Alluring Alona

One of the most alluring natural beauty of Bohol is simply its beaches. And no place these beaches can be found than in Bohol's beach heartland - Panglao Island. The alluring Alona Beach is one of its gem that will surely entice any beach-lover or sun-worshipers to its shores. A beach full of picturesque seascape and serene ambiance like no other.  From morning to midday sun up to sunset, Alona's 800 meter stretch of white powdery sand, in the south of Panglao Island never fails to create a relaxing mood, de-stressing therapy and reinvigorating spirit as it induces all-time authentic tranquility.

Alluring Alona.

Alona Beach in the morning...

Alona all by yourself...

An early morning stroll by the beach is one of the best thing that you can do to enjoy Alona Beach. Morning is the best time to do beach strolling as this is the time that you seem to owned the beach all by yourself.  But I noticed that even in midday sun, Alona Beach still seem not much crowded like other public beaches I have been before.  The shores is fringed with numerous tall palm coconut trees that makes me think I'm placed in a secluded paradise. The pure white sand is enticing for a stroll and play by the beach.  While, the layers of shades of blue ocean water dotted with white bancas (outrigger boat) creates a real-life and life-sized painting-like scenery that is very tranquil and serenity feast on my eyes. These picturesque scenes are all beach therapy for me on my last day in Bohol, and surely for anyone who has a weary soul that searches for invigoration and relaxation.

Starfishes often bound to be seen a few meters from the shore.  I truly enjoyed picturing them in the clear waters.  And I would often see them in red and blue colors that are perfectly striking from beneath the submerge white sands of Alona. At times, you also see various sea fishes swimming around.  This just proves to me that Bohol never ends in richness of natural wonders.

Alona is calling you..

Portrait of pure serenity.

The ocean background is like a huge painting with those bancas hanging like toys.

Pure shores.

Exploring the west side of Alona brings me to the huge and diverse coral stone formations standing as low as 3 feet and as high as 10 feet. These coral stones have sharp edges but wonderfully crafted by nature because it was naturally shaped and placed near the shores.  A stair-shaped rocks were made behind and I obliged to climbed up and see what I can see up there. The flocking trees above it makes a perfect refuge from the hot summer sun. It was there from above a cliff viewing area I have seen the best view of Alona - a spectacular seascape where the blue ocean is dotted with seemingly uniform white colored bancas set alongside the white sand beach and coral rock formations by the shore. It was a seascape of Alona Beach that I won't forget.

Me in the shores of alluring Alona Beach.

Alona is most likely the most visited and most beautiful of the beaches in Panglao. The beach has a nice line of resorts for visitors to choose from. There are many full-service beach and dive resorts reside in Alona Beach. Dive tours to Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands, famous dive spots, can be arranged here. You'll never feel shorthanded when it comes to your diving needs since dive shops or dive centers here are well equipped. The white sand and the tropic waters may seem very enticing, however there are still some precautions that should be taken. Be careful when wading in the water when you're out about 20 meters or more since a lot of sea urchins are found in the water at that distance from the coast. A hundred meters further will bring you to the edge of a reef, which is perfect for snorkeling.

Sun-kissed skin in Bohol!

Playing with the starfish in the shores.

I love Bohol!!!

Bohol's beach heartland, Panglao Island is located east of the mainland Bohol island and part of the province as a whole. It is connected via land bridge to the main island that's why access to the other famed places of interests in Bohol is easy and smooth.  Panglao island beaches became a favorite destination of tourists, local and foreign alike due to the white sand beaches and its cool crystal blue waters and the world-famous surrounding dive sites. The visitors stay, and some even for good, just for the tranquil ambiance of the place. Year after year, a lot of visitors visit Panglao espcially Alona Beach which is said to be the most beautiful beach in the area.  I thought, it is no wonder that in 2003 the province was named "Destination of the Year" by the Philippine Department of Tourism.

I have research and found an interesting bit of history about how Panglao's name came to be. In 1803, Spanish explorers came to the shores of Panglao in search of fresh water. At the time a couple of natives on the seashore were making fishing devices called "panggaw". One of the Spaniards asked what the name of the island was. The natives - who thought the visitors were asking what they were making then replied "panggaw". Hence, from that term, was derived the name Panglao.

