#DIY travel siquijor

[ferdienan]

DIY Solo Travel to Siquijor Island

Siquijor is a beautiful and very special island in the Visayas region (central Philippines). It isn’t a very popular destination among tourists and even less among locals, which makes it even more enjoyable because it doesn’t get crowded at all. It is a small island that you can actually go around with a motorbike in just 3-5 hours of continuous driving. All of the tourist spots are just right…

[itsjanetimbengan]

Siquijor and its Exquisite Charm

It was a cold, rainy, and cloudy kind of morning when we arrived at Dumaguete Airport. After a peal of thunder, we decided to take a tricycle going to Dumaguete Port. We touched down Siquijor after an hour of ferry ride and rode a tricycle again to reach our hotel.

Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, fresh air filled my lungs and my eyes felt refreshed with the lush of greens around me. Siquijor might be notorious for black magic, mystic, and sorcery, but I got a sense of serenity in this place.

For an island known for witchcrafts and folklores, Siquijor boasts its exquisite charm with its unspoiled palm-fringed beaches, scenic water wonders, and laid-back setting.

HOW TO GET THERE 

We booked our flight to Dumaguete because this is the closest airport with frequent flights from Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.

From Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, charter a tricycle or a cab to get you to the port. Several ferries like Oceanjet, Montenegro Lines run as early as 7:00 am until 4:30 pm going to Siquijor which fare ranges from P130 to P240.

From Siquijor Port, there are a lot of tricycle drivers you can rent to bring you to where your accommodation is. Tricycle is the usual mode of transportation in the area so tourists normally prefer to hire tricycles for the island tour.

WHERE WE STAYED

Located in San Juan area, Eastern Garan Seaview Resort offers an amazing cliff top views and not to mention a super chill vibes with its outdoor swimming pool and beach front view (and incredible sunset!!!).

PLACES TO VISIT

Siquijor, located in the Central Visayas, is the third smallest province in the Philippines, thus can be toured in one day only. It is locally known as “Esla del Fuego” because of its mystical fireflies.

We rented a tricycle for the whole day tour around the island.

CENTURY-OLD BALETE TREE

Believed to be enchanted up to this day, the 400-year-old Balete Tree lies in Lazi which is considered to be the oldest and biggest in the province of Siquijor. Apart from being said that mythical creatures live in Balete Trees, what makes it really mystical is that a natural spring flows right underneath the tree. If you’re up for a quick foot spa, just dip your feet and let the fish doctors nibble around your feet!

There are stalls that sell some souvenirs, voodoo dolls, and love potions!

CAMBUGAHAY FALLS

Less than 200 steps going down, you will be mesmerized by Cambugahay Falls’ clear and turquoise warm water originating from natural spring. Lots of locals and tourists go here and enjoy making their sway to the falls.

This falls has a three-tiered level, the top and middle which usually serve as swimming areas and the bottom and the largest as the jumping site. It usually gets crowded in the afternoon but just a tip, the top tier is the least crowded area where you can do unlimited swings for only 20 pesos.

SALAGDOONG BEACH

Ahhh, I have to say that this is my favorite place in Siquijor! You will be lured with its magnificent stretch of translucent blue waters and fine white sand. Salagdoong Beach is also famous for its cliff diving area with almost 35 feet high, waiting for adrenaline junkies and daredevils to take the plunge straight into the water.

GUIWANON SPRING PARK

Guiwanon Spring Park is a mangrove preservation and protection area which is managed by the fishermen and environment organization in this community. 

A minute of walk on wood and bamboo bridges, you will be led to an open area or seminar hall which offers a magnificent view of the sea with a crisp, fresh air, surrounded by a lush mangrove forest. This sanctuary is a refreshing stop with an entrance fee of 10 pesos and in fact, there are small cottages you can rent if you want to stay overnight.

PALITON BEACH

The giant palm trees lined up at the shoreline, the powdery white sand, and the sparkling blue waters make Paliton Beach a nice spot for basking under the sun. 

It was 3 in the afternoon and the sun shone brilliantly, making the water in the ocean glitter invitingly. Definitely a perfect tour-ender – we just unwind and chill by the beach until it’s time to go back to our hotel.

Other tourist spots in Siquijor:

Saint Francis de Assisi Parish Church

Hapitanan Cafe Restaurant

Lazi Church and Convent

Lagaan Falls

Capilay Hot Spring

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[lovehomieee]

𝐒𝐈𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐉𝐎𝐑

We started by flying to Tagbilaran,Bohol, took a ferry going to the island of Siquijor. Tagbilaran,Bohol is a beautiful island as well, but it was in Siquijor that we felt like we found a certain kind of peace.

The island is getting pretty much desirable as a tourist destination nowadays, and it lies south of the more popular island of Bohol. Siquijor is a very beautiful Island, with its white sand beaches and dense jungle, though it is not yet well developed as a tourist destination. It is also known as the Island of Fire and famous for its faith healers and witchcraft practice like those of sorcery & lack magic,but nonetheless, the rich scenery and the beauty of the Island is bewitching.

One nicest part of the island that captivated my heart was Cambugahay Falls, to get there requires long & steepish trekking, albeit the lofty journey,there awaits the charming falls inviting you to indulge yourself in its fresh and cool water. Ohh there's also a hanging vine where you can cling and hold on to and swing your body like Tarzan do and drop yourself into its swimming pool like catch basin,It was so magical there.

[pauonabudget-blog]

Siquijor 2019

Tada!!! After 7 (??) years, I am back doing my first love - blogging. So for my first entry (again), I wanna share with you my solo travel adventure to Isla de Fuego aka Siquijor Island. It’s my 2nd solo travel for this year (6th overall) and I must say it is one of my favorites! (PS all photos are mine unless stated otherwise hehe). Btw I went to Siquijor June 16-18, 2019. All currencies stated are in Philippine Pesos

HOW DID I GET THERE?

Since I am always on the look out for piso fares, I got my roundtrip tickets Manila-Dumaguete-Manila for roughly 1,600.00 during Cebu Pacific’s snap sale (99.00 base fare). Not bad.

From Dumaguete airport, there are tricycles/habal habals (single motorcycles) that can take you to Dumaguete Port. If you don’t have that much of luggage with you (or if you are still not so sure on your haggling skills), it’s best that you find your preferred mode of transportation OUTSIDE of the airport since the drivers on the airport  tend to overcharge. 

Okay so once you have hailed a driver, tell him to drop you off at the ticketing counter of your preferred ferry going to Siquijor, So in my case, I told the habal to drop me off at Oceanjet ticketing office. Ticketing office is walking distance from the port entrance. To be on the safe side also, you can purchase your return trip ticket as well to avoid hassle on the day you’re going back to mainland Dumaguete.

<Schedule and ticket price of June 2019>

Oceanjet from Dumaguete port to Siquijor port is roughly 50 mins to 1 hour. Just a reminder: Dumaguete port is really wavy. I don’t get dizzy easily but man Dumaguete port tested me lol. Before stepping inside the port, you need to pay P13.00 (I forgot what is it for lol but there is a window beside the port entrance). The port itself is clean and spacious by the way and there are kiosks there for those who’ll go hungry while waiting for the scheduled boat trips.

Once you arrive at Siquijor Port, there are tricycles/habal habals waiting outside the port. Up to you what you’ll take. Being a solo traveller and having just one backpack, I contracted a habal to take me to my accommodation and tour the whole island. Kuya Elbert (my habal driver/ tour guide. VERY NICE) and I have agreed for P800.00 for a whole island tour plus him bringing me to my accommodation and to the port. I also paid for his lunches and snacks. Kuya Elbert  +639068382558

<Arrival at Siquijor Port (the water is so clear that I wanted to jump right in)>

<Outside of Siquijor Port>

WHERE DID I STAY?

I stayed at JJ’s Backpackers Village (As recommended by the British solo traveller I met on Siargao). They have bunk beds there for 400/night. One dorm room contains 6 beds (2 single beds and 2 double deck beds) and a bathroom (decent, clean, well maintained, working flush lol). The hostel also has its own in-house restaurant and bar so there’s no need to worry of going hungry lol. But the real selling point of JJ’s Backpackers is the killer beach front since it is along Solangon Beach. It’s very chill and relaxing that I can just lay in the hammock all day and do nothing kind of vibe. 

<Beach front of JJ’s Backpackers>

<Do not disturb mood>

<Dorm room 400/night> PS bring your own padlocks for the lockers.

You may contact them at +639989704452 or go to their Facebook page

WHERE DID I GO?

Siquijor Island is so small that you can tour it in less than a day. There are even some travellers that do daytour and then goes back to Dumaguete. Here are the highlights of my habal tour:

1. SALAGDOONG BEACH

This is where the famous cliffdiving site in Siquijor is located. For those who want that jolt of adrenaline rush on the body, this is your place to go. I chickened out the last minute because the jump site is so high and scary hahaha so I opted to stay on the shore and swim. There is an entrance fee going here (I think 30 pesos but correct me if I am wrong).

2. PALITON BEACH

The beach where you can find the instagram worthy palm tree shots. When I was here, I can’t believe how chill and peaceful it is here. There are also locals who is standing by the famous palm tree that is ready to assist you on your creative instagram photo (just don’t forget to give them a tip - I gave P50.00). My favorite beach of all beaches!! Free entrance!!

