Upon arrival in Bohol , the hotel car service failed to pick me up at my desired time and wanted me to wait for 30 minutes more at the airport, which I declined. I had no choice but to take the motorcycle with a former workmate from Bohol to bring me to the Buen Bella hotel (0918.5297742). Fortunately, it was cloudy that day and that the hotel is only 10 minutes from the hotel. I complained to the receptionist about the hotel car service and she readily apologized for the miscommunication between her and the driver.
Together with my officemate, I went to two malls: BQ for souvenirs and Alturas for the cheap local shirts.
Immediately after our lunch, we proceeded to Mag-aso falls in Antequera. The travel was fast since we rode the motorcycle but since it rained in some areas, we had to make a few stops along the way. We paid 20 pesos as entrance fee to the falls. I enjoyed the view of the falls surrounded by trees and the water appeared nature green as if camouflaging its adjoining environment.
After taking photos, I immediately asked that we go to Panglao Island. On the road, we stopped at the town to check if there were local products available for sale. I found out that products can be seen on a Sunday, which was their market day. It almost took an hour drive to go to Panglao. I noticed the improvements in the Alona area resorts. I still like though the old Alona where only a few establishments available in the area. I simply do not like the idea of the beach front having lots of chairs and tables lined up. We had a simple merienda along the beach far away from the crowd. And, I couldn’t help but reminisce the old Alona Beach when it was tranquil and where one can easily find a spot to read and relax along the beach.
From there, we went to the bee farm where I bought some local products made from honey and other local produce. The products were a bit pricey since they were organic.
On the way home, we went to Our Lady of Assumption Shrine Parish church in the town of Dauis. I went around to check their museum and shop. The staff gave me a bottled miraculous water from the well inside the church. Apparently, it is being given free to church visitors. Before the day ended, I went to buy more souvenir items.
The following day, I woke early and found it difficult to speak with my hoarse voice. It could be due to the rain exposure the previous day. As I passed by the reception of the hotel, old familiar faces of staff greeted me with a smile and said, “Ang tagal n’yo nang hindi nakapunta dito (You haven’t been here in a long time).” I frequented this hotel in 2007 when I was working wit a non-government organization. It was already 8am when I asked the driver to bring me to the airport.
Hopefully by next year, I shall return to Bohol as it is one of my favorite places in the country.
Visited last October 2-3, 2010