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Linaw Pearl Restaurant, Panglao

12/12/2019

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Linaw Pearl, a restaurant with view

Linaw’s restaurant,  I’ve been here a couple of times two years ago and thought it was time to catch up again with good food and the amazing view you get for free here.  
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, the view © www.travelblogonline.com
Bread, butter and the view is complimentary here
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, the interior © www.travelblogonline.com
The bar

A variety of dishes

They have wide variety of everything to choose from. European, Asian and Filipino dishes with every kinds of meat and even crocodile for the brave ones. They have also a small selection of vegetarian dishes. When I get this kind of menu in front of me I tend to have a hard time to choose among all the delicacies. The menus down below is just a sample of what they offer. 
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, menu © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, menu © www.travelblogonline.com


Decision agony

After some decision agony I decided to go for Tuna Sashimi and Tuna Provençal. Yes I like tuna. But to my disappointment they were out of tuna. That’s ok. But then again I had to go through the decision process but after some reading back and forth I finally opted for prawns with creamy tomato sauce. Instead of an appetizer which I thought of first I chose a dessert instead, Supreme Crepes. That would make my tastebuds very happy!
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, prawns with creamy tomato sauce © www.travelblogonline.com
Prawns with cream tomato sauce
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, prawns with creamy tomato sauce © www.travelblogonline.com
Stir fried in olive oil with boiled vegetables
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, pancakes with fresh mango and ice cream © www.travelblogonline.com
Supreme Crepes, with mango and vanilla ice cream
Linaw’s Pearl Restaurant, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, a beautiful view © www.travelblogonline.com
It’s so relaxing to sit here and watch the sunset
Linaw Beach Resort, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, the pool © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw Beach Resort and the pool
Linaw Beach Resort, Danao, Bohol, Philippines, view from the beach © www.travelblogonline.com
Linaw Beach Resort and the construction site in the background

Conclusion

Linaw Pearl Restaurant is a part of Linaw Beach Resort which probably is a nice resort to stay at. I never stayed there though. The location of the restaurant is beautiful. To have your dinner there is like to have the front seat for an amazing sunset. The food was delicious and service excellent. Everything from the CR to the surroundings was nice and clean. One note about the surroundings though. Just very close behind the Linaw Beach Resort is currently a construction site where a new hotel is coming. It will be a large and high building which will not melt in in the beautiful environment like the Linaw Beach Resort do. Development is good but over exploitation is not. Just saying.
Rating:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
5 Food 
5 Service
4 Value
5 Atmosphere
Linaw Beach Resort
9999 Daorong, Panglao Danao
Bohol, Philippines

Other posts related to Panglao >>>

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Bo’s Coffee Club, Bohol Philippines

8/12/2019

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My second living room, Bo’s in Tagbilaran

Bo’s Coffee Club in Tagbilaran is an institution for coffee lovers and others. It’s a life savior when you need a break from the bustling life outside and it comes with access to WiFi and clean comfort rooms as well. When I have been staying here in Tagbilaran it almost has felt as my second living room. 
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, entrance © www.travelblogonline.com
The furnishing and decoration is still the same as it was the first time I was here years ago
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, pastries © www.travelblogonline.com
Aside from the pastries they also offer breakfast and lunch
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, Reader’s Digests © www.travelblogonline.com
As a kid I liked to read Reader’s Digest so now I can do it again. Some of them were from 2002!
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, Junel © www.travelblogonline.com
This is Junel, he has been a loyal staff member at Bo’s since 2014
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, staff member © www.travelblogonline.com
The staff member of the day serving my coffee


There are two Bo’s in Tagbilaran

There is one Bo’s located in ICM mall 3 km from the Plaza Rizal aka the City Square. The other one, this one is located at Plaza Rizal. Tagbilaran and not to mention Panglao with its new international airport is a very expansive area. New malls, restaurants and coffee shops are growing like mushrooms after a rain all over the place. So in this fierce competition, Bo’s still holding its position as the nr one coffee shop here in Tagbilaran.
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, Inside © www.travelblogonline.com
Today I was lucky, it was quiet here. Sometimes it can be really crowded.
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, blueberry cheesecake and caffe latte © www.travelblogonline.com
Today I had my “coffee break special”, blueberry cheesecake with a large caffe latte. As you can see it’s really large, at least a half liter!
Bo’s Coffee Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines, expectant customers © www.travelblogonline.com
Expectant customers are waiting for their orders

