The Island of Bohol has truly been blessed by Mother Nature. Wonderful beaches and unique flora and fauna (courtesy of the Philippine Tarsiers) are some prominent marks of the Bohol Island. Nonetheless, the most famous, extraordinary and remarkable feature this blessed island has is the geological or terrain formation known as the 'Chocolate Hills'. This wonders of nature would surely make tourists and visitors be charmed and most likely asked the question: what is the origin of the 'Chocolate Hills'.
Ancient people, before the establishment of educational system, relied on myth, legends and folklores to explain the phenomena happening during those times. The 'Chocolate Hills' certainly have had their own share of these 'bed time stories'. One of the legends said that there was once a certain Dano, a giant with a huge appetite and devoured everything in his way. One instance he approached to a plain and saw the alluring and beautiful girl named Eng. Dano fell in love with Eng, but before Eng said her precious 'yes' to Dano, he had to loose weight. For that reason, Dano expelled everything he consumed and his mounds of wastes scattered and covered the place until he gained the heart of his precious Eng. Here is another story, just to redeem the 'not so-good theme' of the last legend, right now it is a 'real' love story. There was again a giant and his name was Arogo. He was described to be very youthful and powerful. His heart was captured by a lovely Aloya, a beautiful and attractive mortal. One day, Aloya died and this had caused the strong giant much misery and pain. He started crying and he could not be stopped. His tears created the mounds and as soon they dried up they became the Chocolate Hills. These stories convey the rich literature of the ancient Boholonos.
Reading scientific and empirical explanation may give reasoning how and what Chocolate Hills is all about. Nonetheless, experiencing Bohol, is 'knowing' the Chocolate Hills. Enjoying Bohol Island without the time-consuming and hassle-free dealings with the technicalities of traveling and touring could be taken cared of few preparations. Travel agencies in Bohol provide traveling and touring assistance to ensure a hassle-free trip. One of Bohol Island's premiere travel and tours agency is the Isla Grande Island Travel and Tours. They offer travel packages for reasonable prices. They are in charge from dealing with travel details up to accommodations and travel itineraries. The Isla Grande Travel and Tours is located at The Courtyard Building, Airport Road, Tagbilaran City, Bohol Island. As a final note, always check the internet for latest updates and information.
Bohol has been gaining more popularity these past few years. People in Bohol are warm and hospitable. The place is considered a paradise by people who have visited it. The capital is Tagbilaran city. This is the point of entry. Tagbilaran is where you can find the only airport in Bohol. People go to Bohol to enjoy the beaches and the sights to see.
Panglao Island is Bohol’s popular island where you can find the top resorts and hotels in Bohol. Alona beach is the loveliest beach in Panglao. It is where most establishments can be found. This part of the island is in the southwest end. Alona beach is one and half kilometers in length and it has several resorts offering accommodations and package tours for varying prices. Alona beach also has great diving sites offering different coral formations and filled with marine life. There are great places in Alona beach where you can eat with your family and friends. There are schools where you can learn how to dive and rent some diving equipments as well. The only setback in Alona beach are probably some big urchins which can reach the beach from time to time so it is best take precautions when you are swimming. Never forget to take your equipment for snorkeling when you are hundred meters away from the shore where you will go near the hour reef’s edge which is five meters in depth and you can observe the life underneath the waters. Most boatmen know the perfect spots to scuba dive. There are different reefs where you can see the amazing life underneath the water.
Dumaluan Beach is the beach on the southern part of Panglao. It is two and a half kilometers away from the Alona beach. There are more resorts here that can offer more privacy because most of them are exclusives like the Bohol Beach Club.
Bikini Beach is another beach eight kilometers away from the capital of Bohol. This is a popular place for families and friends who like to enjoy a picnic.
Momo Beach is another beach on the northern part of Panglao island. This is a beach with shallow waters.
