LAST UPDATE: September 30, 2021

With the recent COVID-19 pandemic that affected countries globally and industries across the board, we are urged to LEARN, LIVE and ADAPT to the new normal. When we are hit by a global pandemic like this, change is good.

The new normal imposes on each one of us to take health a lot more seriously, with the ultimate focus on hygiene and sanitation and to be responsible to ourselves and to others. Certainly, this pandemic made us realize the basic importance of taking care of ourselves, our home and our community.

Tourism, being an excellent economy booster can help augment the economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, we would want to take care of the Philippines as a safe and great place to live and visit. If we want to be successful at beating this crisis, we will have to work on this together. The earlier we accept this, how we deal with it, our reactions to it and how we practice it can effectively transcend us to the new normal.

The Philippines’ Tourism Arrival: Before and After COVID-19

Before the pandemic, the Philippines’ tourism arrival had a record-breaking 15.24% increase in foreign tourist arrival in 2019. Then, the pandemic happened and resulted in a massive drop. Based on the records of the Department of Tourism, the Philippines faced a 73%  decline during the first months of 2020, with tourist arrivals dropping to only 1.3 million. | Source: Philstar

Amidst challenges for the pandemic and the new normal, it is predicted that the Philippines will still rank high as a favorite tourism destination, once the travel season resumes.  Forbes on May 31, 2020 listed the Philippines as one of the “Rising Stars in Travel” along with 6 other countries that have potential to become major tourist destinations in a post-COVID world. | Source: Forbes

The real challenge for the tourism sector is how to regain travelers’ trust and make them want to come and visit us. The Secretary-General of UNWTO said “trust is the new currency of our ‘new normal’. If people trust in governments and in the tourism sector to keep them safe from harm, they will indeed travel tomorrow.” | Source: unwto.org

The Future of Travel After COVID-19 Lockdown

The Philippines is geared towards the gradual opening of domestic tourism, protecting business survival and bringing the livelihood back. The gradual opening of borders is a good sign that we are in the process of recovery.

Many provinces in the country are now placed under the eased modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) where a certain level of tourism activities can be allowed. On October 1, 2021 Boracay and Baguio, two of Philippines’ topnotch destinations, have cautiously re-opened to tourists. Today, a few more destinations are now accepting travelers.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched a campaign tagged as #WakeUpinPH which took inspiration from United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) #TravelTomorrow campaign. The said campaigns aim to inspire people to dream of traveling to beautiful destinations and travel when it is safe to do so. Before we can travel tomorrow, we must prepare today.

The lessons learned during this pandemic will make us “better travelers” and choose “better places”. Countries that are less-affected or fastest to recover will probably be the first to attract visitors. It can be expected that travelers will likely be drawn to less crowded places, more off-the-beaten paths, closer to nature and exclusive experiences. There can be a change in their buying decision, choice of destination even on how much they will be willing to spend.

Because of increased awareness, many destinations and businesses will have to escalate their usual operations to regain the trust of travelers. If done correctly, destinations will become more pandemic-resilient.

Travel will come back slowly and people will still want to travel. We have been confined for such a long time and we are longing to go out and make up for the missed vacations. It will take time but we have high hopes that travel demands will come back fully.

The “New Normal” Meaning

Furthermore, on May 16, 2020 a revised guideline by the IATF-EID qualifies that “an area can be considered as under the new normal if the community quarantine implemented has transitioned into modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) which is the most relaxed community quarantined implemented by the government.”

This suggests that the “new normal” is here to stay. It is a deliberate effort that we must consistently put in every single day until the unforeseeable future. Hygiene, sanitation, washing of hands, social distancing, face mask, temperature check and quarantine are all the “buzzwords” that constitute our “new normal”.  This is the new normal that we have to embrace and this is the reality that awaits us in the coming days.

Latest Quarantine Classification Status in the Philippines

As of September 20, 2021, the National Capital Region which includes the capital city of Manila is now placed again under the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) status from September 8-30, 2021. Also joining the list are four other areas such as Abra, Kalinga, Benguet, Baguio City, Dagupan City, City of Santiago, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Tarlac, Puerto Princesa, Aklan, , Occidental Mindoro, Guimaras, Negros Occidental, Mandaue City and Cebu City for Luzon and Visayas.

Also under Enhanced Community Quarantine (GCQ) with heightened restrictions are Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Batangas, Quezon, Naga City, Antique, Bacolod City, Capiz, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu Province, Negros Oriental, Zamboanga Del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Davao Del Norte, Davao De Oro, Davao Occidental, Davao City and Butuan City.

Meanwhile, Apayao, Bataan, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, Lucena City,  Laguna, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province and Cagayan De Oro City. are placed on Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) from September 8-30, 2021.

