FAQs
Question
How do I get there?
Answer
Guests will need to fly into Manila International Airport (MNL) first. From there, they will collect bags and take a domestic flight to Caticlan Airport (MPH). We recommend Cebu Pacific Airlines for this flight. There is only one way to get to Boracay Island, which is by boat transfer from Caticlan Airport. The best itinerary is flying from SFO to Manila (MNL), with a 3-4 hour layover before the domestic flight to Boracay. This will give you ample time to collect bags, go through Philippines customs, transfer from the International to Domestic terminal, and grab a bite to eat or hang in one of the lounges.
Question
What day should I arrive at Boracay?
Answer
Official festivities are on Friday, February 14th, so we recommend guests arrive on February 12th or 13th and stay through February 15th or 16th. If you are not coming from Asia or a nearby time zone, we strongly advise flying into Caticlan no later than Wednesday, February 12th to allow for a day of rest, time adjustment, and free time.
Question
What is the process when you land in Caticlan?
Answer
Upon arrival and bag collection at Caticlan Airport, guests will look for their respective hotel attendant, who will guide them to their initial van transfer to the centralized boat station. After a 20-minute drive, guests will check-in at the Boat Station and proceed to a waiting area for transfer. Boats run every 5-minutes, so the wait is generally not too long. After a quick boat ride, guests will be transferred to their hotel via van. If you are staying at the Shangri-La, there is a private lounge and direct speedboat transfer to the property. Simply report to the Shangri-La attendant, who will escort you to a lounge and the speedboat that will take you from the port directly to the property. Guests staying at alternative hotels can book their airport transfers directly through their concierge.
Question
What should I wear to the wedding?
Answer
You will want to dress in Island-Formal Attire: For Women - floor length gowns, cocktail dresses For Men - linen suits, dress shirt (or barong) with slacks We do not have a color motif - please feel free to wear any color you like. The Ceremony will be held in the Alon Garden (grass) and the Reception in the Cielo Arena (stone & concrete). Neither of the events on February 14 are on the beach or in the sand. Here are some examples for inspiration https://www.pinterest.com/ryansosodef/island-formal-wedding-guests/
Question
What should I wear when I arrive on the island?
Answer
We strongly advise that you do not wear nice shoes initially. Flip flops or sandals are best when arriving as the island has tropical weather and you will be boarding a boat once you land in Caticlan to get to your final destination.
Question
What is the PHP to USD exchange rate?
Answer
Typically around 50 PHP to 1 USD. Please visit www.xe.com for updated exchange rates.
Question
What do they mean when they say +++ or NETT on pricing?
Answer
Each plus is for an additional fee: +Service charge (7%) +VAT (value added tax 10%) + Business tax (2-3%) This is equivalent to tip and tax in the US. There is no need to tip additional if these are included in the total. NETT refers to a price inclusive of all the above.
Question
Do most places take credit card?
Answer
While hotels and other major establishments accept credit card as a form of payment, you will likely need cash if you purchase anything from street vendors, purchase activities, commute via tricycle, tip bag handlers or tip for any other services.
Question
Will the Shangri-La’s private speedboat apply to me if I am only staying there two nights while staying other nights at another hotel?
Answer
Yes, if you have any reservation with Shangri-La during your visit, you can use their exclusive services (private speedboat) when you arrive at Caticlan.
Question
What is the best mode of transportation around the island?
Answer
If you are staying at the Shangri-La, there is a private shuttle that leaves the property every hour on the hour to get to D’mall in Station 2, where most restaurants and bars on the island are located. Once you leave the property, you can also catch a tricycle in town to get to your destination. If you are staying at another hotel, tricycle is the most convenient way to get around the island which runs about 60 PHP per ride.
Question
What are some essentials to bring?
Answer
General: Bug spray, sun screen, beach wear, flip flops or sandals, party hat. Wedding: Cocktail outfit(s)
Question
Are there clinics or hospitals on the island?
Answer
Ciriaco S. Tirol Hospital +63 36 288 3041
Question
Can I exchange USD to PHP on the island?
Answer
There are a number of banks on the island that will change Dollars or Euros. Most resorts have this service as well. There are ATM’s at the D’Mall that you can withdraw from. Ideally, paying in cash is the better way of settling bills when in restaurants or malls, as some small restaurants/resorts/shops may charge for credit card usage. Please confirm with your resort regarding their payment policy.
Question
Is the water safe to drink?
Answer
We recommend drinking bottled water. Tap water should not be consumed is the standard recommendation by all hotels on Boracay.
Question
Do I need an outlet converter?
Answer
Philippines operates on 220v electricity, meaning most of us will need a converter. Many resorts and hotels have outlets for our electronics, but it is best to be on the safe side. We recommend this universal power adapter: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7VKQKJ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_BGT.CbABYSNC5
Question
Where else to go in the Philippines?
Answer
There are many islets to choose from offering up various culture, adventure, and culinary delights. Here are some of our favorites: - Siargao: One of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, and it’s the country’s surf capital - Coron: Where you will find those Insta perfect dragon-esque landscape rock formations that penetrate the skies and inhabit turquoise lagoons below them - Cebu: For it's world famous lechon, Kawasan Falls, and swimming with whale sharks - El Nido: For its pristine white beaches, towering limestone cliffs, scenic mountains, mysterious caves, startling wildlife, enchanting lagoons and rich coral garden For itinerary suggestions and negotiated rates, please contact AirCa Travel, a luxury travel company offering the very best in personal service with focus on creating an optimal travel experience. Email: aircatravel.ph@gmail.com Website: https://aircatravel.com/category/philippine/