General Info

OK, guys, sound off with your opinions. I have been to the PI several times over the last couple of years, but only Manila, AC, and Subic. I'll be coming back in August and plan to spend a few days in AC followed by work in Manila and then 4 - 5 days somewhere else. Where do you suggest? I'm in my 40s, overweight, etc. - the typical guy on this board. I would like to learn to scuba dive, so it has to be coastal. I'd also like for there to be other daytime activities, and at least a few bars (regular or naughty) worth hanging out in at night. I'd also like to keep the cost down as much as possible, but that is pretty easy to do in the PI. If necessary, I can bring my own girls from AC, but would like it even better if they are available locally. Thinking of Palawan (Coron), Boracay, Puerta Galera or Cebu, but completely open to suggestions.

Hippie,

For the short time that you plan to stay,I would suggest Sabang Beach.It's only around 5 hours from Manila and easy to get to. There are plenty of dive shops, plus 4 bars(go-go type) for some P4P.Not too many freelancers, and the ones available are only 4-5 IMHO.If you find a gem in AC, it wouldn't be a bad idea to bring her along.

Avioneto

Hello Hippie,

Try Cebu because it has a combination of things your looking for. You can learn how to dive on Mactan Island (part of metro Cebu)during the day. The numerous bars and MP's will keep you busy at night. The attitude of the people in Cebu seems to be different than Luzon. But if your looking for some peace and quiet, skip Cebu since it is the 2nd largest city in the P.I. If your looking for a low key place, Palawan is the way to go.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough]Remember, that the Philippines does not have a jury system, and all cases are tried by judges alone, who are solely responsible for determining guilt or innocence.This makes the outcome of trials more subject to political/public pressure than might be the case elsewhere. I have no idea what the outcome of the trial may be, but given the propensity here to endlessly appeal every verdict, and given the huge hierarchy of courts in which appeals may be lodged, the whole thing may drag on for years.

:D

GE[/QUOTE]

Unfortunately for the filipina, the problem is their VFA only allows one year for this case to be resolved. Otherwise, the GI goes free. Knowing this, it should be understandable why the filipinos are pissed off at all the foot dragging, by their govt officials and the GI's attorneys (naturally).

I'm at Hong Kong airport waiting for my flight to Cebu, getting ready to start my longest stay in the Philippines yet, 2 months or 59 days to be exact. Besides the usual suspects I hope to meet any and all who are on the ground in the country during this time.

Is the barfine still P2,000 or has it gone up? Thought I saw a post somewhere the barfine is P4,000 but that doesn't seem right. Heading to Manila then hopefully Puerto Galera for a couple of days but want to check before I go.

cheap diving schools (cheaper than Mactan and better diving-Mactan has been devastated by dynamite fishing). Ditto for Subic (not as cheap and terrible visibility). No dive school at yet at the Swagman's Pool so I guess AC is out!
Boracay is expensive, diving not too good for beginners especially, and damn rainy this time of year. It is insect season on Palawan and not the ideal place to find girls in any event.

Sabang in Puerto Galera is the other option I would consider (seconding Avioneto's suggestion). In fact, Sabang is so compact your dive school could be next door to the bar where you find company LOL

I like Bohol best of all of these, and it is only 2 hours by hydrofoil from Cebu city (Mactan locations like Shangri La can take an hour driving!).

At Moalboal there are also plenty of sw available to occupy your time when not water diving. Plenty of dirt bikes available, At night plenty of muff diving.

I will be visiting Cebu next month. Can you provide more information. How to get there from Cebu, places to stay, places to monger, etc.

Thank you.

[QUOTE=Chevy 68]At Moalboal there are also plenty of sw available to occupy your time when not water diving. Plenty of dirt bikes available, At night plenty of muff diving.[/QUOTE]

Been several years since I was in Cebu so Chevy's info is obviously much more current so I'd be interested in his perspective. Perhaps placing it in Cebu folder would be more appropriate than in this thread. Thanks Chevy

[QUOTE=Billpsu]I will be visiting Cebu next month. Can you provide more information. How to get there from Cebu, places to stay, places to monger, etc.

Thank you.[/QUOTE]It is 90 km or about 60 miles from the city via a 3-4 hour road trip.The best places to stay are Ranging from the most expensive Badaian Island Resort for 5 star,then Mid range Quo Vadis Beach Resort,Sunshine Pension House to basic Eva s Kiosk.Monger along the bars of Panagsama beach.Hope this helps

Thank you.

How about transportation. Should I rent a car, or is there regular bus service?

[QUOTE=Cebu Local]It is 90 km or about 60 miles from the city via a 3-4 hour road trip.The best places to stay are Ranging from the most expensive Badaian Island Resort for 5 star,then Mid range Quo Vadis Beach Resort,Sunshine Pension House to basic Eva s Kiosk.Monger along the bars of Panagsama beach.Hope this helps[/QUOTE]

Hi,

I'm travelling through the Visayas next August (Boracay, Cebu, Malapascua.)

I'm interested in mongering but also about picking up some western girls (that could be there for tourism & travel).

Do you know if there are a lot of young female tourists there?

Where are the best places for night life and parties?

Thanks a lot!

P.S. Consider that I'm young and quite good looking.

Everyone,

Where is it a good place to go in the PI with a companion? I want to go to a resort type place and just relax and explore the land. I was looking at Boracay but it seems it's too crowded and hyped up. Any suggestions and places to stay. Someone mentioned Pearl farms in Davao, bohol?

Thanks for any suggestions.

Mook

Mookman,

This island has cold springs and hotsprings, dirt bikes and italian rest. But you will be impressed with the resort nicest on island and pool is wonderful.