The rest of the country is placed under the eased Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) until September 30, 2021.

New quarantine classifications shall be announced before September 30, 2021.

The New Normal Guidelines

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) convened beginning on January 28,2020 and from then on, issued regular recommendations and guidelines to the national government. IATF-EID is a task force mandated to assess, monitor, contain, control and prevent the spread of any potential epidemic in the Philippines. It is a multi-sectoral collaboration of all heads of departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the government to ensure efficient government response to COVID-19. | Source: officialgazette.gov.ph

Concrete measures are created to address the current situation. All these guidelines, however, are “suppletory” in character which means that they are continuously being developed and updated as new information becomes available about the pandemic. COVID-19 pandemic is certainly something we haven’t anticipated. It is something we know nothing about. Every decision and every policy will have to be carefully designed, evaluated and calibrated to ensure overall long-term viability.

Any entity that wishes to resume operations in the Philippines will have to adapt to the shifting needs and must consistently follow the guidelines set forth by the IATF-EID, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and other relevant authorities.

Uniform Travel Requirements in the Philippines

Based on a study conducted by the Department of Tourism (DOT), it surfaced that 81% of the travellers consider “varying safety protocols of local government units” as the top source of travel inconvenience.

Guided by this survey result, IATF approved the Uniformed Travel Protocols on February 26, 2021. This movement aims to help simplify the travel protocols and encourage more and more domestic travellers to travel locally. Here is the list of the new travel requirements:

Infographics by pcoo.gov.ph

You may also read How to Get a Travel Authority in the Philippines to have a better grasp on the step by step process of getting a Travel Authority in the Philippines.

The New Normal for Transportation

On May 3, 2020, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) issued Guidelines for Public Transport Operations covering Aviation, Maritime, Road Transport and Railways Sectors.

Under this guideline, strict protocols shall be observed pertaining to health and sanitation with emphasis on reduced seating capacity, limiting the contact points, social distancing, proper handwashing, use of protective gears such as face mask, face shield and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), body temperature check in multiple locations, disinfecting of facilities, visible posters as reminders and health documents may be required whenever necessary.

On August 15, the “no face mask and no face shield, no ride policy” was implemented across all sectors of public transportation. This includes Road, Railways, Maritime and Aviation—as mandated by DOTr.

While back riding for motorcycles is allowed, it is only limited for people living under the same household, married couples and live-in partners. Requirements include valid ID, use of face mask and a motorcycle shield or physical barrier. While it may be understandable to put up safety measures, the motorcycle shield rule was heavily criticized by the public saying that it is unnecessary, impractical and unsafe. After much opposition from various sectors, the appeal to forego the motorcycle shield was favored on August 19, 2020. Thus, people living under the same household are no longer required to install barriers as approved by the IATF.

The New Normal for Air Travel (Aviation)

Find out more about The New Normal for Air Travel in the Philippines on this blog.

With the eased lockdown in most part of the country, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) issued a list of airports that have been granted the local government units’ (LGU) clearance to resume commercial flights (as of 21 September 2020).

List of airports with LGU clearance to resume commercial flights | Source: caap.gov.ph

• Wearing of face mask, face shield or other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), is compulsory for ALL individuals.
• Passengers with VALID travel documents shall be allowed to enter airport premises. You may also read: How to Get a Travel Authority in the Philippines
• Checking of body temperature is mandatory upon entry.
• Social distancing measures shall be strictly observed inside airport premises.
• Security procedures shall be done through “no contact means” but not limited to the use of walk-through x-ray machines, portable scanners, handheld metal detectors, among others, effectively limiting close contact security screening by means of pat-down/manual frisking to exceptional instances/situations.
• The regulation covering the maximum allowable hand-carried bags/items shall be strictly implemented.
• COVID-19 Rapid Testing facilities installed at all airports are managed by qualified healthcare providers.
• Disinfecting facilities established in terminals shall be equipped with alcohol and/or soap. Foot baths shall also be installed in all entry and exit points of passengers and airport personnel, including boarding bridges and/or similar areas for passenger embarkation/disembarkation to and from the aircraft. All airport facilities and equipment, including lavatories, frequently touched surfaces, wheelchairs, trolleys, countertops, etc., shall be regularly disinfected and sanitized.
• Safety precaution posters and other health guidelines shall be displayed at strategic places. Alert bulletins shall be shown through airport flight information display systems, and via public announcements.
• Digital enablers (websites/Mob Apps/On-ground Kiosk) and communication, as well as education programs through social media, shall be utilized to inform and engage with passengers.
• All arriving and departing passengers are required to electronically fill-out Health Declaration and Passenger Locator Forms.

