Chronicles of Wanderlust: Panglao, Bohol

If there was a close choice for me, after Boracay, it would be Bohol.

Shoot me, before I've been here, I've always underestimated this place. First of all, it's too laidback and I didn't really think I'd enjoy being there, thinking there wasn't any place I'd enjoy going to. I thought that since they weren't known for a raging night life at the shores, I wouldn't enjoy the place. But I was wrong.

As it turns out, the laidback atmosphere of Bohol was exactly what I needed that time I was there. Coming from a week of deadlines, the sun and sand AND tours were the perfect getaway.

Here's a list of the tourist spots I've been to:

1. Chocolate Hills - I wouldn't miss this for the world. I don't like the idea of being the only person in the world who hasn't seen them :P

2. Tarsier Farm - despite the foul smell of these creatures, I forced myself to endure the photo op as they are going extinct.

3. Baclayon Church - oldest church in Bohol? 

4. Blood-compact Site

5. Dolphins! - I think they should count as touristy things to watch. And wouldn't you know it, when I saw one, I screamed "Willy!" Yes, such a doofus, this girl.

6. Balicasag Island - One of the best corals and fishes I've seen in my life. Beats Bora. Haha.

7. The Bohol Beach Sand - They're almost identical to the ones in Bora. Mighty fine and white!

8. Man-made forest.

9. Loboc River Cruise. The river cruise gives you the chance to enjoy sumptuous lunch while a folk singer serenades you. There's also a stop where you get to dance tinikling [a folk dance in the Philippines] and play the Ukulele. How cool is that?

Other nice-to-know factoids about Bohol:

1.Marlboro Lights retails for Ps. 28.00! Too bad I brought along with me 5 packs of MLs for fear of buying expensive cigs or resorting to Mighty [sold at Ps.8.00 per pack].

2. Star Peanuts taste way better than the more famous Peanut Kisses.

3. You can buy the famous Pastel of Camiguin here. A box of 6 is worth Ps.80 only!

4. Buy your pasalubong from BQ Mall instead. The prices are way, way friendlier.

5. If you can, take a shower with hot water. It seems less saltier that way.

6. Have at least a 5-day stay in Bohol. Despite the laidback ambiance, there seems to be an abundance of activities to do.

7. If you're heading down there, book the best tour guide, Boy RULES! His number is: 09225136688. Haha, plugging!

8. A bottle of 1 Litre of Absolut Vodka is only Ps. 615.00 -- Go, go, HOARD!


Bohol, I am coming back!