Doljo Beach is situated on the northwestern side of Panglao. It is closer to Momo beach and it is a good beach as well. It is free from the common sea grass present in other beaches. There are several shells you can find when you walk along the beach.
Many individuals are dreaming of total relaxation in a warm tropical island, sipping a refreshing fruit juice while enjoying a lovely view of the blue horizon. This dream becomes a reality by visiting the wonderful island of Bohol. Bohol Island is a popular tourist spot because of the resorts and white sand beaches. Not only that, Bohol province is being flocked by a lot of tourists to see the Philippine Tarsier and the enigmatic mounds called the Chocolate Hills. A blast from the past would be able to give ample information about this magnificent.
The people of Bohol are said to be the progenies of the last group of settlers who stayed in the Philippines called the 'tattooed ones' (pintados). Boholanos (local of Bohol) had already a culture and customs of their own based on the artifacts burrowed at Panglao, Dauis, Tagbilaran and Mansasa. Bo-ho or Bo-ol had been the root words of the term 'Bohol'. Datu Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi made the first international pact or treaty in the Philippines through a 'Sandugo' or Blood Compact in the 1500’s. Since then on, Boholanos had been recognized as very hospitable.
The initial momentous encounter of the island with the Spaniards happened around mid-1500. It was highlighted by the famous 'Blood Compact' or 'Sandugo' or 'one blood' between the Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna. To commemorate this significant historical event, Boholanos celebrate the 'Sandugo Festival' annually. It is a festival indicating Filipino, more so, Boholano Hospitality. Nonetheless, it does not really mean that Boholanos would take their guard down against abuses and suppressions of their conquerors. There were two noted revolts or uprising against the Spanish regime in Bohol Island.
The Tamblot Uprising was one of the significant insurgency initiated by a babaylan or a native priest in the early 1600's. The next rebellion took place in 1744 until 1829 (when it was officially suppressed). The famous Dagohoy Rebellion led by the charismatic Francisco Dagohoy (also known as Franscisco Sendrijas). It was considered to be the longest upheaval against Spain in the history of the Philippines. Bohol was politically considered under the administration of Cebu until it was finally and officially considered as an independent municipality in 1854.
The beauty and wonders of Bohol Island is definitely can be compared to picture-perfect postcards: very attractive and very enticing. Going and staying in the island of Bohol would certainly make those gorgeous images into reality. The island is a favorite tourist destination all over the world for years and the local government would like to maintain the status. With the help of their official website (http://www.bohol.gov.ph/) accessing vital facts or information regarding Bohol Island is just a few clicks away. The official website is very useful and easy to navigate. This would greatly help potential visitors to have a glimpse of what the island of Bohol is all about.
Bohol is a topnotch tourist hotspot. It has so many things to offer local and foreign tourists. Bohol has a rich culture, a rich background, and a rich stable of sights that are showcased in a tourist-friendly manner. What’s more, you could never possibly go hungry for the duration of your stay in Bohol.
Bohol restaurants are aplenty and they are as varied as the cuisine they represent. Choosing among Bohol restaurants could be difficult if you are only to choose one but easy for every kind of food adventurer. Food lovers will find the ultimate gastronomic pleasure from among Bohol restaurants.