Airlines in the New Normal

The country’s airline carriers such as Philippine Airline, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia are now implementing heightened safety and disinfection measures to meet the standards set by DOTr and IATF-EID. Staff training, in-flight protocols and disinfecting measures have been laid down to ensure utmost safety of every passenger. Here is a video that demonstrates how Cebu Pacific new normal protocols:

Travel Requirements

It is the responsibility of every passenger to be well-informed about the required travel documents and the most current status of their flight. In relation to this, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) created an up-to-date Interactive COVID-19 Travel Regulations Map to let passengers know the current status and travel restrictions of the country they intend to visit.

The New Normal for Sea Travel (Maritime)

In accordance with the DOH and IATF-EID protocols, passenger capacity in ships and other passenger vessels shall be reduced to 50%.

• Upon entering the port premises and terminals, all individuals must fill-out and accomplish health protocol forms. Mandatory checking of body temperature will also be conducted upon entering the terminal and embarkation on ships.
• Social distancing measures shall be strictly observed inside ports, ships, and other passenger vessels, at all times.
• In port facilities, particularly areas for frontline services, such as passenger terminal buildings (PTBs), port integrated clearing offices and other areas, physical distancing shall be observed.
• In order to maintain cleanliness and sanitation, all disinfecting facilities, such as foot baths, handwashing stations with alcohol and/or soap, and sanitation tents will be established at all entrances of terminals, ports, in ships, and other passenger vessels.
• Wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) is MANDATORY. Upon entry of ports, terminals, and passenger vessels, all individuals shall undergo disinfection procedures, such as foothbath, among others.
• To ensure that all premises are regularly cleaned and sanitized, thorough disinfection of ships, passenger vessels, ports, terminals and facilities, as well as various equipment, will be conducted regularly.
• Information dissemination on hygiene and sanitary practices will be shown to passengers through different media platforms in PTBs, and other strategic locations of the ports and terminals.

The New Normal for Land Travel

All permitted public utility vehicles (PUVs), transport terminals and operators must follow three (3) essential components dictated in the protocol/guidelines – SAFETY, CAPACITY and COVERAGE/SCOPE.

• Passenger load for public utility buses (PUBs) and public utility jeepneys (PUJs) should not exceed 50% or half of the vehicle’s capacity, excluding driver and conductor.

• For UV Express and taxis – only two (2) passengers in a row, except for the driver’s row where only (1) one passenger is allowed
• Tricycles – must not exceed one (1) passenger in the side-car and back riding is not allowed
• Private cars – allowed one (1) passenger to occupy the front passenger seat, while back seats shall not exceed two (2) passengers per row
• Motorcycles – back riding is strictly  prohibited except for those people living under the same household, spouses and live-in partners.
• Meanwhile, the use of BICYCLES and similar devices are also highly encouraged, and LGUs are also encouraged to identify bike lanes, or bike-only roads.

PUVs with higher passenger capacity such as buses are prioritized.

Drivers and operators may apply for the special permit to operate, free of charge, through LTFRB offices or by email through LTFRB’s online channels.

Rail Transport

Upon the resumption of operations, all rail lines will observe the March 14, 2020 DOTr Guidelines on Community Quarantine, as well as additional health and safety measures pursuant to IATF and DOH Guidelines.

1-meter social distancing should be strictly observed inside the trains and stations. Presence of markings, signages, tarpaulins and other logistics will be utilized to ensure its firm implementation.

Pursuant to DOH Guidelines, the following passengers will not be allowed to enter the station: 1) Passengers who are not wearing proper face mask and face shield; 2) Passengers showing COVID-19 symptoms or with a registered body temperature of 37.8°C or higher; and 3) Senior citizens, passengers aged 0-20, and pregnant women due to their susceptibility to COVID-19.

Regular disinfection and sanitation of train interiors, station premises and facilities will be conducted. In addition, handwashing or disinfectant stations will be installed to adhere to sanitary measures set by DOH.

Any mode of public transportation in areas under the extended enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), including Metro Manila, are prohibited.

Here is the link to the complete provision of DOTr’s Guideline on Public Transportation.

Tourism Service Vehicles

Traveling on a private tour using private vehicles will probably be the safest option. Here you can have total control of the environment and minimize contact points as well as people interaction.

For tourism service vehicles, the driver must use applicable protective equipment and apply stringent personal hygiene including the use of face masks. Service vehicles must have basic first–aid and sanitation kits, which includes face mask, gloves, 70% solution alcohol or alcohol–based hand sanitizer, tissue paper, and disposable wet wipes instead of wet and warm towels. Transport vehicles must be sanitized and disinfected after every use.

