Topography - The terrain
is rugged with sometimes dense jungle, an irregular coastline
with crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, a natural
harbor which serves as an all-weather anchorage for all types of
sea vessels.
Climate - March to May are
hot and dry; rains and typhoons abound from June to October;
November to February are pleasantly cool and dry. Peak tourist
season is from December up to May.
Accommodation - Numerous,
mostly family-run cottages and hotel rooms of all categories are
available. The types of accommodation range from simple beach
huts, made of bamboo and rattan, to comfortable luxury bungalows
with kitchen facilities. Nearly all accommodations are quoted
for double accupancy and range from 700 to 1,000 pesos for
simple beach huts with porch and from to 50 to 80 US dollars for
suite rooms in high-end resorts. Discounts are commonly given
for extended stays and depend largely on the visitors’
bargaining ability. During the low season, from June to October,
rates are about 20 percent lower than quoted above. Beachfront
accommodations are generally more expensive than those further
inland.
Water - All resorts have
running water. However, bottled mineral water (widely available)
is recommended for drinking. Mindoro Spring’s bottled mineral
water is the preferred choice.
Food - Most resorts have
restaurants. Native as well as international cuisine is served
in a variety of restaurants, along with a wide selection of fine
wines, imported and local spirits. Needless to mention, seafood
is the best choice here.
Watersports - The waters
around Puerto Galera are rich in corals and manifold marine
life. The best diving sites are located around Sabang, Small and
Big Lalaguna, and on the northcoast of Medio Island. The latter,
known to world scientists because of its treasures of botanical
and zoological specimens, abounds with thousands of terrestrial
and marine plants. Fully-equipped, modern training facilities
for all levels of diving are available. At most beaches, there
are surfboards, sailing boats, kayaks, jet skis, dive masks,
snorkels and fins for rent.
Shopping - Souvenir
textiles and RTW are sold in stalls along the pier, in boutiques
in Poblacion and by street vendors. Handicraft particularly
marble novelties, rattan and coconut products can also be
purchased. Fresh fruits and fish can be bought at the public
market in Poblacion.
Postal Service - The post
office is located in downtown Poblacion. Some beach resorts take
care of their guests’ mail for a small charge.
Communications - National
and International DDD (Direct Distance Dialling) can be made on
numerous call stations using CATSI-PLDT or Globelines telephone.
Cell sites abound in Puerto Galera providing maximum coverage
and strong signal for subscribers of Globe, Smart and Sun
Cellular.
Currency - It is advisable
to take a sufficient supply of peso since the exchange rates
offered by resorts are usually 10 percent below the rates in
Manila. Cash, checks and tickets and other valuables should be
deposited with the resort management against a receipt.
Electricity- Since power
failures occur frequently many beach resorts and hotels are
equipped with electric generators. The voltage is 220 volts
Medical Care- There are
several medical centers in Puerto Galera. Serious ailments or
injuries should be treated in Batangas City or in Calapan. A
list of all the medical clinics and their corresponding
emergency phone numbers are provided herein: Municipal
Hospital 287-3049, PALM Medical Clinic 442-0250, De Torres
Medical Clinic 287-3122, De los Reyes Medical Clinic 287-3260,
Metropolitan Doctors Clinic 287-3156...