Monday, August 6, 2012

Cebu-Bohol Experience Part 2

Day 2. B
ound to Bohol via Supercat Ferry.
We took a cab going to Cebu port and it was just a 10 minute drive from where we stayed. Very convenient indeed. After about an hour and 45 mins, we finally arrived at Tagbilaran Port. Prior to our vacation, we have made reservations to Dumaluan Beach resort and availed of their Package B which included van transportation. They took care of the itinerary and that saved us the hassle of thinking how and where we should go in Bohol. Here are the places we went to in Bohol:
  • Blood Compact Site. One of the historic places in Bohol where the first treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and Filipinos took place. The blood compact known as Sandugo was performed between Spanish explorer Legazpi and chieftain of Bohol Sikatuna. It feels good to have a chance of visiting  these kind of places. At least a part of Philippine history.
  • Baclayon Church. This is known as one of the oldest churches in the Philippines and according to the personnel maintaining the church, no renovation has been made to this because they really wanted to preserve the structures and materials of how the church was built. Don't forget to make a wish if it is your first time to visit this church. I did. 
  • Lunch at Loboc Floating restaurant. After a quite tiring but truly enjoyable morning in Bohol, it was finally time for our Lunch. Once again, eat all you can. The experience was very relaxing since aside from the good food, we also had a very good view of the loboc river. On our way back, we were entertained by a group of musicians showcasing their singing and dancing talent while promoting their instrument ukeleles. 
  • Hanging bridge. I am not really a fan of heights but I must say hanging bridge was worth trying. I was really scared considering it was 25 meters above the river plus we were a group of 8 crossing the bridge all at the same time. As we reached the other end of the bridge, it was time to buy for some souvenirs. According to our tour guide, the souvenirs here are a lot cheaper than buying from the shops in the city.
  • Tarsier Sanctuary. This is one of the things I was looking forward to in this trip since it is my first time to see an actual tarsier which is one of the smallest primates on earth. It was a bit tiring since the forest was quite a big one but it was definitely a worthwhile experience. 
  • Butterfly Conservation Center. It is nice to know that Bohol has a conservation center like this which gives people a chance to appreciate the littlest creatures God has created. Butterflies are just simply lovely. We were entertained by our local tour guide who showed us the butterfly's life cycle and gave us the chance to visit the beautiful butterfly garden. 
  • Chocolate Hills. They said Chocolate Hills is a famous tourist attraction in Bohol. It is indeed, the moment I saw the chocolate hills. View was stunning. If you are to visit Bohol, you shouldn't miss this.



  • Bohol Zoo. Our last stop was a small zoo in Bohol which has one of the largest pythons and birds of different species. We only stayed here for about 20 minutes as it was already around 6:30 pm and it was still about a 1 hour drive going to Dumaluan Beach resort.


Day 3. Balicasag Island.
We were very excited for Day 3. Dolphin watching and snorkeling. It was adventure day for us. We first had our breakfast (which is also included in the package), then went straight for our boat ride to watch the dolphins. It was about an hour and a half of chasing and watching them. Really cute. 

We then went to Balicasag island for my very first snorkeling experience. Very very memorable. I was really scared at first and had quite a hard time with my snorkeling gear and life vest which was way too big for me. I had to make it work for me to enjoy the corals and fish feeding. Snorkeling was so much fun and I would definitely do it again. Don't forget to bring your underwater camera to capture the moments. 

We then had a great lunch in Balicasag island before going back to the beach resort. The boat ride going back was a bit of an experience. Quite huge waves out there but we made it. Thank God. :)


We spent the whole afternoon by the beach and by the pool of Dumaluan Beach resort. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for a relaxing weekend.

Day 4. Bound to Manila.
After a memorable vacation, it was time to get back to reality. It was a short one but something I will really treasure and if given the chance, Cebu and Bohol are the places I will surely visit for the second, third and nth time around. 