Loboc River Cruise Restaurant – No Bohol exploration is complete without a cruise to Loboc River. Aside from the stunning views, there are the delicious platters of food offered on buffet, eat-all-you-can setting. Grilled seafood, squid, and fish are common fares. But there are also a variety of meat and vegetable dishes that guests would not want to miss. Then there’s the dessert, which is mostly composed of fresh fruits. [Loboc River, Bohol]
Mira Villa Restaurant – Prawns are the most popular order gotten from Mira Villa’s patrons. You get to pick which of the live seafood you like and have it cooked the way you like. You can have your seafood grilled or sautéed depending on what you like according to your mood for the day. Having that number of options to have your meal, there’s no reason for you not to enjoy. [F.V. Harrison ext, Booy, Tagbilaran City, Bohol; (6338) 235 4761]
Pyramid Restaurant Bar and Cottages – If you like to dine on the seaside, this is the perfect place to go. Aside from the spectacular view, there’s a hefty serving of fresh seafood. Then there’s a variety of Western dishes peppering the menu. At night, Pyramid is the place to go with lulling sounds that drown the night away. [www.alona-pyramid.com; Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol; (6338) 502 9168]
Trudi’s Place – If budget meal is what you seek, Trudi’s Place is where you should be. This is one of the restaurants in Alona Beach that is sought by tourists, locals and foreign alike, for its good food, great ambience, and outstanding service. The beginning of Trudi’s Place is humble. That’s probably why it does not charge as much as the other restaurants of the same caliber. [Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol]
Narcosis Bar – The Alona beachfront houses some of the most notable Bohol restaurants and Narcosis Bar is one of them. Seafood and vegetable are a common fix for bar guests. [www.losthorizonresort.net; Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol]
Bohol Bee Farm – This is a refreshing option among the Bohol restaurants. It showcases lots of unique dishes that are notable for the ingredients used and the manner of which they were cooked. The organic salad is a must-try. [http://www.boholbeefarm.com/; vickywallace@boholbeefarm.com; Dao, Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol; (6338) 502 2288, (639)17 304 1491]
Bohol is the tenth largest island of the Philippine archipelago. It is situated in Central Visayas with its capital Tagbilaran City. This little paradise island is world-renowned for its beautiful and eye-captivating tourist attractions.
One of the major attractions in Bohol is its fabulous beach resorts. These beach resorts are enumerable and countless across Bohol Island. Each of them paints typical scenery of a tropical resort. Accented with palm trees, long stretches of fine white sand and crystal blue waters complete their paradise-like panorama.
A number of these splendid beach resorts on Bohol Island are Alona Kew White Beach Resort, Ananyana Beach Resort, Dumaluan Beach Resort, Lost Horizon Beach Resort, Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa, Bohol Beach Club, and Panglao Island Nature Resort. These mentioned resorts are located on Dauis-Panglao Island, a smaller island of Bohol.
Meanwhile, there are still plenty of equally fantastic beach resorts in Dauis-Panglao, as well as in other coastal towns of Bohol. The Coco White Beach Resort is located along the bay of Guindulman, while the Bituon Beach Resort is strategically situated on top of wonderful cliffs of the same town. A certain beautiful beach resort is situated in another island of Bohol. Isla Hayahay is to be found in Pangangan Island, Calape. The Flower Beach Resort is located in tranquil surroundings in the town of Anda, Bohol.
Those mentioned are just a small number of beach resorts found in Bohol. Each of them has their own strategies and amenities to accommodate guests, from the cozy well-maintained bungalows complete with modern facilities, mouth-watering dishes, and breathtaking scenic views. A dream vacation on these terrific spots would be well worth while.
Holidays and vacations spent on these spectacular white sand beaches would perfectly turn out to be enjoyable at the same time memorable. It is great for a family vacation, for honeymooners, lovers, and friends who want to get away from their stressful work and city life. Bohol beaches are definitely the place to be with their serenity and tropical ambiance that is soothing for vacation-goers.
Beach activities such as snorkeling, diving, outdoor and water sports, or just simply sitting back and relaxing under the shade of palm trees put in excitement and fun. In addition to that, recreational facilities are also available at some of these beach resorts such as jacuzzis, spas, island hopping, and scuba diving.
Bohol takes pride in its great number of world-class white sandy beaches. Beach resorts offer quality service to ensure tourists pleasure and contentment. The white sand beaches never fail to impress even the meticulous critic.Bohol beaches are guaranteed for a one-of-a-kind dream vacation realized.
Dolphin watching has never been as exciting and easy as tourists travel to Panglao, one of the 7,107 islands in the Philippines. This destination boasts of pristine beaches, spectacular coral reefs, honest and endearing local guides and most of all, peaceful waters under the hot sun.
