BOHOL - FAQ`S
The Bohol-Panglao International Airport is the gateway to Bohol. Located on Panglao Island, it connects Bohol to Manila, Clark, Cebu, Boracay, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao. There are ferry services from Cebu to Tagbilaran.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel? There are buses, jeepneys, taxis, and rental cars available at the airport. You can take the bus or a jeepney from right outside the airport to the right-hand side. Buses depart around every 20 minutes and travel to Tagbilaran Central Terminal, costing about NPR50.
Taxis offer the fastest option; a ride from the airport to downtown should take around 15 minutes. The cost should be between NPR380 - ?400.
Renting a car is easy and can be done at the rental car desks found at the airport.
Travelers can reach the island by boat, and many prefer to take the more scenic journey by ferry from neighboring islands. Traveling from ports in Manila, Cebu, Siquijor, and Dumaguete is all an option. The shortest and most popular route is a ferry from Cebu City, which takes a few hours. There are several ferries that service the Tagbilaran to Cebu route, many are equipped with an open-air deck to enjoy the scenic ride.
How do I get around the city using public transportation?
Public transportation in Bohol is made up of buses, tricycles, and jeepneys. Buses are mainly used for long-distance travel between major destinations like Panglao Island, tricycles for short city rides, and jeepneys for longer scenic routes. Many of the towns on the island have bus terminals where you can take a bus ride to another town. Tagbilaran City is the capital of Bohol Island, and the main bus terminal is located in Dao.
A tricycle is a popular mode of transportation, a small motorbike with side carriages and a luggage compartment on the rear. They can carry up to three passengers, but can be slow, and are only good for short trips within the city.
Jeepneys or Multicabs are used for longer distances, offering fixed routes and cheap fares. Jeepneys normally depart when they are full, or their allocated time to collect passengers is up. This is a popular way to travel among tourists as it is a fun experience. They make frequent stops, have designated terminals, or can be hailed along their routes.
Renting a car when visiting Bohol is not necessary unless you plan to do a lot of traveling all over the island. If you do wish to travel a lot and go at your own pace, then renting a car is a good idea to take your time and check out different destinations. There are rental car companies at the airport and downtown. Many rental cars come with drivers as inland roads on the island can be quite rough and difficult to drive, especially during rainy days.
How do I call/hail a taxi?Taxis are available in Bohol and are a great choice for direct transport to the airport, bus station, shopping malls, and other major attractions. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via hotels. Tagbilaran City is the primary area where taxi services are concentrated, with a number of taxi companies available. They can commonly be found outside the Bohol Quality and the Island City Malls. There are ride-share/hailing services like Grab in Bohol.
Is Bohol a walking city?Walking around certain parts of the island is possible. The downtown area is walkable with many shops, restaurants, and other attractions within walking distance. Walking around the beaches is possible in the small beach towns. Public transportation is required to reach other areas.
Can I ride a bike in Bohol?Riding a bicycle is possible in certain areas of the island. It can be quite congested with traffic and public transportation in the city center. In the quieter towns and by the beaches, it is possible to ride a bike and take a scenic ride.
Can I ride a Scooter in Bohol?Yes, renting a scooter is a popular option when getting around Bohol. It is an adventurous way to see different parts of the city and the island. A scooter is a great way to discover places at your own pace and destinations that are off the beaten path. It's perfect for reaching different dive sites and scenic views along the way. It is one of the most budget-friendly options, with rentals costing around NPR300-400 per day.
Is Bohol a dangerous city? is there anything I should be aware of?Bohol is considered a very safe destination to visit. However, due to its increased population and visitors over the recent years, crimes against tourists are becoming more common, with petty theft and muggings. Take the necessary precautions when sightseeing, use common sense, and keep your valuables out of sight from pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets and tourist attractions. At night, stay in well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation companies instead of taking rides from strangers. Be careful when walking at night, and don’t walk outside the main center of town.