This a good time to have intuitive thinking and soul therapy.

Wonderful coral rock formations at the west side of the beach.

It's all time summer high in Bohol!

Catching the best of Alona's seascape.

There are many ways to explore this surging beach destination in Visayas region.  By land, there's a tricycle and habal-habal (motorcycle) to tour around.  Sit comfortably on a smooth leather seat and enjoy the sweeping views of the Panglao landscapes and rural scenes that silently slip by.  If you want to have a seaward exploration and adventure in the islands, try their island hopping tours and banca cruises where you will be treated to an island escapade experience that you will never forget. Plan ahead of your visit to Panglao as there are many resorts and inns to stay - that some tends to hike price at certain seasons and lacks rooms especially at summer. Nevertheless, budget travelers need not to worry as there many affordable inns and resorts to stay in Panglao.

Panglao is divided into two municipalities: Panglao and Dauis. There are beaches in Dauis as well as in Panglao town. Beaches of Panglao town are Alona Beach, Doljo Beach, Momo Beach, Bolod Beach, Bagobo Beach and Danao Beach in the barangays of Tawala, Doljo, Tangnan, Bolod, Libaong and Danao respectively. Beaches of Dauis are in barangays Bingag, Dao, and Biking. Other popular beaches aside from Alona Beach are Bolod Beach and Doljo Beach. Bolod Beach is located at barangay Bolod and situated on the southside of the island, about two and a half kilometers east of Alona Beach. The beach has a one and a half kilometer stretch of white sand, the largest shoreline in the area. Famed Bohol Beach Club and Dumaluan Beach Resort is located in this beach. While, Doljo Beach is located at Barangay Doljo and lies on the northwest side of the island and at its very tip. The 3km beach is relatively unexplored and undeveloped, wide and with white sand that stretches so far out and the sea bed slopping gently towards the deep. It is fringed with tall coconut palm trees which add much to its tropical look.

Ocean of tranquility... only in Bohol.

A seascape of Alona Beach that I won't forget.

Souvenir shops in Alona Beach

Actually there are tour offerings in exploring Panglao Island.  Itinerary includes visit to Hinagdanan Cave, Bohol Bee Farm, Dauis Church and Shell Museum. We were able to snag a trip to Hinagdanan Cave before going to Tagbilaran Airport as my mom who have been there highly recommends a visit to this beautiful cave.

Hinagdanan Cave is my last blast of natural beauty of Bohol. Located in Dauis, Panglao Island, beneath it are numerous formations of stalactites and stalagmites.  It is almost dark and slippery wet inside the cave so be careful walking around but it is naturally lighted cavern mainly from a cluster of three holes in one side of its ceiling. It is also hot under the cave because of summer heat and its close environment so bring water to relieve from heat.  The main attraction inside the cave is the underground lagoon at the center of it. It is enticing for a swim on it however, the guide told us that it has a depth of 10 feet. 

Hinagdanan Cave entrance.

Inside Hinagdanan Cave

The light from the ceiling.

Hinagdanan Cave's lagoon. Though, its really dark inside our guide adjust the ISO of our camera and capture this beautiful shot.

The magnificent Hinagdanan Cave - natural beauty like no other.

All smiles after a peek into the cave.

It feels quite scary and paranoia inducing inside Hinagdanan Cave as there are so many dark caverns, crevices and rock cabins that makes you think, snakes or croodiles are lurking in those places.  But don't be afraid, the cave is clear of any of those creatures. And a lot of tourist is flocking the cave to appreciate its natural beauty. The lagoon in the center made it beautiful and sealed its authenticity as a natural beauty of Bohol like no other. I myself never thought that Hinagdanan Cave is a spectacular natural beauty just like the rest of other Bohol's natural sights. Returning above the entrance of the cave, there are many souvenir shops around it that we were unable to resists but look upon and buy some more "pasalubongs" like irresistible cool designed t-shirts from Island Souvenirs!

Street scene in Tagbilaran City.

Waiting to go home at Tagbilaran Airport.

Bohol in the air... Daghan kaayong salamat!