'Till my next article.. stick around.. 
Cebu-Bohol Experience Part 1

Just the summer of this year, me and my friends were able to have our Cebu-Bohol vacation via Cebu Pacific airlines. We were sooooo excited that we were in NAIA terminal 3 as early as 3:20 am for our 5:35 am departure time. We arrived at Mactan International airport 6:50 am. No delays. Just right on time. :)

This is Part 1 of our wonderful 4days/3nights getaway. Let me share with you first our activities in Cebu. Enjoy!

Day 1. The Queen City of the South - Cebu, City. 
As soon as we arrived in Cebu, our van was already waiting to give us a day tour of the remarkable places in Cebu. It was around 45 mins when we got to our first destination. Here are the places we went to in Cebu:
  • Mactan shrine. This place was built in honor of Lapu-Lapu. I must say it really feels good to give importance to Philippine history.
  • Heritage of Cebu monument. With the monument located in Colon Street in Cebu City, it captures the interest of people and tourists passing by. The monument showcases the significant and symbolic events in the history of Cebu.
  • Taoist temple. Although they were strict in taking pictures of the temple and keeping quiet within the area, this place is amazing. Just simply beautiful.
  • Magellan's cross. The cross is housed in a chapel next to Basilica Del Santo Nino. Another proof how rich our Philippine history is. One thing though that I noticed is that there are a lot of vendors surrounding this place causing a bit of hassle to the tourists. Something we can surely improved on. :)
  • Lunch at Zubuchon. Their lechon is really a must-try and you should taste it for yourself. Now I know why Cebu is known for their lechon. 
  • Fort San Pedro Historical Park. The moment I saw this place, it reminded me of Intramuros, Manila. A nice place to take pictures, hang out and relax.
  • Sampaguita Suites Plaza Garcia. This is where we stayed for the night. Not a 5-star hotel but I would recommend this for those who are on a tight budget. It is not as expensive as other hotels but the place is clean and safe. One reason why we opted to stay in a pension was because, we just really needed a place to sleep for a while since we were bound to Bohol early morning of next day.  
  • Crown Regency Hotel. We paid a 990 php package per person which included our dinner buffet, sky walk adventure, 4D movie and edge coaster. Trust me, I must stay this is pretty cheap already. Good thing we also made the right decision of choosing the night package adventure. We were just mesmerized with the view of Cebu from the tallest hotel.

This is it for now. Hope you enjoyed it!

Stay tuned for Part 2.. Our Bohol adventure. That is another exciting part :)
Happy Camper

When camping comes to mind, adventure follows.   

Some may not enjoy the whole idea of outdoor activities like camping but not in my case. It is something I enjoy. One of my camping experiences that I would say one of the best was when I visited Anawangin Cove in Zambales. It was like a breath of fresh air. Literally. The place was awesome and the beach blue water was crystal clear.     

Camping is better when you come prepared. That is why, I have listed a few things and reminders for you when you plan your next or maybe, your first camping trip.   

1. Of course, camping is not a camping without a tent. If you decide to skip the hassle of bringing your own tent, that is okay. Some places, like Anawangin provides tents that you can rent for an affordable price. 

 

2. A multi-tool such as a Swiss knife should always come handy. Can be used not just as a simple knife but also as can openers. You will be amazed of how helpful this can be in times of need. 



3. Butane lighter can be very useful from cooking to starting bonfires at night. And bonfires are more fun when bonding and sharing stories with friends.



 

4. Water. Water. And lots of water. Even though you are in a beach where water is everywhere. A clean and refreshing water still makes a lot of difference. Besides, I don't think you will enjoy salt water for your breakfast, lunch and dinner. :)

  

 
5.  For personal comfort, why not bring a pillow too. It still feels nice to have that good night sleep.



 

6. Lastly,  first aid kit is still a must. Basic medicines and a bandage just in case anything unexpected comes up.






So, when do you plan to have your next camping trip? Whenever that is, try to remember these few reminders and I am sure you will be one Happy Camper :)