Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Puerto Galera Travel Guide
Puerto Galera is one of the Filipinos’ favorite vacation destination. It is because going there is cheaper than going in other islands. It is the island nearest Manila. The hotels and resorts also offer cheaper rates for accommodation. The island can give you an adventure you will never forget. It is an ideal place for snorkeling, parasailing, jet skiing and diving. It has earned recognition from UNESCO as one of the biosphere reserves in the country. It is one of the best places to see teeming marine life and corals.
It has been frequented by tourists for a long time now. The island can be found on the northeastern part of Mindoro. The islands of white beach and Sabang are also known as Puerto Galera so island hopping is an activity guests can also do when they are in Puerto Galera.
Puerto Galera has no airport. You can reach Puerto Galera by riding on a bus from Cubao going to the Batangas port. From Batangas port you can ride a motorized boat going to the island that will last for two hours. If you plan to go to Sabang you should ride on a jeepney to reach the place.
Where to Stay
There are many choices of places to stay in Puerto Galera. There is always a resort or hotel where you can find a good room that will fit your budget. The prices of the rooms usually range from three hundred pesos to as high as ten thousand pesos. Consider all the things you want to do in the island in choosing your accommodation. If you want to spend a lot of time sunbathing near the shore then you must consider a hotel near the coastline. You should also consider staying in a hotel with a good generator because power interruptions are a common thing in Puerto Galera.
What Clothes to Bring
Philippines is a tropical country. Puerto Galera also has this climate. The most humid time is during the summer. The island also enjoys a fair amount of rainfall from July until November. During December until February guests can enjoy the cool breeze from the sea.
Where to eat
There are many restaurants in Puerto Galera. Most of them offer Filipino meals. However there are some restaurants which offer international dishes from American to Spanish cuisine. There are other European restaurants there too which offer Italian, Austrian and German dishes. Tourists will also enjoy Chinese and other Asian food. The best food however is the fresh seafood. The prawns, fresh fish and crabs are some of the best food you can have to truly enjoy your stay. Seafood in this island is relatively cheaper than the food in the cities.
Things to do
In Puerto Galera you can do many water activities like parasailing,snorkeling,swimming,jet skiing and diving. You can also have a fun time riding the banca boats and have an island hopping adventure.You can also enjoy quality time with your family or friends while on a banana ride.
Puerto Galera Restaurant Guide
Puerto Galera is an island in the Philippines known for wonderful beaches and blue waters. It has been a main tourist attraction for many years now. It offers various sites for snorkeling and diving. This is why there are many hotels in the area as well as restaurants. The beach is the perfect setting for a wonderful time eating your favorite dishes with your family or friends. The following are some of the best and well know restaurants in Puerto Galera:
1. Hemingway Bar and Restaurant
This restaurant and bar has become famous spot because it is a favorite place among several famous writers for travel books and magazines. The menu they offer is really unique. They made the famous writer Ernest Hemingway as the main theme of the restaurant. The dishes itself is a representation of the travels that Hemingway made in his life. The dishes they offer have Caribbean, Italian and Spanish influences because these are the places that Hemingway frequented. The cuisine can be described as mostly Western and Mediterranean in nature. Many food critic recommends their Cuban inspired dishes like pasta and seafood paella. The cost of a dish in this restaurant begins at one hundred twenty pesos. A complete meal for a couple with drinks can reach four hundred pesos which is not that bad considering the delicious taste of the food. Hemingway Bar and Restaurant is located in the Sabang beach side.
2. Captain Greggs
Capt’n Greggs is another popular restaurant in the Sabang side area. It is famous for the nautical appeal of the whole restaurant. They have designed the whole area with life rafts, ropes and things you can find in a ship. They also offer their patrons a good view of the nearby sea. They serve western dishes. Many customers order dishes with seafood like prawn. They offer the prawns with butter, curried, steamed or plain with vegetables, rice or potatoes. This restaurant is also recommended for vegetarians because they also offer other seafood and vegetables. Capt’n Greggs also offer breakfast meals with American, English,Australian and Filipino dishes. A lunch that has two meals and drinks costs three hundred fifty pesos. You can inquire about their other dishes by calling them at 63-43-724-8535.
3. Tamarind Restaurant
This is a restaurant in the Sabang side known for their steaks and pork ribs. They serve them in huge portions. The dishes they serve are continental and Filipino. People go here for dinner and for drinking beer and other liquor. They have a bar that offers different drinks like cocktails and wine. The costs of one meal starts at three hundred pesos however the huge portions of the food can be eaten by two persons already.
4. Sunshine Coast Restaurant and Bar
This is another bar and restaurant that is found in the beach of Sabang. They serve international dishes like pasta, meat dishes and steaks. Every night they highlight an international dish. Every Tuesday it is Indian food so you can order famous Indian dishes along with their regular dishes. Every Wednesday is Japanese and Thursday nights they offer Greek dishes. They also have a bar where you can buy different cocktails and alcoholic drinks.
