Bohol: Philippines

Chocolate Hills

Bohol, a small island in central Philippines, is known for the famous and only Chocolate Hills. One of the most popular tourist spots in the country. It is true however, that when most people think of Bohol, almost nothing comes to mind. You might be surprised who is more than the usual tourist spot and there are more to explore and see in this island that the formations of limestone hills.

Bohol is home to the shores of pristine beach. Panglao Island, just minutes from the capital Tagbilaran, is increasingly gaining more popularity among local and foreign tourists as a relaxed and tranquil beach destination alternative to Boracay.

But if you're the type who is not satisfied with having a bath in water and taking in spectacular views overlooking the sea, Bohol certainly not disappoint. Divers have more than enough options for sites of world class diving around the island. Colorful coral reefs and rich marine life will surely satisfy all types of browsers, from beginner to expert divers divers.

Another popular attraction is the dolphins and whales. Pamilacan Island is home to the best observers who organize these tours. Most ancient hunters who joined the dolphin and whale show after the Philippine government banned the killing of these marine mammals.

Bohol exotic wildlife is not limited underwater. The last remaining forests on the island to protect the unique fauna. It is home to one of the world's smallest primates, the tarsier. You can visit the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in Corella and see the shy and peculiar animals in their natural habitat.

The Rajah Sikatuna National Park, a large forest reserve near Bilar, is a birder of paradise. Hiking trails throughout the park can take you to a meeting with some of the species Rare birds in the country.

Bohol is also a place rich in culture and history. Century-old churches in Baclayon, Loboc, Loay, Maribojoc, Loon and Dauis are some of the standing monuments. And there's old Spanish watchtowers of Punta Cruz, Dauis, Panglao and Pamilacan.

If you want to keep away from normal tourist routes the province, you can travel along the less popular eastern side of the island. Has some of the most amazing coastline and secluded beaches, the city of Anda, in southeast City Talibon in the north.

Some of the towns of Bohol also offers community-based tours. Calape, Maribojoc and Candijay are among these cities. It is a good option to visit the areas of these cities' of protected mangroves and experience of rural life in this picturesque part of the country. These tours show how premises are resolved in the preservation of natural environment of the island.

But really the Bohol experience is experience the hospitality of the people. Try to visit the island in May when the village festivals are held almost every day. You can skip from one city to another without having to bring money other than for transportation. Surely it would invited to the homes of residents and enjoy the festivities of Aso't pork (roast pork) and kinilaw (raw fish).

Bohol is an island blessed with such generosity and natural beauty. There is no argument about that. What sets it apart from other tourist destinations is that there is much to explore and much to do that is actually quite difficult to decide what to do first. Of course, you can not miss a visit to the chocolate hills impressive. However, spending the night at this famous place only to see the spectacular sunrise and sunset over the surreal landscape is well worth it.

Panglao Island Resort, Bohol

Pamilacan Island, Bohol

Tarsier

Rajah Sikatuna National Park