Conclusion

Simply the best coffee in town. Deliciously unhealthy pastries and breakfasts. WiFi and clean comfort rooms. Nice and swift service. A good thing to know, is that the coffee they serve at Bo’s is grown and harvested locally here in the Philippines. So what are you waiting for??
Rating:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
4 Food 
5 Service
4 Value
4 Atmosphere
Bo’s Coffee Club
J.S. Torralba St,
Tagbilaran City,
​6300 Bohol, Philippines

Other links related to Bo’s >>>

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Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines (Updated!)

12/10/2018

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​Adventure for free, well at least almost for free!

Pungtod Island or now known as “Isola de Francesco” or Virgin Island, a seventeen thousand square meter privately owned island off the coast of Panglao. It's named after Francesco Forgione, widely known as Padre Pio. The island was conceived by the owners to serve the growing number of Padre Pio devotees in Bohol and promote devotion to the Italian Capuchin monk who is the first stigmatized priest in the history of the Church. The island is also known by the locals as the “Hidden oasis”. It's easy to come here. Just take the free yellow shuttle boat near the St. Agustin Catholic Church in Panglao.


Highlights: Sand reef, fresh sea urchins and comfort room!

One of the higlights is of course the long sand reef where you can take a swim or just enjoy the white sand and the beauty of nature. You should also challenge your taste buds with fresh sea urchins directly from the sea. Season with vinegar to taste. Then maybe it's time to visit the comfort room. Don't hesitate, it's clearly one of the nicest comfort rooms I ever been to here in the Philippines. So try it out! There are also kayaks you can borrow and explore the waters around the island. Or why not just grab a regular Filipino snack near the entrance and relax in the shadow, listen to the doves... there are for some reason many doves here. I guess they have found a quiet refuge here in this peaceful environment. And yes, everything is for free here... boat ride, sea urchins, kayaks and snacks but of course small donations are always welcomed.

Note! Click on images to see slideshow and captions!
Free shuttle boats to Virgin Island
Virgin Island is also known as the "Hidden oasis"
Francesco Forgione, widely known as Padre Pio
The beautiful sand reef
A challenge for your taste buds, sea urchins directly fresh from the sea
Scrape the meat out
Ready to enjoy
Don't forget Philippines nicest comfort room!
The mens room
Filipino snacks available
Kayaks which you can borrow
A 60 sec video clip showing the beauty of Isola de Francesco. The fruit in the video is ​Pandanus fruit.
Related links:
Pamilacan island Philippines​
​
Snorkeling at Pamilacan island
Alona Beach, Panglao​
Where to stay in Tagbilaran, Bohol​
Day trip to Isola de Francesco​
The Hills​
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa  (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
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Hiking in Corella, Bohol

8/9/2018

2 Comments

 

Breakfast before hiking

Before you go hiking you need to eat a real breakfast, right? So this morning Danica went out and bought the breakfast... I usually advised her not to buy so much food, but as usual it was more than we could finish. For just around P100 we got noodles, chicken livers, vegetables, some kind of pork meat, soup and of course the mandatory rice! 
Bohol, Breakfast, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Danica prepared the breakfast, means she went out and bought it.
Bohol, Breakfast, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Noodles, veggies, chicken liver, some pork meat, soup and all served together with rice of course
Corella, Bohol, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Now happy with a full stomach Danica was ready to go


​Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

One of the starting points for the hike is the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. We had decided to make a combo, first visit the Tarsier Sanctuary and then do the hike since the hiking trail starts just behind the sanctuary. As usual we were assigned a guide who took us along some narrow trails around the sanctuary. Despite the dense vegetation I was able to spot several of the shy tarsiers and I regretted deeply that I had been lazy and hadn't brought my big camera with me. Grrr... 
Corella, Bohol, Tarsier sanctuary, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
We were not allowed to talk loudly or use the flash on the camera
Corella, Bohol, Tarsier sanctuary, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Our guide showed us the way through the dense vegetation
Corella, Bohol, Tarsier sanctuary, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
The tarsier is very shy but we spotted several of them.

