Siquijor, typically called the “Island of Fire,” is a shocking gem in the Philippines known for its mystical charm, white sand beaches, and lush inland jungles. While it may be less commercialized than other vacationer destinations, its raw beauty attracts an increasing number of vacationers each year. If you’re planning a visit to this magical island, discovering the proper lodging is key to a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Nevertheless, there are several widespread mistakes visitors make when booking hotels in Siquijor—mistakes that may turn a dream vacation into a frustrating experience.
1. Booking Without Researching the Location
Siquijor is small but spread out, and not all hotels are located conveniently. Many tourists book hotels which might be far from the primary sights like Paliton Beach, Cambugahay Falls, or the town of San Juan, which is the hub for many resorts and restaurants. If you’re not careful, you would end up in a distant area with limited transportation options. Always check the space from your hotel to the places you plan to visit and guarantee it’s in or near a well-connected area.
2. Ignoring Transportation Availability
Unlike more developed islands, Siquijor has limited public transport options. When you book a hotel far from the ferry terminal or most important roads without considering easy methods to get round, you may find yourself stranded or counting on costly tricycle rides. Some lodging provide transport services, so inquire about shuttle options or motorbike leases before finalizing your booking.
3. Falling for Overly Edited Photos
Photos on booking platforms will be deceiving. While a spot might look dreamy online, reality can be different. In Siquijor, many small resorts and inns use old or highly edited photos. Always read the newest critiques and check for guest-uploaded images to get a more accurate picture of what to expect. This helps you avoid unpleasant surprises upon arrival.
4. Not Checking Air Conditioning and Power Backup
Power interruptions are comparatively frequent in Siquijor, especially throughout storms or peak seasons. Not all lodging have backup generators, and a few budget stays could not supply air conditioning. When you’re sensitive to heat or can’t do without electricity, make positive to check if your chosen hotel has a reliable energy backup system and proper cooling options.
5. Overlooking Wi-Fi and Mobile Signal Energy
If you plan to work remotely or keep connected throughout your journey, don’t assume all places have reliable Wi-Fi. Internet connectivity could be hit-or-miss on the island, particularly in rural areas. Before booking, confirm with the hotel if they’ve stable internet service and good mobile signal coverage. Checking on-line reviews for comments about connectivity also can help.
6. Ignoring Cancellation Policies
Journey plans can change, particularly when dealing with ferry schedules or unpredictable weather. Some hotels in Siquijor have inflexible cancellation policies. Always read the fine print to ensure that you won’t lose cash if you have to rebook or cancel. Go for accommodations with flexible cancellation terms when possible.
7. Forgetting to Confirm Reservation Directly
After booking through on-line platforms, it’s a smart move to reach 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 electronic mail or phone call can save you the effort of arriving only to seek out out your room isn’t available.
8. Assuming All Hotels Accept Credit Cards
Money is king in Siquijor. Many hotels, particularly family-run inns and beachfront cottages, operate on a cash-only basis. Even those who advertise card payments could have machines that are often offline. Deliver enough Philippine pesos to cover your stay and different expenses, as ATMs are limited and generally unreliable.
Siquijor promises a serene, unforgettable experience—however only in the event you avoid the frequent pitfalls in booking your stay. By researching your options totally and knowing what to anticipate, you’ll be free to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without any unwelcome hotel surprises.