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Travel

How do I get to Tablas Island. Romblon Philippines?

FROM CANADA Choosing the right airline for you is important, along with what works within your budget. Philippine Airlines (PAL) flies direct from Toronto International Airport and Vancouver International airport to Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). There are several carriers that offer layovers at a discounted rate, so If you dont mind changing flights, this option may be perfect for you. FROM MANILA Tablas Island is located in the Province of Romblon. You will be required to book a second ticket from Cebu Pacific Airlines Manila to Tugdan Airport (Tablas). When booking flights we always encourage particpants who have confirmed thier program attendance with us to book this flight first. Its is a small aircraft and sells out very quickly, especially starting in January as high season is coming. Take careful note of international flight baggage weight restrictions and on your connecting flight to Tablas Island with Cebu Pacific. The weight restriction varies depending on your booking purchase. It is an Extra cost for baggage per kilo, if it is not purchased ahead of time; you can select a 20kg allotment when purchasing your ticket, thereafter there is an extra cost per kilo. If you have already purchased your Cebu Pacific ticket and did not opt to have baggage , you can still add this purchase your ticket up to 4 days before your trip. You will be met at the Cenu Pacific Airline Terminal 4 by a representative. Then Picked up by Van at the Tablas Island Airport (Tugdan) by a Retreat Representative.



What Happens if there is a delay of my flight, or a cancelled flight?

Chances are, as a veteran or first responder, you know things don’t always go to plan - no worries, we’ve got you covered! February is entering travel high season, typically past typhoons with heavy rains and high winds that may cause delays on flights to the Provinces. That being said,…... it can happen. So, in the unlikely event your flight is cancelled, we have a couple of options to get you to the island.



 

Amenities

Where will I be staying, and what is the food like?

Each private and dorm style poolside cottage is equipped with: fan, tv, mini bar, fridge, and kettle. Laundry service is available for a small fee. The retreat outdoor buffet/bar is equipped with SMART Wifi. Facetime/streaming is available for emergencies only. One of the objectives of the retreat is to have our guests disconnected from social media and focused on healing, mindfulness, and personal growth. We strive to ensure the comfort of all retreat guests, but if you need something we haven’t provided, please ask and we can arrange for your request. Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner are provided. Potable drinking water is available in your cabin. We will be dining together in a Buffet Style setting. Please advise of any food allergies so we can prepare accordingly. On full day excursions we bring food and a cook with us, to prepare a BBQ style feast using fresh local foods. Vegetarian diets can be accommodated, however we do not offer a vegan option.



Is this a “Dry”program?

Drinking is not permitted during the days programming, however participants have their leisure time and can do as they choose.



What does Eco-Resort Mean?

We offer sustainable experience with our native style accommodations. We do not have air-conditioning, but offer fans in every cabin. We have the largest fresh water pool on the island, and each cottage is just steps away. We do organic farming, and rice harvesting.



Will I be sharing accommodations?

Each Roto can accommodate 14 participants, shared accommodation for same genders may be required.



 

Medical

Do I need special medical insurance?

Please ensure you have full TRAVEL MEDICAL INSURANCE (NOT provided by the retreat). Check online for many reasonable options.



Do I need special inoculations to visit the Philippines?

No special inoculations, however we suggest you have up to date tetanus as a precaution. Malaria is not prevalent in our region, however there have been cases of Dengue. We suggest bringing bug spray with DEET.



Can I bring my medications with me?

Common medications are available on the island if required. Please ensure any daily prescriptions are clearly marked. MEDICAL CANNABIS or CBD or cannabis infused products are illegal in the Philippines, you may wish to consult with your doctor for alternatives to use during your stay with us.



Is there a hospital?

Tablas Island Hospitals: Please be advised that the medical care on Tablas island is not similar to western facilities, but well suited to manage basic healthcare needs. Public Punta Hospital (3 km from Resort). Odiongan Public Hospital is located 45 minutes away. (this is the largest hospital on the island). Private Hospital: Isaiah Hospital Is located 45 minute drive from Cummings Highlands.



Money

Will I need to bring money with me?

Retreat costs (food, excursions, transfers, soft drinks, coffee, water) are included. We suggest spending money for personal items. Currency exchange with reasonable rates is available at the airport, right outside the exit. NO currency exchange on Tablas island in Canadian dollars. ONLY US dollars at the Western Union (1 hour away). ATM’s are not always filled, and at times offline so plan ahead and bring Philippine Piso ahead of time. This not always the case, but it has been known to happen with our international guests. *You can purchase it from your bank, which typically take 10 days. So purchase it early enough to get a good exchange rate.



 
 

Amenities

Where will I be staying, and what is the food like?

Each private and dorm style poolside cottage is equipped with: fan, tv, mini bar, fridge, and kettle. Laundry service is available for a small fee. The retreat outdoor buffet/bar is equipped with SMART Wifi. Facetime/streaming is available for emergencies only. One of the objectives of the retreat is to have our guests disconnected from social media and focused on healing, mindfulness, and personal growth. We strive to ensure the comfort of all retreat guests, but if you need something we haven’t provided, please ask and we can arrange for your request. Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner are provided. Potable drinking water is available in your cabin. We will be dining together in a Buffet Style setting. Please advise of any food allergies so we can prepare accordingly. On full day excursions we bring food and a cook with us, to prepare a BBQ style feast using fresh local foods. Vegetarian diets can be accommodated, however we do not offer a vegan option.



Is this a “Dry”program?

Drinking is not permitted during the days programming, however participants have their leisure time and can do as they choose.



What does Eco-Resort Mean?

We offer sustainable experience with our native style accommodations. We do not have air-conditioning, but offer fans in every cabin. We have the largest fresh water pool on the island, and each cottage is just steps away. We do organic farming, and rice harvesting.



Will I be sharing accommodations?

Each Roto can accommodate 14 participants, shared accommodation for same genders may be required.



 

Money

Will I need to bring money with me?

Retreat costs (food, excursions, transfers, soft drinks, coffee, water) are included. We suggest spending money for personal items. Currency exchange with reasonable rates is available at the airport, right outside the exit. NO currency exchange on Tablas island in Canadian dollars. ONLY US dollars at the Western Union (1 hour away). ATM’s are not always filled, and at times offline so plan ahead and bring Philippine Piso ahead of time. This not always the case, but it has been known to happen with our international guests. *You can purchase it from your bank, which typically take 10 days. So purchase it early enough to get a good exchange rate.