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Overview
Where is it
Puerto Galera is located on the northern part of the island of Mindoro
in the province Oriental Mindoro. It is about 130 kilometers south
of Manila and 14 nautical miles from Batangas City. In total it
has 12 coastal villages or Barangays and one mountain district.
Puerto Galera is a general term covering all the beaches on the
tip of Oriental Mindoro, just 3 hours from Manila. Each of the beach
areas has its own character. Puerto Galera has the best infrastructure,
Spanish style Church, Museum, two Banks, plenty of small shops with
excellent souvenirs and wood carvings. Finding sex in Puerto Galera
is possible. Prostitution in Puerto Galera is not the high point.
Sex in Puerto Galera is fun but with the girl you bring.
A little trivia
The name means 'Port of the Galleons'. It was a shelter from typhoons,
and still is for yachts, having a large natural basin plus its own
Yacht Club. It was also used as a refuge from pirates and marauders,
as it was easy to defend. There is a large ridge under the water,
just inside the outer mouth of the Harbour. Ships and Yachts have
to manoeuvre in a zig zag fashion, newcomers who dont know the terrain
run aground. Occasionally, Mangyans local natives bring nuggets
and precious stones to Puerto Galera and Sabang,hoping to sell them
to tourists.
Attractions
Puerto Galera's main attractions are its weather, no traffic, smog,
few degrees warmer than Angeles, Manila, good beaches, relaxed lifestyle
and a host of good dive sites and excellent Diving Schools of International
Standard.
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Women
The general appearance of the local women
is pretty standard throughout the Philippines. Less than 5'5'', down
to 4'9'', brown eyes, long black hair. Until they are 40ish, they
usually manage to maintain a trim figure, due to their simple diet
of fish and rice. The local womenfolk are not the hardened bargirls
of Angeles or Makati.Easy to strike up conversations with them,in
fact they will initiate the chat. Sexually the girls are pretty straight,
for most their experiences are with their girlfriends. Probably 70%
of Filipino women have had lesbian experiences. The Philippines is
noted for its tolerance of homosexual behaviour, in both sexes. Indeed,
you can easily identify the 'Third Sex'. The butch girls, called TBirds,
are usually clothed in trousers and shirt, sporting very short hair
cuts. The effeminate guys, called Baklas Or Billy Boys if in drag
are obvious by their gestures, speech or makeup.Once you get them
started, turned on, they love it. They are a 'touchy feely' people.
Even guys hold hands occasionally, the girls are always stroking you,
or running their fingers through your hair. For most of the girls,
they view you as a possible way out of the Philippines. Play it for
what its worth, string them along. DO NOT let them call the shots,
the golden rule is He who has the gold, makes the rules. |
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Cost
Sex
Sex will run around 2530 dollars for the night. In the discos, the
prices are as such. 400 pesos goes to the bar and 1,000 pesos goes
to the girl. |
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Legal
Its best not to bother with any girls under 17, although
they are available.In the bars, the minimum age for dancers/entertainers
is 18. Legal age for sex is 16, but marriages between lower ages is
common, with parental consent. Do not drink beer or local mixes in
public. In fact, on election days, it is punishable by jail. At other
times it incurs a fine. Do your drinking in the bars, or your Hotel,
or by the Pool. |
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Weather
Tropical climate with high humidity. No definite dry
season. July until the middle of October the occasional typhoon
that usually passes the island of Mindoro can bring heavy rainfall
for about three consecutive days, which usually are followed by
up to two weeks of nice weather. The months of November till February
are cool, and dry with temperatures of about 28 degrees Celsius.
March to June are considered the Filipino Summer season with hot
and dry weather. Temperatures are usually above 30 degrees Celsius
then.
If you come here for the Diving, a 3mm suit will do from April to
early December 28 degree water. In 'Winter' time December to February,
consider bringing a 5mm, or hooded vest under a 3mm suit 2225 degree
water.
When to go
High season is traditionally late December to early May, although
the area is busy at weekends throughout the year and during any
Asian Holiday. The traditional low season, May and June, September
and October often has the best weather and diving conditions. If
you are considering a vacation during the major public holidays:
Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year and Easter, book at least
several weeks in well in advance, it can get really tough to find
a room!
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Holidays
January
1st "New Year's Day" fireworks are everywhere.
January
9th "Black Nazarene Procession." This is the largest parade
in the country, famous for the blackwood sculpture of Jesus that
is marched through Quiapo.
January
14th through 21st Filipino Mardi Gras, called "AtiAtihan."
This celebration carries on for 3 days to a week in the city of
Kalibo on the island of Panay.
May
5th "Flores de Mayo," a Christian holiday honoring the
Virgin Mary.
June
12th "Independence Day," military parades are everywhere.
January
Sinulog Festival in Cebu City on the island of Cebu is "THE
event of the year."
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Events
Every April, from Good Friday to Easter Sunday, the Annual
Yacht Club of Puerto Galera holds the Easter Regatta, where 8 to
12 yachts arrive from the Manila Yacht Club joined by 12 to 15 local
residents and Hong Kong guest yachts.
On the opposite side of the street from Tropicana hotel, a little
lower down, is a small hotel called 'Mabuhay'. It is well appointed,
swimming pool, aircon etc., but outside is a small travel agent.
From there, each day, a trip is arranged. Cock fighting, trip to
a local native village Mangyans, trip to Hidden Waterfall at Tamaraw
etc
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Prices
Meals
Prices
vary depending on where and what you are eating. An average meal
costs between US$ 2 to $5. Softdrinks generally cost US $0.50 and
beer ranges from $0.80 to $1.50 depending on where you go.
