On the map, everything looks close. On the ground, journeys often take longer than planned, especially in countries of islands or mountains. In the Philippines as in Colombia, an itinerary that is too tight is the main cause of stress and unexpected costs. The good news: a few simple rules are enough to travel with peace of mind.
The Philippines: islands, boats and the weather
- Domestic flights are convenient but often delayed, and sometimes cancelled or rescheduled.
- Ferries and island-hopping boats can be suspended in rough seas, when the coast guard stops departures.
- Van and bus rides often take longer than advertised (for example between Puerto Princesa and El Nido).
- The rainy and typhoon season (roughly June to November) means more delays and cancellations.
Colombia: mountains and long roads
- Mountain roads are slow and winding: a ride advertised at 6 hours can take 8 or 9.
- During the rainy seasons (roughly April to May and October to November), landslides sometimes block roads.
- Domestic flights save a lot of time, but can be delayed by the weather.
- It is better to travel by day on mountain roads.
Our rules for leaving some margin
- Plan at least one buffer day per week of travel.
- Sleep in the city of your international flight the night before: never a domestic flight, ferry or long bus ride on the same day.
- Avoid tight connections on separate tickets: if the first flight is late, the next airline will not wait for you.
- Don’t schedule an important tour on a transfer day.
- Choose places to stay with free cancellation or changes.
- Take out travel insurance that covers delays and cancellations.
- Check the weather and timetables the day before, and keep a plan B (another ferry, an earlier flight).
It’s easier with others
When you travel with others, a delay is easier to handle: you share a driver to make up for lost time, a room for an unexpected night, or a private boat when the ferries are full. On Globamigo, add your dates to find travelers making the same journey as you, and ask local guides directly: they know the real timetables and the best tips.