Panglao Island has many beach resorts lined on its coasts. The place welcomes both back packers and first class tourists. Travelling to Panglao is an hour plane ride from Manila, the Philippines’ capital, to the province of Bohol. When the traveler reaches the Tagbilaran Airport, they then take a 30-minute taxi ride to the Panglao resorts. It’s that simple!
Tourist packages include sea tours and land tours. While the land tours will bring tourists to amazing destinations such as the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, the emerald green Loboc River, pools under caves, viewing of the smallest primate in the world called the Tarsier, and walk the aisles of century old churches with walls made from egg shell concoctions, the sea tour should not be missed by first time travelers to the island.
The sea tour starts at 5 am when tourists clad in favorite swim outfits are welcomed by the sunrise with breakfast in motorboats. The motorboats’ destination is the breakfast areas of the dolphins a few kilometers away from Panglao shores. Due to the keen skills of the boat drivers, tourists will see the dolphins in no time. It would be hard to get camera shots of these beautiful harmless creatures because they would be swimming here and there and everywhere by the dozens!
After two hours of sheer madness looking at dolphins bobbing up and down, swimming right beside one’s motorboats, the sea tour will bring the travelers to Balicasag Island for snorkeling. Balicasag reef is a protected sanctuary where fishes abound due to the untouched corals. Big motorboats park in deep waters while smaller canoes called “bancas” bring the sea travelers to the snorkeling site. The boatmen let the swimmers bring small pieces of bread because once in the waters just barely half a foot deep, the bread will entice fish to go near it. Literally dozens of fish in varied sizes and colors instantly appear right in front of one’s mask. The famous Captain Jacques Cousteau once said that the Philippine coral reefs diversity is the best in the world and Balicasag Reef Sanctuary is living proof of this remark.
After snorkeling for an hour or two, the travelers grab early lunch at the Balicasag Island where fresh fish can be bought and have a friendly local cook prepare it. By 1pm, the swimming travelers would be back in their resorts in Panglao and laze away the whole afternoon, reminiscing the excitement of Philippine dolphin watching at its finest.
Bohol is a Philippine island which celebrates a festivity of flavors. Eating is actually one of the penchants of the Filipinos particularly Boholanos. There are several restaurants in Bohol offering different dishes. There are many dishes in Bohol with varying prices. The restaurants in Bohol are places you must also visit aside from the beautiful beaches and the famous Chocolate Hills.
1. The Pyramid - This is a restaurant situated in the Alona Beach. Customers here can enjoy a nice view of the beach in their open restaurant. They serve a mixture of Filipino and continentals dishes. This restaurant is ideal for those with delicate taste. Their best sellers include clubhouse sandwich and pork cordon bleu. For the seafood they serve one of the best Calamares in the beach. You can also enjoy tasty barbecue straight from their grill. The price of each meal costs less than four hundred pesos.
2. JASZ Restaurant - This restaurant centers on the theme which is about the sea. The design is very tropical to resemble the atmosphere in a beach. They guests here can enjoy the cozy and laid back feeling in a beach while enjoying seafood. The place is adorned with bamboo decorations. The tables near the beach are perfect for a romantic date complete with the candlelight.
3. Chicken Ati-Atihan - This restaurant is popular because of their barbecue. Each full meal costs two hundred pesos. Guests will surely enjoy their halo-halo with buko as dessert. Other popular order includes the hot sisig that can be spicy too.
4. Garden Cafe - This restaurant chose a very western central theme. They employ deaf waiters and guests are asked to write their orders. Their best seller is their steak with some onion rings. Each dish costs less than five hundred pesos. They also serve in large portions.
5. Hayahay Pizza - For those who are craving for some Italian this restaurant is the place to be. This restaurant is known for their large portions of tasty pizzas. It could be odd seeing a pizza place in the beach but there are many people who still enjoy hot pizza even in the warm setting. You can eat inside or enjoy your pizza outside along the shore. The pizza costs from four hundred pesos up to five hundred pesos.
