kentisnowhere: Visayas

Swim with the Famous Oslob Whale Sharks

Ever - wondered how it feels to swim with sharks? Well, if you can't afford a South African Shark Cage Dive and Great whites scare you a lot (who isn't?). Then Oslob Whale Shark Diving is the perfect experience for you.

Oslob is located in the southern part of Cebu. This is a 3 - 4 hour drive from Cebu City. This part of the province boasts awesome marine life. Great for scuba diving, swimming, beach bumming, and island hopping.

Oslob Whale Sharks

As per the locals, these baby whale sharks has always been in the area. They were even considered as 'pests' since these gentle giants are scaring away the fishes. And fishing is the common livelihood in the place.

But everything changed when a foreign tourist hired a fisherman to bring him near these young whale sharks. And that is how the famous Oslob Whale sharks attracted more tourist.

Person swimming with whale shark in Oslob, Cebu, Philippines

How to get there?

From Mactan International Airport, hail a cab that will take you to Cebu South Bus Terminal. Hop on a bus plying the Bato - Oslob route. The fare is Php 155.
Inform the ticket guy/driver to drop you off Tan-awan, Oslob or simply, Whale Shark. The bus ride will last for about 3-4 hours.

Most of the time, buses will drop you off at a resort that offers the whale shark experience. You'll have to pay Php 100 on top of the Php 500 (local tourist) and Php 1000 (foreign tourist) whale shark watching fee. The Php 100 includes free use of lockers, restrooms, shower, and transportation going to the briefing center.

But you can just walk directly to the Whale Shark Watching Briefing Station and skip the resort fees.

Alternatively, you can also book a plane ticket to Dumaguete airport because it's geographically nearer to Oslob than Mactan airport.

Where to Stay?

Oslob offers a variety of accommodations. Below are a few places to check.

Hotel Sebastian
Book now via Travelbook!
Book now via Agoda!

Seafari Resort Oslob
Book now via Travelbook!
Book now via Agoda!

Sascha's Resort Oslob
Book now via Travelbook!

Book now via Agoda!

For discounted Oslob accommodations, please see the links below:
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

Whale Shark Experience

Once registered, you'll have to wait for your boat. Whale shark viewing is about 30 minutes.

There are few things that the tourists should remember before the activity.

Sunscreen application is strictly prohibited
Do not touch the shark
No more than 6 tourists per shark
Keep a minimum distance of 4 metres from the shark
No flash photography
No feeding from boats
Throw trash or any rubbish in proper bins

3:55 PM
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Biliran

Biliran - one of Philippines' smallest provinces in terms of area. Known for its rich waters and majestic mountains. This underrated province has so much to offer. You just need to be assertive enough to explore it.

For our 2015 year-end travel, we have decided to explore this laid-back island paradise.

Reaching the island is easy. You can access it via Cebu or Leyte. Since we are from Cebu, we bought our tickets from Roble Shipping Lines plying Cebu - Naval route. They have several travel accommodations. From The breezy economy to the exclusive cabins.

We departed from Cebu around 8:30 pm and reached Naval around 8am. Sadly, we had to wait for another two hours before disembarking since the tide was low and the boat cannot go near the port.

Finally, we reached Biliran island at 10am!

Sambawan

We then looked for a boat that will take us to Maripipi - Sambawan. Unfortunately, boats going to Maripipi do not operate on a Sunday. So we have to do the more expensive route which is via Kawayan.

Before going to Kawayan, we bought supplies from a nearby grocery store in Naval - Charlie's

We then rode a PUJ / Multicab that took us to Kawayan Port. It was an hour drive from Naval. We paid Php 30 each.

Since we took the Kawayan route, we had to haggle with the boat operators for a roundtrip boat transfer. This is a direct transport from Kawayan to Sambawan. Normally, they would offer Php3,000 to Php 3,500. In our case, we got a lower price of Php2,800 since it was off-season and we were the only passengers amidst the rowdy crowd of boatsman.

The boat ride was roughly an hour. It was calm and fast.