3. CAMBUGAHAY FALLS

I fell in love with Cambugahay falls. The water is unbelievably blue like it will take your breath away. So for this destination, Kuya Elbert stayed on the motorcycle parking as there was a designated tour guide going down the falls (it has different levels btw). We went there as early as 7:00AM (normally there is an entrance fee but when we got there, the collector was still not on his post so that means it is FREE again lol). So yeah trying going there early plus also to avoid large crowds as it gets pretty crowded around 9:00 am onwards. So after frolicking in the blue waters and braving the tarzan swing, time to go up again. I gave my guide P100.00 plus I paid the motor parking P10.00

4. CENTURY OLD BALETE TREE AND FISH SPA

I did not try the fish spa since I am a ticklish person but the fishes were big so no thanks lol. The tree looks enchanting tho but I like the one in Baler. There is also a souvenir shop beside it. You can buy shirts, ref magnets, voodoo doll keychains and the infamous love potion in a bottle. 

5. HAPITANAN CAFE AND RESTAURANT

I didn’t do the famous broomstick photo because I was not in the mood lol. But I did chill for a little bit on their backyard.

WHERE TO EAT

So for 3 days, this is how I survived lol

DAY 1

Breakfast - Cinnabon sticks and coffee from the airport (<300.00)

Lunch - 2 pcs chicken with rice and bottled water bought from one of the Dumaguete Port kiosk (P80.00)

Dinner - A hearty plate of gnocchi from Dolce Amore. This is the first time I tasted Gnocchi and it was da bomb!!! (plus their homemade chocolate cake and homemade coconut gelato - shared by us 3 roommates). My plate of gnocchi was P180.00 but it was so worth it! The desserts cost were split between us 3. (Spent around 285.00 for my meal)

<Me with my roommates Elo (Brazil - jumper) and Maria (Spain - red top)>

DAY 2

Breakfast - Leftover cinnabon sticks (I still have 4 sticks left lol) plus coconut juice (40.00 for the coconut juice of Kuya Elbert and I)

Lunch - Kuya Elbert and I ate at an eatery at downtown. Hearty lunch for 2 is at P200.00

2 cans of beer - P120.00

Dinner - Beef burger with homemade patties at JJ’s (P180.00)

DAY 3 (I took the first trip of Oceanjet back to Dumaguete 6:00 AM since I have a 10:15am flight back to Manila)

Breakfast - Sansrival Bistro Dumaguete  (continental Filipino Breakfast) - (P220.00) *walking distance from Dumaguete port*

Lunch - Since our flight was delayed for 2.5 hours, we had free lunch from Jollibee (FREE)

TAKE NOTE

1. Bring sunblock and cap

2. INSECT REPELLENT IS A MUST. Mosquitoes there are annoying as f*ck. Off lotion will not be enough

3. Always make sure to have your phones and powerbanks fully charged since there are schedules of power interruption on the island.

4. Be friendly to the locals and also to your fellow travellers.

5. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR RUBBISH ALONG THE BEACH. Throw them properly.

To end my post, I won’t be able to give exact amount but I can give you my DIY itinerary. I think 5,000.00 will be enough for 3 days as long as you have prepared your expenses. Let me know if you have questions.

Siquijor became one of my favorite destinations. Mark my words: I will be back!

[theonewherejgoesonajourney]

Detailed: Cebu – Tagbilaran – Danao – Panglao – Oslob – Badian 7D6N Itinerary

Waddup, waddup! I am writing this travel blog to share with you guys how I spent P19,000.00 for an all-in Cebu-Bohol-Cebu travel package for 7 days and 6 nights! Yes, all-in! This includes my roundtrip airfare, accommodation, private tour transfers (yeah, read that right, private!), meals, souvenir shopping, pasalubong and etc.! But if you’ll deduct my personal expenses like souvenirs, snacks, pasalubong and such; y’all can just enjoy this itinerary for just P16,200.00 or lower!

Now, let’s go by each day as I show you guys the itinerary I made, the what’s, where’s, why’s, when’s and how’s of this trip!

If you guys wanna skip to the breakdown, click the link below:

the link below

xxx

This all started when a good friend mine, RC, shared that there was a seat sale in AirAsia. So last 09 March 2019, we purchased the tickets for a 7-day trip in Cebu! Our trip was also a celebration of our 10th year of high school friendship with 2 more friends. Before booking the ticket, we still don’t have an itinerary and the initial plan was just for around 4 or 5 days, but upon a very short discussion and unreasonable impulse, we took the 7-day flight instead!

The initial itinerary I made was Cebu-Badian-Dumaguete-Siquijor, but checking our time and budget, I created another itinerary that will suit our requirement!

1 night in Cebu with city tour, 1 night in Danao after a city tour in Tagbilaran, 2 nights in Panglao after a hike and an adventure in Danao, 2 nights in Badian after a city tour in Panglao then water adventure while in Badian. With this itinerary, we have more chances of not being sun kissed during the earlier days thus having better aura photos! Tan lined photos are more acceptable in the latter days where we will be spending a lot in the beach and Visayas water!

xxx

DAY 1 – Private Cebu Twin City Tour

Our flight was at 0825h, estimated time of arrival in Cebu was at 1025h. This is my first time going to Cebu and our first time to travel all together as one! I got my roundtrip airfare for only P1,855.18! We got a free ride from my papi so that’s additional pocket money for us! But if you’ll be coming from Pasay, taking a metered taxi or a grab would approximately be around P250-P300 per vehicle (good for 4 pax with 1 hand carry luggage each).

Upon arrival at Mactan airport, I was shocked with their airport’s beauty! We all rounded up and met Sir Jubet from New Californian Rent a Car at C11, I am then again surprised because I was advised that our private car hire for 10 hours was an Innova but we were upgraded to a Hi-ace van!

Before we start the tour, we asked Sir Jubet to drop us off somewhere nice for lunch. He drove us to a sutukil (SuTuKil is a combination of the Cebuano words sugba (grill), tuwa (stew), and kilaw (eat seafood raw). We had our lunch at Fredz Sutukil, this restaurant was the pick your seafood and we’ll cook it for you for free type (but do not be deceived with this line, because we are not sure if all sutukil’s are like this, but they charged us 15% for service charge! Wow, even a hotel or a high-end restaurant has a lower service charge than this one!), honest review, we paid for too much, P679 to be exact, for 3 pretty plain and limited viand and a rice platter. I personally just enjoyed the buttered shrimp though some are over cooked, I was disappointed with the grilled squid and baked oysters (they only used margarine instead of cheese). The platter of rice seems like it’s only good for 3 pax. Also, always check your bill because we were charged higher than the total; lucky us we had a friend that is good in Math!

After lunch, we headed straight to Mactan Shrine & Lapu-Lapu Monument to start our DIY twin city tour. I highly suggest you guys to hire a tour guide if you’re into historical stories because historical markers are not present in every place you’ll be visiting. We only did a short visit and photo op here since we didn’t have a tour guide and the weather seems gloomy. Afterwards, we went to Alegre Guitar Factory, (this is where I bought my travel momentum!), on our way, it rained hard, until we reached the place. We had the chance to witness how a guitar is made from scratch! Upon entering the place, we were welcomed by one of their staff and he gave us a glimpse of the factory. There is a wall of guitar bodies there that is made from different woods, I asked what wood is normally used in their guitars and he told me that it was mahogany. In their shop, there were different kinds of guitars that they are selling at more or less that P1,000-P2,000 and above. A nice classical guitar is at around P4,000 plus.

We then went to Cebu city, the rain stopped while we were at the Alegre Guitar Factory but upon leaving and while we were on the way to Cebu city proper, it started to rain again, then stopped when we were approaching Heritage of Cebu Monument (the weather here is crazy!). The Heritage of Cebu Monument is just in the middle of the road, it’s a nice sight for locals residing in the area! And since we still don’t have a tour guide, sadly, we did not get the story behind this monument. I’m just not sure if there was a historical marker because it was too hot to stay. Yap – San Diego Ancestral House is just walking distance from there, an entrance fee of P50 per pax will be collected upon entering, this comes with a brief background of the house from their staff/local house guide. They will also accompany you around the house and explain the antiques around, there was this very old radio there that is still functioning! They also have a garden there with a harp player who plays both classic and modern music!

Next stop, Magellan’s Cross and Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino! We first visited the church, there was a school beside it and since it was Thursday, we encountered kids during their dismissal. I believe that when you visit a church for the very first time, make a wish because it will come true. I always do this, and I can vouch that two wishes of mine had already come true! The church has a path going straight to Magellan’s Cross, this was a surreal moment for me (but nothing has still topped my encounter with Mt. Mayon!), this famous cross was just once in my history books but now here I am and surrounded by my very good friends! It’s actually just very simple, it was small and solemn (though there are lots of candle ladies in the area starting from the church selling prayer candles). While taking photos, we saw a guy doing this shot that we copied, that was copied by other people we were with as well! Lolz. See the photo below!