What are some popular areas for shopping?Shopping across the island is a fun pastime. Bohol offers a great selection of shopping experiences, including vibrant markets and shopping malls where visitors can pick up unique souvenirs and local handmade handicrafts. Bohol is known for its bee farm and the honey produced here, which is used for medicinal purposes. There are some honey-based delicacies available in markets and stores. Peanut Kisses are a confectionery made of peanuts and egg whites. They are another one of the island's more popular exports and are available in stores across the island. The Filipino people in Bohol hold some exceedingly good basketry skills; their craftsmanship is amazing. There are unique gift shops where token pieces can be acquired, and visiting the heart of the weaving industry is worthwhile. A good selection of shopping malls can be found on the island, they are a good place to cool off in some AC during a hot day. Popular malls include Island City Mall, which is one of the largest malls on the island, with a good selection of food in the food hall. Plaza Marcela is another good mall, it's a posh mall that quite often hosts special events, including live performances and competitions. There are lots of specialty stores here and great restaurants too.
What is the language spoken in Bohol?The official language spoken in Bohol is mostly Filipino, however, English is widely spoken by people working in the service and tourism industries. We recommend you get a good English-Filipino guidebook and familiarize yourself with a few common phrases, such as hello, goodbye, please and thank you, excuse me, and numbers 1-10.
What is the best time to visit Bohol?Bohol enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 77-87°F. It is an appealing destination to visit all year round and consists of two main seasons: a wet season (June to October) and a dry season (December to May), with the northeast monsoon seasons prevailing from November to April. April is the hottest month. March to May is the peak summer season in the country, and the beaches are busy during this time of year. The dry season is the most popular time to visit the island when the temperatures are warm with clear blue skies, making it a great time to get outside and enjoy the many outdoor activities. This time of year is great for experiencing the iconic Chocolate Hills. Even during the wet season, the rains don’t dampen the charm of the islands; if anything, they bring a boost to the lush verdant interiors and offer a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds.
What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?The currency of Bohol is the Philippine Peso (PHP, OR P). US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for Philippine pesos upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.
What is the food like?Bohol’s culinary scene is a gastronomic adventure for the tastebuds, known for its fresh seafood and sweet desserts like peanut kisses. Visitors can sample dishes like Kinilaw (Filipino-style ceviche), Grilled Squid stuffed with vegetables, and Butter Garlic Shrimp, as well as Kalamay, a local delicacy. The mangoes in Bohol are some of the most delicious in the province, especially the Carabao and Pico varieties. The island has a wide variety of dining opportunities to choose from, with many beachfront restaurants and bars boasting magnificent views along with delicious food and tropical drinks. Bohol is a hidden treasure for foodies and a top destination for culinary explorers. It offers a wide variety of culinary experiences with traditional Filipino dishes, International Fare, and delicious fresh seafood. The food during your stay will be unforgettable. The food across the island boasts an array of flavors that define the soul of Boholano cuisine. When tasting Boholano dishes, you are experiencing the essence of the Boholano spirit, which embodies the rich culture and vibrant lifestyle of this beautiful island. Many restaurants in Bohol serve distinctly Visayan cuisine, which is the island’s neighbor. There are some great restaurants around Bohol Island, from farm to table, with locally inspired and international flavors, they all provide an unforgettable dining experience, and the food leaves and lasting impression.
What is the nightlife like?Bohol has some exciting nightlife opportunities to take advantage of across the island. Watching a magnificent Bohol sunset is where it all begins. Find a spot along one of the many beautiful beaches or at a beachfront bar or restaurant to soak up the sight of the setting sun. Witnessing the sun setting over Bohol’s stunning landscapes is magical. The island is well known for its natural beauty, and a spectacular sunset just enhances this attribute. The islands boast a vibrant and diverse nightlife catering to all kinds of travelers. There are bars and clubs for dancing, beach bars for a quiet drink in a tropical atmosphere, and bustling night markets filled with food and entertainment. Alona Beach on Panglao Island is one of the most popular nightlife destinations in Bohol, boasting a variety of beach bars and busy clubs with live music and DJs. The Tagbilaran City Night Market is a great cultural experience when visiting Bohol. The bustling night street market is filled with busy vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food like grilled seafood and sweet treats. A unique way to spend an evening in Bohol is taking a firefly-watching tour along the Abatan River. Gliding along the waters with your captain and guide you will be mesmerized by the twinkling lights of thousands of tiny fireflies illuminating the skies.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?In the event of an emergency dial 911 or 117
Hospital:
Ramiro Community Hospital tel. 63-38-411-3515