Bohol Island, PhilippinesThe Insider's Guide to Bohol Island
Summary: Discover the charm of Bohol Island with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.
Welcome to Bohol Island! If you're planning to move to Bohol Island, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Bohol Island has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Bohol Island.
Bohol Island, located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife. There are several sites of interest for both tourists and locals to explore on the island.
One of the most iconic attractions in Bohol is the Chocolate Hills, a unique geological formation consisting of over 1,200 symmetrical hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate kisses. The hills are best viewed from the Chocolate Hills Complex or Sagbayan Peak, both of which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Another must-visit site is the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, a conservation center dedicated to protecting the endangered Philippine tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates. Visitors can observe these tiny, nocturnal creatures up close in their natural habitat and learn about the efforts being made to preserve their species.
Bohol is also home to several historical landmarks, such as the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, and the Blood Compact Shrine, which commemorates the first treaty of friendship between the Spanish and the Filipinos. The island's rich history can also be explored at the Bohol National Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits showcasing the region's cultural heritage.
For beach lovers, the pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of Alona Beach and Dumaluan Beach are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The island is also a popular destination for scuba diving, with numerous dive sites such as Balicasag Island and Pamilacan Island offering diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Bohol Island is diverse and caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. One of the most popular dining spots is the Bohol Bee Farm, which offers a unique farm-to-table experience with organic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The Buzzz Café, located within the farm, is known for its delicious ice cream made from fresh fruits and honey.
For a taste of local cuisine, Payag Restaurant serves traditional Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon kawali in a cozy, bamboo-themed setting. Another popular option is Gerarda's, which offers a mix of Filipino and international dishes in a charming ancestral house.
When it comes to nightlife, Alona Beach is the hub of activity, with numerous bars and restaurants lining the beachfront. Some popular spots include Coco Vida Bar & Restaurant, which offers live music, fire dancing shows, and a lively atmosphere, and the Belgian-owned Beehive Bar, known for its extensive selection of Belgian beers and tasty European dishes.
Recreational activities in Bohol Island are abundant and cater to a wide range of interests. For adventure seekers, the Danao Adventure Park offers thrilling activities such as ziplining, rappelling, and river trekking. The park is also home to the Plunge, a 75-meter free-fall experience that is not for the faint-hearted.
Water sports enthusiasts can head to the various beaches and dive sites around the island for snorkeling, scuba diving, and dolphin watching. Balicasag Island, for example, is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
For a more relaxed experience, the Loboc River Cruise offers a leisurely journey along the scenic Loboc River, complete with a buffet lunch and live music. The cruise provides a unique opportunity to witness the lush greenery and local wildlife that line the riverbanks.
Finally, for those interested in exploring the island's natural beauty on land, the Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape offers several hiking trails through dense forests, where visitors can spot various species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Bohol Island: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in Bohol Island, often join various clubs and activities to socialize and engage with the local community. These include diving clubs, as Bohol is renowned for its beautiful underwater world, and hiking groups that explore the island's lush landscapes and hidden gems. Some expats also participate in local sports clubs, such as basketball or volleyball, which are popular in the Philippines.Language exchange groups are another popular activity, where expats can learn Tagalog or Cebuano, the local languages, while teaching English or their native language to locals. Cooking classes are also a great way to learn about Filipino cuisine and meet new people.Expats often meet people through volunteering opportunities as well. Many local organizations and charities welcome the help of foreigners. This not only allows expats to give back to the community but also provides a chance to interact with locals and understand their culture better.Social events, such as local festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions, are also excellent opportunities for expats to mingle with locals and other expats. Bohol Island hosts several festivals throughout the year, which are vibrant displays of local culture and tradition.Lastly, many expats meet people simply by frequenting local markets, cafes, and restaurants. These places are often hubs of social activity, and the friendly and welcoming nature of the Filipino people makes it easy to strike up a conversation and make new friends," said one expat living in Bohol Island.
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Bohol Island is a unique blend of tranquility, adventure, and cultural immersion. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring pristine beaches, lush jungles, and the famous Chocolate Hills. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as diving, hiking, and exploring local wildlife.The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those who work remotely. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts, and there are numerous co-working spaces and cafes with reliable internet for digital nomads.The local community is welcoming and friendly, and English is widely spoken, making it easy for foreigners to communicate and integrate. The island also has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals, traditional music and dance, and local cuisine to explore.Healthcare facilities are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics on the island. However, for more serious conditions, one may need to travel to larger cities like Cebu or Manila.While public transportation is available, many expats and digital nomads choose to rent a scooter or car for more flexibility. Traffic is generally light, making it easy to get around.Despite its peaceful ambiance, Bohol also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Overall, life for expats and digital nomads in Bohol offers a balance of work, leisure, and cultural experiences," commented an expat living in Bohol Island.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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