Lodging
Hotels,
cottages and huts will cost from $6 a night to $150 per night depending
on your demand for taste and comfort.
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How
to
Travel time to Puerto Galera is approximately five hours by bus
and ferry from Manila. On arrival in Puerto Galera you will travel
to the resort by local motorized outrigger boat banca or by ferry.
The
whole journey takes about 4 to 5 hours from Manila to Puerto Galera.
The ferry to Batangas leaves Puerto Galera at 7:30 each morning
and enables connection to transportation back to your hotel in the
afternoon. There are three main entry points to Puerto Galera by
way of its port facilities : Muelle Pier Town Proper Balatero Pier
East of Town Proper
Getting
There
Visit our Travel
Section
from Angeles City to Batangas
Swagman Hotels have a package deal, bus and ferry, to Puerto Galera.
From Angeles, its about 350 pesos for 'Fly The Bus' to Manila. This
is the safest and most reliable service to the Capital. You can
go by Philippine Rabbit for only 75 pesos, but you will mix with
all the natives.
from Manila Batangas
If you are starting from the Swagman in Ermita,Manila, an aircon
Mini Bus will take you to Batangas, the port of departure for many
southern destinations by Ferry Boat. From there its barely 1 hour,
by fast bangka a local motorised outrigger, or two hours by a larger,
more comfortable boat. Depending upon the boat you use, the price
is about 500 to 700 pesos.
from Lobby of the City State Tower Hotel to Batangas
Sikat Bus and Ferry Service
1315 A. Mabini Street, Ermita, Manila
Departure time : 0845 AM Arrival time about 13:30 in Puerto Galera
Round trip costs about P 700. per person.
from The Royal Palm Hotel to Batangas
The Super 85 Bus and Ferry Service
Corner A. Mabini Street and Padre Faura, Ermita, Manila
Departure time : 07:30 AM Arrival time in Puerto Galera around lunch
time.
Round trip costs about P 700. per person.
From Batangas to Puerto Galera
by air
If you want to see the islands from the air or get there in 30 minutes
it can be arranged with a seaplane to bring you right in front of
your Resort ! The plane can seat 4 passengers with a limited amount
of luggage, so the amount of seats available will depend on the
total weight of the passengers! Departure in Manila is at the Manila
Bay close to the Manila Hotel $350 one way.
email
Arriving
at Batangas Pier in Manila
A number of 'Recruiters' hover around the departure lounge. They
each act for the numerous establishments doing business in the Puerto
Galera area. Puerto G is a loose name covering a large district,
including Sabang the girlie bar location, Small Lalaguna, Big Lalaguna,
the best residential area, and beach, White Beach a quiet location
with some cafes, dive sites, beach huts etc and the town of Puerto
Galera itself, which has a couple of Banks and a good bunch of shops,
plus a couple of upmarket Resorts like Tanawin and Encenada.
Batangas
to Puerto Galera
At Batangas Pier there is a wide choice of ferries going to Puerto
Galera. Usually the first departure is around 07:30 AM and the last
ferry leaves at about 4:00 PM. After that one could hire an outrigger
boat or banca with prices often ranging from P 2.000,per banca.
There are three main entry points to Puerto Galera by way of its
port facilities : Muelle Pier Town Proper Balatero Pier East of
Town Proper Sabang North of Town Proper.
Arriving in Puerto Galera
If you have made a prior booking, always advisable in 'high
season', your Hotel or resort should send a bangka or jeepney for
you.
Getting to Sabang
In choosing Sabang, go direct to the beach of Sabang on a large
Bangka motorised outrigger. If you simply go to Puerto Galera, on
arriving, you will have to get a SECOND boat to get to Sabang, or
take a bumpy Jeepney ride.
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What
to Bring
Travel light, but bring long pants or KDs for night time.
A few mosquitoes hang around under the tables of the open air cafes,
Restaurants, etc. If you leave your heavy luggage at your main hotel,
on the mainland, its easy to get by with a backpack, or holdall in
PG. Dress for locals and visitors is very casual by day, shorts, vest
and rubber shoes for guys. Bring your own condoms from home. The ones
in the Philippines are not that reliable.
The electrical current is 220 in most of the country, but in parts,
Manila and Angeles for instance, 110 is jointly available. The plugs
are two blade, and two round prong, and adaptors can be found in hardware
stores. Coming from UK, bring your own 3 blade to two pin adaptor
if you need power, Laptop, CD, VCD, Shaver etc. |
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Passports
and Visas
No passport
is required to go to Puerto Galera but you will need one to enter
the country of the Philippines. Its advisable to carry a photocopy
of your visa, ID etc., if not the original. This helps with any random
immigration or police checks.
If
you lose your passport its better to leave it in a safe deposit box
on the mainland, Manila, Angeles etc and carry a photocopy you will
have to contact your Embassy, by phone and then in person. Carry the
phone numbers you might need for emergency. A cellphone only costs
about $60., and can be passed on later, or resold. Prepaid cards are
sold in many locations for Globe and Smart.
Visa
If you're flying into the Philippines from another country, you must
enter through the Manila international airport. To enter the Philippines,
you must have a valid passport. If you're passport is due to expire
in 6 months or less, you should apply for a new passport before booking
your flight to the Philippines. The Philippine immigration will not
grant you a visa and may not even permit you to enter the country
if your passport will expire in less than 6 months. No visa is required
to enter the Philippines. You may stay, without a visa, for a maximum
of 21 days. If you wish to stay longer, you may obtain a visa, either
before you arrive in the Philippines or after. If you visit your local
Philippine Consulate in the U.S., you can obtain a visa for about
$25 which will allow you to stay in the Philippines for 59 days. If
you're already entered the Philippines without a visa, you can obtain
a visa for one or two months or longer at the Swagman Travel agency
in Manila, Subic, La Union, or Angeles City. It will take about a
week to process, so be prepared for the Swagman people to hold your
passport for at least 7 working days This may be a problem if you're
cashing Travelers Checks as many banks require a passport as an ID.
