The COVID-19 pandemic has heavily hit the tourism industry. While leisure tourism is opening up in the country, travel restrictions have been put in place to control the further spread of the virus.
After nearly a year of living on lockdown, many are already itching to travel again. If you are one of those who want to travel to the re-opened destinations, we have collected the information that you need to plan for your next trip in the new normal.
Read to learn more about the destinations that are open for leisure travel, what the travel requirements, other restrictions, and guidelines are as imposed by the national and local government units.
While not all destinations are accessible to weekenders and local travelers, some vacation spots are now open for business. You just need to keep in mind that these destinations still impose their respective health guidelines and protocols to keep every traveler safe.
There are still local government units (LGU) that require a negative RT-PCR test to enter a province or city, so it is best to check with your destination LGU first before traveling. The same goes for travel authority and health certificates.
While those residing in Metro Manila can now go on vacation outside NCR, there are still some restrictions depending on your chosen area’s specific requirements.
We have listed a few cities and provinces in the country that you might be considering for your next trip.
Boracay
Boracay has finally reopened to local tourists but this time around, tourists can’t expect the same travel experience as before because of the strict rules and regulations that have been set in place.
Boracay government officials have put together a set of guidelines to follow before and during your trip to ensure a safe and fun travel experience.
If you are considering traveling to Boracay anytime soon, you have to take note of the following travel requirements: negative RT-PCR test result, roundtrip flight tickets, confirmed DOT-accredited hotel booking, health declaration form/Boracay Tourist QR Code, S-Pass, government issued-ID, and island transfers.
Baguio City
Good news to those who are planning on a road trip to Baguio! You can now drive up to Baguio City to escape the busy city life and scorching heat and wake up to foggy mornings as it is now open to domestic tourists.
You might already be missing your favorite raisin bread, ube jam or your cup of strawberry taho. If you’re excited to get them, here are the travel requirements that you need to know before driving up north: Baguio Visitor Information and Travel Assistance (VISITA) Account, negative RT-PCR/Rapid Antigen/Saliva Test or Full-Dose Vaccination card/Certificate for Vaccinated Individuals, confirmed accredited hotel booking, confirmed itinerary, and QR Code Tourist Pass.
Tagaytay
Local visitors without travel passes from places under MGCQ or without quarantine status are all welcome in Tagaytay, which means you may now visit the popular vacation spots, bulalo restaurants and cozy hotels that offer scenic views of the famous Taal Volcano.
Depending on the establishment that you will be visiting or staying in, there are some requirements that you need to secure when booking.
Swab tests or rapid tests for COVID-19 are not required, but other establishments like Tagaytay hotels may require them. Only persons aged 18 to 65 years old are allowed to enter establishments and health and safety protocols must strictly be followed.
Palawan
Palawan is home to some of the most stunning sights and has been topping the list of dream destinations for many. Now that Palawan is open again to tourists from GCQ areas, it’s best to know the travel requirements and the guidelines you need to follow before booking.
Here are the travel requirements that you need to know: Negative RT-PCR swab or saliva test result, confirmation letter from your hotel and tour agency, confirmed roundtrip tickets, QR code, environmental fee, and TRAZE App.
Batangas
Batangas is famous for its diving sites like Balayan Bay, Twin Rocks, and Cathedral Rock. A local tourist either from a GCQ or MGCQ area with a negative swab test result, proof of reservation, valid IDs and medical clearance will be allowed to enter these areas.
There are some accommodations that allow guests from 18-65 years old. It would be best to contact the accommodation directly for their specific requirements prior booking.
Meanwhile, if you are planning for a staycation in one of these destinations, here are some reminders for a smooth and hassle-free trip.
- Check the specific requirements of the hotel or accommodation where you are planning to stay. You may be required to present negative antigen test results from a rapid antigen test conducted within 72 hours from the day of check-in.
- There are some hotels that may only allow a maximum of 2 guests from the same household to occupy a 20-square meter room.
- Hotels and accommodations encourage guests to make cashless payments for bookings to promote minimal physical contact between staff and guests.
- Common function areas like gyms, swimming pools, restaurants or other beverage stores, apart from bars located in hotels or other establishments, may still be closed. It's best to check with the hotel or accommodation if these amenities are open.
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