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What's On & Expat - Philippines

 

 MAY 20-MAY 26, 2007

   

dESTINATION

   

 

 

Intimate Escape
in
Bohol

Text by Armie Marie Chiu Bausas
Photos by Charles Dominic Samonte Diño

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A haven for beach lovers

It’s a sizzling summer. Despite the scorching heat, nothing beats having a much-needed vacation on an island paradise. So, I gladly joined my boyfriend and his parents and flew to Bohol.

We took Philippine Airlines bound for Tagbilaran. After a one-hour smooth flight, we arrived in this sun-filled province. From the airport, we had a 30-minute drive to Panglao Island. Upon reaching Bohol Beach Club, we were greeted by rows of tall coconut trees and lush greenery. It’s a huge and picturesque resort blessed with crystal clear turquoise waters and a stunning stretch of powdery white sand. The scenery sets the atmosphere for a relaxing and exciting stay. For a first time visitor, it is indeed a great way to experience the awesome sights and sounds of Bohol. Another plus is that it’s not overcrowded. I simply relished the serenity and beauty of this island.

After lunch, we didn’t waste any time and ventured into the waters. Together with other tourists, we boarded a boat with a glass bottom to view underwater wonders like white sand, colorful starfishes and huge corals. Afterwards, my boyfriend and I went kayaking. It was a thrilling but challenging ride against the strong current. Good thing we didn’t flip over! To refresh ourselves, we went swimming

 

 

at the lovely beach. I really had a blast playing with the waves as they caressed my back. When dusk came, we opted to check out the pool in the resort.

We had a sumptuous dinner buffet at the resort’s Kalubihan Restaurant. The staff members kept the evening alive with their music. Although there are no bars or shops to hang around, we enjoyed strolling along the shore. The tranquility of the island at night is soothing. It’s perfect for bonding amid the starry sky, cool breeze and rhythmic waves.

The following morning, we took a leisurely walk. It dawned on me that communing with nature is very invigorating. I was also extremely thrilled to take some snapshots. Each view is picture-perfect. It’s a wonderful treat for both amateur and professional photographers.

Uniquely Bohol
More than the beach, Bohol has a lot to offer adventure, history, and culture seekers. To add zest to our trip, we joined the city tour. It gave us the opportunity to discover the splendor of this 10th largest island. Our guide, Duplex, took us to the unique attractions of Bohol. Our first stop was the Blood Compact site. These huge bronze statues of Don Miguel Lopez de


The writer’s Tito Pancho and Tita Cecille in front of a colossal sculpture: Blood Compact of Legazpi and Sikatuna

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