So be aware of that. To obtain a visa in Manila, take a taxi to the
Swagman hotel in Ermita and at the hotel, upstairs they have their
travel agency that will process your visa. As stated above, you will
need to leave your passport with them, so be aware you will have no
passport until the visa is processed. The price is about $20 depending
on the exchange rate at the time for a one month stay; slightly higher
for a two month stay. |
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Customs
When
you first arrive in the the Philippines you will have to go through
customs at the Manila airport. Being that Puerto Galera is in the
country of the Philippines you will not experience another customs
check in PG.
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Payment Methods
Credit
Cards
Visa, Master Card, JCB and occasionally American Express are accepted
in upper level establishment. Swagman Travel in Sabang gives the opportunity
to get cash on your card. One has to count however with the fact that
most establishments charge 6.5% to 10% credit card charge.
Travelers Cheques
We suggest that you don't bother with Travellers Cheques, except for
emergencies. Keep your original purchase receipt with you.The better
Hotels and Exchange Centres will accept them, but you will lose about
2 pesos per dollar/pound.You must also have your Passport with you.
It once took me 2 hours to cash some travelers cheques in Manila in
a Bank. After 1 hour, I tried to walk out, but got a gun in my ear,
'as I was acting suspiciously'. Waste of time and money. Take cash
and credit cards. The rate of exchange is ALWAYS better in Manila
or Angeles, than in the province.
Money Exchange Booths
Money changers have increased rapidly in Puerto Galera, which makes
it easier to change money from all major currencies into Philippine
Pesos. A better exchange rate will be found in Manila. Changing travelers
checks may pose a problem.
ATM's
Travelers with their own bank accounts, who would like to take money
from an ATM will be disappointed since there aren't any on the island.
Cash
Its advisable to carry both local and foreign currency. There are
a number of moneychangers in both Sabang and Puerto Galera Hundura
Beach and shopping area.
Banks
Rural Bank in Puerto Galera to change cash & TC's. |
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How
Much
With
food, lodging, transportation and girls being so inexpensive, we suggest
bringing at least $100 per day to have a good time. |
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Tipping
Tip 510% in bars, restaurants etc., unless you note that
service is incl. on your bill. For girls,in Sabang the barfine is
400 pesos, and the girl is 1000. In the morning give accordingly.
For an average service,tip 1200,if she was great give 5001000. 0ver
and above these figures, you must be in love.
Bangkas and trikes tip nothing, you are already paying 3 times more
than the locals. Taxis dont exist, but if you used one to get from
Angeles or Manila, to Batangas, fix your price BEFORE leaving, tip
1200 if he gets you there in time.
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Airport
to Lodging
From
Manila airport you will need to get to Batangas Pier and take a ferry
to Puerto Galera. See "getting there" |
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Transportation
Getting around Puerto Galera
There
are several types of public transportation that are used by the local
people on the island. The most common are taxis or mini buses. Taxis
can be chartered by the hour or by the day with the fare being negotiable.
While minibuses go on specific routes, and pick up other passengers,
they can also be chartered with the same procedures as a taxi. Or
hitch a ride, the locals are always willing to stop for tourists.
Boats are widely used for local transportation. Fishing boats are
always ready to be chartered out for visitors. You can find such boats
at the beach locally called pasiran. |
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Hotels
Numerous, mostly familyrun cottages and hotel rooms of all categories
are available. The types of accommodation range from simple beach
huts made of bamboo, nipa, sawali or rattan, to comfortable, luxury,
fully furnished, airconditioned bungalows with fullyequipped kitchens.
Atlantis
Dive Resort
high class hotel
One of the most outstanding resorts of the Philippines with it's
award winning Flintstones design. All 32 rooms one bedroom apartments
have airconditioning, a well stocked minibar, Cable TV and hot shower.
Chlorine free fresh water swimming pool and two pool tables and
many different board games.
Internet facility, phone and fax services. You can send and recieve
emails from family or freinds. Take a boat direct from Batangas
in a large Bangka boat.
Room rates
Deluxe room with queen size bed is $45. Double is $55.
Superior Deluxe room single is $55 and a double is $65.
Link
email
Big
Apple Dive Resort
Sabang Beach, Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Tel. + 63 912 308 1120
Fax. + 63 912 308 1120
email
Cottage with Fan From P 550
Cottage with Aircon From P 950
Pictures
of the cottages
Blue Crystal Beach Resort
In Palangan, Puerto Galera, just a few hundred meters from the road
townproper to Sabang.
More info click here
Capt'n Gregg's Dive Resort
Sabang Beach, Puerto Galera
Oriental Mindoro, 5203 Philippines
Phone/Fax: +63 973496691, 973854319
Fax: +63 9177945919
email
Fan Room, One Double Bed, Private Bathroom, high season TV 600 /night
low season night 500 / night.
Aircon Room, Two Beds, Private Bathroom, TV high season 1200 / night
low season 1000 / night.
Carlo's Inn
On the west end of Small La Laguna, beachfront location; you can
walk along the coastline to Sabang beach in 10 minutes; a short
walk away from Big la Laguna. 18 rooms. The Hotel is built into
the hill, with a nice view of the bay from all rooms. Bar and Restaurant,
under German Management. Several choices of rooms are available.
All rooms with double beds.
