Bohol Currency Exchange 2026: ICM vs Alona Beach Rates

Bohol Currency Exchange Rate Comparison

(ICM, Alona Beach)

When you're exploring the stunning island of Bohol, you'll inevitably need to exchange some currency for Philippine Pesos. Your main options are usually the ICM Mall in Tagbilaran, near the port, or the bustling Alona Beach area.

If your itinerary includes a stopover in Cebu before Bohol, you might find slightly better exchange rates there.

However, for typical travel expenses, the difference in rates is often negligible. It's usually not worth disrupting your travel plans or going out of your way just for a fractional improvement in the exchange rate.

For a rough comparison, I found the USD to PHP exchange rate in Cebu to be around 58.74, while on the same day, a Bohol money changer offered 58.30.

First up, let's talk about ICM Mall, conveniently located near the Tagbilaran port. There are actually two money changers inside, but the one on the basement level seems to be the more well-known spot.

However, the rate here was 58.20. Interestingly, there's another money changer on the top floor of ICM, and on the same day, at the same time, they offered 58.30. Not a massive difference, but hey, every little bit counts, right?

While not on the exact same day, I also checked Mlhuillier, a money changer near Alona Beach, where the rate was 58.52.

Given Bohol's warm and humid weather, chasing after a few decimal points in the exchange rate might not be worth the extra effort or sweat. (But don't worry, I did the legwork for you!)

On a related note, I found it incredibly challenging to get enough small change in the Philippines. No matter how many times I broke a 1,000 Peso bill at large malls or chain restaurants, I always seemed to be short on smaller denominations. It's a mystery!

Speaking of travel, I've realized that to truly embrace the kind of adventures I dream of, it helps to have a few extra skills. My immediate goal when I get back home is to learn how to swim properly! When I go snorkeling, I can't capture those breathtaking photos like other travel bloggers do. I want to shed the life vest, dive down, and chase after turtles or schools of sardines, but for now, all I can do is admire them from afar.

Another thing I've noticed: I'm currently writing this from a bar, waiting for the DJ to arrive for a taco party (which I didn't even know about when I booked my accommodation!). It's funny how often people approach me and ask why I'm alone. This, I believe, is one of the greatest perks of solo travel – it makes striking up conversations with fellow travelers incredibly easy. When you're with friends or a group, people tend to keep to themselves, but when you're solo, connections happen effortlessly.

Someone just asked me if I wanted to play pool with them, but I politely declined, explaining I'm not much of a player and wanted to focus on this post. (There's a pool table right inside the hostel bar.) But it just goes to show, whether it's swimming, playing pool, or even dancing, having a few extra skills definitely enriches your travel experiences!

Seriously, though, where is this DJ? I skipped my favorite Alona Beach spot with live music and a cold beer just to be here! My tolerance isn't the highest, and I need to save some room for later, you know? 😉

In the meantime, I switched to a Hoegaarden Wit. It's a beer I've been enjoying at home lately, so I figured, why not?

Soon after, a Western gentleman, who seemed to be the owner, appeared. It's quite common in popular pubs, bars, restaurants, and accommodations across Southeast Asia for the owners to be Westerners.

The DJ finally arrived at 9:20 PM. It was literally just DJing – no crowd participation, just him vibing in the corner and enjoying his set. I'm no expert, but it made me wonder if they couldn't just play some good music without a dedicated DJ! 😂

One thing's for sure: he was incredibly dedicated. He kept spinning until all the guests had gone to bed and only the hostel staff remained. I got back to my room past midnight, and he was still deep in his DJ zone! 😂

By then, all the guests were gone, and about four or five staff members were having their own party at the bar.

It seemed like their staff appreciation night had just begun! They invited me to join, but I'd already had my fill, so I headed back to my room.

Oops, I got a little sidetracked from talking about Bohol money changers! But the main takeaway remains: exchange your money wisely, and enjoy your trip!