We drive away from Panglao and arrive after 15 to 20 minutes in Tagbilaran City. Here, I got a view of the daily life scene in this capital city of Bohol. People doing there business chores while the streets is crowded with numerous motorcycles going to their intended destinations. This was different from the simple, rural and laidback life scenes I have seen in the countryside for the last two days of my stay in the province. As I boarded flight PR178 to Manila, I reflected all the best travel experiences I had in Bohol. This is a great way to celebrate my birthday and to make it totally unforgettable by doing my one great passion in life - to travel.    Even on the plane I still feel the cool breeze from Alona Beach damping on my skin. I thought, this is just a proof that I had an experience of a lifetime in Bohol. And I really had an experience of a lifetime in Bohol and so I in every travels I had. However, I'm glad my special day started and ended in a wonderful place that is truly blessed with alluring natural beauty named Bohol. Visiting Bohol is a total immersion to its natural beauty. A natural beauty like no other that will surely allure anyone. 

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Alluring Alona is the last part of my Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty series that happened last March 15-17 on my birthday week. This trip is memorable as this is the first time I traveled and celebrated my birthday out of home.  This is a true experience of a lifetime trip!

You might also be interested in reading the other parts of Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty.

• Part 1 - Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty
  
• Part 2 - Bohol's Island Escapades

Pure Shores

One of the beach scenes of Guam that I won't forget is the long stretch of pure shores of Tumon Bay that seems to be endless.  The pure powder white sand beach, cerulean seawater, remote palm trees and blue sky reminds me a lot of the song "Pure Shores" by All Saints and original soundtrack of the film The Beach that stars Leonardo DiCaprio. The lyrics goes... "I've crossed the deserts for miles. Swam water for time. Searching places to find. A piece of something to call mine... I'm moving. I'm coming. Can you hear, what I hear? It's calling you my dear. Out of reach (Take me to my beach). I can hear it, calling you. I'm coming not drowning. Swimming closer to you..." This section of Tumon is named Mata'pang Beach. Named after a Chamorro chieftain of the village of Tumon.  It's shores seem inviting for a play or swim. At most times, especially in the morning it is quiet and not crowded. That's why its easy to relax and stay calmed as if you own the beach all by yourself! Just like in the lyrics of Pure Shores, the shores of Mata'pang Beach seems to call you in its shores... to play, swim, relax...  

More about Guam here.

Bohol Accomodation: Paragayo Resort

Paragayo Resort is just 3 minute walk from Panglao's famed beach of Alona.  And though it is not a beach front hotel and resort, yet, it is one of the most convenient and well-maintained resort in Panglao.   First, it is convenient because it just along the way and not far from the access roads. It also near the souvenirs shops, internet rentals, restaurants, pubs/bars, coffee cafes and budget eateries around Baranggay Tawala. Just two shops beside it, is a convenient and grocery store that does not sell overprice items. The resort is also near the tourist police office. Second, it is well-maintained because I find its environs clean all the time and well-maintained by its staff. The staffs are friendly too and not hesitant to help you if you need inquiries regarding tours around Bohol or Panglao.

Lounge?

Resort's facade.

Relaxing ambiance.

Paragayo Resort is heavily landscaped garden. But the ornamental plants and coconut trees just adds appeal to its tropical ambiance. I love their thatch nipa style lounging area where you can have peaceful and quiet mornings and breakfast.  It is a good place to hang-out while not liking to watch cable television of your room or spending idle time while you're not yet in an itinerary trip.  There's also a hammock in one of the thatches where you can lay and relax under the breeze of summer.  The resort is also wi-fi zoned area and its free! Just asked the resorts' receptionist password for access.  Their wi-fi signal and connection is strong around the resort especially at the thatch nipa lounges so doing shout updates and internet access is not a problem while staying in Paragayo Resort. A bit of problem is the water in the resort (or in the whole Panglao) because its quite salty and seawater. I do hope they improve this water supply amenity.

The rooms in native and tropical theme style.

Standard rooms good for 4 persons.

Rona's Corner Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, 6340

I have learned about Paragayo Resort through the collection of card referrals of mom who has been to Bohol last 2009. This resort/hotel was also recommended by our Bohol tour guide as it also offers good prices for accommodation in Panglao Island. It also offers tour services around the island and easily located around Tawala, Panglao Island. 

