.

Postal Service: Unfortunately, the postal system in the Philippines is not reliable. Even registered letters are often expensive, delayed, and may take weeks or even months to arrive—whether within the country or abroad.

Example: A registered letter from Dumaguete to Siquijor can take two to three weeks, despite the ferry ride being only 45 minutes and the drive across Siquijor less than 30 minutes.

Private Delivery Services: While somewhat more dependable, private couriers are still slow and overpriced compared to the service offered.

Conclusion: For quick and reliable delivery in the Philippines, we recommend avoiding the postal service and private couriers. Alternative solutions such as personal delivery or trusted couriers are often the better choice.

Electricity in the Philippines: The standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 60Hz. Most European devices designed for 220–240V can be used without issue.

Important Note: The frequency difference (60Hz vs. 50Hz in Europe) may cause reduced performance or faster wear in certain devices. Please check your device specifications before traveling.

Good News: At our resort, you’ll find a variety of international power outlets, so adapters are usually not required.

Power Outages: Power interruptions are common in the Philippines, especially on Siquijor. To ensure uninterrupted service, our resort operates its own backup generator and continuously expands its solar system.

Additional Notes:
Special Devices: For older or specialized equipment, we recommend a voltage converter or a travel adapter with surge protection.
Valuable Devices: Sensitive or valuable electronics should not be left plugged in during outages.
Device Information: Please refer to your device’s manual for exact voltage and frequency requirements.

Dress Code: Enjoy your stay in a casual‑elegant atmosphere. Swimwear is permitted only at the pool or diving center. In all other areas, we kindly ask that you wear appropriate attire. Light clothing is preferred, especially in the restaurant and bar, particularly during meal times.

Weather Tips: Our tropical climate offers warm temperatures year‑round. We recommend packing light cotton clothing and comfortable open‑toed shoes. After brief showers, it may feel slightly cooler (though never below 25°C), so a light jacket or raincoat is useful. A gentle breeze often provides pleasant cooling, while during calm periods shade or the pool is the best way to stay comfortable.