6. Loboc River Cruise - This is Bohol's famous restaurant that floats. The guests can enjoy a cruise while eating delicious Filipino dishes. There are singers that serenade guests while they enjoy the view. A buffet for each person is priced at three hundred pesos which already include the cruise.
7. Payag Jo's Chicken Inato - This restaurant's best seller will surely fill your craving for a good chicken barbecue. The food here is considered cheap because you can order several dishes for three hundred pesos. Most people like eating here with their clean hands rather than use fork and spoon.
Looking for a great beach destination? Have we got the place for you! When we say vacation we usually see white sand beaches, warm, tropical nights, beautiful sunsets, exotic food, AND exotic people. It is also an advantage if your destination is affordable (not cheap!) and can AND will cater to your every vacation desire. The beaches in Bohol are all that and more.
Bohol is a little island lying southeast of Cebu and a mere 1 hour and fifty minutes from Manila. Known for its Chocolate Hills and the lovable tarsier, Bohol boasts of equally stunning and famous beaches that are favorites of locals and tourists alike. What makes the beach destinations here unique, however, are the pristine waters and protected diving areas where world famous seashells like the Golden Cowrie and "Gloria maris" thrive and abound.
The more exclusive beach resorts are often found in Panglao Island, that little piece of land jutting next to the bigger island of Bohol. The more known beaches include Dumaluan Beach, where some of the best resorts, like the Bohol Beach Club are located. It lies on the south of the Panglao Island, and is a great place to view killer sunsets, go barefoot in powdery white sand or simply, relax.
Alona Beach also boasts its own string of known resorts, and is probably the most developed beach on Panglao Island. It has a number of diving establishments, not to mention some of the best restaurants in Bohol. There is absolutely no better way to cap off a great day of diving than eating delicious seafood at the best beach front restaurants this island has to offer! Snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts have the time of their lives here, although they have to be wary of the occasional sea urchin that may be lurking beneath the waters. A good, sturdy pair of water shoes will take care of that though.
Other beaches include the Doljo, Bikini, Anda,and Momo beaches, perfect for those who prefer quiet, leisurely strolls to the activity and hustle of the more popular beaches and resorts.
True, there are a lot of beaches out there, too many, in fact, that at times it may seem hard to choose. However, there is no doubt that you will have a memorable vacation experience spent exploring in Bohol's beautiful and world-renowned beaches. Aside from the good food, excellent swimming and diving amenities and romantic sunsets you get the genuine tropical experience that only Bohol can offer.
With all its wonderful tourist spots, the province of Bohol is not only a very nice place to visit, but it is also an excellent place to go shopping. Featuring several malls of various sizes, Bohol shopping is all about fun and entertainment. Perfect for the entire family, these commercial establishments offer different kinds of things to do, especially through their modern features, outstanding services and superior staff and personnel.
Nestled in the City of Tagbilaran, Plaza Marcela is a shopping center that is positioned conveniently along Pamaong and Belderol Streets of Barangay Cogon. One of the major contributors in providing people with quality Bohol shopping experiences, this establishment holds regular shows and special events in order to attract more shoppers. The place is highly recommended for the entire family as it showcases different entertainment features including a gaming center, where both kids and adults are guaranteed to have fun. This mall also has a clean and spacious food court, where various kinds of delicious food and drinks await hungry customers. Additionally, it also hosts several fast food chains like Greenwich and Jollibee. Some of the commendable retail stores and shops available inside include the hobby house Filbars, the clothing line Hammerhead and the music store Odyssey.
Alturas Supermarket Corporation is a very nice shopping complex for the entire family, which is situated along B. Inting Street, also in the City of Tagbilaran. It houses a department store, where customers can shop for clothes, shoes and toys. It also has a huge supermarket that features different kinds of important merchandises, ranging from food all the way down to other personal items. Furthermore, this place is also a very good place to buy all sorts of footwear.