About Paragayo Resort

Paragayo Resort is a modern native resort inspired, designed and built by Mark Kilroy along with his Filipino wife Thelma. The resort has 20 Bedrooms and is located right at the heart of Tawala and affords its guests with a 3-minute leisurely walk to the world famous Alona beach. Throughout Paragayo Resort are landscaped gardens that blossom all year round. A stroll through our gardens are a feast for the senses with fragrant palms, trees and cacti. Flowering shrubs and a variety of tropical foliage that makes this retreat a true paradise. Just by walking alone through the resort's breezy corridors and airy verandas is enough to make you feel the holiday ambience .

For more information visit Paragayo Resort's website.
Paragayo Resort, At Rona's Corner Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, 6340
Telephone numbers: (038) 502 4043 or (038) 502 9172
Mobile number: (Smart) 0918 7183316
E-mail: paragayoresort@gmail.com

Summer's sunniest

Summer is the time when days are hotter than the ordinary days. This is the perfect time that we engaged in physical activities like playing new sports or trying new hobbies that will let our time pass by. But undoubtedly, summer is the perfect time to travel.  A good time to see or  discover new places that will enrich our experience and let us have a stress-free environment  that all we can do is relax, relax and relax. Look for that ideal summer destination that awaits you this summer. It could be just the simple province of your relatives or a beautiful beach that you often see in the magazines. Have yourself enjoy those places this summer... After a tiring trip in Tagaytay for a first taste of Summer 2010, we made a stop to rest for a while in a mall. And while waiting for our travel companions, I captured this noticeable bright sunlight of summer sun gleaming from a mango tree that reminds me that its high time for summer!

Cebu Accomodation: Sampaguita Suites Plaza Garcia

One of the most affordable place to stay in Cebu is Sampaguita Suites Plaza Garcia.  It is conveniently located in the city capitol grounds and a few steps away from Cebu's famous and historical landmarks like Basilica de Sto. Nino and Magellan's Cross and the chapel that houses it, along Magallanes Street, fronting the MCWD office.  A few blocks away, you'll find another historical site of Fort . What I also do like about Sampaguita Suites aside from the affordable accommodation rates, is that they have free Wi-Fi internet service that lets you go online and in touch with your family and friends through internet anytime you want. Plus one of their amenities is Glam Nails, a hand and foot spa that offers massage services, reflexology, body scrub, praffin treatment, waxing,  nail art, foot and hand spa, manicure and pedicure. My travel mates tried their room service body massage during our visit.

Sampaguita Suites Plaza Garcia is conveniently located in downtown Cebu.

A view of Cebu from the window.

During our visit in Cebu we availed their "Barkada Room" where 4 people can be accommodated for only P1,298 per room per night. Isn't it affordable for friends traveling on a budget but still gets quality hotel services? The furnishings of the hotels are new and well-maintained.  Staffs are friendly and accommodating too even during we had to be charge for not checking out on-time.  Moreover, The room that we stayed also a had a good view of the Cebu City Hall building overlooking with the famed Cebu's landmark - the chapel that houses Magellan's Cross.  Their location is very convenient for tourists who want to visit the must-see landmarks in Cebu as it is just near the hotel.  Access to public vehicles is also easy with the hotel's location as it is just near the main roads where various public vehicles can be taken by visitors.

Reception Area.

Sample rooms from Sampaguita Suites website.

With 39 rooms and a 24-hour coffee shop and restaurant and service elevator, Sampaguita Suites – Plaza Garcia has a meeting room that can accommodate 10-12 persons and a rooftop al fresco that can easily seat up to a 100 guests. Sampaguita Suites-Plaza Garcia also offers free shuttle service to and from the airport, ferry and fast craft terminals. But this is only in a certain limited time. You can call their office for the schedule of the free shuttle service.

For more information and reservation, visit Sampaguita Suites-Plaza Garcia website.
Sampaguita Suites - Plaza Garcia, Plaza Garcia Building, Magallanes St., Cebu City (near Sto. Nino Basilica and Magellan’s Cross)
Telephone nos (032) 505-3978 and 505-3979

Bohol's Island Escapades

The beauty of Bohol is a natural beauty like no other. One of the best ways to explore this natural beauty is to discover its marine world and island seascapes that will surely let you utter the words - awesome, stunning and wow! The natural beauty of Bohol does not end only in Tarsier encounter or seeing its famed Chocolate Hills in the land but continues to the underwater bloom of its marine life and its pristine island beaches surrounding it.  These authentic natural wonders can only be found in exploring the natural beauty of Panglao Island and its nearby isles - Balicasag, Virgin, and Pamalican Islands.