After tarsiers then hiking

Our main objective this day was the hiking. We easily found the beginning of the trail behind the actual sanctuary but after a couple hundred meters into the rainforest the trail wasn't that that clear to follow. We had been told it was easy to "just follow" but suddenly it didn't feel obvious. Danica was more concerned of the potential "monsters" hiding in the rainforest but I was afraid to get lost.
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Hmm just follow the trail...
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
We were relieved when we spotted the first signage but hmm... we were heading for viewing deck one and this was viewing deck two (!)
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
We decided to walk in the opposite direction of viewing deck two and 10 min later we finally discovered something on the ground...
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Yess we found the direction to viewing deck one! So yes... easy peasy just follow the signs!
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
The trail was slowly getting steeper and steeper...
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
When we approached the viewing deck the trail become even more steep

The rewarding view

Soaked in sweat with empty water bottles we finally came up to the viewing deck one. The view was breathtaking! We had almost a 360 degrees view over Bohol. It was worth all the blood sweat and tears to come here. A perfect spot to take photos from or having a romantic picnic or why not do both! Maybe even stay here overnight to experience the most awesome sunset and the sunrise... in that case I guess I have to convince Danica that there are no monsters hiding in the bushes beneath... 
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Amazing view, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Ohh the view was really rewarding!
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Amazing view, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Snack time! But we had ran out of water so be sure to bring some extra bottles of water
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Amazing view, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
The mandatory picture picture time!
Corella, Bohol, Hiking, Philippines, © travelblogonline.com
Finally before it got dark it was time to go back!

Facts:

How to get to Corella

It's about 13 km going to Corella from Tagbilaran City.
Via public transport: From Sikatuna Jeepney Terminal, (This is right infront of Island City Mall) get into a jeepney bound to Sikatuna via Corella. This jeepney drops you off at Philippine Tarsier Foundation. Fare is P17.00. Tell the driver of the jeepney that you are headed to Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella. Upon arrival there is a huge signage and rough road, take it and walk for 300 meters to the research building. 
Going back, just take a jeepney headed to Tagbilaran. And yes it is safe to hitch hike here. Fare is P15.00 for jeepney.
If you have your own motorcycle it's very easy to go there, just follow Google maps. 

Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary and the Sikatuna Tree Park

You can start your hike either at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary or at the Sikatuna Tree Park. There are two viewing decks to visit and the hiking trail connects the Tarsier Sanctuary with the Tree Park. Just follow the signs. Viewing deck one is closer to the Tree Park and the viewing deck two is more close the the Tarsier Sanctuary. Hiking from the Tarsier Sanctuary, visiting both viewing decks and end up at the Tree Park should take around 2-4 hours depending on your fitness level.

Comfortable shoes and water

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, it can be very slippery. Bring lot's of water. Plan ahead so you will be out from the rainforest before it gets dark, unless you intend to spend the night there. When it's dark it will be very hard to negotiate the trail.

​Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary is worth a visit

If you begin your hike at the Tarsier Sanctuary you should take the opportunity to visit the sanctuary itself. The entrance fee to the sanctuary is P60. If you just go for the hike, it's free of charge whether you start from the Tarsier Sanctuary or the Tree Park.

Click this link to see other posts about Bohol:

Related posts to Bohol
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Pamilacan island Philippines

11/3/2018

4 Comments

 

Something special

Since we had two friends from Sweden visiting us here in the Philippines we wanted to show them something special. So we decided to go to Pamilacan island.
Picture
A beautiful house with an astonishing view located inland on the island
Picture
And of course there were amazing sunsets here as well

Boat from Baclayon

At Baclayon we met with Mam Elvie who had arranged our stay at Enas cottages. The weather was good and the sea looked calm. Mam Elvie told us that it normally takes 45-60 min to go by the boat to Pamilacan.
Going from Baclayon to Pamilacan island
Picture
Someone was still seasick after the boat trip
Picture
Free coffee was included in the room rate

