Bohol Escapade

Finally! After 5 years of planning I finally set foot in Bohol. This really spectacular island has a lot to offer. I was indeed spellbound by the Chocolate Hills. I did not realize that there were over a thousand of those almost perfectly similar mounds scattered around. It looked a bit surreal to me as if the hills just leaped out from our Social Studies book.

The close encounter with the tarsier was also something I really enjoyed. Looking at those very huge glassy eyes made me realize it wasn't really such a wonder why these creatures are nocturnal. They looked so docile perched on the trees and I had the distinct feeling of almost seeing a baby curiously looking around a new and unchartered territory.

Loboc river cruise was also a new experience for me. With the countless rivers in the Philippines, and even in Ormoc, I had to venture to Bohol in order to have my first taste of what it's like to be cruising the riverbanks. We paid Php280.00 each and it included a sumptuous meal albeit not the one you'd get from fine-dining restaurants, still it was most filling. Along with the meal we were also serenaded by the on-board singer. Upon reaching the end of the tour, there were make-shift nipahuts / boats where children danced and sang to their hearts' content enticing tourists to hand out donations. I was deeply touched by the children's talents. So young and innocent, yet so passionate about music, armed only with their voices and ukeleles. It was indeed a touching scene. Lulled by the music and the gentle river current, it was the most relaxing lunch I've ever had.

The visit to Hinagdanan Cave was also a first for me. Spelunking can be a real challenge, however, I think perhaps this is the easiest cave to explore. There were already steps where we can easily use to access the inside of the cave. It wasn't an overly large cave, but still it was enough to accommodate a lot of people. There was a pool inside it, and there were even some people who could not resist taking a dip as it was really stifling hot underground.

Although, we did not enjoy the sand and sea in Panglao, we were also offered a piece of white sand haven in the municipality of Anda. The resort wasn't really the best in the area, but still, it wasn't that bad. We had a spectacular view and we were away from the hustle and bustle of city life and tourists.
Bohol really has a lot to offer and its tranquility surely can soothe the most stressful mind. My trip was very short, and so it did not really "quench my thirst" for the many things this island has to offer. And so, with a smile in my heart, I said to myself, "this time was only the first time". I'll definitely be back for more!

-chi-