FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:


Q --- What are the ways to travel to Tawi-Tawi?
A --- You can take the plane (AirPhils and Cebu Pacific Air - check their website for reservations), the ship (MV Kerstin, MV Ever Queen), or Lantsa. The airplanes are flying to Tawi-Tawi on a daily basis. 


Q --- What are the places to go to in Tawi-Tawi?
A --- First, you will always arrive in Bongao since all of the above mentioned vehicles will go to Bongao. In Bongao, be sure to visit the Bud Bongao (peak), the Bolobok Cave, and Silisad Beach. When you are already there, you should take the challenge of riding small boats called bankero or large boats called lantsa to go island-hopping. Visit the municipalities. One great island to experience Boracay-like haven is the Panampangan island. 


Q --- Are there fastfoods?
A --- Well, there are several fastfoods but do not expect Jollibee and McDonalds. Remember, Tawi-Tawi is one of a kind experience. Have a taste of the native Tausug/Sama cuisine. Be sure to eat Agal-Agal salad, Ukuh-Ukuh, Satti, and some other confectionaries. Get a taste of Pyanggang manok and Tiyulah itum.


Q --- Are there internet and mobile connection?
A --- Yes. Smart's signal for both is very good. However, Globe is not that good.


Q --- What to buy in Bongao?
A --- Be sure to buy the famous garlands from Nur Shell Craft located at Awwal Street (just look for Suaib Sugala in the neighborhood. They will know. Or ask where Masjid Awwal is, then ask for Suaib.) 


You could buy also the Regino Bagoong. It tastes really good than those you find in the shelves of the malls. 


Q --- Are there really white monkeys in Bud Bongao?
A --- Yes. Want a proof? Go, see them.


Q --- Are there Christians in the place?
A --- Yes. Many of them went there to study in MSU TCTO, then decides to stay there for good.


Q --- How's the weather like?
A ---  The weather is similar to the Philippine weather. You can always check with Pag-asa. 



Q --- How many hours would it take through MV Kirsten if I go from Zamboanga to Jolo ? Then Jolo to Tawi-Tawi? How should i arrange my trip? Would it be better to travel straight to Tawi-Tawi first, then coming back travel via MV Kirsten to Jolo, then to Z. City? or the opposite. Although, i like the idea of doing the opposite since, i'd probably feel tired then, so it's a quicker trip when i go back to Zambo.
A -- Actually, you will not take MV Kerstin for that. Probably, you will take MV Ever Queen Asia. It would take 24 hours. You will  leave zamboanga at night, arrive at Jolo at dawn, leave Jolo by about lunchtime, arrive at Siasi, Sulu by afternoon, then arrive Tawi-Tawi at night. :) (I am not sure of the hours you will arrive since I have not taken this kind of travel for a long time already. 
Actually, if I were you, I'd take the longer trip first. =) 


Q --- You said Tawi-Tawi is always safe :), how about Jolo and Basilan these days?
A --- I cannot really tell you abt Basilan since I have never been there. Jolo, for me, is safe too unless you are some savage who would try the natives' bravery. Just don't pull yourself too far, and you'll be okay. One thing to remember is do not do something that will make them mad at you especially getting them ashamed in front of many people. 


Q --- If my time is limited, how long should i stay in Tawi-Tawi to see and enjoy some of the islands (atleast) and hiking?
A ---  You can have as long as 1 week and as short as 3 days I think. If you manage your time well, you will be able to see a lot in Tawi-Tawi. Make friends on your way to Tawi-Tawi. They will be so much of help especially if they are connected to the government. You do not have to worry since people from our place are the kindest. ;) Like what I've said, just do not step on their pride and self-respect. (or else, you'll get what you need to get.) 


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