Definitely one of the biggest commercial centers in Bohol, people can easily find Island City Mall within the municipality of Dauis. This place is a one-stop shop for almost everything including food, clothing and entertainment. Inside this mall, people of all ages are guaranteed to have a great time. It has modern cinemas, which is perfect for watching your favorite movies and pay-per-view sporting events. At the activity center, shoppers can watch shows, music performances as well as concerts. Some of the notable retail stores available inside include the photo-processing center Kodak, Bo’s coffee shop and the fast food chain KFC.
Probably the biggest and grandest shopping hub in the province, BQ Mall is situated along CPG Avenue, likewise in Tagbilaran City. It has a supermarket, a pharmacy and a department store. Furthermore, it is home to numerous fast food chains and restaurants like McDonalds, Dunkin Donut and Pizza Hut. For those who prefer to eat Filipino food, they can dine conveniently at Gerry’s Grill. The place also has several modern cinemas for those who want to relax and watch their favorite films.
Looking for the perfect getaway from all the work-related stress? Searching for that perfect honeymoon spot? Imagine yourself lying on a pristine white sand beach dotted with lush greens and grass thatched cottages, a cool tropical breeze kissing your suntanned cheeks, the sound of rushing waves from the clear blue ocean beckoning you to dip into it’s cool, soothing waters. And then head back to your private villa to relax and enjoy the scenic view. Experience all that bliss and more in Bohol’s Panglao Island Nature Resort.
Located in Bingag, Dauis, Bohol, all it takes to get there is a one and a half hour plane ride from Manila to Tagbilaran. The resort offers free shuttle bus transfers to and from the airport which only takes around 30 minutes.
Upon arriving at the resort, guests are treated to a welcome drink and a cool towel to freshen up.
Choose from either a beach front or garden view guestroom, with each cottage having its own private lanai. Or opt to have your own bungalow nestled atop the cliffs, with a private jacuzzi and a spectacular view of the sea.
The rooms in themselves are already a mini-paradise for the weary. Each room is equipped with an in-room coffee and tea maker, remote controlled air-conditioning, satellite cabled TV, IDD/NDD phone service, refrigerator, personal café, hairdryer, veranda with drying rack, and a private bathroom with hot and cold shower, (bathtub in the De Luxe rooms and outdoor Jacuzzi in the Bungalows). The large glass windows allow you to enjoy the view outside, even while taking a shower in the bathroom. Wi-fi internet access is also available throughout the resort; just take note that all electrical outlets are 220 volts.
Even dining is a delight to the senses. The restaurant features the best of Filipino and Western cuisine in an elegant yet relaxed beachfront setting. Breakfast and dinner are complimentary.
If you’re up for some fun, you could visit the resort’s natural underground Cambagat Cave, which is just a 5 minute walk from the hotel lobby. Feel free to use the fitness gym, and the lap pool at the spa or take a dip in the cool waters of their infinity pool. A game room complete with facilities for darts, chess, table tennis, and billiards is also available.
For the more adventurous, there are a variety of activities and guided tours to choose from including: scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, Island Hopping Tour, Sunset Cruising, Bohol Countryside Tour, cave diving and swimming, Loboc River Cruise, Chocolate Hills Tour, Old Churches Tour, and Antique Shopping.
You are sure to get excellent service and exquisite pampering from the resort's staff and crew with the 24-hour room service, laundry and dry cleaning service, and dining service.
The rates are reasonable, with a Superior Room at $143 per night, De Luxe Room at $168 and the Bungalow for $183. For more information on their rates and services or to make reservations online.
The fine amenities, spectacular views, and excellent service make this island resort a natural paradise where one could simply relax, be pampered, and leave all their cares behind. A perfect getaway for families, couples, and a great venue for business gatherings, Panglao Island Nature Resort is definitely one of the best resorts in Bohol that is worth including on your list of dream vacations.