Tuesday, March 7, 2023

Exploring the Wonders of Bohol: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Baclayon Church, Loboc River Cruise, Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Virgin Island

 

A short guide when on vacation to the Island of Bohol


        Bohol Island in the Philippines is a must-see gem for travelers. Located in the Central Visayas region, Bohol is known for its beautiful pristine beaches, natural attractions, and rich history. From the perspective of someone who has traveled and experienced the island's beauty, this article will show you some of the best places to visit in Bohol. From the historic Baclayon Church to the natural wonders of the Chocolate Hills, we will be giving some glimpses of how majestic and beautiful these places in Bohol are, and also some insights into the various activities that you can try while on vacation to the island.

        But first things first, I just need to share these items for a more fun, memorable and relaxing vacation. These are must-haves during vacation. You can check them out here. 

CAMERAS

1. Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens 

2. Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens

EYEWEAR

1. Ray-Ban Aviator Large Metal RB3025 181 Sunglasses

2. Ray-Ban Chromance Polarized Sunglasses

OUTDOOR GEARS

1. Under Armour. Undeniable 3.0 Small Duffle Bag

2. Under Armour. Project Rock Box Duffle Backpack

3. ADIDAS. power backpack

        Now, to start the tour of Bohol Island...

        BACLAYON CHURCH

La Purisima Concepcion de la Virgen Maria Parish Church

        Our first stop is Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Built in 1727, Baclayon Church is a fine example of Baroque architecture, with intricate carvings and ornaments adorning its interior and exterior. The church has been designated a National Treasure by the Philippine government and is a popular religious and historical tourist destination. We have our visit to this historic church in the afternoon and the weather during that time really presented the church's century-old structures. It was a sight to behold and at the same time, a moment to treasure to personally visit and experience.

        Tourists, both local and foreign, can enjoy a tour of the Baclayon Church. They will not only experience the aesthetic grandeur of the choral stone church but as well as its history because the church has a museum that safeguards its religious treasures and relics from the 16th century. Inside the museum, you can find some of its old statues and figurines that date back to the Spanish occupation of the country. Furthermore, Baclayon Church also holds fairs and other religious events on a regular basis.

        Baclayon Church is located in the town of Baclayon, about 10 kilometers from Tagbilaran city. The church is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. However, one has to respect the solemnity of the mass when visiting the church. We need to refrain from making any unnecessary loud noises that might cause disturbances to the solemnity of the mass. You might as well light some candles and offer silent prayers located outside the church. 

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Parish priests from 1727-1946

        LOBOC RIVER CRUISE

Loboc Church

        Our next stop is the Loboc River, which is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors to Loboc can take a river cruise tour, which includes a buffet lunch, live music, and performances by local artists. You cannot help but be amazed at another historic church in Bohol, the Loboc Church which is situated along the Loboc River.

        The river cruise takes visitors through the lush greenery of the surrounding forest, with occasional glimpses of local wildlife such as monkeys and birds. The highlight of the tour is a stop at a floating restaurant, where guests can enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the picturesque views of the river and surrounding landscape. You will surely be having your stomach full of their buffet lunch that is always accompanied by a musical performance of the island's local talents.

 FOR A QUICK VIEW OF LOBOC RIVER CRUISE, CLICK HERE

        Loboc River Cruise tours are available daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with prices ranging from PHP 450 to PHP 550 per person depending on the type of cruise and the inclusions.


        CHOCOLATE HILLS

The natural wonder of Chocolate Hills

        No visit to Bohol is complete without a trip to the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of more than 1,000 conical hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling a sea of chocolate. The hills are a natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing Bohol's unique landscape. Upon reaching the deck of this natural wonder of the world, you cannot help but be mesmerized by the picturesque image of these thousands of hills.

For comfortable hiking and trekking around Chocolate Hills, Check this out 

        Visitors to the Chocolate Hills can climb to the top of one of the hills for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. A recommended place to capture the area's scenic beauty is to challenge yourself to climb the 100-plus stairs to the Viewing Deck. The hills are also home to a number of hiking trails, zip lines, and other adventure activities such as ATV riding, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

FOR A QUICK VIEW OF THE MAGNIFICIENT CHOCOLATE HILLS, CLICK HERE

        The Chocolate Hills are located in the town of Carmen, which is about 55 kilometers from Tagbilaran City. Entrance fees to the Chocolate Hills Complex are PHP 50 for adults and PHP 30 for children.

TARSIER SANCTUARY

Tarsier


        Bohol is also home to one of the smallest primates in the world, the tarsier. These tiny creatures are native to the island and are an endangered species. The Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella is a protected area that aims to conserve and protect the tarsiers and their habitat. The sanctuary is also just a few meters away from the Man-Made Forest, also a tourist attraction on the island.

        Visitors to the Tarsier Sanctuary can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, which includes a walk through the forest to observe the tarsiers in their natural habitat. It is recommended to minimize any form of noise since these tiny primates are nocturnal creatures, which means that they sleep mostly during the day. The sanctuary is dedicated to promoting education and awareness about the conservation of the tarsiers, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about these fascinating creatures and their importance to the ecosystem. Also, please refrain from using flashes of your camera to take pictures of these primates. Their existence is more important than the so-called social media-worthy pictures. (This picture of the tarsier is personally taken by the caretaker of the sanctuary since they are the only authorized person to have a closer proximity with them)

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        The Tarsier Sanctuary is located in the town of Corella, which is about 20 kilometers from Tagbilaran City. The sanctuary is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with an entrance fee of PHP 60 per person.

VIRGIN ISLAND

Virgin Island (High Tide)

        Our final destination is the picturesque Virgin Island, a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Panglao. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

        Visitors to Virgin Island can take a boat tour of the island, which includes a stop at a nearby sandbar and coral reef for snorkeling. The island also offers a number of beachfront amenities, including picnic tables, cottages, and kayaks for rent. You can also enjoy a delicious meal on the island with stalls that offer a wide range of seafood to choose from.

        Virgin Island is located about 15 minutes by boat from Alona Beach in Panglao. Boat tours to the island are available from local tour operators, with prices ranging from PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 for a group of four to six people.

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Sandugo Monument

        Bohol, Philippines is a destination that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to adventure and nature. With its beautiful beaches, natural wonders, and rich history, Bohol is quickly becoming one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. A visit to Baclayon Church, Loboc River Cruise, Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Virgin Island is a must for anyone visiting Bohol and promises to be a truly unforgettable experience.

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