Seaward to Bohol's islands.

Panglao Island is known for its diving locations and tourist resorts. At the pristine Alona Beach, tours can be organised to world famous diving sites. The dive sites that can be found on the northwest tip of the Panglao Island are Doljo Beach, Napaling and Puntod. These sites are deep and the currents are strong. Panglao island is the site of Habitat for Humanity's "Tabalong Habitat Village". The village, still under construction, has capacity for 500 houses on land donated by local merchant Alturas. So far, around 200 houses had been built and inhabited.(Source) Politically, it is divided into two municipalities: Dauis and Panglao, part of Bohol Province. Panglao is located southwest of the island of Bohol and east of Cebu. Currently Panglao is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, famous for its beautiful dive spots and its coral reef, as well as many several islet ideal for beach bathing like the islets of Gak-ang and Pontod.(Source)

Good morning Bohol!!!

Island hopping starts 6 in the morning

Seaward...

A fresh start to explore na marine world and islands of Bohol is through island hopping and dolphin and whale watching in the waters of Panglao Island. Through an arrangement with our guide, Kuya George (0918-3858084/0920-80221714), we decided to have island hopping in Panglao Island and it nearby islands the following day after .  I am very excited in this activity since it also my first time to do whale and dolphin watching. Together with my travelmates, we leave our hotel room at 6 in the morning, since it is advised that in this time that dolphin watching it best viewed.  Alona Beach in the morning gives a scenic view of beach life. The beach is beautifully lit by early sunrise light. But as we sail seaward our banca (motorized boat), we encounter motor boat malfunction that cause the reason for us to miss dolphin watching.  At that time, I was not worried if our boat will be work again or someone must rescue us, I'm more concern on missing the dolphin watching. Hadn't we had this unfortunate incident we will able to see the dolphins swimming in the wild. I really felt "sayang" in the opportunity.  We missed our first activity and then proceeded to snorkeling at Balicasag Island after one of the tour boats from dolphin watching rescue us and pulled us to the island.

The marine sanctuary island of Balicasag.

Special shoes for the underwater world of Bohol.

Balicasag Island marine sanctuary.

We love Balicasag Island!

I didn't know that fishes loves mocha cake too...

Balicasag Island is approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour away from Panglao Island. In Balicasag Island are some of the best dive sites in the Philippines. It is also declared as a marine sanctuary. You will find a 400 meter marine sanctuary of healthy corals with plenty of pelagic visitors characterized by vertical walls over deep waters with strong currents.There are many things that one can enjoy when in Balicasag Island. You can dip in the water or watch countless colored fishes as the swim by the shallow water. If you want to see the underwater beauty of Bohol seas, go snorkeling or scuba diving. You can rent snorkeling or scuba diving amenities from the resort. On shallow waters, one can spot corals and fishes that's why it is a good spot for snorkeling. Balicasag is perfect for snorkeling because of the water is shallow and beautiful corals are everywhere.

Snorkeling at Balicasag Island is one great summer activity.

The shores of Balicasag with the tour boats.

We were transferred to a small banca (boat) for a fee to the sanctuary where we can snorkel because the large boat can't dock on the sanctuary area. And it is truly living to its famed word-of-mouth that it is a perfect spot for snorkeling because of its rich marine biodiversity.  Corals are plenty and the colorful fishes are countless that swims around with you. The whole marine sanctuary of Balicasag is guided with a buoyed cord so you know where the limits are and it is safe. Under the buoyed cord border you can see the sloping down of underwater land where there are more corals and fishes that can be seen. I think that area is the entrance spot for scuba diving at Balicasag.  Snorkelers can still enjoyed that underwater view of scuba world by holding in the buoyed cord and snorkel around. I am particularly fascinated with schools of small blue fishes in the marine sanctuary.  They look nice swimming together under the sea.  The small violet fishes were nice too but they seemed to stay often in the deep waters.  Fishes here are used to human so most of them are not shy and afraid to swim with visitors.  This is a perfect summer activity. The water is clear and the weather is good. I enjoyed snorkeling at Balicasag! I think in my over excitement in snorkeling I think I saw a "tilapia" in the water! It is also here that I learned that the fishes also like to feed on mocha cakes! That's how they are used to human visitors in the sanctuary.