Standard passenger capacity of each type of vehicle will be decreased or reduced by 50% following the Social Distancing and Passenger Limit Guidelines set by the Department of Transportation (DOTr):

1. Car / Sedan – No passenger is seated beside the driver while the back seat shall not exceed two (2) passengers. There must not be more than three (3) passengers, including the driver.
2. Vans – Only two (2) passengers per row are allowed. A waterproof transparent barrier between the driver and the passengers must be installed.
3. Buses and coasters – A waterproof transparent barrier between the driver and the passengers must be installed. The driver is required to use proper PPE for protection.

The New Normal for Hotels

Accommodation establishments (AEs) as defined by DOT refer to establishments operating primarily for accommodation purposes including, but not limited to, hotels, resorts, apartment hotels, tourist inns, motels, pension houses, private homes used for homestay, ecolodges, serviced apartments, condotels, and bed and breakfast facilities.

Stringent measures must be in place and will be carefully evaluated by the agency before given the go-signal to operate.

DOT Certificate of Authority to Operate

Those who wish to resume their operation must first secure a Certificate of Authority to Operate from the Department of Tourism (DOT) in pursuant of Administrative Order No. 2020–002. Secretary Puyat said businesses without a DOT certificate face penalties and administrative sanctions, such as revocation of their DOT accreditation or their business permit.

For Non-accredited establishments: they must apply for accreditation first to ensure compliance with basic requirements.

The application for the certificate is free. Issuance of Provisional Certificate will take 2-3 days upon receipt of complete documentary requirements. Issuance of Certificate for Authority started on June 1, 2020. All certified establishments as well as important announcements will be published on the DOT website and official facebook page.

The Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Operations of Accommodation Establishments

Guest Handling Policy

• Body temperature check must be undertaken at hotel entrances by a qualified health or medical staff or trained hotel personnel;
• A Health Declaration Form must be completed upon check-in and guests must be provided information on the prevailing disease as well as the modified management policies of the hotel;
• Online payment is encouraged;
• Physical distancing, hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette must be observed;
• Guest escorting to the room may be allowed with strict observance of physical distancing; and
• Relevant reminder cards must be provided like no sharing of food or any personal or non–personal belongings, proper handwashing, physical distancing.

Reception and Concierge

The following items are required to be readily available at the reception desk:

• updated list of high–risk destinations
• emergency contact numbers
• a medical kit
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• 70% solution alcohol
• alcohol–based hand sanitizers
• tissue paper
• acrylic glass barrier may be set up for additional protection.
• Moreover, a floor marker with one (1) meter distance must be in place to ensure physical distancing.

There must also be regular staff briefing conducted, front desk personnel must be familiar with room occupancy policy for accompanying persons in the event of a suspected case, all staff extending guest assistance that requires physical contact (e.g. wheelchair, bell service) must wear proper PPE, such as face mask and gloves, whenever necessary.

Hand–shaking is not advised, the practice of Filipino Brand of Service (FBS) or the “Mabuhay Gesture” in greeting and receiving guests, as well as other forms of contactless greeting, is highly encouraged.

Contactless payment is highly encouraged.

Room Occupancy and Housekeeping

Room Occupancy

Sanitation kits shall be provided for each guest which may include 70% solution alcohol or alcohol–based sanitizers, disinfectant sprays, face masks, disposable gloves, and rags. A separate trash bag or bin intended for used Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as face mask, gloves and other sanitation waste materials must be provided. Rooms must be set up to allow convenient in–room dining for guests.

Housekeeping

Frequent sanitation of high touched surfaces in guestrooms and public areas using the prescribed sanitizing solutions by the DOH or WHO must be conducted. Housekeeping staff should be trained and must use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as disposable gloves, eye protection gear (goggles) and face masks, when cleaning guest rooms and other common areas. Used PPE must be removed and disposed or washed using standard disinfection control measures. Housekeeping staff must change work clothes before going home. Proper handling of work clothes in the establishment must be in place.

Room Decontamination

Disinfection of rooms and surfaces must be conducted every after guests check out. This includes disinfection of furniture, appliances, flooring, and panes using bleach solution or any approved disinfecting agent. Thorough disinfection of rooms and common areas using enhanced technologies, such as electrostatic sprayers with hospital–grade disinfectants, high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, or germicidal ultra–violet (UV) lighting system, at least once every two (2) weeks is highly encouraged. Before accepting a new guest or occupant, rooms must remain empty for a certain period, depending on the disinfecting technology or materials being used.

Public Areas

Sanitizing mats or foot mat must be available at all entry points. Cleaning and disinfection measures in common areas (e.g. lobby, restrooms, halls, corridors, elevators, etc.) must be applied as a general preventive measure. Special attention must be given to objects that are frequently touched such as elevator button, handles, handrails, switches, doorknobs, kitchen surfaces, etc. All general facilities and all furnishings must be cleaned, disinfected, and wiped at least once daily.

