Bohol is an island province in the Philippines. I call it the central wonder of the Visay Islands, because it has a lot to offer tourists. The province is not only full of natural wonders, but also rich in history. Here’s my review of the top 10 things worth doing/looking at.
(1) The Chocolate Hills, the most famous attraction in Bohol province, are 1,268 rolls of hay that turn brown in the dry season, hence the name. This natural phenomenon is unique to the Philippines. To get the best spectacular 360 degree views from an area of 50 m2. km of the area where these hilly hemispheres are scattered, climb 214 steps to the observation deck in Carmen, Bohol.
(2) Long-spotted or pubis Are the smallest primates in the world. And the smallest of this family is on Bohol. In fact, they are nocturnal, but in the zoo of the river Looc has already changed the modes of human sleep. They feed on insects and hang from tree branches. They reach the age of 20 with one mating season per year lasting 3 seconds. While it seems inhumane to keep them captive, exposing them to stupid tourists who continued to touch them and take pictures, I think it helped raise awareness of the once endangered species. So, in my opinion, it’s worth it.
(3) On a cruise along the River Lobok, you can dine or dine on board the ferry, enjoying the panoramic views of the palm grove along the river, witness the live show of The Lobok residents by the river and children bragging from a tree to jump into the water for 300 pesos.
(4) Scuba diving should not be missed (if you are a diver) as Bohol is one of the most prolific underwater landscapes in the central province of Visay. Balikasag and Kabilao Island are two of the most famous places.
(5) Ancient churches
The Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin in Bucklayon, or abbreviated Church of Bucklayon, is the second oldest church in the Philippines. It is one of the best preserved Jesuit churches in the region.
The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin in Dawis or the Dawis Church is famous for its source at the foot of the altar. They say this miracle appeared when the city was attacked by pirates a long time ago. It is also believed to have therapeutic power. So don’t forget to bring bottles home while visiting.
(6) Dolphin watching is another popular attraction on the island. It’s a 40 minute bank ride from Panglao Island and you need to be there before 7am. The dolphins were fast and there were several hundred of them. It was a wonderful sight that lasted almost an hour. It is noted that the locals 10 years ago were dolphin hunters. Today it is a protected area, and killing marine animals is strictly prohibited. Hunters became ridicule thanks to the introduction of ecotourism by local authorities.
(7) Sandugo: Bloody Treaty is the place in the town of Tagbilaran, where a monument to the blood pact (friendship agreement) concluded in 1565 between Raja Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Lagaspi from Spain was built. This place overlooks the forest, the entrance to which is prohibited because of the large number of migratory birds and other animals.
(8) The creators of Loay Bolo are local sword masters. Tourists are allowed to see how they are made, but not to buy. Its sale and distribution was the sole responsibility of the local government to ensure that bolo producers received a fair price.
(9) The Clarins family home is one of the many surviving houses of the Spanish period (bahay na bato). It is an old 19th century house of the Clarins family, which is now transformed into a national heritage site and turned into a museum.
(10) Bohol’s bee farm is more than just a honey factory. It is also a seaside resort and restaurant with organic products. Be sure to do a mini-tour of the farm where they will showcase their organic vegetable and herbal garden and general information about beekeeping. They have a small shop that sells their eco-friendly products including wine, honey, spreads and more.