After an exhausting but exhilarating snorkeling, we rest for a while in the island where there are a hundred families are inhabiting the island. Most of them rely on tourism and fishing industry so its good to buy or eat something in their businesses. It adds to their income. There are no resorts in the island as it mostly inhabited by the locals and few establishments of restaurants only catering to tourists can be found.  Electricity is regulated in the island. Only 6 hours of usage for a whole day according to the locals. So it definitely has a rural-feel to stay in the island but it also laid-back and relaxing at the same time. After a 30 minutes of rest, we were told that our boat is now ready (and no more motor malfunction, it was fixed at Balicasag) for next island to explore.
 

Seagreen! Going to Virgin Island.

As we sailed through the ocean, our boat is greeted with warm sunshine of summer with the cool breeze blew by the sea.  The cool breeze of the ocean is relaxing.  It you gives a taste of summer.  Where the sun is crispy hot but elicits lovable mood to enjoy summer. The ocean view is marvelous. I can see the island slowly growing small as we sail away. The colors of the sea are interplaying with the vast layers of shades of blue, cerulean and sea green. Ocean views at Bohol are definitely picturesque worthy to be treasured.

The stunning Virgin Island and its sandbar.

Approximately 20 to 30 minutes we reach Virgin Island, the last destination of island hopping and the last island we explore.  Virgin Island is actually not an island but a sandbar.  The island is crescent moon-shaped with two arms extending to a shape of a crescent moon made of up of white sandbar. The sandbar as the main feature of Virgin Island is a perfect spot for picture-taking. When we arrive, I am delighted to be greeted by a marvelous view of one of the crescent arm sandbar of the island where we docked.  The island is so scenic with its beautiful sandbar.  The pure and fine white sand is perfectly blending with the blue color of the sea. Then some locals greeted us and sells live sea urchins to eat. It is said to have been a good source of energy and an aphrodisiac.  My travelmates try it but I didn't bother to try the exotic treat. According to them, it taste like raw mussel (tahong).

Sandbar of Virgin Island.

Sea Urchins for sale

Exploring Virgin Island

At the center of Virgin Island is a lush vegetation. It is also also dotted with coconut trees without too much crowd of people or visitors. It makes you think that you own the island or you've been stranded to an island paradise. Exploring the first arm of sandbar, I noticed the thriving starfishes in the sea-grasses around.  I'm fascinated by these sea stars! There are so many of them lying just beneath the surface of the sandbar.  We walked towards the main island where the vegetation is located.  This is the spot where some visitors are camping for day trip or overnight stay.  It is a good spot for camping because large and tall trees that gives a perfect shade from the hot summer rays of the sun.  No hotels or accommodations to stay here to maintain the island's unspoiled beauty. But arrangement can be made to do overnight camping in the island as some visitors does in our visit.
  
Even under the scorching hot summer sun, together with travelmates, we explore the second arm of Virgin Island's sandbar. This sandbar is partly submerged in the water. Maybe 6 inches like walking in a flood. The submerged part of the islet is a good spot to take photographs because it gives an illusion of walking over the water. In this area, we saw a lot of starfishes just lying at the bottom of the sand.  Some were even mating! They thrive in this area probably because of rich sea-grass also thrive in the area.  Aside from these star creatures, I also find a lot of sea urchins thriving in the area. They are also scattered all over the sea-grass filled area of the submerged sandbar.  Sea urchins or urchins are small, spiny, globular animals which inhabit all oceans.

Starfish living in Virgin Island's sandbar.

The lush vegetation at the center of Virgin Island. 

The second sandbar of Virgin Island that is partly submerge in water.

Can you see paradise beyond?

