This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Puerto Galera.
Puerto Galera is a small town in the Philippines in the Mindoro area, but is also used to refer to a broader area of more than thirteen kilometers of really nice beaches and caves, and where the accommodation prices are still as affordable as the prices in restaurants. In this area there are more than thirty dive sites identified and the big and diverse corals are listed in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve, reserved only for environmental places of global importance. However, Puerto Galera is much more than just corals and you will know it if you arrive in the ferry that comes from Batangas City. The harbour is in the middle of a stunning set of small islands with sand and coconut trees; behind the harbour you can see Mount Malasimbo, where you can do some treks after. If you are thinking more about the beach and a laid-back style, head to Small and Big La Laguna. If you want to get booze with divers and some nightlife, then Sabang is the busiest area, but not the best for beaches.
The best way to arrive in Puerto Galera from Manila is to buy a ticket combining the bus and ferry. There is a cheaper option of taking the local bus, but probably you will waste much more time.
There are many hostels in Puerto Galera and you can find good value for money if you book just a little bit in advance. Puerto Galera's hostels can offer exactly what you need, so be sure to check if you are going into a crowded, diving and booze hostel or a chilled and relaxed one.
Written by local enthusiast for Puerto Galera hostels
CoffeeMarks