Standard room: Fan, Ref 20$ Deluxe room: Aircon, Ref, TV, hot water
30$.
email
Carmrob Inn
On the eastern side of Small La Laguna, right next to the Scubaplus
Dive Center; 5 minute walk to Sabang or Big la Laguna Beach. This
small beachfront Hotel is open since January 2001. It features 4
fully equipped studio apartments. Dive Center and Restaurant are
right next door. Spacious studio apartments. All rooms with are
airconditioned and have kitchen and cooking facilities. Nice bathrooms
with hot water. Cable TV. Laundry service is available.
Room Rates
Dec 1 to April 30 High season: $35
May 1 to Nov 30 Low season: $24
email
Coco Beach Island Resort
Coco Beach is 5 minutes by outrigger boat from Puerto Galera's town
centre and pier, where schools, shops and municipal hall are found.
Sabang Beach is the same distance on the opposite direction.
All huts are made of native bamboo materials, have ensuite shower
and bath, mosquito net, baby cots and safety deposit boxes. No air
conditioning, no phones and no hot water are provided.
More info click here
Compass House
Arrange to be met at Muelle Bay Pier,Puerto Galera
Deep Blue Sea Inn
Small La Laguna
Offers fan and aircon rooms for around US$ 15 to US$ 20 per night
with magnificent seaviews overlooking the bay from every room.
El Galleon Beach Resort and Asia Divers
best bargain
Manila Office
Abimir Place, 1741 Dian Street
Palanan, Makati City 1235 Philippines
Phone/Fax: +632 8453248
email
Standard room rate: $25/day
Aircon: $40/day
In Small Lalaguna
More info click here
Encenada Beach Resort
Phone 0912 312 9761. An excellent choice for families, or groups
of friends, with a programme of events to attend. Arrange to be
met at Muelle Bay Pier, Puerto Galera.
Gold Coast
economy hotel
In Sabang
accomodations are a little more basic, but they have 2 cottages
facing the ocean and include a kitchenette
La Laguna Beach Club
high class
31room hotel and has 28 rooms offering airconditioning and mini
bar, cable TV plus 3 cottages with electric fan. All rooms offer
bathrooms and modern comforts including hot water.
Room rates low season June 1st to November 30th
Double aircondition US$ 35.00
Twin aircondition US$ 37.00
Family aircondition US$ 40.00
Family Deluxe US$ 50.00
Double fan US$ 30.00
Cottage US$ 20.00
Room rates high season December 1st to May 31st
Double aircondition US$ 50.00
Twin aircondition US$ 52.00
Family aircondition US$ 55.00
Family Deluxe US$ 65.00
Double fan US$ 40.00
Cottage US$ 30.00
More info click here
email
Pirate Cove Beach Resort
If you like something a little more basic try this place. Rooms
from 700 pesos...phone no. 0912 270 9428. Arrange to be met at Muelle
Bay Pier,Puerto Galera
Puerto Galera Resort Hotel
Fully Airconditioned ,Hot & Cold Shower ,TV Set , Minibar, Intercom
System, Jacuzzi. Room Service, Laundry Service, UHFVHF Radio Communications,
Cellular Phone, Boat & Land Tour, Speed Boat, Beach Picnic,
Fishing Trips, Troll Fishing Transportation Service from Manila
International Airport direct to Puerto Galera per arrangement all
guests are picked up from Puerto Galera pier.
Link
Portofino
high class
In Small La Laguna Beach in Puerto Galera.
Portofino is a firstclass SpanishMediterranean design of award winning
architectural character with white sand, beach front diving, swimming
and dining. Work out gym with full equipment. The hotel is comprised
of 25 studio 1 & 2 bedroom homes... all elegantly furnished
and air conditioned with full cooking facilities. Take a boat direct
from Batangas on a large Bangka boat.
Room rates
Premium Studios $55 $65 $45
Regular Studios $45 $55 $35
Premium one bedroom beach front $80 $95 $70
Regular one bedroom $65 $80 $55
Premium two bedrooms beach front, upper floor $125 $145 $115
Regular two bedrooms beach front, ground floor $110 $130 $100
email
More info click here
Sabang Inn
best bargain
Once in Puerto Galera, take a banka boat from the pier to Sabang
Beach the fare is 230 Pesos You can also take a jeepney to Sabang
Beach if you are willing to wait till its full of passengers; the
fare is 20 Pesos, and then take a 3 minute walk to the resort.
Rooms have large double beds. Aircon and fans. Kitchen in each room
and private balcony. All rooms have a private safety deposite box.
A 21" color TV with remote is standard in all rooms. All rooms
feature a private tiled bathroom. Deluxe and Penthouse rooms are
equiped with a hot shower. The rooms feature a magnificant view
of the beach and bay in front of the resort which invites you just
to jump into the ocean.
Room Rates
Deluxe room with aircondition, 21" cable TV, kitchen, refrigerator,
hot shower, safety box, balcony US$22
Penthouse Room with aircondition, 21" cableTV , kitchen, refrigerator,
hot shower, safety box, balcony US$22
Seaview Aircondition with 21" cable TV, kitchen, refrigerator,
safety box, balcony US$19
Rates during Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year and Eastern are
30% higher.
More info click here
Snail House
Good swimming pool with swim up bar. Arrange to be met at Muelle
Bay Pier,Puerto Galera.
SunSplash Inn
On the eastern side of Small La Laguna, quiet Beachfront location;
5 minute walk to Sabang or Big la Laguna Beach.
10 individual bungalows in a tropical garden setting. Bar and Restaurant,
under German/Swiss Management. Laundry, Phone, Fax and email facilities.