We got hungry so we skipped Fort San Pedro and the running tour of Colon Street, Fuente Osmena Circle and Capitol Site though our driver said that Colon street was what we passed going to the church. Before going to Larsian (it’s a big barbecue/sutukil place located in Fuente Osmeña Circle), we went shopping for dried mangoes at 7D factory (it’s a little far from where we were), it’s cheaper to buy their products there than the mall or market (since it’s a little far, you should buy a lot! The difference of their price from retailers is around P20-P50). We then went to Larsian for an early dinner, we ate at Smiley Best BBQ and this really is a comeback from our limited lunch earlier! And with just a difference of P34 per person from our lunch budget, we had: grilled boneless bangus, baked oysters, chorizos, bbqs, 2 cups of rice each and a liter or soda! I will vouch that your money will be spent here with satisfaction! A definite “go-back-to” in Cebu! (Also, they don’t have service charge and Smiley Best BBQ gave us a discount!)

We then called Sir Jubet so that we can now go to Fort San Pedro, seeing it earlier, seems like the place looks better at night, and I was right! Since there was a park outside it, the light decoration was pleasing to the eyes! But since we had limited time, and because it rained (again), we just had a few photos outside and just had a rolling tour instead. Our place to stay that night wasn’t far from Fort San Pedro and the pier going to Bohol, so I highly recommend The Sampaguita Suites Cebu. We got the Triple Sharing Room so we had to pay P200 for the 4th person plus a security deposit that is refundable upon checkout at P500. We just combined the beds (the room has 3 single beds) so all of us can fit. The room is just enough to what we paid for: it is air conditioned, there is a vanity table, enough outlets (I suggest you guys to bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub so that you and your friends can charge all phones and power banks/gadgets easier), private bathroom, soaps and towels, and Wi-Fi!

We ended the night early, we settled at around 2000h and lights were out at around 2200h because we have an early itinerary tomorrow bound to Bohol!

Like and subscribe MJ’s Youtube channel and check our our vlog for Day 1 below!:

Vlog: Cebu City Tour | DAY 1

Suggestion/s:

Take an early     flight where you will arrive Cebu at 0600h or 0700h so that you can visit     all tourist spots before it goes dark.

There were a     lot of buffet restaurants around the area upon exiting Mactan Airport,     better take your lunch here. Saw some at P300 per pax.

Hire a local     tour guide, you help them have income, they’ll help you know Cebu! You can     ask one from your transport supplier or if you’re gonna take a tour     package, have your travel agency book you one!

A tip goes a     long way! Don’t forget to tip your tour guides/drivers!

There’s a lot     of per kilo dried mango in Tabo-an Market in Carbon. We bought some before     heading back to Manila from Badian. The price is half the branded ones,     the taste is still good! There’s also branded products there (7D products     are P20-P50 higher than the factory price). It is better to buy pasalubong     here than what we did on the first day since we had the struggle of     carrying them all throughout our tour.

Bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub for multiple charging     and power banks! Extra phone connector will also help for just in case     scenes.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can     fill it at the airport and restaurants you will visit. This is my way of     lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water conscious as well     and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

New Californian     Rent a Car – Sir Rico: 0945 132 9178 / 0917 167 4247 / 0921 204 4322

Sampaguita Suites Plaza Garcia – (866) 266-3306; we     booked via Agoda.com

Expense Breakdown: open image in new tab for clearer view for all expense breakdowns

Reference/s:

Definition of Sutukil - www.tagaloglang.com › TAGALOG-ENGLISH DICTIONARY

xxx

DAY 2 – Private Bohol Countryside Tour

We need to wake up early because our ferry transfer is at 0700h. We fixed up at around 0530h (we all took a bath last night then took a half bath in the morning to save time). After fixing up, we bought our breakfast at Mc Donald’s that’s just across our hotel. We then hailed a taxi for our transfer out to the pier (since it’s less than 10 minutes from our place, we didn’t hire a private transfer anymore that costed P500 per way), unfortunately, the taxi driver contracted us at P150 and declined to use the meter (knowing that we weren’t locals, a sad foreign scene) and since there were no taxis in the area at 0600h, we took it. Upon arrival at the pier, we were charged P10 if we wanted the taxi to enter the area (to ease the drop-off of luggage).

When we entered the area, we were then advised that we should check-in our hand carry luggage because we cannot take it with us inside the ferry boat. Each luggage is at P50 each, up to you if you want to check-in your other bags as well, we didn’t. The trip will take 2 hours so you guys can have a quick snooze from your early wake-up. They play a movie inside for the guests, we took the tourist class ticket so I’m not sure if there is also a movie streaming for the business class tickets.

Oh, we traveled in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak so we were very careful of our actions and distance with other people. We arrived at Tagbilaran, Bohol pier at around 0900h and met with Sir Julius from Bohol Car Van Rentals & Tour and immediately started the Countryside Tour. We first went to Blood Compact Site, and again, since we didn’t hire a tour guide, we just had a photo op with the statue there and had a quick sightseeing of the area. We then went to Baclayon Church, there is a museum there that has an entrance fee of I think P30 or P50 per pax, we skipped it and went directly inside the church (the façade was being built when we were there, Sir Julius said that the damage was still from the 2013 earthquake, and the restoration took place just recently). Upon entering the church, there is a basket of scarves there that anyone can use if they are wearing skin revealing clothes to pay respect and shall be returned once you exit. Again, I made another wish here because it’s my first time here! The sun was really high that day so we didn’t stay long. What I like about this church is that it faces the sea, so every time you finish praising the Lord, you get to see this beautiful scene! What a view!

Afterwards, we went to Bohol Lemur Butterfly Park, the entrance fee is at P70 per pax. This comes with a staff/local house guide. They will also accompany you around the place and explain the different animals you’ll see plus an instant photographer! I forgot to ask for his name but shoutout to you Kuya! There’s a lot of animals there, not just butterflies; there’s also an alligator or crocodile there (I wasn’t listening then hehe), different birds, lemurs, and snakes. Next stop, the famous Man-made forest, did you know that this is the first and only man-made forest in the Philippines? Awesome, huh? It’s actually just a regular road where bus, motors, tricycles pass by to get to the other side of the road. Y’all need to park beside the road and wait for the perfect time where there are no vehicles passing by to take that perfect photo. We spent more than an hour here because of the latter! We practiced a lot of jump shots here! The place was really mesmerizing, you’re surrounded by lush green with calmness of its serene silence. When you view it from below, the way the branches and trunks of the trees form is like they’re comforting you with a big warm hug.

Lunch time! We skipped one of the highlights of the Countryside Tour, the Loboc River Cruise (buffet lunch here is at P650 per pax with live entertainment), because of the COVID-19 outbreak, we opted to have lunch in a less crowded place instead so Sir Julius drove us to Mayang Maye restaurant. The place was really cozy and homey, they also have fruit shakes! Fun! We badly wanted one after a tiring morning tour. They had a boodle fight menu and because the photo looked promising, we ordered one, it was named Meat Lovers, that was good for 3-5 persons. Initially we planned to invite Sir Julius to join us in the boodle fight, but when our order came, honest review, it wasn’t like the one in the photo. It looks like it was only good for 3 persons, so instead, we ordered a solo meal for him but he declined it. And just like with our day 1, our lunch is not a happy meal, but comparing it to our Cebu lunch, our stomachs were satisfied here somehow. Another unhappy moment was our fruit shake, it was presented to us in a large cup showing that the shake is not full, maybe they ran out of the right cup size for what we paid for?

Moving on, we skipped the Sipatan Hanging Bridge (it’s P30 per pax entrance fee, this is just a photo op and like the Man-made forest, this bridge is used normally by locals to pass) and the Bohol Python and Wildlife Park (since we already saw a snake in the lemur butterfly park, we decided not to go there anymore). We then went to Bohol Enchanted, and finally, my first time to see a tarsier! We got the chance to see three of them, and because they are nocturnal creatures, silence is a must when you lurk to look for them clinging on the branches of small trees. There were also butterflies there and different animals there. My friends did their souvenir shopping here, there’s a stall selling goodies and Bohol merchandise.

Upon checking them online, I saw a lot of bad reviews because the place we went to is not the regular place to see a tarsier. Seems like the one we went to is a zoo where the animals are well, indeed in a cage, though the tarsiers are not; I believe the regular place to see a tarsier is at Tarsier Conservation Area (Loboc).

We then went to Sotera's ATV Rides, we took the second trail that takes up an hour to travel and would have the view of the chocolate hills for photo op. We went there at around 1400h and damn, the sun is really high! They will be lending you a pair of rain coat and rain pants to protect you from the mud that will really stick! If you’re into a dirt adventure, you can decline to borrow it, but since we aren’t, we all took it and we are all glad that we did because the place was really muddy when we took the trail! We also swapped our sandals to their slippers, take them too, cleaning is way easier after the adventure! As expected, I crashed, again lolz; hey, at least now it’s on a tree stump not a person! It was a lot of fun though I think that the price is too much? Not sure, just comparing it to my Mt. Mayon ATV ride. We had a little mechanical problem here and there but no fear because their staff/local house guide always helped us and was our instant photographer too! He has all these photo manipulating tricks so just follow it! Just not sure if all of their local house guide does it. After fixing and refreshing up, we then went to our last stop, the wonderful chocolate hills! Again, I was taken away because these hills were just once in my history book but now, here I am, facing them! We encountered green hills because it wasn’t summer time yet, so if you guys want to see their chocolate form, visit around dry season. You have to take a steep ladder to go to the viewing point of the chocolate hills and while going there, the wind will really ruin your hairdo. The sun was calmer when we were there because it is already late in the afternoon, there is a souvenir shop here as well so if you haven’t bought anything yet, you can here. I bought this tarsier scrunchy for only P50!

