Before You Pack

CASH. Bring more than you expect. ATMs are few, frequently out of money, and plenty of places are cash only. REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN. Ordinary sunscreen is discouraged here and some tours will not let you wear it. Buy it before you fly. POWER AND SIGNAL. Brownouts are normal and brief. Bring a power bank. Wifi exists but do not plan to work. ALSO: insect repellent for the evenings, something light with sleeves, flat sandals for sand, and any medication you need — the pharmacies are small. There is an environmental fee on arrival in El Nido. Small, but cash only.