Placement of signs reminding guests and general public to minimize touching of surfaces in public areas is highly recommended. Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials on proper handwashing, respiratory etiquette, and proper use of face mask must be posted in conspicuous areas, particularly at the restrooms and other wash areas.

Physical Distancing must be strictly observed when using elevators. Only 50% of the maximum capacity is recommended to avoid physical contact. Placing of floor markers to delineate physical distancing is likewise encouraged.

Business Practices and Management

A Crisis Management Team shall be created in response to the threat of any infectious diseases. Likewise, an action plan called Integrated Emergency Preparedness Action Plan (IEPAP) shall also be developed in accordance with the recommendations of local and national public health authorities. A designated Hygiene and Safety Manager to take charge of the sanitation and hygiene maintenance in the establishment may be considered and having a trained medical staff, complete with emergency kit and equipment is required.

Management of Symptomatic Guests

Following DOH guidelines, the following measures must be complied with in the management of symptomatic guests:

1. Create a holding area for symptomatic guests with travel history from identified countries with high cases prior to transport to hospital. Holding area must conform to DOH standards.
2. Immediately refer guests with fever (> 38 C) and/or cough, and have a history of travel to identified high risk countries or localities within the Philippines, to the nearest hospital.
3. Assure guests of assistance in case they begin to manifest symptoms such as fever and/or cough.
4. Keep the symptomatic guest confined in the room originally used until trained transport providers are available to transport him or her to a designated referral hospital.
5. Coordinate with the referral hospital for necessary transportation of symptomatic guest/s.
6. Screen existing guests, well or sick, for fever and/or cough, and travel history using the health checklist provided by DOH.
7. Immediately inform the doctor on duty or the emergency response team for assistance for coordination to the referral hospital or the Barangay Health Emergency Response Team (BHERT) for assessment if any staff is concerned about the condition of a guest, or if a guest request access to medical services.
8. Staff and personnel shall avoid employing any discriminatory action against any sick person with high fever and cough for fear of contracting or spreading the disease.

Here is the link for the comprehensive provisions of the Health and Safety Guideline Governing Operations of Accommodation Establishments Under the New Normal.

Hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate

For modified general community quarantine areas (MGCQ), accommodation establishments can now operate a limited capacity of only 50% and upon issuance of the Certificate of Authority to Operate (COA) by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

As of November 2020, more than 7,200 hotels, resorts and accommodation establishments have been authorized by DOT to operate. The regions with the highest number of hotels and resorts issued with COAs are:

• Region 4-A CALABARZON with 1,303;
• Region 3 Central Luzon with 830; and
• Region 1 Ilocos Region with 806

To access the full list of accommodation establishments with COAs, you may visit www.philippines.travel/accreditation.

The new normal for the accommodation sector requires mandatory safety protocols. It requires hotels to re-engineer and redefine their operations to effectively address the changing rigors of operating a hotel and welcoming guests.

Some hotels are already very much committed to it, some are still complying while others remain dormant. At crucial times like this, those who are the first to take action will be the industry leaders and are seen as revolutionizers. Their certification delivers a strong message that they are ready to welcome guests in the new normal.

20 Best Hotels with Certificate to Operate in the New Normal

Here is a list of our trusted and recommended partner-hotels duly authorized by DOT to operate – equipped with the heightened safety protocols and committed to giving their guests a safe, seamless and enjoyable stay:

The Bayleaf Intramuros

Bayleaf is located at the heart of the historical walled city of Intramuros.  Enjoy tastefully designed rooms and suites in this top-notch hotel in the metro. They have an array of world-class in-house restaurants, one of them being the Sky Deck, with its unobstructed, 360-degree view of the city including the famous Manila sunset.

Deluxe Room at Bayleaf Intramuros

Address: Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila
Contact Number: (02) 5318 5000
Website: https://www.thebayleaf.com.ph/

Rizal Park Hotel Manila

This hotel is one of the most iconic boutique hotels in the country. The gorgeous designs of architecture and decors are something of rarity in the Philippines. You might be interested to know that this boutique hotel was once the historic building of Army and Navy Club, restored and beautified to become the Rizal Park Hotel we now know today. Each room has its unique touches and Filipino-colonial ambience. It is a boutique hotel with great cultural flavor and historical significance.

Address: South Road, Ermita, Maynila, 1000 Kalakhang Maynila
Phone: (02) 8804 8700
Website: https://www.rizalparkhotelmanila.com/

Crimson Resort and Spa

This 5-star beachfront resort is an idyllic tropical getaway in Mactan, Cebu. It offers a mesmerizing view of the pristine Mactan Sea and is best known for having one of the best infinity pools in the country. It features spacious villas and luxurious casitas adorned with locally-sourced Cebuano décor. The resort is stunning and the ambiance relaxing.