The resort also has a fully equipped PADI Dive Center. Snorkeling
Equipment, Water ski, Banana Rides, Kneeboard. Spacious rooms with
fan, TV and Minibar.
Single room: $23 Double room: $29.
Phone: +63 912388 48 31
Tanawin
Small but good standard resort. Fax no. 526 0117. Good for peace
and quiet, just outside Puerto Galera. Good food, nice, unusual
accomodation. Arrange to be met at Muelle Bay Pier,Puerto Galera.
Tropicana Beach Resort Hotel
There are four standard types of rooms here, and the Hotel is
built into the cliffside with a medieval castle type look. Rooms
are excellent and very reasonably priced. The Penthouse has a patio
with a hammock where you can layback and read or sleep in the shade
of the brilliant sun. The Penthouse suite is large with two huge
four poster beds and a large bathroom that has a Jacuzzi.
The Hotel has all rooms fully fitted with A/C and fans above the
bed, which make them amongst the very best rooms I have seen outside
of Manila and the Heritage Hotel! Rooms come equipped with a well,
stocked minibar refrigerator and Cable
TV in the Rooms.
Villa Estelita Beach Resort
Big Lalaguna Beach,Puerto Galera
email
Villa Sabang Resort
best bargain
It has a swimming pool, bar and billiards and its own fast food
restaurant.
Standard room with fan is $14
Deluxe room with fan, kithcen and TV is $18.
Room with aircon, TV, refrigerator, and hot water is $24.
Suite with TV, kitchen, aircon, hot water is $28.
Pictures of rooms
Pictures of facilities
Reservations email
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Dining
Food
The basic food in the Philippines is rice, but in Puerto Galera the
choice is nearly without limit. Of course, a great variety of Filipino
dishes is readily available, but Western food from the hamburger with
French fries to German, French, Italian, Spanish, Swiss and Austrian
delicacies can be found. On top of that other Asian and Southeast
Asian dishes like Chinese and Thai are there to wet your appetite.
Since Puerto Galera is a beach community fish and seafood are readily
available.
Breakfast is most of the times simple. Coffee is of good quality
and together with soft drinks and beer everywhere available and cheap.
Prices
About 25 peso for a beer and 15 peso for a softdrink is common. In
Sabang and Puerto Galera they have many good local and western restaurants.
A meal in a local restaurant cost about 150 peso and in a western
restaurant about 300 peso.
Restaurants
Carlos Restaurant and Bar
Inside the Carlos Inn Hotel.
Serves mouth watering international cuisine and sumptuous seafood
delights, fresh from the bountiful sea. Grilled to perfection or cooked
just the way you want it. Feast on Filipino delicacies and indulge
to your hearts content.
Coco Point
Puerto Galera
Harbour Point
Puerto Galera
McRoms
It is adjacent to the beach and waterfront near the Entertainment
area. It has some great sizzling seafood dishes. The hosts are quite
liberal with the 'Shooters' and has an excellent kitchen plus well
stocked bar.
RELAX Thai Restaurant
It is just past The Village Disco.
Tropicana Resort
Has an excellent restaurant next door. It needs a refit, as all resources
have been directed towards the main hotel.
Typhoon
Puerto Galera
Fast
Food
There are also a large number of fast food cafes, pizza houses etc.
The cafes and bars open till the early hours of morning, around 3am,
as do the Dancing Bars. There are even convenience stores open till
midnight. |
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Water
The water in Puerto Galera is quite good, coming from an underground
spring. Mineral water throughout the Philippines, is recommended,
however, even for cleaning teeth. Do not drink tap water in Sabang,
and under No circumstance, swim off Sabang Beach. Raw sewage
is pumped only 100 metres out to sea, and frequently floats back.
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Language
Filipino
is the national language. The Philippines is the world's third largest
Englishspeaking nation so English is widely used in commerce, trade
and entertainment. The are also over a hundred dialects spoken across
the country. |
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Security
Follow normal safety rules. Dont flash your money, or jewellry
around. Dont go down darkened streets alone, stick to the bright lights.
Do not get into conversations with strangers, the male Filipino can
be quite a good con artist, and often offers his his 'cousin' 'girlfriend'
etc to you. Never accept drinks from strangers, only drink
from authentic sources. Ativan is widely used in Manila around Rizal
Park, for instance. If you are offered a much higher rate of exchange
for dollars or pounds, ignore it. Keep walking. You WILL lose money,
the quick count or the sleight of hand etc.
Luggage
In all cases hold on to your luggage at all times, particularly at
Batangas. Dont let the porters pick up your pieces, it may get 'lost'
or stolen.
Police
There is a police station at the intersection above the docks
in Poblacion and on the Municipal Compound. |
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Scams
Watch out for various transportation scams in Batangas. Don't let
the guys grab your bags and escort you to a "private" banka
boat. They may charge you as much as P3000 for what should be a P75P150
ferry ride. Make sure you take the Ferry. You can get a ferry
directly to Sabang or go to Puerto Galera. If you go to Puerto Galera,
DON'T take a trike to Sabang. Walk past the trike drivers to the jeepney
stands and take a P10 jeepney to Sabang. Alternatively, take a P150180
banka from P.G. to Sabang. Nice views on the 15 minute boat ride.
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Medical
Emergency
At
Sabang Inn Dive Resort
Has a full Emergency Assistance Plan that covers communication with
other resorts, local hospitals and chambers. It also covers evacuation
by sea and Air Force Helicopter. Sabang Inn Dive Resort has a full
O2 kit and first aid kits.
In Sabang
There is one local doctor and most stores stock basic first aid supplies
only.
