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BOHOL IS A PLACE caught in the web of time-part
modern, part tradition. And while it is receptive to things modern, the relaxed countryside lifestyle pervades.
"Time has been very kind to the people of Bohol," says Ruby Yeo, a tourism officer. "They have assimilated what the urbanites are enjoying, without destroying or disregarding the old."
Indeed. This is evident in the religious and public structures that date as far back as the pre-Spanish era. Bohol's cultural heritage never fails to impress culture planners. The Boholanos take care of their 16th century, coral stone churches located in the towns of Buenos Aires, Carmen and Baclayon. The Dauis Church, which is located in the town of Dauis, three kilometers from Tagbilaran, is one of the Philippines' most beautiful churches. The interior has life-like murals painted on the ceiling. Legend has it that when the town was invaded by pirates, the town folk locked themselves inside the church, where a well miracu­lously appeared at the foot of the altar and sustained them for weeks. The well can still be seen in the church, and is the main source of water for the people living in the church vicinity.
But the province's real magic is its natural attractions. For two consecutive years, Bohol was named Local Destination of the Year. First-rate dive spots such as Panglao, Balicasag, Cabilao, Jao, Mahinay and Lapinin are favorites amongst local and foreign tourists.
Whale and dolphin sightings in Pamilacan Island are boosting tourist arrivals year-round, while Cabilao is renowned for the hammerhead sharks that shoal around the clear waters. Balicasag, described as the best dive spot in the country, is popularly known for the colorful coral formation called "The Wall."
WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE. Whether if is tak­ing a dip in one of the many turquoise waterfalls or a romantic seaside dinner, visitors swear by the charms of Bohol's natural beauty.
Bohol is also renowned for its beaches. All around the province are good beaches, but do not miss the chance to go to Alona Beach and Doljo Beach, in Panglao; Balbalan Beach and its crystal-clear waters; picturesque Bikini Beach (no, the sights are not barely-clad women); Darak Beach, in Pangangan Island, Calape; Sta. Fe Beach, in Alburquerque, is a favorite for picnics; and Mantatao Island, in Calape, is one of cleanest beaches around, and an ideal jump off point for island hopping.
And for those who simply want to relax while communing with nature, then the Loboc River Cruise is a must. What makes the trip enjoyable, memorable and refreshing is its unhurried pace as it goes through the sea­side towns of Loboc, Loay and Bila. And on board, a hearty lunch of seafood is served, and you'll be serenaded with a traditional kundiman (love song).
As you pass by Bila, remember that this place is a popular haven for tarsiers. The size of a fist, the tarsier is the smallest mammal in the world, and is said to have been the inspiration for Steven Spielberg's E. T. Tarsiers could also be found on the hills of Corella, 10 kms away from Tagbilaran.
The Chocolate Hills, in Carmen, remains as Bohol's main attraction. These 1,268 mounds have become famous since they look like giant Chocolate Kisses during the summer.
And of course, the stomach should not be forgotten. Try the Bohol Bee Farm [(6338) 411-2994] in Barangay Dao, Sitio Dauis, famous for its mouth-watering carrot and squash muffins. A Bohol food adventure should eventually lead you to Sampaguita's, in Baclayon. Strongly recommended are their pasalubongs (take home sweets) like broas, pastillas, polvoron, and the popular Peanut Kisses.
Philippine Airlines flies directly to Tagbilaran City. Ferries from Cebu to Tagbilaran operate daily with a one hour travel time.
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