Travel dates: March 12-18, 2016
Our first Asia trip together was to Cebu, Philippines. We stayed at the Shangri-La and it was amazing. We booked a deal through Cathay Pacific's website as they have package deals that change pretty much weekly. Included with our package was a breakfast buffet every day, snorkel gear, and 1 massage each.
The resort had a private beach that was perfect for snorkeling. Even the little ones could try it because it was shallow and calm in the cove.
Sunset the first night.
Day 2 we spent nearly the whole day at the resort beach. We snorkeled and caught some rays.
Day 3 - We tried a little golf. The Shangri-La has a little par 3 course but it did cost a little extra. The course was not in great shape either, but we were excited to play since we don't get the chance to much living in Hong Kong.
Day 4 - We got up early for a Bohol tour. We booked this outside the hotel and looked on tripadvisor for a good one. The hotel wanted about double the price for the same tour. We did have to get our own taxi to the pier to go to the island of Bohol, however. And it was a little confusing as to where we needed to be. (Pictured, sunrise from the infinity pool at the resort.)
It was about an hour ferry ride to the neighboring island of Bohol. Once we arrived, it was easy to find our tour bus and we started out. The first stop was
Baclayon church. It was being put back together after an earthquake in 2013. Today, I believe this church has been completely restored.
Below, another beautiful Catholic church on the island.
Next stop was the area for seeing the
Tarsier monkeys. These little guys are nocturnal so we had to be quiet so we didn't disturb them. The used to let people hold them until they figured out it was causing the Tarsiers stress. They measure about 3-6" tall.
Around lunchtime, was the riverboat cruise. They had a nice buffet lunch and it was relaxing to get off the bus for a while.
After lunch, we headed for the Chocolate Hills. Spoiler alert: they are not actually made of chocolate.
The
Chocolate Hills turn brown during the dry season. There are around 1300 of them.
After the Chocolate Hills, they drove us back to the ferry pier and we returned to Cebu.
The last day, we spent snorkeling and we also visited the nearby mall. There were several restaurants we haven't seen since we left the US.
The water was really clear this day.
Well, that's it from our Cebu trip! If you want a beach vacation that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, check out Cebu.