Puerto Galera Hotel Guide
A very popular and interesting tourist destination in the Philippines, Puerto Galera is a municipality in Oriental Mindoro that offers attractive places for travelers to visit. To make sure that tourists in the place will have a memorable and safe stay in the place, Puerto Galera features accommodating hotels, inns, and lodges where they can have a refreshing and relaxing sleep. Hence, to avoid experiencing hassles during their stay in the island, travelers must refer to Puerto Galera hotel guides.
Facilities of Hotels in Puerto Galera, Philippines
One of the features of hotels that travelers take into consideration before they decide where they will stay is the facilities. To assist tourists in making good decisions regarding this matter, most Puerto Galera hotel guides feature the leisure and dining facilities of famous hospitality service providers in Puerto Galera, Philippines. Hence, for those who are in search for hospitality service providers that feature special facilities like restaurants and swimming pools, they can always check in at Aninuan Beach Resort, Buri Beach Resort, and Atlantis Beach Resort Puerto Galera. On the other hand, for people who like to stay in hotels that feature standard room amenities like cable television sets, clean bathrooms, and relaxing beds, they can have advance reservations at these famous hotels; Bamboo Beach Resort, Carm Rob Inn, and Marco Vincent Resort.
Star Ratings in Puerto Galera Hotel Guides
Many travelers who want to visit Puerto Galera, Philippines, also consider star ratings when they refer to Puerto Galera hotel guides. To vacationers who want to stay in five-star and four-star hotels in Puerto Galera, Philippines, they can look at the contact numbers of these places, which include La Laguna Beach Club and Dive Center, Mermaid Resort, and Blue Crystal Beach Resort, in many Puerto Galera travel guides. Hence, for those who like to stay in three-star hotels, they can check in in Badladz Resort, Fishermen’s Cove, and Franklyn Beach Resort.
Accommodation Rates of Hotels in Puerto Galera, Philippines
Another important feature of Puerto Galera hotel guides is the accommodation rates in hotel service providers. Because of the rates, people can decide, which place suit their budget. For those who prefer to stay in hospitality service providers that have affordable rates, most Puerto Galera hotel guides feature Deep Blue Sea Inn, Capt’n Gregg’s Accommodations, and Puerto Nirvana Beach Resort. With all the interesting and informative features of the hotel guides, people can definitely have a relaxing and safe vacation in Puerto Galera, Philippines.
Puerto Galera Beach Guide
Puerto Galera is a popular place where tourists local and foreign come for a quick getaway from the city. It is an island known for several things but the people go there mainly to enjoy and have fun in the beach. There are several beaches in Puerto Galera. The following beaches can be the best place where you will have an unforgettable experience.
1. Alibatan beaches
These are beaches that can be found in Alibatan island. The island is not that far from Puerto Galera. The sand in this island is so fine because it is white and so pure. The island is rich with different sea animals which include turtle and seagulls. Diving is one of the best activities in this island. You will be able to see different colors of shells and corals.
2. Sabang Beach
This is one of the most famous beach in Puerto Galera. Many people choose this beach than the other beaches in Puerto Galera. There are more resorts and restaurants here. The sand is also fine and the waters are generally calm especially during the summer. There are many bancas in the sea which gives the visitors an insight into their livelihood. There are several bars and restaurants and there is a party almost every night. People can come here to swim, snorkel and dive and party at night time.
3. Small La Laguna Beach
This beach is just next to Sabang. It is a crowd drawer as well. This is considered as the cleanest beach in Puerto Galera. It is also one of the beaches that you can easily get to. There are bancas that take tourists direct to island and there are many ferries that pass their way there bound for the province. The beach resembles a cove. It has many trees mostly palm. It welcomes the tourists greeting them in a good paradise. This is one of the beaches where tourists can relax more in the serenity of the place. Couples can walk down under the bright evening sky.
4. Big La Laguna Beach
The landscape on this beach is huge and the waters are also clear. The Big La Laguna beach is known to a lot of tourists as one of the best beaches in the country. It is near Sabang and small La Laguna beaches. The white sand in this island continues until the sea. Big ships cannot pass by this beach so it is safe for everyone to swim here. One of the best things you will see in this beach is the changing colors of the water. You can have a wonderful time snorkeling and seeing the different hues of the corals and fishes.
Things to do in Puerto Galera for a Great Vacation
Are you in search of the perfect vacation getaway? Do you enjoy the sun, sand and surf? Are you looking for a place that’s serene or one that’s full of life? Are you in the mood to be adventurous or just want to hang out on the beach with your friends? Well, Puerto Galera should definitely be a part of your travel plans.
Puerto Galera was a well kept secret among the locals of Oriental Mindoro for years until the late 90s. The secret got out and spread like wildfire as it quickly became the latest beach destination.
Just a boat ride away from Batangas pier, Puerto Galera boasts of white beaches, clear water and a little extra for everyone.
A hike to see Talipanan Falls is one of the many favorite activities of groups in Puerto Galera. The hike is worth it to see the beauty of the waterfalls. Swimming in the cool and clean water will certainly refresh one’s body from the heat. Lunch by the waterfalls is welcome to rejuvenate oneself for the hike back to the beach.