I wanted to extend

After an hour or so we reached Pamilacan. The sea was calm in the beginning but later on it became quite rough. Nevertheless we made it and as soon as I sat my foot on stable ground I realized I wanted to extend our stay to two nights instead of only one night. Hey, it’s not everyday you pay a visit to the paradise, right?
Picture
A visit in the paradise


Accomodation

The accomdation at Enas cottages was simple but nice. No AC, tv or hot water. But a fan, a mosquito net and a private toilet with a bucket of cold water were available. This accommodation is not for everyone but it was good enough for us. Three meals per day were included in the price.
Picture
Pancakes with coco jam for breakfast
Picture
Bonding with the guys

Snorkeling

The main activity here at Pamilacan is snorkeling aside for just unwinding and contemplateing about how good life is after all. You have at least two beaches where you can swim and snorkel freely. Then you have the Coral garden and the Marine sanctuary where you need a guide to accompany you. We did both the Coral garden and the Marine sanctuary. We were more lucky with the Coral garden since the weather was better and the sea was more clear.

Highlights

We also did dolphin watching in the morning. It was a long ride with the boat but the only thing we managed to see were the tails of a couple of dolphins. We were also supposed to see sea turtles just outside Enas cottages but we didn’t see any. My highlights were the spectacular sceneries of the island specially under the water and the quietness at night time.
The highlights of our trip to Pamilacan island

Facts

Boats are available from Baclayon on Bohol. Expect 60 min to go with the boat to Pamilacan. We paid 300 PHP per head one way. Inquire at the pier in Baclayon.
Accommodation was 850 PHP per head and night with three meals included at Enas cottages.
Snorkeling guides 250 PHP per hour. 150 PHP for renting snorkeling gears.
Picture
Another breathtaking sunset
Related links:​
​
Snorkeling at Pamilacan island
Alona Beach, Panglao​
Where to stay in Tagbilaran, Bohol​
Day trip to Isola de Francesco​
The Hills​
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa  (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
4 Comments

Snorkeling at Pamilacan island

10/3/2018

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One night became two nights

At first we were supposed to spend just one night here at Pamilacan but I immediately felt that I at least needed two nights to satisfy my cravings for the touch of paradise. Pamilacan island is the perfect getaway from the bustling city to ease down and just enjoy life to the fullest.
Picture
There are only simple accommodation here at Pamilacan... ;-)


Snorkeling

Obviously you can do snorkeling here. There are the Coral garden and the marine sanctuary where you need a guide to accompany you. We paid 250 PHP per head and hour for the guide. We went out in a small paddle boat and did the snorkeling from the boat. There are other beaches also where you can do the snorkeling for free and with easy access from the shore. If you are lucky you can see sea turtles here but we didn’t.
This our experiences from the snorkeling. The clips are mainly from the Coral garden.
Related links:
Pamilacan island Philippines​
Alona Beach, Panglao​
Where to stay in Tagbilaran, Bohol​
Day trip to Isola de Francesco​
The Hills​
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa  (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
0 Comments

Alona Beach, Panglao

9/3/2018

0 Comments

 

Alona Beach where everything happens

Alona beach together with Chocolate hills and the Tarsiers might be the most popular tourist attractions here in Bohol. If you come to Alona beach you can expect many restaurants, lively nightlife and many other tourists to bond with... and of course a white sand beach.

And hey, don’t forget to watch video at the bottom!
Picture
Kids playing in the sand
Picture
There are palm trees here also
Picture
You are always welcome at the Outback Grill
Picture
Which one would you like to have for dinner?