Address: Seascapes Resort Town Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu
Contact Number: (032) 401 9999
Website: https://www.crimsonhotel.com/mactan

Radisson Blue Cebu

Located at the heart of Metro Cebu, enjoy a relaxing stay with close proximity to cultural attractions and bustling city sites at Radisson Blu Cebu. This 5-star hotel boasts spacious rooms and suites with fashionable interiors and modern amenities. Anything you can ask for is found here – a restaurant specializing in Asian cuisines, a tea bar, hotel bar, beautiful outdoor pool, fitness center, spa and more.

The facade of Radisson Blu Cebu

Bohol Beach Club

At Bohol Beach Club, a large private beach with powdery white sand, pristine waters awaits for you to enjoy – far from the crowd and unwanted distractions. Its rooms are spacious and modern, adorned with impeccable Filipino architecture. It is the best beachfront spot for a perfect vacation.

Beachview Room

South Palms Resort

Find panoramic view of the sea on this first-class resort that blends local craftsmanship and Boholano hospitality. South Palms Resort is definitely one of the best hotels in Bohol. It is located on the island of Panglao, right next to Bohol Beach Club.

Deluxe Beach Front

North Zen Villas

North Zen Villas is a boutique hotel surrounded by lush mangroves in the secluded part of Panglao. Disconnect from the hustle and bustles and reconnect with your inner self on this luxury wellness sanctuary.

Find total relaxation coupled with unparalleled tranquility, epic scenery, well-appointed room, wellness treats, palatable cuisines and more.

The Bamboo Boardwalk surrounded by lush mangroves at North Zen Villas

Bellevue Resort Bohol

Bellevue Bohol is recognized as the “model” establishment in the province of Bohol as it was the first to strictly implement these safety measures. This 5-star resort is situated on the quiet isolation on the northern shores of Bohol. Aside from it’s good location, you will also find stylish rooms that are elegant and comfortable, perfect for your most-deserved relaxation.

According to their website, The Bellevue Resort is also an ASEAN Green Hotel awardee. They take pride in being a bastion of ecotourism while providing exquisite accommodations to guests.

El Nido Resorts

El Nido Resorts is a property that manages four of the best and luxurious private resorts in El Nido. Each resort offers an idyllic location that takes pride in upholding eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

Casa Kalaw

Find a great blend of Filipino-inspired architecture and tropical island vibe at Casa Kalaw. It is a boutique resort on the beautiful island of El Nido that features an indoor restaurant, al fresco dining, bar, swimming pool, function room and activity pavilion.

Deluxe Garden Room at Casa Kalaw

Hotel Covo

This hotel is a place for the unapologetically adventurous. With amenities that enable the fearless spirit of youth, it is the choice of accommodations for those who seek a trip that is off the beaten path. With the sunny and upbeat vibe maintained throughout the hotel, there’s no doubt you’ll be feeling the magic of the sea and summer all around.

Studio Room at Hotel Covo

Balai Adlao

Balai Adlao prides itself as being “a sanctuary by the sea”. It offers guests a peaceful retreat in an idyllic setting. It boasts first-class amenities and a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or a place to meditate, Balai Adlao is a great place to stay.

Deluxe Room at Balai Adlao

Huni Lio

It is a well-appointed resort at Lio Beach that boasts stunning, modern and tropical architecture with an all-day dining, bar, swimming pool, and function room. Huni Lio is a home away from home in a tropical paradise of El Nido.

Deluxe Room at Huni Lio

Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort

Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort is a multi-awarded 4-star resort situated in Sabang, Palawan. It is in a prime beachfront location and is the closest resort to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature – The Puerto Princesa Underground River. Being the leading resort in Puerto Princesa, It is the ideal green destination with its world-class facilities, sumptuous cuisine and outstanding customer service.

Two Seasons Coron Bayside

Two Seasons Coron Bayside prides itself as being the only first-rate accommodation in Coron Town. This hotel features comfortable and spacious rooms that can provide well-deserved relaxation to every guest. Facilities also include a Resto Lounge, a Skydeck Jacuzzi Lounge, a souvenir shop, and a spacious conference room. Experience Coron Island bliss at Two Seasons Coron Bayside.

Bayview Deluxe Room at Two Seasons Coron

Nay Palad Hideaway

Formerly known as Dedon Island Resort, Nay Palad Hideaway is a romantic luxury boutique resort on the island of Siargao. It boasts exquisite architecture and chic designs set in a breathtaking location. Find beachfront bliss and luxury vacation at Nay Palad Hideaway.