Another favorite group activity is to ride a banana boat. Nowadays, the banana boat is common on every beach. Puerto Galera is not one to be left behind as several locals have banana boats ready for eager adventurers. And of course, there’s always the joy in who to blame when the boat tips over.
If you didn’t come to Puerto Galera in a group, diving is a great way to spend your vacation. There are lessons for beginners although a bit expensive but that’s the price for seeing marine life at its best.
Since Oriental Mindoro is part of an island, it has an abundance of seafood. It is no wonder that grilled seafood happens to be the main course in the restaurants. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, these restaurants offer other grilled specialties such as pork and chicken. You’ll leave feeling full and satisfied after every meal. Just don’t expect a five-star hotel meal when you dine, remember that these are the islands.
You could always take a nice stroll in the white sand to let the food go down and relax after an eventful day. If you still have energy, why not go bar-hopping along the coastline? Puerto Galera, especially White Beach, in the evening is just as happening during the day. The Mindoro Sling packs a lot of punch as the island’s cocktail specialty. Dance to the latest music or watch the various entertainment prepared by the local bars and party the night away.
Swimming, hiking, and dancing all night may take a toll on your body. A simple solution is a good massage. And a massage on the beach is the best way to have it. The relaxing waves provide the perfect soundtrack to clear the mind. Finding a good masseuse isn’t going to be a problem. Just lay on the beach and one of the female locals will offer a relaxing massage. They have all the essentials with them and might just lower the price if asked nicely.
And what’s a vacation in Puerto Galera without buying all those souvenirs? Trinkets, t-shirts, native jewelry and the like to bring home are all available but don’t forget to haggle for the best price! Exercise some haggling prowess and the vendors will definitely give the best deals as this is expected. A lot of stores on the beach may have the perfect souvenir to remember your vacation.
With an itinerary planned for the ultimate vacation, head on to Puerto Galera. Relax during the daytime in one of the tranquil spots along the beach. Then, party all night in any of the countless bars by the beachfront. Go hiking, ride the banana boat to satisfy the adventurer in you. Or have a relaxing massage on the beach to pamper your body and mind.
It’s a great vacation for every person who needs a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a place to satisfy adventure seekers and relax stressed individuals. Puerto Galera should be your travel destination.
White Beach in Puerto Galera
White Beach in Puerto Galera, Mindoro Island in the Philippines is a place that can make your vacation very memorable.
American, European, Korean, Japanese and Chinese tourists can be found not only on weekends but on weekdays as well.
The reason? It is only around 200 kms by bus and boat ride away from the capital, Manila. If you leave your hotel in Makati at around 6 am, by lunchtime you could be splashing in the clear waters of White Beach in Barangay San Isidro, Puerto Galera. The boat docks right on the beach.
Accommodation is not a problem. Once you hit the beach the crew or their representatives will help you find a room for the night at no extra cost. The price is reasonable as well. An air-conditioned room at Dona Trinidad Villas on twin sharing basis costs about $30.
You can take your lunch or dinner at the several restaurants that line the beachfront at White Beach or you can look for the kiosk owned by Shirley del Mundo for al fresco dining. A big fresh squid could be yours for only a dollar a piece. Borgs, her husband, will charcoal-broil it, either medium rare or fully broiled. A big tilapia or bangus fish can also be yours at almost the same price. A bottle of San Miguel beer costs less than a dollar.
Or if you are looking for real pasta or pizza, you can walk about 200 meters away from the beach going to the municipal road to a pizzeria corner owned by an Italian married to a Filipina.
Of course, you will not sleep all your nights. You may walk along the beach and on the western end of the beach front you can sip your beer al fresco at Coco Aroma music bar.
You could hear American songs or local tunes from Turtle Club, a local reggae band managed by the owner. The band also plays in a Makati music lounge during weekdays.
You don’t need your travel guide to accompany you. If your are traveling alone or with a partner, you can take a bus on EDSA going to Batangas City pier. At the city pier you can take an oversized motorized outrigger that seats 100 passengers bound to White Beach, Puerto Galera. Boat fare is about $4.
If you want to go scuba diving you may take a smaller motorized banca that docks at Poblacion pier in Muelle Bay, also in Puerto Galera town.
The bay was declared by Unesco in 1995 as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. But if you want some privacy on a Sunday morning, you can walk about a kilometer away climbing on the foot of big boulders at the end of the beachfront to Ninuan Beach.
The foreshore area there is best for snorkeling and the beach for lazing around for your desired tan.
You may encounter local kids spear fishing with the use of locally made spears and swimming fins from junk boards and rubber slippers. You can also use the beach area as your jumping-off point for your trail hiking or mountain climbing on Mount Malasimbo. There you can view the waterfalls after hiking several kilometers from the beach. It serves as source of household water in the area.
But what makes White Beach in Puerto Galera memorable is that it has a unique sunset where the sun sets between mountain ridges unlike in Manila Bay where the sun sets into the sea or horizon.