After exploring the sandbar and sea creature encounters, we returned to the main island to explore the other side of it.  On the other side of the island, one will definitely appreciate the beautiful mountain views and scenic sights of Bohol island adjoined by the vast ocean view as this side of the island faces the main island of Bohol.  Sea shells can be collected in this area as they are scattered all over the shore.  As the noon sun continues to shine high, we walked through the beach of Virgin Island that gives a stunning reflection of light in the water.  Whilst, the reflection of sun made the sandbar whiter added a dramatic of effect in viewing the seascape of the whole island.  It was a sight to behold at Virgin Island that I won't forget.

Several locals were selling ornamental sea shells and buko (coconut) juice for refreshments in shaded tents of the sandbar. Some were consistently convincing us to try the sea urchins again.  I said no. It is not a must to buy from the locals but buying their commodities somehow will help in their rural livelihood.  I wonder how they reach the island since it is uninhabited.  We did try the refreshing buko juice to ease the heat of summer while continue to admire the alluring sea views of Virgin Island.  This is a perfect way to experience island life in Bohol.

Walking in the water.

Scenic seascape of natural beauty of Virgin Island's sandbar.

So many stars in Virgin Island!

Unspoiled beauty: the back side of Virgin Island.

We left the island sun-kissed skin but the visit to Virgin Island's unspoiled paradise is worth it. This is one of the best island hopping I had in my travels. Just near Virgin Island is Cat Island, so called because these are where stray cats are dumped. I'm not sure if because of overpopulation of stray cats but when we sailed near the island it seems no feline friends can be found there only lush vegetation. We didn't bother to stop and see it as it seems nothing spectacular to admire in the island unlike the sandbars in Virgin Island.

Virgin Islands stunning sandbar...

Enjoying summer to the fullest at Bohol.

Island life.

Sidetrip: Pamilacan Island is a small island which is part of the municipality of Baclayon. It is between the deep sea of Bohol and Mindanao. It is only a 1-hour pump or outrigger boat ride from the town of Baclayon. It is home to more or less 200 families that relies livelihood mainly in fishing, and in the past has gone after whales, manta rays and dolphins. In the local dialect, Pamilacan means “resting place of the mantas” though some local folks say that the name of the island was derived from the word “pamilac” or harpoon, a common fishing implement used to capture whale sharks, manta rays and dolphins. Blessed with white sand beaches, the island is also a tourist destination because of magnificent dive sites nearby which gives the diver a breathtaking view of giant gorgonians, tunicates, sponges, anemones as well as other unique marine life. Aside from the beautiful white sand beaches and magnificent dive sites and bountiful marine life, the island  is popular for dolphin and whale watching, where boat tours can be arranged to see different species of dolphins and whales. Pamilacan Island also boast a 200-year-old Spanish fort.(Source) The island is out of our island hopping itinerary as it is far from Panglao Island and its nearby islets but it is worth a try to visit it as a sidetrip.



No cats in Cat Island.

Reflection of light in water.

We sailed again for roughly 40 minutes to reach the shores of Panglao Island's Alona Beach, where we started our island hopping itinerary. It was timely when we arrive past 1 pm as the weather spells gray heavy clouds and starts to pour small raindrops.  We were barely quite soaking wet when we reach the hotel that we are staying. It rained long until the whole afternoon.  The rain is  also the reason why I missed sunset viewing in Panglao because it continued to until early evening.  And though I missed the sunset at Bohol and seeing the dolphins in the wild waters, I'm still satisfied and in awe with the natural beauty that I saw and experience from the islands above to underwater wonders of Bohol. The unspoiled islands, scenic ocean views, natural sights and marine biodiversity encounters is one escapade that one should not miss when visiting Panglao Island and its nearby islands. I remember the simple yet alluring and unforgettable seascape, the beautiful reflection of light in water that I earlier saw.  It is one image of Bohol's natural beauty that I won't forget. A natural beauty like no other.  

Home bound to Panglao Island.

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Bohol's Island Escapades is the second part of my Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty series that happened last March 15-17 on my birthday week. This trip is memorable as this is the first time I traveled and celebrated my birthday out of home.  This is a true experience of a lifetime trip!

You might be interested in reading the other parts of Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty.

• Part 1 - Bohol: Allure of Natural Beauty
  
• Part 3 - Alluring Alona