Traces of commerce are evident in its capital city of Tagbilaran. Small businesses such as retail stores and markets flourish, selling basic goods and resources. Although economic life here is not as cosmopolitan as that of Cebu City or Manila, it is enough to sustain the needs of its inhabitants.
Images of semi-urbanity fade into the distance as one goes further away from the province’s capital, until one notices that he or she is transported into a different environment now, one that is more rustic and quiet. Most locals’ homes seem small yet cozy, being surrounded by green fields, tall trees, and wild creatures that seem to live harmoniously with humans.
Touring the island is a more captivating experience. It is here where one is able to explore deeply the diverse wonders Mother Nature has bestowed upon it.
Our grade school Sibika at Kultura or social science class has taught us about the popular attractions found in our country. The island of Bohol, in particular, has been known for the gentle-sloping, grass-covered fields of Chocolate Hills, and home of the cute and cuddly, wide-eyed tarsiers. However, there is more to Bohol than just these attractions. It consists of other scenic destinations worth visiting and exploring, too!
On a trip with a group of friends, I was able to witness the charm and wonders of Bohol. First stop for the day was the Loboc River Cruise. We had arrived just in time for lunch. And before the much-awaited cruise on the panoramic stretch of the Loboc River, we had our bellies filled with sumptuous local dishes served on the floating restaurant. It was also a time for chitchat with other visitors aboard the cruise.
The cruise gives one time to simply chill while watching the surrounding sceneries. In the background is soothing mellow music of bossa, jazz, and blues, performed by a live band aboard, too! From the floating restaurant, one can immediately see the Museo de Loboc, as it stands near the Loboc River looking very much imposing and majestic.
The cruise also gives one a view of the ordinary life happening along the river side: A mother washing clothes, a pair of teenagers chit-chatting, or a group of kids playing or swimming and enjoying the cool waters. But what’s really astounding and entertaining to watch are the group of community folk and children, who, on different decks near the river banks, would perform traditional dances like the tinikling or kuradang.
According to one local aboard with us, the people from the communities are taught to dance and sing to enhance their talent in performing arts and reach their full potential, thus boosting their confidence, and shedding their aloofness, so that they become friendlier in welcoming visitors of the island.
My next day started early to catch sight of the magnificent dolphins. By 5:30am, aboard a motor bangka, our group sailed further into the Bohol seas off the coasts of Panglao, Pamilacan, and Balicasag Islands, and it is here where we watched these marine wonders swim, one after the other in synchronicity, as if doing a performance! Just the mere sight of their fins or a part of their bodies above the water, seemed overwhelming, already. But wait until the boat moves farther and you will notice smaller dolphins dive into the waters with a twirl or a spin.
The sight just makes one toy with the idea of swimming with them, too, like in a scene straight out of the movie, Flipper! Or one can’t help but feel amazed, and squeal in glee witnessing these gentle giants! At Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary can be found. It can be reached around 15-20 minutes from Pamilacan Island, and is a famous site for diving and snorkeling, as it is here where you can spot a diverse number of marine creatures.
An afternoon at Bohol Bee Farm provides one with a calming, relaxing feeling. A chalet-style, homey abode, it is also a home of delectable, one-of- a-kind meals. For lunch I, together with our group, had sumptuous meals of buko pasta, spicy flower salad, and grilled prawns with organic salad. For dessert, have a taste of its one-of-a-kind ice cream in cassava cones, where aside from the usual flavors of mango, pandan, ube, and choco, it is only here where you can taste malunggay or spicy-ginger flavored ice cream!
A tour of the place also provided us with knowledge on the activities found there. Our guide toured and lectured us about organic farming, its livelihood activities for its locals, well as an exciting lecture on bee culturing, how they propagate, the duties of each kind of bee and the benefits and products bees produce. It was there where I learned that bees, asid from producing sweet, organic honey, creates stings that aid in alleviating muscle pains sue as rheumatism, arthritis, back pain, and even skin diseases.
Of course, a Bohol experience won’t be complete without a visit to the Chocolate Hills. The Chocolate Hills Complex with 214-step viewing deck, located near the town of Carmen, just a good 15-minute drive from Panglao, provides one of the best views. And while atop, in the wide expanse of brown hills that look near yet so far, one can’t help but feel overwhelmed.
With your worthwhile and enjoyable experiences on this island, you will realize that you’ve been hit by Bohol’s charm. Mother Nature has revealed itself, reminding you tha such natural things of beauty exist.
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Tags: chocolate hills, economic life, loboc river cruise, local dishes