Picture
Sometimes it’s hard to find parking
Picture
If you don’t like to walk and if you don’t have your own motor bike you will probably end up in a tricycle.
An afternoon when we visited Alona Beach
Related links:
Pamilacan island Philippines​
​
Snorkeling at Pamilacan island​
Where to stay in Tagbilaran, Bohol​
Day trip to Isola de Francesco​
The Hills​
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa  (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
0 Comments

Where to stay in Tagbilaran, Bohol

8/1/2018

2 Comments

 

Review of Dayview Tourist Home

Dayview Tourist Home, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Dayview Tourist Home


Strategic location near the port and the airport

Dayview Tourist Home is an anonymous little pearl located just in between the Tagbilaran Ferry Terminal and the airport. Just a few minutes ride with tricycle from both which makes Dayview ideal as a starting point for Bohol.
Dayview Tourist Home, Front desk, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The front desk
Dayview Tourist Home, Entrance to our room, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Our room was nr 11

The best internet ever so far!

Dayview Tourist Home is not a fancy place, there is no beach, no pool and neither a fantastic view. But the place is new, fresh and very clean. The bed was equipped with a spring mattress. Our room had both AC and fan. Breakfast was not included but it didn't matter because you have the Cogon market around the corner where you could buy whatever you want. And last but definitely not least, according to my experience they had the best internet connection so far in the whole of Philippines! Yes you heard right. A stable and powerful connection where you could upload and download heavy files. For some that doesn't matter but if you are working online that's worth its weight in gold.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a fresh and very clean budget accommodation with a central location with good WiFi and if you don't mind taking the motorcycle going to the beach and other attractions this is the place for you. On the other hand, if you like to have the beach just outside the door, near to restaurants, bars and discos this is not the place for you.
Rating for the accommodation:
​1-5 where 1 is terrible and 5 is excellent
5 Location
5 Sleep Quality
4 Rooms
4 Service
5 Value for the money
5 Cleanliness 
​Dayview Tourist Home
269 Lamdagan Street, Barangay Cogon,
6300 Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines
Phone nr: +63 917 512 8163
Related links:
Day trip to Isola de Francesco​
The Hills​
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa  (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
2 Comments

Day trip to Isola de Francesco

29/12/2017

1 Comment

 

Beloved island has many names

​Pungtod Island or now known as “Isola de Francesco” or Virgin Island, a seventeen thousand square meter privately owned island off the coast of Panglao. It's named after Francesco Forgione, widely known as Padre Pio. The island was conceived by the owners to serve the growing number of Padre Pio devotees in Bohol and promote devotion to the Italian Capuchin monk who is the first stigmatized priest in the history of the Church. 
Virgin Island Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Isola de Francesco is a very small island


How to get there

Just take one of the free yellow shuttle boats near the St. Agustin Catholic Church in Panglao.
Isola de Francesco, The pier, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
At the end of the pier we got the free shuttle boat
Isola de Francesco, The pier, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
This is the moment when you feel you need to keep the balance
Isola de Francesco, Going there, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Other expectant passengers
60 s video clip
Picture
Make sure you go with the yellow boats
Isola de Francesco, Arrival, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
After 20 min we were near the island
Isola de Francesco, The pier, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The kids were first on land...
Isola de Francesco, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Nice views everywhere

Highlights of Isola de Francesco 

​One of the higlights is of course the long sand reef where you can take a swim or just enjoy the white sand and the beauty of nature. You should also challenge your taste buds with fresh sea urchins directly from the sea. Season with vinegar to taste. Then maybe it's time to visit the comfort room. Don't hesitate, it's clearly one of the nicest comfort rooms I ever been to here in the Philippines. So try it out! 
Virgin Island Sand Reef Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The beautiful sand bar
Virgin Island comfort room outside Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Philippines nicest comfort room
Virgin Island kayaks Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
There are kayaks to borrow

Everything is for free but small donations are welcomed

There are also kayaks you can borrow and explore the waters around the island. Or why not just grab a regular Filipino snack near the entrance and relax in the shadow, listen to the doves... there are for some reason many doves here. I guess they have found a quiet refuge here in this peaceful environment. And yes, everything is for free here... boat ride, sea urchins, kayaks and snacks but of course small donations are always welcomed.
Isola de Francesco, Sea Urchins, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Let your taste buds try the fresh sea urchins
Isola de Francesco, The sand bar, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The sand bar where you can sun bath and swim
Isola de Francesco, The sand bar, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Someone is enjoying the sun
Isola de Francesco, Under water, Panglao Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
There are no corals here, just white sand bottom
Related links:
The Hills​
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
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The Hills