We left around 1645h and arrived at Danao at around 1800h, we will be staying the night here because we will be waking up early the next day for our Sea of Clouds adventure! I opted to have us stay in Danao instead of Tagbilaran so that we can wake up at around 0500h instead of 0300h and travel to Danao for the hike. We stayed at this amazing place called Gonzaga Legacy Fairytale Hostel, I connected with Sir Carlo and he was very accommodating! The place was beyond my expectation, it has this rustic vibe where you would rather chill in their common area either in the first or second floor, there is a swimming pool, a garden, stray puppies and of course, the touch of province life, “tukos” or geckos. We lounged at the second floor’s common area that has this breathtaking view of mountains, with the right mellow music, drinks and friends, damn, this is the unwinding you need from your metro work life. A quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Manila. The hostel has no restaurant though I think you guys can cook because there is a kitchen area on the first floor, I’m just not sure if there is a fee. The nearest restaurant that is still open was the one in the Danao Adventure Park, there’s not much means of transportation in the area, especially at night time, so we asked Sir Carlo how to go there, he told us that it is a 10-minute walk from the hostel, but he then offered us a ride on his motorcycle, we took it and paid him for the service; we made 2 trips, each trip has 2 passengers plus the driver with no helmet! (A dangerous experience so better get insured and have your life protected!) We made it all in one piece to the restaurant, luckily, they were still open because we didn’t have any stored food if they weren't. The dinner here is also a comeback from our lunch, we are finally for the first time on the budget for our meal! I just initially budgeted P150 per pax per meal assuming that we will be having solo meals every time, but since we’ve agreed to do ala carte, I suggest you guys to have a meal budget of P200-P250 per pax. When we were done, we walked back to the hostel, assuming that we can take it since it’s walking distance. While walking back, we’re all afraid because there’s no vehicle, no street light, nor people passing by, so upon reaching the curve road and seeing that the road ahead is still long, we all went back to the restaurant and tried reaching Sir Carlos. We tried for some minutes and when we went through, (thank God), 2 motorcycles will fetch us!

We got the Family room that has 2 double beds with kulambo each, there’s also no security deposit here. Rooms here are very simple: it has a stand fan, a table, enough outlets, private bathroom and towels, oh, they also have water dispenser!. The water pressure is weaker than the city’s. But hey, the whole place is great with its amenities and our stay there also includes light breakfast for 4 pax so that’s another plus! Plus there is Wi-Fi!

We ended the night at around 2200h and fixed our stuff for tomorrow’s hike to see the sea of clouds!

Like and subscribe MJ’s Youtube channel and check our our vlog for Day 2 below!:

Vlog: Bohol | Chocolate Hills, Man-made Forest, ATV | Day 2

Suggestion/s:

There is also a 0600h ferry schedule that you can take so that you can have more time doing the Countryside Tour. But if you guys won’t be going to Danao for the hike, either 0700h or 0800h trip will be fine.

There is a     buffet restaurant inside the Bohol Enchanted, you can save time if you opt     to eat here if you decide to visit the tarsiers in their place.

Hire a local     tour guide, you help them have income, they’ll help you know Bohol! You     can ask one from your transport supplier or if you’re gonna take a tour     package, have your travel agency book you one!

A tip goes a     long way! Don’t forget to tip your tour guides/drivers!

You can swap     the ATV trip with the Chocolate Hills so that it won’t be too hot when you     rie through the ATV course.

There’s a lot of souvenir shops in the places that we     visited, cheapest one I saw was the one in the Chocolate Hills viewing     deck.

Bring an insect repellant, since the hostel we stayed in     Danao is surrounded by trees, bugs might visit.

Bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub for multiple charging     and power banks! Extra phone connector will also help for just in case     scenes.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can     fill it at the place your staying at and restaurants you will visit. This     is my way of lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water     conscious as well and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

Oceanjet Fast Ferry – we booked     via Klook

Bohol Car Van Rentals &     Tour – Sir Sherwin: 0926 710 3220 / 0956     153 1337

Sotera's ATV Rides - 0946 721     5056; we booked on the spot

Gonzaga Legacy Fairytale Hostel – Sir Carlo 0956 160     4241; we booked directly

Expense Breakdown:

xxx

DAY 3 – Bohol Sea of Clouds (Mt. Puntaas) and Danao Adventure Park

Need to wake up early, again, because we need to do a hike. As per Sir Carlo, it is best to be on top at around 0500h-0600h so that we can view the sunrise as well while hiking. We fixed up at around 0400h, and again, we all took a bath last night to save time. After fixing up, we informed Sir Carlo and his friend that we are ready. A huge tip, don't drink too much water before going out or take a pee first because the hike is a little long especially if you're not much of a hiker (or not into exercise). Each motorcycle that we rented still carried 2 pax plus the driver, it took us more or less 20-25 minutes before arriving the foot of the mountain. Since I have a little bladder, I needed to go and there is only one available comfort room there, it is located in a local's house and there is a fee of P5 per pax. Expect a provincial type of comfort room with the little toilet and no lights available.

There is an entrance fee of P25 per pax, we were guided by an elder going up the mountain with Sir Carlo and his friend, she was stronger than me! I needed to take a pause now and then but nanay just hiked continuously, she's amazing! The hike we took was the long way so we reached the top after 30 minutes with lots of break haha. Unfortunately, because the wind was strong that day, we only saw very thin sheets of cloud, but nontheless, we saw the beauty that is behind the clouds that swim in the area! We also saw rice terraces while hiking and we climbed a chocolate hill! Yes! A chocolate hill! Who would've thought? The moutain top is not that broad, during our hike there were few people there and one group even brought a dog! There is also a little store before you reach the top of the hill where they sell champorado, snacks and drinks (the champorado was really yummy!).

We stayed around 30 minutes for picture taking and viewing. The view was amazing, we even saw our hostel from there! Going back down, we took the shortcut that was maybe around 10 minutes shorter that our earlier route. We stopped at a market place before going back to the hostel to buy some stuff and food.

Upon reaching the hostel, we all took a quick rest before breakfast and explored the place more. Sir Carlo upgraded our simple breakfast to a rice meal with eggs and hotdogs! That I believe should only be bread and coffee. Yum! Afterwards, we then went to Danao Adventure Park that was just less then 5 minutes away. There was an entrance fee of P40 per pax and the ride choices were sold separately and by pair/package. I didn't try any ride because it was extreme for me since I have a problem with my back and I haven't cleared extreme activities yet from my doctor. But my 3 friends all took The Plunge and I recorded them all! Based on their screams in the video, the ride was heart dropping! The ride was at P700 per pax and it lasts less than 10 minutes from dropping you to pulling you back in. See below prices of their other rides.

We then took our lunch at the same restaurant where we had dinner last night. Restaurants in the area is very limited, even up to none because the place is not actually high in tourists. This park is their main attraction so far. After lunch we went back to the hostel, took a bath and fixed our stuff to transfer to Panglao, Bohol. Oh, we also had the chance to meet the owner of the hostel! If I remember correctly, he's Dutch. Before leaving the place, there was this freedom wall near the stairs where we left a message!

From Danao to Panglao, it took us around 2 hours via private car. We arrived at Bohol Sea Breeze Cottages and Resort at around 1500h, do note that this not a beachfront property, you need to walk for a minute before reaching the beach. Though this property is cheap and can accommodate 4 pax comfortably. We got the Economy Quad Room that has 1 bunk bed and 1 double bed. They also provided us with towels, soap and dining stuff. There is also a water dispenser in the garden area with free water and a cooking area (with charge). There is no security deposit and the front desk associate was very nice and helped us to our little house. Rooms here are like houses that are side by side.

We wandered by Alona beach after freshening up and just enjoyed the view, (honestly for me, the beach was okay, I prefer Calaguas beach though) we decided to swim tomorrow since we had a very tiring day (plus the earlier tiring days), we lounged near Namaka Bar where we had our early dinner. There are not much water activities here than Boracay, what the vendors offer are city tour, whale shark encounter and island hopping tour. The beach is calm and there is a rope dividing it where the tourists can only swim, I guess?

After several days in land, starting today until our last day, we will be spending it by the beach! We took lots of photos here, good thing the weather is nice unlike in Cebu lolz. We also decided to cancel our Panglao City Tour tomorrow because we are all tired from a packed 3-day tour. Good thing Sir Sherwin is flexible to our request of last-minute cancellation. (in my itinerary, the city tour will cost P510 per pax)

During dinner, we treated ourselves with cocktails since the bar had a promo. We had pizza because in the area, the restaurant available is a Chinese restaurant that is very pricey and Namaka (we didn't explore much because we are tired). The price is kinda expensive, though the food tasted good. There was a fire dance as well at the restaurant.

After dinner, we walked by the beach and discovered that there were more restaurants there that serves rice! Hahaha. Now we know, we will be taking our meals in the area tomorrow. We stumbled upon a henna booth there where we all got inked! The price ranges from the design you want and the color, the regular ones is at P100 each. There is also a shop in the area for snacks and stuff.

End of day 3! So far our best sleep because we had a comfortable bed, air-conditioned room and a decent big bathroom! There is also a vanity table and television, but we didn't use it all throughout our stay hehe, there are enough outlets, water dispenser in their garden area and Wi-Fi!

