Planning 2 weeks in Puerto Galera and maybe nearby locations

[hdtran]

Is this something I test to make sure it works before I land in Manila?

I've used esims. Pretty easy. Ubigi is what I've been using, but just look for the best rate. I'll buy mine online while waiting in LAX. Once I get to Manila: In Android settings, go to SIM manager, turn off the Verizon and turn on the esim. You can do whatsapp, internet, data, apps, but not voice calls. By turning off the Verizon SIM, they can't charge you $10/day. No need to be in airplane mode once you've turned off the Verizon SIM.

I intend to order PHP from my bank in the US. They will buy back unused pesos, or you can exchange at the airport at a not as good rate. I also have a bank account that I use for travel; they do not charge foreign ATM transaction fees.

If you use a credit card, specify local currency.

Taxis, bus, street food is likely cash only.

If you don't speak Filipino, download Google translate and the Filipino language. I found it very good with Japanese, Korean, and Catalan. I suspect it will be good with Filipino.

 

[tridacna]

I've used esims. Pretty easy. Ubigi is what I've been using, but just look for the best rate. I'll buy mine online while waiting in LAX. Once I get to Manila: In Android settings, go to SIM manager, turn off the Verizon and turn on the esim. You can do whatsapp, internet, data, apps, but not voice calls. By turning off the Verizon SIM, they can't charge you $10/day. No need to be in airplane mode once you've turned off the Verizon SIM.

I intend to order PHP from my bank in the US. They will buy back unused pesos, or you can exchange at the airport at a not as good rate. I also have a bank account that I use for travel; they do not charge foreign ATM transaction fees.

If you use a credit card, specify local currency.

Taxis, bus, street food is likely cash only.

If you don't speak Filipino, download Google translate and the Filipino language. I found it very good with Japanese, Korean, and Catalan. I suspect it will be good with Filipino.

Remember to use Whatsapp else people here have to text you at your Filipino number.

 

[hdtran]

"Sod's Law".

For those of us who have a different native language, I suspect Murphy's Law is a derivative--as in anything that can go wrong, will (and usually in the most inconvenient and embarassing fashion).

 

[hdtran]

I was planning on the whole trip at Asia divers. Now I'm wondering if I should take a day or two at Aniloa.

One of my co-workers (an awesome photographer, not to mention data scientist) raved about Crystal Blue Resort in Anilao.

 

[YYCLuke]

Any idea who will be your instructor?
Have fun.

No not yet. Anyone in particular you think is worth their salt?

 

[Centrals]

No not yet. Anyone in particular you think is worth their salt?

Alison or Sam with well over 20yrs experiences.

 

[Centrals]

I intend to order PHP from my bank in the US. They will buy back unused pesos, or you can exchange at the airport at a not as good rate. I also have a bank account that I use for travel; they do not charge foreign ATM transaction fees.

There is a very good money exchanger Edzen in 1151 Mabini Street ie same street as City State tower.
Banks at T3 also give good rate.
The money exchanger in Sabang also gives acceptable rate.
I normally change the money at T3 and if necessary change a small amount in Sabang.

 

[YYCLuke]

Alison or Sam with well over 20yrs experiences.

I'm communicating with Allison right now, but unsure if she'll be my instructor or not. I'll find out in three weeks

 

[bvbellomo]

I'm communicating with Allison right now, but unsure if she'll be my instructor or not. I'll find out in three weeks

My e-mails also say "Allison". My guess is she answers all the e-mail.

 

[Centrals]

I'm communicating with Allison right now, but unsure if she'll be my instructor or not. I'll find out in three weeks

She is from Canada.