Respite and Reflection Countdown to 2023 (Pt. 1)

(WARNING: This is a long read!)

Pre-pandemic, going out with friends and family is a normal thing to do, we are human beings and we need social interaction. Everyone can recall in 2020 how COVID19 put on hold everything in our life, all of a sudden

Trying to catch the sunrise in Colina Isla de Bantayan.

we are stuck at home just waiting for the pandemic to die out. When border, health and safety restrictions started to relax, businesses slowly rise from the ashes. And this year... with face to face activities resuming, get togethers are coming back, two years of social distancing has come to an end. Just check your FB and you will see how many of your friends are enjoying face to face time with family and friends, life is once again sweet! But for an introvert like me, a break from normal city life is what I need. Enter Bantayan Island, Cebu.

A piece of paradise, north of Cebu...

Heaven on earth does exist in Paradise Beach.

Away from the crowded shores of Boracay or from more popular beaches in the Philippines, this island paradise in the north of Cebu offers tranquil nights and laid back living, things that any introvert like me likes. This is the second time I have been in this gorgeous island. The first time was in 2021, and all I can recall were the calming sound of the waves, the pristine white sand , the crystal clear waters of Kota Beach with it's delightful display of monochromatic shades of blue and green, and the gentle sea breeze on my face, kissing my cheeks. It invites even non-swimmers to just take a dip and forget about life's worries.

What's in store for you?

Thirty minutes into my journey from Hagnaya Port to Bantayan, I walked towards the viewing deck of the ferry just to see how close we are. My heart got excited to see the long strip of white sand from afar. That tantalizing view makes me all the more excited, so close, yet still so far. Once we've docked, I was greeted by Kota Beach with its idyllic island scenery - beach, sun, and sand. I believe this is what makes this island so special, you need not go island hopping to enjoy the fabulous beaches, everything's right at your door step! If you have been to other island destinations, you will need to rent a boat to see decent beaches, but not here. If you really fancy island hopping though, Virgin Island and Kinatarcan Island are just a few minutes away from the mainland.

Mother Nature's peep hole in Paradise Beach.

Tiny as it is, with only three municipalities (Santa Fe, Bantayan and Madridejos), it only takes 40 minutes via motorbike to get from one end of the island to the other, but don't let this fool you, it is rich with beautiful natural wonders, like a lagoon, mangrove parks, caves and more.

The island offers, a simple terrain, with its highest elevation at 26 meters, the island is technically flat. No towering limestone cliffs or rock formations jutting out of the sea here. Going through the paved roads from Santa Fe to Bantayan, you will be greeted by coconut trees along your way, cross rivers with mangroves flanking each side of the banks, and as you pass by the arch going to Madridejos, the magnificent decades old trees, with their canopies, protect you from the sun.

Small island, wonderful discoveries...

(Above) Kota Beach. Sit back relax, and enjoy the sun. If you fancy something to eat or want to grab a drink, Hungry Beach is just around the corner. This beach park is perhaps the most recognizable as this was featured in the movie Camp Sawi.

(Left) Obo-ob Mangrove Garden. This is Bantayan's answer to Quezon City's La Mesa Eco Park . With bamboo footbridges that weave in and out of shade (thanks to the trees and mangroves), this is a good alternative for people who want that beach and forest vibe in one.

(Right) Old Kota Fort. Founded in 1790's, this fort is made of coral stones, sand, sugar and limestone. Originally a watch tower to look after the island from pirates, it is now a tourist attraction in Madridejos Kota Park.

(L) Lalio's Cave. This privately owned cave holds a fresh water reservoir away from the sun and sand of the beach. A nice way to cool down on a humid day.

(B) Saints Peter and Paul Church. Built in 1839, the carefully preserved facade, tiles and wood work will automatically take you back in time. The magnificent ceiling mural is a must see!

From outside it seems like any ordinary Spanish colonial church, but step inside and you will be amazed by the grand painted ceiling done by Filipino artists.

Look up!

(A) Balidbid Lagoon. Surrounded by mangroves and trees this is where fresh and sea water mix, taking a dip in the middle of the shallow waters, feels as if the surrounding trees and mangroves hug you as you look out to the endless sea.

(A) Amihan Beach Cabanas offers good internet connection and food! One can easily see why island living truly is a reprieve from the concrete jungle. You can also do some work from here like what I did, and yes you get that magnificent ocean view anytime!

No coffee shop? No problem! Will choose to work in this place anytime! The truffle fries is good value for money.

We are not yet done! Gastronomy will be posted soon!