Suggestion/s:

If you want to     witness the legit sun rising and sea of clouds, better hike at 0500h so     that you'll be on the hill at around 0530h. Since the view depends on the     weather (the sea of clouds appears if it's not windy and rainy), y'all got     to pray for it to be there because even the predicted weather online     varies in real time. The view is still pretty without the sea of clouds     but it'd be nicer if you'll witness them!

Wanna try all     the rides at the Danao Adventure Park? Save up! During our visit, for you     to enjoy all of it, it'll cost you P3,640 (with entrance fee). They also     have an accommodation here if you opt to stay in the area.

Hire a local     tour guide, you help them have income, they’ll help you know Bohol! You     can ask one from your transport supplier or if you’re gonna take a tour     package, have your travel agency book you one! (In this tour though, I’m     not sure if tour guides are available – for us, since we had a very     friendly contact person at the Fairytale Hostel, he served as our local     tour guide. Though we didn't gather much information of Danao itself     since Sir Carlo was new to the area. We paid him for the motorcycle rides     since there is no form of transportation that is on plain sight available.)

A tip goes a     long way! Don’t forget to tip your tour guides/drivers!

There’s a     souvenir shop at the Danao Adventure Park.

A GoPro is     very essential so you can capture yourself while doing the extreme     activities! But a phone is fine to if you can hold it steady while     dangling in midair!

If you opt to     have a beachfront hotel, you can explore other options than what we stayed     at there are lots in the line of Ivywall Panglao (though maybe the price     is high since the hotels are directly by the beach)

Bring lots of     snacks, buy some while en route to Panglao because the stores there sell     limited snacks.

Since there is     a whale shark encounter here already, you can also opt to take it here     than in Oslob, Cebu.

Bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub for multiple charging     and power banks! Extra phone connector will also help for just in case     scenes.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can     fill it at the place your staying at and restaurants you will visit. This     is my way of lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water     conscious as well and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

Bohol Car Van Rentals &     Tour – Sir Sherwin: 0926 710 3220 / 0956     153 1337

Bohol Sea Breeze Cottages and Resort – (038) 502 9036; we booked via Agoda

Expense Breakdown:

xxx

DAY 4 – Free at own leisure / Beach day!

Since we cancelled our Panglao City Tour, this is our first day to wake up a little late in the morning haha and we have extra money for food for today! We had our brunch at Aquatica Beach Resort (they also have an accommodation here, they're beachfront!) The food here is super nice! The value is equal to the food quality that's why we had our dinner here as well. For today, we just went back to the beach and just relaxed, swam and took photos. The sun wasn't that high so it was really a good day for a swim! Unfortunately, I didn't last long in the water because I got a skin reaction. We were out until late sunset and settled back at the hotel early since we have an early ferry transfer to Badian, Cebu tomorrow.

Suggestion/s:

Sunblock and stay hydrated! We’re lucky that the weather there was calm that time.

If you got extra money and energy you can do the city tour that will cost about around P500 per pax with a group of 4 pax. You can also do the tours offered by the vendors by the beach!

Got more extra money? Try the amazing restaurants by the Aquatica Beach Resort, some offer international cuisine! (fruit shakes are expensive here though, the restaurant at the Aquatica Beach Resort is my best pick for budget friendly and quality food! They got cheap fruit shake too!)

If you’re a diver, there is this dive shop near Namaka bar where you can schedule a dive!

There are limited souvenir shops in the area where we’re at.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can fill it at the place your staying at and restaurants you will visit. This     is my way of lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water conscious as well and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

Bohol Sea Breeze Cottages and Resort – (038) 502 9036; we booked via Agoda

Expense Breakdown:

xxx

DAY 5 – Oslob Whaleshark Encounter

Another day to wake up early again! Today we will be going to Oslob, Cebu then to Badian, Cebu! We need to be at the pick-up point (Rona’s corner near Mcdo) around 0500h since there is a scheduled port transfer by Apekop Travel (this is included in the ticket you’ll be buying). For easier transaction, better contact them directly via cellphone so that they know that you are already in the area since you’ll be with other guests in the shuttle. From our hotel, Rona’s corner is less than 10 minutes away via car/tricycle. You should contract a tricycle the day before because there are none in the area roaming at 0500h, we tried scheduling one but didn’t push through since the fare is “special” because of the time of pick-up. One tricycle can carry 2 pax with luggage at P150 per way. We asked the front desk if they have a friend who uses a tricycle and could help us pay a lower rate, unfortunately all charges are higher since there are no passengers that can be picked up early in the morning. Fortunately, we are very lucky to be offered a ride by the owner of the hotel via their minivan! We paid P80 for the ride and lots of thank you!

The shuttle transfer is kinda long, around 20 minutes from Rona’s corner. Once you arrive, y’all be signing a waiver at their desk, the boat arrived kind if in the middle of the sea (since it’s low tide) so we need to walk for around 5 minutes before reaching a boat that will take us to the main boat. The travel time to Oslob, Cebu is 2 ½ hours so you can take a quick snooze from your early wake up, life vests will be provided as well. Minutes before we reach Oslob, rain came pouring down again while sun was high (crazy Cebu weather is here again) so we got worried coz maybe the tour will be canceled because of the weather. Fortunately, again, the sun was high up when we reached the Oslob Whaleshark Encounter venue! I contacted Ms. Alice from BCD’s Place to rent a van that can transfer us until Badian, Cebu. She gave us a special rate of P2,000 per van per way (that was at P2,500 originally). BCD’s Place also has accommodations if you opt to stay a night instead in Badian, Cebu!

Before riding the boat to the whale sharks, their staff will be conducting a short seminar about whale sharks, the do’s and don’ts during the encounter and some reminders. If you’re not wearing rash guard, better use a sunscreen protector because y’all be spending 30 minutes in the open sea (though you’re not that far from the shore). We got the boat all to ourselves with 2 boatmen, they have snorkeling gears that you can borrow that is inclusive in your payment (though I suggest you guys to bring your own snorkeling gear (the eye mask with mouth piece is better than the whole face gear for me. It’s more hygienic too, since the rented our gears are used by any one and every one). Bring aqua shoes too, it’s safer than plastic slippers. There’s lots of shops in the area where you can buy snorkeling gears, aqua shoes, bathing suits, souvenirs and other essentials!

It'll only take you some minutes before reaching the area where the whale sharks are, a lot of people were there but you won’t bump into each other coz I think limited boats are allowed in the area. The boatmen were really helpful, they took most of our photos in videos! Life vests were provided, but if you can swim, you can opt to not take the life vest. In our case only RC and SL can swim so MJ and me can be seen mostly by the boat’s outrigger/float. The struggle and anxiety of drowning is real for me, knowing that the area we’re at is really deep with big whale sharks swimming around. These gentle giants of the sea live up to their names, since they are domesticated, they are aware of the tourists in their surroundings. They never charge to the people and just eat the fishes that the boatmen throw. I got the chance to see some even if I was scared the hell out! I even got to have a video with one! Looking at them on top of the sea, their size seems manageable but once you look at them down the sea, damn they are really big! We started at around 0900h and ended around 1030h. Before going to Badian, Cebu, we stopped by a bakery to buy some breakfast! (This is a hack we just thought off after eating! To lessen your cost of breakfast, you can substitute it with bread! You’ll get a full stomach too!)

The travel time was around an hour to Matutinao Beach & Cottages, and when we reached the place, all of us got the last but not the least moment! Now this is the best accommodation we got! The whole place is very cozy starting from their welcoming area up until their rooms! You’ll have the metro hotel vibe in their rooms because of their modern design from the beds, amenities up until the bathroom! We got the Triple Room, we just combined the beds (the room has 1 double bed and 1 single bed) so all of us can fit, there is no security deposit here. The room is more than enough to what we paid for! It is air conditioned, there is a vanity table, enough outlets, private bathroom, towels, bottled water, television, cabinet, very comfortable beds and Wi-Fi! The whole area is also a big plus with their accommodating and friendly staff!

The hotel is also just facing the Kawasan Falls entrance! Like literally just 10 steps from the property’s gate! There is a restaurant inside the area of the hotel and they got lots of options to choose from! We spent all our remining meals here before going to the airport! Their food serving is enough for 2-3 pax per order and are very tasty! The best part here, (yeah, there’s still more), we got a beachfront property! Each room has chairs and a table in their veranda y’all can just chill while looking at the sea or chill by the shore, listen to the waves and birds passing by. A phrase that describes all of this for me? “This is the life!”

Since we do not have any activities left for the day, we had the whole afternoon to just relax and enjoy the place!

Suggestion/s:

Hire a     tricycle beforehand if you want to take this itinerary, tricycles are not     available early in the morning in the area where we’re at in Panglao.

If you took     the Whaleshark watching in Panglao, you can directly go to Badian, Cebu     already and take the Badian Kawasan Falls Tour if time permits.

A tip goes a     long way! Don’t forget to tip your tour guides/drivers!

There’s a lot     of souvenir shop at the Oslob Whaleshark venue.

A GoPro is     very essential so you can capture yourself while swimming with the whale     sharks! But a phone is fine to if you can risk brining it in the open sea!

BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION AT     MATUTINAO BEACH & COTTAGES! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE PLACE!

