Traveling to the Philippines
Embarking on a 10-day journey from San Francisco to the Philippines in July 2024 was an adventure filled with natural wonders, cultural experiences, and culinary delights.
Landing in Cebu, I was immediately struck by the city's vibrant energy and the warmth of its people. The tropical climate, with temperatures averaging around 29°C (84°F), was a welcome change from the cool San Francisco summer. I was expecting hot and humid with summer showers, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that it only rained once while we were there. And the humidity was not as bad as I thought. I feel like summers in Florida were worse than the time we were there.
Eager to explore the nearby islands, I booked a ferry ride to Bohol with OceanJet. The journey was swift and comfortable, with multiple daily departures making it convenient to plan day trips. I was not aware that we had to pay for a terminal boarding fee. Luckily, I had a few coins in my wallet to pay the fee though.
In Bohol, I visited the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, dedicated to the conservation of these tiny primates. Observing tarsiers in their natural habitat was a surreal experience; their large, expressive eyes and delicate movements left a lasting impression.
A riverboat cruise along the Loboc River in Bohol was a feast for the senses. As we dined on a buffet of Filipino dishes, we were entertained by traditional dances and songs, including the lively Tinikling. The harmonious blend of nature, cuisine, and culture made this cruise unforgettable
One of the trip's highlights was swimming with whale sharks off the coast of Cebu in Oslob. We hired a driver for the day, which cost less than $50. Despite an early 4 a.m. pickup, the anticipation kept me energized. Our driver drove us about 4 hours from the city center to swim with the whale sharks and waited for us to be done. After a scenic boat ride, I found myself face-to-face with these gentle giants. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating, offering a profound connection with marine life.
Once we were done swimming with the whale sharks, our driver drove us to Carcar City and introduced us to the Philippines' rich culinary heritage. Here, I savored lechon, a traditional roasted pig dish renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat. The flavors were unparalleled, reflecting the country's love for hearty, communal meals.
Outside of our hotel, there was a local farmer's market. I discovered a stall selling gourmet coffee for just $2. The rich aroma and robust flavor of the locally sourced beans were a testament to the Philippines' burgeoning coffee culture.
In Cebu City, we also visited SM Seaside City Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the Philippines. The mall's vast array of stores and its full-sized grocery store made it a one-stop destination for both shopping and leisure.
Throughout my trip, I was pleasantly surprised by the affordability of dining in the Philippines. A sumptuous Korean BBQ meal cost only $8 per person, while unlimited chicken wings and fries were available for just $4. These experiences highlighted the country's diverse culinary scene and the value it offers to travelers.
My 10-day journey through the Philippines was a tapestry of unforgettable experiences, from close encounters with unique wildlife to immersing myself in the rich cultural traditions and savoring the delectable cuisine. The warmth of the Filipino people and the country's natural beauty have left an indelible mark on my heart, and I eagerly anticipate my next visit to this enchanting archipelago, which may happen soon as we purchased a condo while were there…but that’s a story for another time.
Until Next Time,
Faith
