Tag: asia

Mabuhay, fellow wanderers! It’s your Wandermapped traveler here, back with another gem from my bleoved archipelago. Today, we’re diving deep into a destination that’s been on every serious traveler’s bucket list: Batanes. Ah, Batanes. It’s more than just a place; it’s an experience that carves itself into your soul. And while many opt for packaged tours, believe me, the true magic of Batanes unfolds when you go the DIY route. It’s not just about saving pesos; it’s about connecting with the local culture, setting your own pace, and discovering hidden corners. So, let’s break down how you can craft your own unforgettable Batanes adventure.

Getting There: The Flight Hunt (It’s All About Timing!)

Let’s be honest, the flight is often the biggest chunk of your Batanes budget. There are no ferries from Luzon, so flying is your only option.

• Airlines: Currently, Philippine Airlines (PAL Express) and Cebu Pacific are your main carriers flying into Basco (BSO) from Manila (MNL). Occasionally, there are flights from Clark (CRK) as well.
• Booking Strategy: This is crucial. Book your flights WAY in advance. I’m talking 3-6 months, especially if you’re aiming for peak season (April-May, October-November, and long weekends). Seat sales are rare for Batanes, but when they do pop up, they disappear faster than a plate of adobo at a fiesta. Be flexible with your dates if possible; weekdays are almost always cheaper than weekends.
• Connecting Flights: If you’re coming from other parts of the Philippines, you’ll likely need to connect via Manila. Factor in enough layover time, as domestic flights can sometimes experience delays.
• My Tip: Set up flight alerts on Skyscanner or Google Flights. While full-blown seat sales are uncommon, you might catch a slightly lower fare if you’re vigilant. I once snagged a roundtrip for around PHP 8,000 by being super quick on the draw! Normal fares can range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 15,000+ for a roundtrip.

Homestays: Your Home Away From Home

One of the most charming aspects of Batanes is the prevalence of homestays. These aren’t just budget-friendly; they offer an authentic glimpse into Ivatan life. You’ll often find yourself chatting with your hosts, learning about their culture, and feeling truly welcomed.

• Where to Stay: Most homestays are located in Basco, the capital. This is your best base for exploring North and South Batan, and it’s where you’ll find most of the amenities. There are also a few options in Sabtang and Itbayat if you plan an overnight stay there.
• Finding Them:
  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): While Agoda and Booking.com list some, the selection isn’t as extensive as for other destinations.
  • Facebook Groups/Pages: This is often your best bet! Search for “Batanes Homestays” or “Basco Homestays.” Many local owners list their properties here, often with contact numbers. You can communicate directly.
  • Word of Mouth: Ask fellow travelers or online communities for recommendations.
  • Contacting Locals: Sometimes, a quick Google search for “Basco homestay contact numbers” can yield results.
• What to Expect:
  • Simple but Clean: Don’t expect luxury resorts. Homestays are typically basic but comfortable, with private or shared bathrooms. Air-conditioning might be rare, but the cool Batanes breeze often makes it unnecessary.
  • Warm Hospitality: This is a given. Ivatan people are incredibly kind and accommodating.
  • Breakfast Often Included: Many homestays include a simple Filipino breakfast, which is a great way to start your day and save on costs.
  • Price Range: Expect to pay anywhere from PHP 350 – PHP 800 per person per night for a good homestay. Some private rooms might go up to PHP 1,500 – PHP 2,000 per night.

Your Daily Budget: Making Every Peso Count

Now for the nitty-gritty. This is an estimated breakdown for a solo traveler on a DIY Batanes trip. Adjust accordingly if you’re traveling with a companion or prefer more creature comforts.

• Accommodation: PHP 500 – PHP 800 (based on a comfortable homestay)
• Food:
  • Breakfast: Often included with homestay. If not, PHP 100 – PHP 150 for a local meal.
  • Lunch/Dinner: PHP 150 – PHP 300 per meal. Eating at local carinderias (eateries) or ordering home-cooked meals from your homestay are your best budget options. Seafood can be pricier.
  • Snacks/Drinks: PHP 50 – PHP 100.
  • Daily Food Total: PHP 400 – PHP 700 (if you’re careful)
• Transportation (Daily Average – very variable depending on your activities):
  • Tours (DIY): Renting a tricycle for a whole day tour (North Batan, South Batan) typically costs around PHP 1,500 – PHP 2,000. If you split this with 2-3 others, it significantly reduces your cost per person. So, if you’re solo, budget around PHP 750 – PHP 1,000 for a shared tour.
  • Motorbike Rental: Around PHP 500 – PHP 800 per day for self-drive. Fuel extra.
  • Sabtang Trip: This will be a separate cost – boat fare (PHP 150-200 RT), tricycle tour (PHP 300-500 per person if shared).
  • Daily Transportation Average: PHP 400 – PHP 800 (depending on your tour activities that day)
• Activities/Entrance Fees:
  • Environmental Fee: PHP 350 (one-time payment upon arrival).
  • Sabtang Environmental Fee: PHP 200 (one-time for Sabtang).
  • Most view decks and natural attractions are free. Some cultural sites might have a small donation box.
  • Daily Activity Average: PHP 50 – PHP 100 (if you spread out the one-time fees and account for minor donations)
• Miscellaneous (Water, toiletries, small souvenirs): PHP 100 – PHP 200

Estimated Daily Budget (Excluding Flights): PHP 1,500 – PHP 2,600

This is a comfortable budget for a DIY traveler. You can definitely go lower if you’re extremely frugal (e.g., sharing tricycle tours always, eating only at carinderias), or higher if you splurge on seafood every night.

My Tried and Tested Batanes Tips for the DIYer:

• Connect with Fellow Travelers: Upon arrival, chat with other tourists at your homestay or at popular spots. You might find people to share tricycle tours with, significantly cutting down costs. This is how I often found tour mates!
• Embrace the Tricycle: It’s the primary mode of transport. Negotiate rates for tours, or for point-to-point transfers within Basco.
• Motorbike Adventures: If you’re confident riding, renting a motorbike gives you ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace. Just be mindful of the sometimes strong winds and winding roads.
• Pack Light: Seriously. Small planes mean stricter baggage allowances. Plus, it’s easier to move around.
• Bring Cash: While some establishments in Basco accept Gcash or credit cards, many homestays and local eateries are cash-only. ATMs are available in Basco, but it’s always wise to have enough cash on hand.
• Respect Local Culture: The Ivatans are a gentle and respectful people. Be mindful of their traditions and always ask permission before taking photos of people or private property.
• Flexibility is Key: Weather in Batanes can be unpredictable. Flights can be delayed or cancelled due to strong winds or storms. Build in a buffer day or two if your schedule allows, just in case.
• Don’t Rush: Batanes is not a place to tick off boxes. Take your time, soak in the views, sit by the cliff, and simply be. That’s where the real magic lies.

The Batanes Promise

Batanes isn’t just about the iconic lighthouses and rolling hills; it’s about the feeling of being in a place untouched, where life moves at a different pace, and the people are as warm as the sunshine. Going DIY allows you to truly immerse yourself in this unique culture and create memories that are truly your own. So, pack your bags, prepare for an adventure, and get ready to be utterly captivated by the beauty of the Northernmost frontier of the Philippines.

Have you been to Batanes? What are your ultimate DIY tips? Share them in the comments below!