Early booking     is a must in there though since they only have 8 rooms that is a     combination of twin and triple sharing room.

Bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub for multiple charging     and power banks! Extra phone connector will also help for just in case     scenes.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can     fill it at the place your staying at and restaurants you will visit. This     is my way of lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water     conscious as well and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

Apekop Travel – 0917 880 1464; we booked via Klook

BCD’s Place – Ms. Alice: 0917     799 5330; we booked directly

Matutinao Beach & Cottages – 0916 537 4168; we booked directly

Expense Breakdown:

xxx

DAY 6 – Kawasan Falls (without canyoneering but you should do this with it!)

Since we are literally just in front of Kawasan Fall’s entrance, we decided to do the tour at around 0830h. This tour normally comes with canyoneering where you guys should really take if you’re into extreme adventure! You’ll do water rafting, climbing, and jumping off a waterfall! In the original itinerary I created, we should all really be doing the canyoneering, but, since I am not physically okay to do such. Unfortunately, we then all decided not to take the canyoneering totally and just visit the Kawasan Falls.

You need to trek for around 30 minutes before reaching the turquoise watered falls, along the trek you will encounter mini falls, a long walk on a rainforest, old bridges and more! We had a tour guide during this tour so we learned that, yes, a lot have died in the area because they opt to swim without life vests. It is better to go to the falls early so that you’ll have plenty of time to take pictures without a lot of extra people in the background.

The water there is deep and very cold, locals put a rope where travelers can only swim, strictly with life vests. Thanks to our tour guide, we got lots of photos together in the water! We spent around 2 hours there before having lunch in a karinderia near the entrance with our tour guide.

Since we only have a half day tour, we got the chance to enjoy the day with photo shoots and really take a break from all the tiring days earlier. There’s not a lot of places to explore in the area, but we heard from a group that is staying at the hotel that there are bars in Moalboal (30 minutes away from Badian).

The place is really relaxing, calm sea and a very serene view! Again, need a place in South Cebu? Go to Matutinao Beach & Cottages!

Their restaurant sells alcoholic beverages (limited choices though), but there’s a shop near the church that sells food and drinks too. The hotel doesn’t charge any corkage fee for outside food, eat it by your veranda while enjoying the view!

Suggestion/s:

To fully enjoy the day, I really suggest you guys to do the canyoneering! But if opt to just swim in the falls, then you’ll have half the day of relaxing!

You can also include Osmeña Peak if you have extra budget with this tour. It’ll cost you P700 per pax (rate given to us by Matutinao Beach & Cottages last 2019) for a group of 4 pax.

Hire a local tour guide, you help them have income, they’ll help you know South Cebu! You can ask one from your transport supplier or if you’re gonna take a tour package, have your travel agency book you one!

A tip goes a long way! Don’t forget to tip your tour guides/drivers!

There’s a lot of souvenir shops inside the Kawasan Falls proper.

A GoPro is very essential so you can     capture yourself while swimming! But a phone is fine to if you can risk     brining it in the water!

BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION AT MATUTINAO BEACH &     COTTAGES! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE PLACE!

Early booking is a must in there     though since they only have 8 rooms that is a combination of twin and     triple sharing room.

Bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub for multiple charging and power banks! Extra phone connector will also help for just in case scenes.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can fill it at the place your staying at and restaurants you will visit. This is my way of lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water conscious as well and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

Matutinao Beach & Cottages – 0916 537 4168; we     booked directly

Expense Breakdown:

xxx

DAY 7 – Pescdor Island Swimming, Sardine Run and Turtle Watching

Last day in Cebu and we’re going back to reality by tonight! Today, we will go to Moalboal to swim in pescador island and with sardines and turtles! We were fetched by a tricycle (that fit all 4 of us) at around 0800h which was a great touch to today’s tour! We traveled for almost 30 minutes going to Moalboal and upon reaching the municipality, we bought some bread (breakfast hack!) for breakfast then went inside their tourist registration office. We were presented with the background of Moalboal and the do’s and don’t’s during the tour.

And yet, again, with the crazy weather of Cebu, rain starts to fall when we were waiting for our boat. We walked towards the boat since it’s low tide, a fun walk because a lot of starfish were scattered! We got the boat all to ourselves with 2 boatmen, they have snorkeling gears that you can borrow that is inclusive in your payment (though I suggest you guys to bring your own snorkeling gear (the eye mask with mouth piece is better than the whole face gear for me. It’s more hygienic too, since the rented our gears are used by any one and every one). Bring aqua shoes too, it’s safer than plastic slippers. If you’re not wearing rash guard, better use a sunscreen protector because y’all be spending 2 hour or so in the open sea There’s lots of shops at the boat waiting area where you can buy snorkeling gears, aqua shoes, bathing suits, souvenirs and other essentials!

The boat ride to Pescador Island is around 30 minutes, where you’ll have the chance to see corals and different fishes! Life vests were provided, but if you can swim, you can opt to not take the life vest. We spent around 30 minutes before going to the sardines!

Y’all know when your near because the strong scent of salty fish will welcome you! Remember the courage you need to put up with swimming with the whale sharks? The struggle and anxiety of drowning is way bigger for me here! Not only knowing that the area we’re at is really deep but I can literally see a dark pit without any sea floor, yeah, that’s how deep it is. You’ll witness a lot of swirling sardines that are bigger than the ones we eat! Unfortunately, we don’t have any videos for today’s trip because we lost the memory card when we were packing. We also some divers deep down, so if you are one, you can be closer with the sardines!

With 2/3 activities, we are already exhausted. Last stop, sea turtles! This is the highlight that I have been waiting for since day 1! We went to the area where sea turtles normally stay, but, sadly, since the water is still shallow for them, our boatmen told us that they are swimming in the deep areas at that time. We did see one though a little far from our boat, he’s just looking around popping his head in the open air.

We then went back to land and traveled back to the hotel. Exhausted and hungry from swimming and snorkeling! We arrived the hotel a little around 1130h, had lunch, fixed up and enjoyed the view one last time. We left at around 1400h via private car and made a detour to Tabo-an Market in Carbon to buy more souvenirs. I suggest you guys to buy here instead if you’re not into branded food. We reached Mactan at around 1900h so we decided to have dinner at the famous Rico’s Lechon where here, we experienced a legit baked scallop that’s only for P200 per 8 shells! We had 2 rounds!

Wrapping it up, with bags full of souvenirs and dirty clothes. We left Cebu with lots of new and treasured memories! Indeed, a way to sum up a 10-year long friendship of ups and downs, makeups and breakups, tears of joy and sadness!

Suggestion/s:

You can opt to stay the night before in Moalboal instead of Badian to save time going back and forth.

Hire a local tour guide, you help them have income, they’ll help you know Moalboal! You can ask one from your transport supplier or if you’re gonna take a tour package, have your travel agency book you one! (In this tour though, I’m not sure if tour guides are available)

A tip goes a long way! Don’t forget to tip your tour guides/drivers!

There’s a lot of souvenir shop at the boat waiting area in Moalboal.

A GoPro is very essential so you can capture yourself while swimming with the whale sharks! But a phone is fine to if you can risk brining it in the open sea!

Bring a Multiple-Port USB 2.0 Hub for multiple charging and power banks! Extra phone connector will also help for just in case scenes.

Bring a tumbler! Be hydrated always, you guys! You can     fill it at the place your staying at and restaurants you will visit. This     is my way of lessening my cost in water since my tummy is not water     conscious as well and lessen your use of plastic bottled water!

Supplier/s:

Matutinao Beach & Cottages – 0916 537 4168; we booked directly

Expense Breakdown:

Extra tip: If you’re fine to get a little sunkissed in Bohol, you can do this itinerary as below, it’s a little jam-packed though:

Day 1: Cebu Twin City Tour

Day 2: Travel to Moalboal, Cebu (etd 0400h) – Pescador Island snorkeling, sardine run and turtle watching – transfer to Badian, Cebu

Day 3: Badian Canyoneering with Kawasan Falls Tour – Osmeña Peak (if time permits though this is better done during sunrise) – transfer to Oslob, Cebu

Day 4: Oslob Whaleshark Encounter with Tumalog Falls (if time permits) – transfer to Panglao via fast ferry – Panglao City Tour

Day 5: Bohol Countryside Tour – transfer to Danao

Day 6: Sea of clouds and Danao Adventure Park – transfer back to Panglao/Tagbilaran (if via Tagbilaran, get last ferry bound to Cebu)

Day 7: Depart via Panglao or Cebu airport

[davehodgetts-blog]

When I was a kid, all I heard about Siquijor were tales of sorcery and witchcraft. Thus, even though we were almost a stone-throw away from the island and despite having close relatives residing to one of its growing communities, I never asked my parents to pay a visit.

When the child’s mind has become mature and the adventurous genes are getting dominant, those stories have become a weaker hindrance. Just recently, I visited Siquijor all by myself.

The beach near Siquijor Port

Siquijor bestows an exquisite charm. Despite being a popular destination, the island retains the rustic ambiance and the tranquil milieu. The gorgeous beaches that dot its shorelines, the stunning greens that cover the hills, the beautiful water wonders, and the antiquated churches will never get you weary on your stay.

So, if you are planning to see Siquijor soon, the guide below might help you.

