Exploring the Philippines: A Journey Through Bohol, Cebu, and Manila
- crystaldkane2
- Nov 17, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 2
The Philippines is a nation made up of over 7,000 islands, each offering its own unique experience for travelers. Among the most popular destinations in the country are Bohol, Cebu, and Manila. Representing a perfect blend of culture, history, natural beauty, and modernity, providing visitors with a well-rounded experience of what the Philippines has to offer.
If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, Bohol, Cebu, and Manila are three destinations you’ll definitely want to explore.
Bohol: A Natural Paradise
Bohol, located in the Central Visayas region, is one of the Philippines’ most scenic provinces. Known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unique geological formations, Bohol is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
I really had a great time visiting Bohol with my friend Patricia's Filipino family in the Philippines. I love traveling places with locals because it's a wonderful way to not only visit a place but become immersed in their culture.
January is a great time to go to the Philippines, specifically Bohol, but it's also very crowded. Not as crowded as Bali or some beaches in Thailand but it's definitely high season so it's best to book in advance because rooms do sell out.
Panglao Island
Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by a bridge, is famous for its pristine beaches and vibrant underwater ecosystems. It’s the ideal spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on powdery white sands. Alona Beach is the most popular area, where you can find plenty of beachfront resorts, restaurants, and dive shops. The island’s coral reefs and marine life are among the best in the country, with spots like Balicasag Island offering breathtaking dive experiences.
Chocolate Hills
Patricia's uncle, Tito (which means uncle in Tagalog) June took us to Chocolate Hills a natural geological formation that is truly unique. I have never seen anything like this before. Definitely a must-see on your trip to Bohol.
Bohol’s most iconic landmark are the Chocolate Hills, a geological wonder made up of over 1,200 conical hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds. Whether you choose to hike to the top for panoramic views or simply admire the hills from a viewing platform, this natural wonder is a must-see.
Tarsiers - one of the world's smallest primates
Another must-visit are the Tarsiers. Bohol is one of the only places to find this nocturnal creature and the best way to visit them is at a sanctuary. At the sanctuary, we were briefed with information about the animal. The Philippine tarsier measures 3 to 6 inches in size! We were also told to not to disturb them while they are sleeping although we could definitely take photos. Visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella gives you a chance to see these nocturnal creatures up close in their natural habitat. With their large eyes and small size, tarsiers are a fascinating species, and the sanctuary aims to protect and conserve them.
Lunch at Bohol Bee Farm
We had a delicious organic farm-to-table lunch at Bohol Bee Farm. Although since the last hurricane destroyed a lot of the hives, this place will probably have to call itself Bohol Farm instead because the bee colonies are sadly gone. The food is incredibly delicious though, especially the homemade ice cream, made with coconut milk.
Cebu: The Queen City of the South
Cebu, often called the "Queen City of the South," is a vibrant island province that offers a mix of history, culture, beaches, and modern attractions. Located in the central Philippines, Cebu is one of the busiest and most visited regions in the country. Cebu is also considered the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, making it rich in historical landmarks and traditions.
One of the longest Christmas celebrations in the world is in the Philippines which starts September 1st, I kid you not, and lasts all the day until the first week of January! This meant that even if Christmas was over in the United States, I could still celebrate Christmas in the Philippines.
After going to mass with Patricia's family in Cebu, I witnessed a very interesting ritual called Tindera Sinulog which is a sacred dance in honor of the Santo Niño (the Baby Jesus). We bought candles from a local woman as an offering for petitions or for thanksgiving and in exchange she sang a song and performed while we said prayers to seek the favor of the Santo Niño. This was indeed a very unique cultural experience that I have not experienced anywhere else in the world.
Manila
As the capital city of the Philippines, Manila is a bustling metropolis that offers a deep dive into the country's vibrant culture, history, and modernity. While it can be busy and chaotic, Manila is home to many exciting things to see and do.
When we got back to Manila, Patricia's family took me to Manila Hotel, the oldest luxury hotel in Manila that opened in 1912 and has hosted the likes of American presidents and dignitaries from all over the world.
Cheers to another wonderful trip to the Philippines!
From the tranquil beauty of Bohol to the historical charm of Cebu and the urban energy of Manila, a trip to the Philippines promises a diverse and unforgettable experience. Whether you're exploring natural wonders, diving into the rich history, or soaking up the culture and cuisine, each of these destinations offers something special.
So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the warmth of the Filipino hospitality, and embark on a journey through some of the most captivating locations in the Philippines!
Work with me and let me plan your fabulous trip to the Philippines!
xoxo
Crystal
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