Aerial view of Nay Palad Hideaway

Casa Amihan Resort and Restaurant

Casa Amihan is located on the small, peaceful island of Anda, Bohol. Each of its cozy rooms has a private veranda that offers a great view of the sea. Its rooms are elegantly designed using Filipino architecture that complements the natural beauty of the place.

Deluxe Room

Goldberry Suites and Hotel

It is a charming, small-scale and unpretentious boutique hotel near Mactan-Cebu International Airport. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and class where you can enjoy sweet comfort while experiencing first-class, modern facilities and friendly service.

Quest Hotel and Conference Center

Quest Hotel puts you at the center of Metro Cebu. It is only a short distance from a shopping mall and one ride away from major tourist attractions. It is a perfect option for guests looking for affordability and style while enjoying a good comfortable stay at the heart of the city. This hotel features chic guest rooms, function rooms, gym, swimming pool and an all-day dining restaurant.

Executive Suite at Quest Hotel and Conference Center

Address: Archbishop Reyes Ave, Cebu City, Cebu
Contact Number: +63 32 4025999  /  +63 32 2305888  /  +63 917 3129794
Website: https://www.questhotelsandresorts.com/cebu/

Misibis Bay Resort

This 5-hectare exclusive resort is located in the province Albay, known as home of the world’s most perfect cone – the Mayon Volcano. Everything you need for a perfect relaxation is simply found here. Misibis Bay features beautifully designed architecture and interiors that allow guests to completely immerse in total relaxation. It also features world-class facilities, a fitness center, a luxury spa, an array of water recreational facilities and adventure activities including ATV ride, mountain bike or dune buggies.

Address: Misibis Bay Resort, Cagraray Island, Bacacay, Albay
Contact Number: (02) 8661 8888
Website: https://www.misibisbay.com/

The following are some copies of the Certificate of Authority to Operate by the above-mentioned hotels:

The New Normal for Restaurants

On June 1, 2020, IATF-EID Resolution No. 42 approved the resumption of dine-in operations beginning June 15, 2020 in GCQ areas. Both dine-in and take-out services can now be availed by customers.

The safety protocols restaurants include: reduced capacity to only 50%, social distancing with 1-meter seating apart, an acrylic barrier must be installed for face-to-face seating, “no face mask and no face shield, no entry”, thermo-scans and sanitation upon entry, staffs wearing clean uniforms and PPEs at all times.

Other recommendations include cashless transactions, contactless ordering, use of an online menu, e-receipt, use of disposable wares and more. All these are geared towards providing a safe dining experience for customers.

Non-compliance shall be ground for temporary closure to allow outlets to correct the deficiencies. | Source: https://www.covid19.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/IATF-Resolution-No.-42.pdf

The New Normal for Travel Agency and Tour Operators

Travel Agencies, tour operators and other tourism-related entities are now permitted to operate at a limited capacity.

DTI Memorandum Circular 20-53 recategorized travel agencies and tour operators to Category III (from Category IV). Thus, after 6 months of total closure, tour companies are now allowed to reopen at 50% operational capacity for areas under GCQ and 100% capacity for areas under MGCQ. Operation is still subject to the mandatory minimum public health standards and protocols as provided by DOH. | Source: Tourism Congress of the Philippines

Online Travel Agents (OTAs) vs. Local-based Travel Agency

Many clients who booked through third-party platforms or Online Travel Agents (OTAs) experienced some travel mishaps during COVID-19. Due to immediate lockdowns and travel restrictions issued by the government, many travelers (both domestic and international) were left in a limbo, not knowing where to go, what to do and worse, stranded. Some third-party bookings were receptive while others, disconnected. Some OTAs handled the problem poorly with no reel-time assistance, leaving many travelers stranded and with zero refunds.

Meanwhile, making a transaction with a local-based travel agency (also known as “travel expert”) could mean faster solution, direct communication and more insider tips.

Why Consult a Travel Expert?

When you work with a local-based travel agency, you can be assured they will strive to find the best solution for you. They know the destinations and the suppliers better. Not only do you save precious time in planning for your best travel experience, you can also be assured that if anything comes up during your trip, they are there to assist you. They protect you. They minimize the hassles and false-expectations. They give expert advice. They are actual people who have mastered crafting tours 24/7.

Travel agents are the travel experts. They are called “experts” for all the right reasons.

Kapwa Travel is a Trusted Travel Expert

We are accountable. We closely monitor the news, weather, travel warnings and updates to keep you and the rest of our team members well informed. We take care of you and we take care of your travel. With our 24/7 What’sApp service, you can always contact us and there will always be someone to pick-up the moment you need us. When something happens, we are here for you.