How to Commute to Siquijor

Via Dumaguete City

The closest airport with frequent commercial flights to Siquijor is the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport. Philippine Airlines flies from Manila multiple times daily, while Cebu Pacific flies from Manila, Cebu, and Davao. From Dumaguete City’s sea port, you can choose either take a RoRo or a fastcraft to the municipalities of Siquijor or Larena. Fare starts from ₱150 up to ₱250 depending on the vessel type.

Via Cebu City

There is a Cebu-Dumaguete direct bus from Cebu City’s south terminal. The earlieast schedule is around 7:00AM and leaves every 1 hour & 30 minutes until 1:00PM. If you won’t be able to catch this trip, take a bus that travel to Liloan or Bato. There are RoRo and fastcrafts from both Liloan and Bato port to Negros Oriental. The port of arrival is either Tampi or Sibulan where you can easily wait a bus or multicab along the highway to Dumaguete City. From Dumaguete City, follow the instructions above.

Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Siquijor, Siquijor

Maayo Shipping offers direct trip from Liloan Port in Santander to Larena Siquijor. The ferry leaves Liloan Port at 10AM. Return trip leaves Larena at 05PM. Note that this route is sometimes cancelled. Make sure that you contact Maayo Shipping (+63 917 710 7080) in advance to check if there are sailing cancellations or not.

The faster option from Cebu is to hop on a plane. AirJuan flies to Siquijor from Mactan-Cebu International Airport multiple times a week. For more information, see the airlines website. Chartered (non-scheduled air taxi) flight from the General Aviation Terminal of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Siquijor. This is offered by Midsea Express using BN 2A-21 Islander plane. The fare can be divided between 8 passengers (max). You can contact Midsea Express via: (032) 512 4241, (032) 495 6976, or +63 949 894 1129.

Get a chilly dip at Capila’y Spring Park

Where to Stay in Siquijor

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If you visit Siquijor during summer, I advise you to book your accommodations in advance. Top hotels in Siquijor like Coco Grove Beach Reasort, Salamangka Beach and Dive Resort, Blue Wave Inn, Casa de la Playa Beach Resort, Princesa Bulakna, etc. are available for booking in Agoda.

If you visit on a regular non-peak day, you can always hire a trike to look for a good place stay.

When I visited Siquijor, I stayed at Princesa Bulakna Resort and Tori’s Backpackers Paradise Inn.

Princesa Bulakna Resort Booking: www.Agoda.com/PrincesaBulakna Rates: *As of January 2015

Polynesian Cottages ( Standard Room ) ₱950 w/o breakfast ₱1,250 with breakfast

Polynesian Cottages ( Family Room ) ₱2,000 w/o breakfast ₱2,300 with breakfast

Princesa Kiram Suite ( Superior Room ) ₱2,600 w/o breakfast ₱2,900 with breakfast

Extra Mattress ₱250 / pax

Day Tour Package ₱3,000 for a group of 5-15-pax

Evening Swimming (inclusive of dinner and use of amenities) ₱500

Van Service Pick Up/Send Off ₱2,000

Tori’s Backpakers Paradise Booking: www.Agoda.com/TorisBackpackers Address: Maite, San Juan 6227, Siquijor Island, Philippines Contact Number: +63 907 132 6666 Rates: Couple room starts at ₱450

Things to do in the Island

Cambugahay Falls

Sway your self across the pools created by the majestic cascades of Cambugahay. The three-tier waterfalls creates the natural pools that are perfect for you to vent out the summer heat.

Salagdoong Beach and the mand-made Molave Forest

The man-made forest is 60 years in the making and stretches nearly two kilometers. The forest offers comforting shades and exhibits a relaxing ambiance to all beach goers.

Salagdoong Beach in the Town of Maria, Siquijor

The other end of the woodland is Salagdoong Beach, which offers cliff diving platforms to satiate your thirst for adventure.

Capilay’s Spring Park

You don’t need to spend a lot of effort to enjoy the summer. Capilay’s Spring is smack at the town proper wherein you don’t need to hike for hours, walk long distances, or battle with unpaved roads.

Old Enchanted Balete Tree and Fish Spa

Believed to be 400 years old, the enchanting balete or banyan provides a good shade to visitors who have their feet cleaned by the tiny swimmers.

Cantabon Cave

Conquer your claustrophobia and prepare to get wet, dirty, and sweaty as you traverse the the dark coverns of Cantabon. To explore the cave, you must register at the Barangay Hall. With the 500-peso caving fee for three persons, you will have your own guide with free use of helmet and flashlight.

Lazi Church and Convent

Lazi Church, also known as San Isidro Labrador Parish, is one of the oldest churches in Siquijor. It seats next to an equally old and silent convent. Both are testaments to the island long history and traditions.

Mount Bandilaan National Park

During Holy Week, healers and shamans from surrounding villages converge at the mountain top. With them are herbs they collected the whole year. They prepare special mixture and perform their rituals. Guests may try their services and experience what Siquijor is really known for.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

As diving and snorkeling heaven, expect to see a school of barracudas, turtles, couple of reef sharks, giant clams, various species of fish and verdant corals.

Exploring the Rustic Charm of Siquijor: A DIY Travel Guide appeared first on Freedom Wall.

[erfigh]

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Foto: Pixabay

[vanessagalang]

Going to Dumaguete and Siquijor didn’t appeal to me before because first, I don’t know anybody there, and second, I haven’t heard anything touristy about it – until I realized how wrong I was.

John (who was then the boyfriend, not until he proposed in the plane right before we landed to Dumaguete) has grandparents who live there, and part of our itinerary was to meet them. This is actually the first trip we’re having as a couple, and meeting his grandparents really placed some shivers down my spine.

Note: A long post awaits you. I wanted to give you details of our trip, as a form of reference when you go there. Go ahead my wanderer merfriend! :D

DAY 1

We arrived on a rainy Sibulan airport, and goodie I haven’t forgotten my Cebuano, we managed to build rapport with the guards and locals, and one of which is our trusty and friendly chauffeur Kuya Judy.

He was supposed to take us to Harold’s Mansion, because that’s what I was eyeing based on the blogs I’ve read about going to Apo Island. I was thinking of placing our reservations; since we’re planning to go there on our 4th day. They were particularly difficult to contact too, since my Facebook messaging and SMS attempts remained futile, so I thought going there was the best idea.

Kuya Judy was so helpful because he advised that we can do Apo Island on DIY. I was hesitant at first, but he said we will save a lot if we just do it ourselves. So we opt to have breakfast first at Sta. Teresa Resto. This was one of the few restaurants that are already open at 6AM.

While we eat, Kuya Judy offered to run to the Dumaguete Port to buy us ferry tickets to Siquijor, since that was also our plan after Harold’s Mansion. Kuya Judy was even offering his ID to us, just so we have something to hold from him and to ensure that he’s coming back with our tickets. He was soooo nice! But we told him we didn’t need it. :)

He was able to score us 10AM ferry rides to Siquijor, and since it is just around 7:00AM, he said that he can tour us in Dumaguete. I actually thought John and I are never going to tour the city because we may be pressed for time, but oh well, we can put the 3hours to good use, so we gladly agreed.

We visited Cathedral of St. Alexandria the Diocese of Dumaguete first. The bell tower was enormous.

We also went to the Chinese Temple’s Bell Church, and offered some incenses after we used some bean-like stones and long sticks for fortune guide. The place was well-maintained, to think that they only ask for donations. It was also undergoing renovation, and I can’t wait to go back to see how it will all turn out.

We weren’t able to snap photos inside. It was prohibited. :(

Anyhoo, we also had the chance to get foot massages, and they were divine, and a little ticklish.

We boarded the ferry at 10AM at Dumaguete port, and arrived to the bright and happy Siquijor. We booked a tricycle and it cost us P300. I booked us to Islandia Beach Resort, and it’s located in San Juan Siquijor. It was relatively far, around 30 to 40 minute drive from the port, but once we got there, it was worth it.

We also made friends with our neighbours, and one of them was actually in the same plane, and he heard the proposal. He was like, “Kayo pala yun!”.

We checked in to Islandia Beach Resort, and was greeted by this spacious accommodation.

This reminded me of room in Isle Esme, where Bella and Edward Cullen had their honeymoon in Breaking Dawn. What do you think?

John and I were so tired with the trip and were so amazed by our accommodation that we slept the afternoon away.  So much for our beach bumming plan. Huhu

DAY 2

Kuya Ronald, our driver picked us up at 8AM, so we had breakfast early that morning, and of course some photo ops! Haha I’m so kilig how John is such a natural Instagram boyfriend, oh I mean fiancé . (He might read this blog too. Haha He’s particular with the names I call him. Hehe)

Siquijor is just a small island, and you can tour it for a day. Most travellers I know only spend a daytour here, but I thought we need some freshening up and a good sleep so I booked us 2D and 2N in Islandia.

I was so inlove with this island, and its people. Everybody was soo kind and accommodating. The entrance fees are so cheap too.

Balete Fish Spa

Entrance Fee: P10.00 per person

The fishes were so hungry that they were all looming over John’s feet. Even a milkfish joined the fun! There were a lot of foreigners there too.

If you need the loo, there is one near the place, and you just have to pay P5.00 .

In buying shirts or sandos, I recommend that store across the fish spa. I like their designs more, and the prices are cheaper. So we bought these!

