SIPALAY TAKATUKA LODGE AND DIVE RESORT PHILIPPINES NEGROS

Health

In general, no immunizations are required for the Philippines. It is always wise, though, to check with your doctor whether you have vaccinations that need to be refreshed or boosted. Should you plan to travel off the beaten track or to Palawan or Mindanao, you ought to contact your nearest tropical institute for up-to-date recommendations on prophylaxis and other vaccinations.
Don't forget to pack a sun filter cream with a high protection factor!
Sipalay has a "Health Center", which can help in minor cases, whereas more serious problems will be treated in a hospital in Kabankalan or in Bacolod.

Money

The Philippine currency is the peso (PHP).
Best currencies to change are USD and EUR.
In larger cities, USD Travellers' cheques will be accepted, too, but the exchange rate is generally far lower and the processing very slow.
Although, credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and businesses in big cities, they are worthless if you travel off the beaten track.

PLEASE NOTE that Sipalay has NO bank with international liaison (ATMS) and no moneychanger yet.

Takatuka Lodge and Dive Resort accepts payments in USD, CHF and EUR, as well as Travellers' Cheques in USD.

You also have the option to transfer money via e-Banking onto our CHF or EUR account (please bear in mind that you have to bring your banking security codes with you in that case).

NEW: We also accept payments through PayPal (+10%).
If you have a Paypal account, it is very easy for you to pay your bill cashless.

The only way we can accept CREDIT CARD payments is via Internet (you may request the requirements for this transaction option by e-mailing us).

Security

It is not dangerous to travel the Philippines. The Filipino is the most friendly and helpful people of all Asia.

Electricity

The electric current is generally 230V. Our rooms have American flat plug sockets. Adapters can be borrowed. Takatuka owns a generator in cases of blackouts.

Food and drinks

In our little restaurant we serve well spiced international and local specialties with lots of market fresh vegetables and 1st class meat and fish. Our ice cubes are made out of clean drinking water, and we bake fresh bread every day.

Communication

Takatuka is online and offers its guests the opportunity to surf and e-mail on our internet computer.
Even your own mobile phone will work well here. Should you plan to stay in the Philippines for a longer period, it would be wise to buy a local Sim-Card here (much cheaper tariff).

Clothes / Laundry service

You are well prepared if you only travel with thin summer clothes, but a light pullover, to be armed against always too cold air cons, will prove to be very helpful. Don't pack too much - our laundry service is very affordable.

Visa

Visa requirements differ from country of origin to country of origin. Best is to inquire the latest regulations at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Important to know is that you can stay exactly 21 days in the Philippines without a Visa and without paying an immigration fee. If you plan to stay longer, you can easily extend your visa in Bacolod.

Further Information

You will find very detailed and extremely helpful information in the two following travel books: "Philippines Travel Guide" from Jens Peters or "Lonely Planet - Philippines".