We are DOT-accredited which guarantees quality, security and insurance. We are also active in attending International Travel Fairs such as ITB Berlin, IMEX Frankfurt and WTM London. We partner only with suppliers that match our business philosophy and our standards in terms of quality, service and sustainability. We continue to improve and streamline our processes, evaluate and carefully select our local partners to better serve our clients in the new normal. We are driven to come back better than ever when the travel season continues.

Trip Protection: Things You Should Check the Next Time You Travel

Here are some important aspects you must consider to better prepare for your next travel:

Get Vaccinated

When traveling abroad, make sure to get proper vaccinations or immunizations. This will lower your chances of getting sick while on travel. Consult your doctor and they might recommend other vaccinations depending on the country that you will visit.

Be Updated. Follow Travel Restrictions.

Constantly monitor and check the latest updates when traveling. It is very important to find out if there are travel restrictions or mandated quarantine protocols both from your country of origin and destination. It is possible that local governments follow varying protocols depending on their risk status, whether they are in high-risk, medium-risk or low risk areas.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has outlined specific measures to travelers. This includes before embarkation, upon arrival at the entry point and quarantine measures. More details are found here: https://www.who.int/news-room/articles-detail/key-considerations-for-repatriation-and-quarantine-of-travellers-in-relation-to-the-outbreak-of-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov

Enroll in a Travel Insurance

There will probably be a rise in the demand for travel insurance after COVID-19. Travel insurance generally protects the traveler from potential risks such as cancellations, medical costs, lost luggage, stolen items and more. If you already have an existing insurance plan, you may ask them if they can also cover travel insurance.

Clarify Post Covid-19 Refunds and Cancellations

Depending on the Terms and Conditions, a tourism supplier can provide you with a full refund for trip cancellations or free postponement to a later date. But if the reason is force majeure, it is less likely that 100% will be refunded. Force majeure pertains to unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond the supplier’s control. These can include war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. Be sure to contact your operator and clarify the refund and cancellation policy.

For Kapwa Travel clients, for example, we offer free postponement. If the client cancels the tour, the normal cancellation fees will apply. However, in case of cancellation, we will try to retrieve as much money as possible for you from hotels, transportation services and other suppliers that has been used for upfront-payments for your tour. | Source: Kapwa Travel Terms and Conditions, Section 2.9 Force Majeure

Global Tourism Protocols and Guidelines for the New Normal

DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination, and Resource Generation Arturo P. Boncato Jr. said the agency is rolling out an omnibus revised tourism standards “anchored on new normal standards as espoused by the Department of Health, the World Health Organization, and also anchored on best practices around the world.” | Source: Business Mirror’s Article on DOT to roll out ‘new normal’ policies for hotels, tour operators, restaurants by Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

Organizations such as the World Tourism Organization (WTO) and World Travel Tourism Council (WTTC) endeavor to conduct consultations, research and release timely guidelines to achieve unified and effective recovery protocols for the new normal.

UNWTO Global Guidelines to Restart Tourism

More information about the WTO actions is found here.

WTTC “Safe Travels” Seal

Recently, WTTC has awarded the Philippines the “Safe Travels” stamp. This only certifies the country’s strong commitment to gain back travelers’ trust to perceive the Philippines as a safe destination – one that implements global safety standards.

More information about #SafeTravels is found on this link.

Tourism Guidelines Do Not Exist in a Vacuum

Tourism protocols therefore, do not exist in a vacuum. These are all anchored from wider sector-wide efforts on local, national and global efforts along with private and public sector partnership. The industry needs a forward-looking and inclusive stance in this crisis by closely coordinating with relevant stakeholders.

Moving Forward: Welcome the “New Normal”

The reality of the “new normal” must no longer be a surprise by now. The past months should have already prepared us to face the coming days.

This pandemic is a great lesson to realize and put a premium on the basic things in life. That is, taking good care of ourselves, our home, where we work and where we want to welcome visitors. It pushes us to be better. It challenges us to be more responsible and to be compassionate individuals – one who consistently follow safety protocols in order to minimize the possible spread of the virus.

As we adapt to the new normal, it becomes our social responsibility therefore to wash our hands frequently, use alcohol-based sanitizers, minimize close contact, avoid shaking hands, avoid sharing meals, use a face mask, maintain social distancing, disinfect high touch areas and practice cashless transactions. Personal hygiene along with environmental hygiene must be taken seriously. Our safety lies in our own hands.

See You in the New Normal in the Philippines!

A solo traveler in the new normal enjoying a vacation by the sea away from the crowd | Photo by upslim | Shutter stock photo ID: 1721088316

Perhaps you may draw some inspiration on our List of Top 10 Philippines Islands for your First Post-Pandemic Travel or perhaps read more about Hotel Safety Protocols.

If you have any questions or any information you wish to add on our blog, feel free to let us know in the comment section below. We will be glad to receive any feedback or message from you. 🙂