San Isidro Labrador Church

It was a big and old church. You know what they say when you go to a new church, you can make a wish! So I made one, and also lit some candles.

The sun was extra sunny that day, not to mention the weather was all perfect for the tour. We couldn’t be happier.

Cambugahay Falls

Now this is my favourite. I was shocked that there was no entrance fee. When we arrived, a guy approached us and introduced himself. He is Sir Justin, and he will be our guide. I highly advise that you avail their services, they can guide and help you while you’re trekking this beautiful attraction.

There are 3 falls in Cambugahay. The first was wide, and rather deep. Only a few people jump and stay there.

The 2nd one was shallow, and was only till the waist. It was a good place to get a water back massage.

The 3rd one was the most popular of all. The water was clean and cool. You can take turns to do the Tarzan Jump and even take the leap from the side. Our guide even taught me to face the camera while holding the wielding handle.

I was shocked to know that after my Tarzan Jump, the basin was indeed deep, and my feet didn’t reach the bottom. So I paddled and soon enough, my feet reached the bed. Haha and I was alive! I took another turn because it’s addicting like that!

I also took 2 leaps in a rather 10ft. distance. I thought it was a good way to practice for our Cebu canyoneering in November.

We ended around 12noon. Actually there were people who were selling packed lunches at the entrance that cost P150.00 each, but we didn’t buy. We were thinking of having lunch somewhere else.

Salagdoong Beach

This was rather far, but the road to it was a site to see. The trees lining a trail formed a wonderful view, meeting at the top, that it forms a canopy. That is why I asked Kuya Ronald to stop, and let us have a quick photo. This was rather tricky because a lot of cars and tricyles were passing by, so we need to be quick in snapping those photos. I am so thrilled Kuya Ronald was so game to take our shots.

We were already starving, and good thing Salagdoong Beach had a mini restaurant. The prices are reasonable, although it took them a while before they served our food. Good thing, they were delicious!  It was also a good way to let time pass by as well, as we await the sun to set a little.

The beach is actually a resort, and you can book an overnight stay. I read a lot of people wanting to spend the night here, but given the time, we would too. However, Islandia Beach Resort was a sweet treat and we couldn’t leave it; maybe next time, we’ll book here!

There are two sides of the beach separated by stone landscapes. What I didn’t like though was the beach was extra rocky, and it hurt my feet pretty bad. The sand wasn’t so powdery either. The sand crystals were rather bigger than most beaches. And these made John and I realize that we should invest in aqua shoes! Haha Accio Aqua Shoes!

The water was extra wavy that day, and the current was strong. We enjoyed it all the same though, jumping in between strong waves. It’s a good work out I guess!

John and I bought Torta as per Kuya Ronald’s recommendation. We bought 2 Tortas for us, and 10 more for Kuya Ronald and his family. :)

We ended the day by having a sumptuous dinner back in Islandia with our new found neighbors, I mean friends! Haha :D

DAY 3

We woke up really early, because we had to go at 4AM for our 5AM ferry boat ride. Kuya Ronald was as punctual as ever. We got in time to Siquijor Port. We were actually worried because 5AM tickets might be sold out, but it wasn’t!

You can choose to have the regular boat like the one in GL Shipping Lines that’s going to take 1 hour and 30 minutes, or Ocean Jet for only 45 minutes. Well, we already bought our tickets when we found out about these. Anyway, it’s just a few tens difference. :)

We met Lolo and Lola, and had breakfast first at Foodnet.

Here are our cute instructions on how to get to Manjuyod Sand Bar:

We took the bus going to Manjuyod in Rizal Blvd. with “Manjuyod” as the signboard. We didn’t go all the way to the terminal as it was counterproductive. So if you’re near Rizal Blvd., you could just wait for the buses that pass there. We alighted at Bais Police Station.

We rode the tricycle to the port, and boarded a boat at P2,000.00 with all the 4 of us. We just added P250 each for the food.

It was a 30-minute boat ride to reach the Manjuyod Sandbar. We got there at 10AM though, so it was already high tide. But it was still beautiful. I just felt swimming sa “baha” though. Hehe There were a lot of boats nearby too, and swimming tourists.

The sand was powdery, the water and air was cool amidst the burning the sun. It was perfect, not until I got stung by a jellyfish in the arm. Thank you very much! It felt weird though, and I felt the venom making its way under my skin. Goodie we were able to ask for some vinegar in the nearby boat. It pacified the pain somehow.

So note to self, bring vinegar when you’re going to Manjuyod. Well, just a precautionary measure. :D

We got back to the city, and checked in at Worldview Hotel.

Since we still have time, we strolled around Dumaguete and tasted the much coveted cakes of Sans Rival. They were yummy! I wonder why there is no Manila branch yet.

It was a wonderful feeling, getting lost in the city. You wouldn’t mind being lost anyway, because a tricycle will always be there to bring you to your hotel. It’s a small town, and everyone most likely knows where your hotel is. Plus the tricycle fare is just P8.00 each.

We happen to stumble in the park where an event is taking place.  It was like a dancing contest, and we stayed for a while to watch these sprightly kids take on center stage.

We had dinner in this Japanese restaurant called Misune, and the food tasted healthy and fresh! I’m definitely coming back.

DAY 4

It’s our Apo Island Day, and well, no tourguide! Just pure DIY! OMG! This was a first, and we felt brave channelling our adventurous selves into this new place.

Here are our cute instructions on how to get to Apo Island:

We went out of the hotel at 7AM, and rode a tricyle to Siaton near Robinsons Dumaguete.

Take a jeepney to Malatapay Zamboanguita.

Walk towards the Apo Island port. Roughly around 10minutes.

This is the tricky part, you will rent a boat, and it would be better if you find some people who will share the boat with you, unless you’re a group with just the right number, as to minimize the cost per person. Since we’re a couple, we really need some people to share the boat with.

Boat Rentals:

4 seater – P2,000 / 6 seater – P2,500 / 8 seater – P3,000 / 10 seater – P3,500

4 seater boats usually are used first, that is why if your number is 4 below, it is better to go here early, so you can book the small boat. Good thing 4 Taiwanese travellers were in need of company too, since the only available boat is an 8-seater, we had to pay P3,000 and that’s P500.00 each. Not bad actually! Plus we made new friends!

You can buy food at the port already, because the food in Apo Island is a bit pricey, plus you still have to pay for the guide (which is required, and I also highly recommend Kuya Gerard; he was so skillful in diving and we handed him our action camera to which he took great photos of the sea), cottage table, and the gears you will use when you go swimming with the big turtles.

The turtles were huge and beautiful. It was sad because we went a bit late; the locals said that a lot of turtles go near the shore as early as 6AM!

After snorkeling and swimming, we had our lunch and took a stroll in the island. I was shocked that there is a community here. I actually thought that this is just an island used for tourism, but no. There are schools, a village, a basketball court, a lagoon, and an overlooking view from a hill. It was a beauty to behold!

At 3PM, we decided to go back. Our new friends are very accommodating too, we had a lot of time to talk about their country, their culture, and how they love going back to the Philippines. John and I wanted to visit Taiwan soon too because of them.

Going back was just the same. You could either hire a tricycle that will bring you back to the city, that will also cost higher, or you can wait for a jeep, but this was rather a long wait than I expected. If you’re a couple or probably 3 people travelling together, waiting for a jeep may be the best thing to do. But if you’re 4 and above, I suggest that you book a tricycle, and split the fare.

Jeepneys that pass by are rather full, and may not accommodate everybody at once.

We got to Dumaguete, and picked our stuff from Worldview Hotel. And moved to Coastal Inn. I booked it way before this trip, and since saving was the priority thing I have in mind, I got attracted to its price because duuuh, it’s just P430 a night!

I was thinking that we’ll arrive late from the tour that day so we we’ll just sleep, and we don’t need anything fancy. Well, lets just say we got the value we paid for.

After getting refreshed, we went back to SanS Rival, just because. And bought pasalubongs too! We bought the Butter Silvanas Sans Rival for P150 a box. If you want to buy pasalubongs, it’s best to buy it here in the main branch. Airport prices are relatively higher of course.

If you’re just concerned on about them being spoiled because you haven’t brought a freezer with you, don’t fret. The silvanas are strong, haha they will just feel softer, and you can put them back in the freezer or chiller once you get home.

We had dinner in Kri. And can I just tell you, that the food was prepared like gourmet, and who would have thought that this place could serve such great food! I will blog about my review in another post.

DAY 5

Flight back to Manila!! We didn’t book a tricycle going to the airport, we just hailed for the bus in Rizal Blvd. :D

Here is the breakdown of our expenses and some people you would want to contact when you go there. Enjoooy!

Kuya Judy (Dumaguete Tour) – 0905.879.86.52

Kuya Ronald (Siquijor Tour) – 0906.886.97.80

All prices are in Philippine Peso though. :) I think you can still try to maximize a budget even for as low as P8,000. We were a bit lucrative with the food, so you know where to save if ever!

I hope this blog enticed you more to visit Dumaguete and Siquijor. Promise, it’s all worth it! Please let me know your thoughts about this and comment down below! :D

**, Via

DIY Dumaguete-Siquijor Trip and Itinerary (5D/4n) Going to Dumaguete and Siquijor didn’t appeal to me before because first, I don’t know anybody there, and second, I haven’t heard anything touristy about it – until I realized how wrong I was.