In Puerto Galera
5km from Sabang: There is one 'lying in clinic'. This is a basic doctor's
surgery equipped with more comprehensive supplies & drugs than
Sabang. Puerto Galera also has two pharmacies.
In Batangas
30km from Sabang: Batangas is about one hour 30 minutes from Sabang
by boat and does have at least one reasonable hospital 'St. Patrick's'
that is equipped with a full pharmacy, life support equipment and
operating theatre.
In Manila
120km from Sabang: Comprehensive medical care is available at 'Makati
Medical Centre' and 'V. Luna Hospital' / Chamber. This would be the
most likely destination in the event of serious illness or injury.
The hospitals provide 'European standard' of care. Manila is about
3 hours by boat and ambulance or about 40 minutes by helicopter allow
50 minutes for the helicopter to reach Sabang.
In Subic Bay
200km from Sabang: The main operational recompression chamber for
the Philippines. Accessible by road, seaplane or helicopter. Allow
a minimum of two hours from the moment of notification to reach the
chamber.
Vaccinations
None
are necessary
for a general holiday, but you may like to get a Hepatitis A &
B shot if you intend to fool around, better safe than sorry.
Sexual Transmitted Diseases STD'S
Sexually transmitted diseases occur, but the bar girls have regular
check ups, unfortunately the street girls don't . |
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Internet
There are very few internet
cafes and they are overpriced 3 pesos per minute and slow connection.The
Internet Cafe opposite Tropicana Hotel is as good as it gets in Sabang.
3.25 pesos per min. Remember you are in a third world country.There
almost a total absence of land lines in Puerto G, and internet is
usually by cable connection. |
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Phones
Telephone
services have rapidly increased in Puerto Galera and at nearly every
beach and in Poblacion at the port and near the market telephone calls
can be made to virtually everywhere in the world.
International
country code: [63]
Selected city codes: Angeles, Pampanga Evantelco 455,
Davao 82, Manila 2, San Pablo, Laguna 448,
Subic Bay Usn Base 47
Sabang 0652
Dialing Philippines from Overseas
To dial the Philippines from overseas, dial 011, then 63 the country
code for the Philippines, then the city code, and finally the number.
If you were dialing Manila, for example, you would begin with 011,
then 63, then 2 the city code for Manila, and finally the number of
the person or office you are trying to reach.
Assistance Numbers
Emergency 166
Tourist Assistance 2 501660, 501728
Directory assistance 114
Direct dialing assistance 112
Operatorassisted domestic calls 109
Operatorassisted international 108
Local Calls
Calling locally may be more difficult than placing an international
call, if that is conceivable. Expect bad connections, busy signals
or disconnections if you are fortunate enough to have found a phone
that works at all.
A local call from a hotel will cost about P14.
Long Distance Calls
Calling long distance within the Philippines may prove no different
than a local call in terms of connections and wait times. To make
a long distance call, dial 0 + area code + number; you'll feel like
you've won the lottery if connected successfully.
International Calls
To make a direct call overseas, dial 00 + country code + area code
+ number. Keep in mind that operatorassisted calls may run 30 percent
more than dialing direct. The Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company
PLDT office also provides international access if you prefer not to
dial from the hotel, which most likely will implement the usual outrageous
surcharge. If possible, try connecting directly to an overseas operator
for calling card, collect, or credit card calls. If dialing from a
public phone, you will have to insert a coin or card first.
AT&T USA Direct 10511
Canada Direct 10512
MCI 10514
Sprint 10516
U.K. Direct 10544
Public
Telephones
Local calls cost 75 centavos on a red public phone and are unlimited,
but don't expect great service. In fact, don't even expect good service.
If you're lucky, your message will barely get through. The newer silver
phones will cost P2 for a local call. Most pay phones on the streets
are not operational, but hotels and post offices also have pay phones
that usually work. Most use coins as calling cards are just beginning
their introductory period in the country.
Calling Cards
PLDT phone cards Fonkards may be purchased for the card phones available.
Fax machines are widespread, but the poor telephone system can delay
some faxes. Most hotels have fax services, although the charge can
be expensive. A one page fax to Europe costs P350 US$14. |
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Sex
It is suggested to take a girl to
Puerto Galera instead of going there "on the prowl." There
are about three bars and a couple of discos on one little street.
Not enough girls to go around like Manila or Angeles City. PG and
Sabang is a good place to have sex with a girl you really like and
get along with. Lots of fun there and relaxing. |
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Legal
Age
The legal
age of consent anywhere in the Philippines is 18 years of age.
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Where
Sabang, La Laguna and White Beach are the
places for nightlife and they offer the more budget traveler directed
packages with the exception of a few upper class establishments .
Restaurants, bars and discos provide the nightlife with all the entertainment
one could wish for.
Sabang
Beach
Sabang area is only 6kms away from the town of Puerto Galera. On foot
it takes only 45 mins, brisk walking, or 10 minutes in a Jeepney.
The cost is 10 pesos. The best way is by Bangka and the cost is 150
pesos. In the rainy season its the ONLY way.
Sabang is by far the most popular destination, as it offers four star
hotels, like Tropicana Resort, Portofino, and others all with swimming
pools, air con etc. It also has a large number of dive shops, of International
standard, PADI, Asia Divers etc.
Bars
Although there are girlie bars in Sabang, 6kms out of Puerto G, you
may wish to bring your own. The locals know ALL the hookers in town,
and give them knowing looks. The cost in Angeles is half that of Sabang,
and a quarter that of Makati, even cheaper if its a 'sneak out'.
Lucky's Saloon Bar & Restaurant
Sabang, Puerto Galera Mindoro, Philippines
Tel.: 63 0973852560
email
Across
the street from the Tropicana hotel on the left hand side of the street.
