Wazzup Pilipinas!
The exotic islands in the tropics, Andaman and Nicobar, is a perfect getaway for thrill-seeking couples, romantic travelers and families with children wanting to engage in interesting activities. It is an archipelago of the most enthralling flora and fauna – a result of millions of years of undisturbed evolution.
Here’s what you need to know before booking your Andaman tour package and sailing off for an awesome vacation.
It is only fair that there are a few do’s and don’ts for those traveling to these islands in all seasons.
Here's a comprehensive guide to what you should do and what you should strictly avoid during your vacation on Andaman - The set of dos for all visitors booking an Andaman tour package:
Carry your passport, driving license and travel permits with you at all times.
Contact registered tourist guidance companies for travel assistance.
While riding a motorbike, always wear protective helmets. Riding without a helmet can attract a hefty fine.
Do swim in the safe areas only.
Research the islands before going. This will intimate you with the proper rules of each one of them.
Get the necessary travel and photography permits while traveling through national parks and conserved areas.
Be sensitive to other's privacy any attempt to capture photos and videos of aboriginal tribes is a punishable offense.
All tourist spots carry notices about photography and videography permits.
Before entering the sea, consult the lifeguards and concerned authorities.
Use designated dustbins and garbage dumps to dispose of rubbish. Littering in public places is a serious offense.
Only avail the services of BSAC, SSI, CMAS, PADI, and NAUI like organizations for scuba diving. Avail the services of certified instructors, preferably from these organizations.
While snorkeling near the reefs or scuba diving, be careful not to damage them. It is punishable by law.
All foreign nationals should carry their area permit at all times. Police officers check the restricted area permits whenever people are traveling through Havelock Island, Neil Island and Elephant Island.
Now, a set of don’ts for everyone booking any Andaman tour package for the first time
Do not litter and do not smoke in public areas.
Do not carry plastic (polyethylene) bags. It is a strictly punishable offense and can attract a penalty of up to 100,000 INR.
Do not hunt birds and animals. Do not try to capture natural fauna on land and sea.
Do not visit the Nicobar Islands without a special permit. Do not visit islands that are off limits to foreign nationals without a permit.
Do not light bonfire on the beaches or any open ground without a permit. Camping is a serious offense on the islands.
Do not stay longer than permitted hours on the islands. Do not camp overnight on the beaches.
Do not break or carry corals (even dead ones) during your dives.
Do not collect shells. You can only buy seashells and you must carry the proof of purchase while traveling back to the mainland.
Do not try to interact with the aboriginal tribes or take their pictures/videos.
Do not swim in an inebriated state. It is unsafe.
Do not swim in treacherous zones. Avoid swimming in certain areas during the monsoon. Local guides will be able to direct you towards the safe zones.
A few rules are almost always necessary to make the travel and the stay enjoyable for the people on an island far away from home, surrounded by exotic animals, birds, marine life and ancient tribes!
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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