Bohol Bliss: A Family & Friends Getaway Through Land and Sea

May 7, 2022 - Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines

There’s something magical about Bohol that makes you feel like time slows down just enough for you to breathe, laugh, and reconnect—with nature, with loved ones, and even with yourself. Our recent Bohol trip was exactly that: a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments shared with family and friends.

Day 1: Bohol Land Tour – A Journey Through Nature and Culture

Our first day kicked off with the classic Bohol countryside tour, and it was everything we imagined and more.

1. Chocolate Hills
Seeing the Chocolate Hills in person was surreal. Over a thousand perfectly cone-shaped hills stretched as far as the eye could see. We all took turns posing with the stunning landscape behind us, laughing at our attempts to “hold” the hills in our hands for photos.

2. Tarsier Sanctuary
Next stop: the tarsier sanctuary in Corella. These tiny primates with big eyes stole our hearts. The kids in our group were fascinated, and it was touching to see them learn about the importance of conservation in such a hands-on way.

3. Loboc River Cruise
Lunch on the Loboc River was a highlight! Floating down the emerald green water with a Filipino buffet, live music, and a cool breeze—it felt like a dream. We even danced a bit on the boat (shy at first, but eventually all in!).

4. Baclayon Church and Blood Compact Site
The mix of history and scenic beauty at these stops gave us a deeper appreciation for Bohol's culture. The older folks in our group enjoyed reminiscing about Philippine history, while we younger ones soaked up the stories with new eyes.

5. Man-Made Forest & Butterfly Garden
Driving through the Bilar Man-Made Forest felt like entering a fantasy world. Cool, quiet, and mysterious. And the butterfly garden? A gentle reminder of how vibrant life can be, in all sizes and colors.

By sunset, we were tired but beaming—excited for what the next day would bring.

Day 2: Island Hopping – Saltwater Therapy with a Side of Dolphins

The next morning, we were up before sunrise, bleary-eyed but buzzing with excitement for our island hopping tour.

1. Dolphin Watching in Panglao
Our boat sliced through calm waters as the sun painted the sky. Suddenly, a pod of dolphins appeared—jumping, twirling, racing with our boat. Everyone squealed with joy. It was magical, almost like they were dancing just for us.

2. Balicasag Island Snorkeling
Next up: Balicasag Island, a haven for snorkeling. Once we dipped beneath the surface, it was like entering another world—colorful corals, schools of fish, and even a sea turtle gliding by! We held hands underwater, pointing excitedly like kids.

3. Virgin Island – The Sandbar Experience
Our last stop was Virgin Island, known for its long sandbar that curves like a white ribbon in the middle of the sea. We waded, took silly group shots, and sampled fresh sea urchin from a local vendor (some of us were braver than others!). With the sun shining and laughter in the air, we just took it all in.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with family and friends to Bohol gave us more than just a break from routine—it gave us memories we’ll be talking about for years. From the peaceful moments floating down a river to the thrill of dolphin spotting and underwater adventures, Bohol offered something for everyone.

Whether you're chasing quiet landscapes, eager for a little splash of adventure, or simply craving quality time with loved ones, Bohol delivers in the most heartwarming way.

We came for the views—but we stayed for the moments.

By: Meme Borja