Great place to sit and people watch.
Discos
Sunset
Disco
Like the go go bars you see in Manila. It has a stage with seating
all around, then a disco dance floor which is in the middle of the
bar with bench type area for sitting and enjoying the conversation
and hospitality of the girls and GRO's. Waste of time, and has a large
number of local males hanging around.
Sabang
Disco
Philippine
Village Disco
At both Sabang and the Village Disco, girls can be 'barfined' for
1,400 pesos for the night, 400 for the house and 1,000 for the girl.
Its advisable to buy a Ladies Drink, 125 pesos, to find out the pros
and cons. Is she Cherry? Is she on mens? Does she give blowjobs? Does
she go without a condom? Etc Etc.
Massage
On the beach, you may be approached by a girl offering Massage. First,
make sure it IS a girl, as occasionally Billy Boys hang around. First
agree to a price and what you get for the money. Usually the price
for the massage is 500 pesos and a handjob. Full sex is 1000, but
always negotiate prices beforehand. The beach hut will be basic, but
clean. DO NOT go in if there any male Filipinos inside, Filipinas
only. |
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Photography
The bar girls
are pretty liberated, and love to have a 'double' with a friend,
or have their picture taken, in various poses. Cash is King, you
get what you pay for, otherwise, you dont pay.
Film
developing is really cheap in Puerto Galera, and standard 35 mm
film can be developed, whilst APS and slide films are only possible
to develop and buy in Manila.
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Laundry
Your Hotel can take care of your laundry at a reasonable cost. Its a waste
of time humping your dirty 'smalls' along the back streets, to save a few
pesos. Dont put your favourite Armani or Polo in there though. They tend
to be a little slap happy with the bleach there. |
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Recreation
Puerto
Galera offers its visitors a wide choice of sports. Most practiced
are of course swimming, scubadiving, snorkeling, boating, sailing,
surfing, kayaking, and fishing. The natural beauty of the island makes
walks and hikes a real pleasure. For the more adventurous trekking
through the jungle and the mountains could be a real challenge. It
is advisable to ask around for a knowledgeable guide when you venture
of the beaten track.
During
the day most guys lounge around the pool or bar of their Hotel. The
Hotels usually have a pool table also. Trips can be arranged at the
Mabuhay Hotel on the main street opposite Tropicana Resort. Every
day they have a different venue; Cockfight, Hidden Waterfall, visit
to a Mangyan Village etc. Its well worth it to soak up some of the
local atmosphere with your chosen companion.
Beaches
White
Beach
The nicest beach and swimming area in the Puerto Galera. P900 by boat
or by jeepney P50 via Puerto Galera then trike to White Beach. If
you go by banca boat you can stop at some of the secluded beaches
for a swim and a little exploring. There are 2 or 3 hotels at White
Beach and maybe a halfdozen bars/restaurants also.
Link
Sabang's beach
Big Lalaguna Beach
Another good beach with a beautiful coral reef for the snorkling and
diving enthusiasts. However, some of the cottages are too close together.
Small Lalaguna Beach
Situated next to Sabang Beach is a very quiet beach if you want
to escape from the noisy night life of Sabang. This beach is excellent
for snorkling and diving, or just relaxing after sampling the nightlife
of Sabang. Plenty of reasonable priced accommodation and restaurants.
Haligi Beach
During your stay, consider taking a day out in a boat. Arrange
with your Hotel to hire a bangka, about 800 pesos per day, and stock
up on booze, charcoal, and sundry BBQ items. Haligi Beach and Northern
Tip are good choices, but the boatman may know a deserted little island
nearby. Do NOT pay in advance, only at the end of the day. Tip if
you wish, but you have already been overcharged.
Northern Tip
Coco Beach
A privately owned and well maintained with clean sand.
Beachopping
barbecue
Gio with a bunch of friends and friends to some secluded cove or beach
and barbecue some fish, pork, and chicken cooked for you by the boatmen.
It Will cost you around P500/person.
Cockfights
No, it snot where two gay guys get naked. On sundays go to the cockfights
and see Zambuangan Whites kill American Highbloods. Very cheap, interesting,
but bloody. Any trike driver in Puerto Galera can take you there.
The fights run from 15 pm.
Cockfighting is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture. Sabong, as it
is known in Tagalog, is a national pastime that knows no social distinctions.
Not a sport of the fainthearted, it pits two roosters of comparable
weight that fight each other until one is killed or turns tail and
flees. The bout is usually brief and bloody. Razorsharp spurs called
tari are attached to the birds’ legs. With neck feathers ruffled,
the birds dance around each other, testing each other’s strength.
There’s a swish of blades and swirl of feathers, roars rise from
the gallery, and in a few minutes its all over. If both birds are
still alive after ten minutes of skirmishing the bout is declared
a draw. Sometimes special matches call carambolas are also held, where
five or more birds are placed in the arena at the same time to fight
it out until only one remains. Special fights, called derbies, have
purses ranging from US$10,000 to US$170,000.
Excavation Museum
Within the compound of the town church, is an excellent spot to pick
up bits of history. The museum houses antique coins and priceless
artifacts from the Chinese and Spanish trading period, jars, lamps,
swords and artifacts salvaged from shipwrecks and sunken vessels in
the area. The museum is open from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Monday
to Friday.
Golfing
Ponderosa Golf Club
A 9 hole golf club 1,700ft up a near by mountain.
Spectacular views – all clubs etc. available for rental, even
someone to get you a beer.
Green fee: P300, Club rental: P100, Caddy: P75, Balls & tees:
P150, Shoe rental: P50, Putting Fees: P50, Lessons: P200.
