3 CHEAP TRAVEL GETAWAYS IN ILOILO

I have been travelling to some of the Philippine's beautiful beaches lately and this has been straining my wallet. Yup, financial stress can be a big factor to consider in discovering destinations in the region. But hey, not all adventures come expensive. You might be surprised on how much you can eventually spend in these top Ilonggo spots!

1. TATLONG PULO. Approximate budget: Php 600

I sometimes have these 12 midnight realizations which can turn into early morning beach trips. In those not so rare moments, I discovered tatlong pulo.  A simple and private island in Guimaras, Tatlong Pulo boasts its blue beach surrounded by two islets. If the tide permits, you can readily swim from one island to the other. 

How to get there

• Ride the Bangka from Ortis Wharf going to Guimaras. (Php14.00/ head)
• Upon arrival, directly proceed to their tourism office for assistance (which I find to be very convenient)
• Either ride a mini van or jeepney going to ALIBHON TERMINAL/ PUBLIC MARKET  for Php20.00
• Ride a private motorcycle to Tatlong pulo (Php100.00/ head)
• Enjoy the beach!

Take note:

• There is an entrance fee of P50.00
• Cottage is already free
• There are no sari-sari stores in the area, So be sure to bring all the things you need such as Food, toiletries and drinks
• You can do camping overnight for no extra cost or an overnight cottage at Php 500.00
• The comfort room is nice. (lol)
• Bring snorkeling gears. Or regret after

Budget breakdown:

Fare	134.00(one way)	Php 264
Entrance fee		Php 50.00
Food	(Depends on appetite)	Php 200
Total		Php 514.00

2. NATAGO BEACH. Approximate budget: P500

My friends and I were dying to go somewhere but do not have much moolah on hand. So, we ventured into discovering cheap thrills in Guimaras, and thus, we reached NATAGO BEACH. Frankly, we were a little bit hesitant since the trip going there would require a 30min hike from the main road. But reaching this mini sanctuary makes all the hard work very much worth it. 

One of the stunning views you can see during the hike

A very creepy signage which makes the trek more exciting

Nope, this is no mafia scene in Mexico.

Your welcome view

Tired squad ready to take in the adventure

How to get there

• Ride the Bangka from Ortis Wharf going to Guimaras. (Php14.00/ head)
• Upon arrival, directly proceed to their tourism office for assistance
• I kind of forgot how we got there. Haha
• Jut asked the tourism center how to go to Natago Beach the HARD and CHEAP way and they will readily give you the advice

More NATAGO BEACH photos on the blog of my dear friend ILOILO TRAVEL GUIDE

Take note:

• There is an entrance fee of P30.00
• Again, no food stores in the area. Be sure to bring your own meal
• The cottages are a little bit far from the beach, located at the hills. You might consider bringing picnic blankets
• They have rooms for overnight stay at Php1,000
• Don't forget your sunblock. You will need a lot of this.

Budget breakdown:

Fare	400.00(one way) good for 4	Php 200
Entrance fee		Php 30.00
Food	(Depends on appetite)	Php 200
Total		Php 430.00

3. GUISI LIGHTHOUSE. Approximate budget: P650

An 18^th century ruin of parola, the Guisi lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in the Philippines. Also known as Faro De Punta Luzaran, you can marvel its beauty when you arrive at the Guisi Point of Brgy Dolores in Nueva Valencia. Entrance fee is at P10.00 only

Welcome beach when you arrive in Guisi

The Famous Guisi Lighthouse

How to get there

• The best way to get cheap deals is to go directly to the TOURISM ASSISTANCE CENTER when you arrive at the port of Guimaras.
• We approximately spent Php300 for fare going to the Lighthouse (one way) since it is located in Nueva Valencia and a little far from the port.

Take note:

• There is an entrance fee worth Php 10.00
• There are sari-sari stores nearby but no rice meal
• Cottages cost Php150.00 but you have other more luxurious options as well.

The bionic man will go on another adventure to bring you more discoveries!
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Have fun!