24/12/2017

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Day trip to Chocolate Hills in Carmen

The Pier in Baclayon

If you are in Bohol and never been to Chocolate Hills then you should go there. We went by hired motorcycle from Tagbilaran and our first stop was the pier in Baclayon. We admired the nice view and took some photos. We also asked around about the boats going to Pamilacan Island. It's funny coz we started ask one guy about this and that and soon there was a bunch of friendly people around us, all smiling and chatted with us. In Baclayon they have one of oldest churches in Bohol, well worth a visit if you are interested.
Baclayon, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The pier in Baclayon


Man-made forest

At Loay we left the busy Tagbilaran East Road and turned left towards Loboc. The traffic is less here and the landscape is beautiful. At Loboc you can do lot's of stuff. Everything from cruise the Loboc River to be adventurous at Loboc Eco-Tourism Adventure Park. We did nothing of that, we just took a short break for lunch since someone was hungry despite breakfast. Kinilaw, lumpia and ampalaya with rice and suddenly someone become happy again. On our way to Carmen we passed the cool and beautiful man-made forest. Cool in the sense not hot. So for me it was a blessing to cool down here for a while in the shadow.
The man-made forest, Bilar, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The man-made forest

Carmen and Chocolate Hills

Picture
We went on straight for Carmen and the Chocolate Hills. We passed the Tarsier and the Butterfly sanctuary on our way. But we didn't stop there. Finally we arrived at the hills, the entrance fee is 50 PHP per head. You can go with the motorcycle almost all the way up to the observation deck. But the last bit you need to walk. Be prepared for roughly 250 steps in a steep staircase, so load up with water and be handy with your camera. There is an astonishing view waiting for you at the top.
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The entrance up to the observation deck... 250 steps to go
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The hills
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
An explanation how the hills were formed
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
This is heaven for all selfie photographers
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
Also heaven for me...
The Chocolate Hills, Carmen, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog

Urduja and Vinta

The typhon Urduja which had hit Philippines a bit more than a week ago and also just the other day, it was the Severe Tropical Storm Vinta which struck in the Northern Mindanao. We here in Bohol were lucky, we had just a couple of days with rain. Today, the day after the storm Vinta, it was sunny, clear and very hot weather here in Bohol. Our thoughts are with those who suffered so hard from these disasters.
Butterfly, Bilar, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog

The butterfly sanctuary

On our way back to Tagbilaran we passed the Butterfly sanctuary again. This time we stopped and paid a visit, the entrance fee was 45 PHP per head. It included a guide who will teach you about the butterflies and will help you with your selfies. It was nice and interesting to get to know the butterflies a little bit more. There are 10-15 species of butterflies and moths there in the sanctuary. They also have a restaurant where you can refresh your self so you can load your batteries before the next stop which would be the Tarsier Sanctuary.
When we arrived at the Tarsiers, it was too crowded with people so we just sat outside and had some fresh and delicious buko juice. Just 30 PHP each. After finishing our drinks we went straight back to Tagbilaran. 
Butterfly Sanctuary, Bilar, Bohol Philippines © Patrik Lord Travel Blog
The biggest butterfly of them all

Our conclusion

We did this tour in a relaxed pace but expect to allow a whole day for doing this depending on how many of the attractions you like to experience.
A 60 s video clip showing the Chocolate Hills
Related links:
Where to eat in Tagbilaran?
Find a house for rent in Panglao
Review of the Food Court in Island City Mall (Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines)
Bohol and Panglao Islands, Philippines
Isola de Francesco or Virgin Island, Panglao, Philippines
Review of Swiss Zurigo Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bojol Grill Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of A's Chicken Nuggets & Grill Haus (Bohol, Philippines)
The giant Arogo and the smallest primate, what do they have in common?
Review of Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa  (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Henann Resort Alona Beach (Panglao, Philippines)
Review of Shang Palace Seafood Restaurant (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Bo's Coffee (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of The Buzzz Café (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Golden Cowrie (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Staylite Park Bed and Breakfast (Bohol, Philippines)
Review of Arabelle Suites (Bohol, Philippines)
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