Hash House Harriers jogging club every
Sunday
They meet every Sunday at 16:00 which is 4:00 PM sharp outside capitain
Greggs on Sabang Beach.
Follow the chalk marks around the most beautiful trails of Puerto
Galera to the "ON ON" where the cold beer is awaiting. Virgin
or first timers pay P 200 which includes more beer than you possibly
could carry along the trial and a Tshirt. Regulars pay P 100.
Kayak tours
The tour agencies in Puerto Galera offer trips to the Alag
Riverbank. You'll take a jeepney ride through the mountains then paddle
downstream and later having some lunch on a river bank. The kayak
trip takes about three and a half hours, depending on how fast the
river flows and how fast you paddle. When the river delta is reached
you will be brought back by super banca and sail back to your destination
in the sunset. Overnight stay can be provided as well.
Single Kayak per hourUS$ 5.00
Single Kayak half dayUS$ 15.00
Single Kayak whole dayUS$ 35.00
Double Kayak per hourUS$ 8.00
Double Kayak half dayUS$ 24.00
Double Kayak whole dayUS$ 55.00
Snorkeling gear whole dayUS$ 3.00
Boat for Coral Garden’s approx.US$ 15.00
Bangka to Puerto is P150.
Link
Motorcycle Riding
Motorcycles can be hired in either Puerto Galera or Sabang for about
500 per day, depending on size. You can ride round the Island of Mindoro
in less than 24 hours.
Mount Malasimbo
One will encounter aborigine inhabitants called Mangyansdescendants
of the protomalayan group that settled about 3,000 to 2,500 years
ago.
Pinamalayan
Has plenty of beautiful mountains, rivers and fruit orchards. Not
a place to stay for a long time but a nice get away. Pinamalayan is
on the way up to the Mangyan tribe. These are the tribes that wear
NO CLOTHES and are still living in within the mountains, very friendly
people and they even understand and speak Tagalog quite well.
Python Caves
3 km from the town proper, where 1 to 2meterlong pythons live with
bats.
Motorcycle Rental
Scuba
Diving
Dive Shops
There about 48 dive shops in Puerto Galera, catering from novice to
divemaster. There are some terrific dive sites to visit which include
Japanese wrecks from WW II, desert islands and sea life.
Action Divers
Puerto Galera, Sabang Beach, Small La Laguna Beach, Oriental Mindoro,
Philippines 5203
c/o Swagman Travel
411 A. Flores Street, Ermita, Philippines 1000
Tel.: +63 973751968
Fax: +6325223663
email
Link
Asia Divers
Puerto Galera, Small La Laguna Beach, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
Tel/Fax: +63 973865 252
Cell phone: +63 912305 0652
Mobile : +63 917529 6539
email
admin@asiadivers.com
Atlantis Resort Hotel
Puerto Galera, Sabang Beach
Oriental Mindoro, The Philippines
Tel/Fax: +63973497503 or
+639123080672
email
Link
Capt'n Gregg's
Puerto Galera, Sabang Beach
Oriental Mindoro, The Philippines
Telefax: +63 973496691
Fax: +63 9178765254
between 6:30 AM and 10:00 PM
Tel : +63973854319
email
captgreg@batangas.inet.net
Link
Cocktail Divers
Puerto Galera, Sabang Beach, Small La Laguna, Big La Laguna
Oriental Mindoro, The Philippines
Tel.: +63 9128046656
Fax: +63 28921443
Tel. Germany : 00498651770811
0049865163861
Fax Germany : 00498651690193
Frontier Scuba
Puerto Galera, Sabang Beach
Oriental Mindoro, The Philippines
Mail to : Frontier Scuba
411 Flores Street
Ermita, Manila
Tel: +63973490095
email
Link
Octopus Divers
Puerto Galera, Sabang Beach
Oriental Mindoro, The Philippines
Tel/Fax:+63 9123134486
Tel.: +63 9175620160
email
Link
Rudy's Dive Center
Puerto Galera, Small La Laguna Beach, Oriental Mindoro,
Philippines 5203
Tel.: +63 973679096
+63 9188814843
Fax: +63 9123476993
email
Link
South Sea Divers
Puerto Galera
Sabang Beach
Oriental Mindoro
The Philippines
Tel.: +63 9188650246
+63 9182322837
Fax: +63 9123476993
email
link
Triton Divers
Puerto Galera
Sabang Beach
Oriental Mindoro
The Philippines
P.O. Box 36576
Tel: +639174007616
+639188614934
email
Shopping
Take a boat into Puerto Galera and check out the souvenir shops, or
walk to Puerto Galera through the villages on mud roads into the town.
Tshirts go for 100 pesos and and bathing suits P160. Wallets made
out of a frog can be bought as well.
Snorkeling
You don't have to be a scuba diver to enjoy the ocean! Just grab a
pair of fins and a mask and have a great time watching things from
the surface.
Trekking tours
Various
day or overnight trekking tours to the various attractions of Puerto
Galera or though the jungle can be arranged through a local operator.
Hike in Puerto Galera's dense mangrove forests, or follow a trail
in the rolling hills and mountains, which are a haven for 148 resident
and migratory birds, 10 mammals, and 8 reptiles and amphibians.
Waterfalls
Tamaraw Falls
You'll need to hire a jeepney and driver to take you to the falls.
There's swimming and picnic area at the base of the falls and a tour
guide will usually provide lunch. Tour
companies will charge you about P1000 per person including lunch.
But if you hire a jeepney it will cost you 1200 total to get there.
Bring some friends to split the cost and take along some food for
a picnic. |
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