We reached Sambawan Island around 3pm. We were greeted by the caretakers' warmth. We paid Php 100 each for the entrance fee. They have few cottages available for day use Also, they have fan rooms for overnight use that can accommodate up to 10 people!

Cottage: Php 500

Room: Php 2,500

But for budget travellers, you can pitch your own tent for only Php 100 per tent.

The island is fairly small and interesting. You'll see the whole island when you climb up the hill and get that famous shot that you always see on the internet. Aside from the clear waters and ravishing sunset/sunrise, you can also experience the flourishing life below the surface. Sambawan is a great spot for snorkeling and diving.

The island doesn't have tap water. Seawater is used in the restrooms. They have a small canteen that sells and cooks canned goods and other instant meals. But it's advisable to bring your own food and drinks. And for the alcohol lovers, the canteen doesn't sell vodka nor beer.

Mainland Biliran

We left Sambawan at 12:30 pm and reached Kawayan at 2pm.

As expected, we were flocked by the habal - habal drivers (motorcycle drivers). Each saying that they can take us to Naval for Php 150 per motorcycle. But we are not yet heading to Naval. We want to explore the whole island the next day. And, we needed a place for the night.

We found Estreller's Sunset View resort. Dubbed as one of the cosiest places in the island. It has a spring pool and a great sunset view. Eventually, we spent the night in this place.

Before we hit the sack, we contacted a multicab driver that will tour us the next day. We called different drivers, but the price was just too high. Luckily, we found the best driver!

The driver agreed to a 12-hour tour for only Php 3,000 (includes gas).

For cheap Biliran accommodation, check out the links below
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

Day Tour (6am - 6pm)

Masagongsong Cold Spring Swimming Pool

A public outdoor pool located in Brgy Masagongsong, Kawayan. This is just a few meters away from Estreller's Sunset View Resort. Entrance fee: Php 10

Agta Beach Scuba Resort

Probably the most popular resort in Biliran. This is a haven for scuba divers and the like.

Paradizu Bayview Resort

This is just a few kilometres away from Agta Beach Scuba Resort. This resort is situated on a cliff. The best place to view the sweeping bay.

Almeria Catholic Church

A beautiful church in the heart of Almeria Town.

Iyusan Rice Terraces

This majestic manmade agricultural landform is no longer exclusive to Banaue. Yes, Biliran has a lot of rice terraces.

Recoletos Falls

A 30-45 minute heart pounding and nerve-wracking trek is needed before you'll see the falls. Be extra careful because the pathway is right beside a cliff. The pathway tends to be slippery when it's' pouring.

Ulan-Ulan Falls

The same pathway with Recoletos. Again, be extra cautious when trekking.

Biliran Bridge

This connects Biliran to the rest of Leyte.

Nasunugan Watch Tower / Nasunugan Ruins

Ruins of a Spanish era structure made of coral stone blocks. This watchtower used to be a sanctuary for the religious. This was burned down by the Moros

Kasabangan Falls

This waterfall is located not far from the national highway. There is a foot bridge that will take you to the falls. Unfortunately, the foot bridge is in a bad state. Kasabangan falls is frequently visited by the locals. They've managed to create a few bleachers near the area. Entrance fee is Php 10 adults / Php 5 for children.

Casiawan Falls

A privately-owned falls. Entrance fee: Php 30

Tomalistis Falls

This is near the beach. Dubbed as the sweetest water in Biliran.

Mainit Hot Spring

There is great potential in this area. This needs to be rehabilitated by the LGU. Hot spring is located is right beside the national highway.

Tinago Falls

One of Biliran's best falls. This is the most known falls in Biliran.

Naval Spring Resort

Another spring pool resort. By far the best, amongst all spring pools we've visited.

Multicab Driver Contact number: 0916 446 4748

For cheap Biliran accommodation, check out the links below
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

Biliran Island from Kent Lim on Vimeo.

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How to get to Bantayan Island

Cebu

This humble island is located on the Northern tip of Cebu, Philippines.

Via Public Transport

Public buses and Public vans are available all day to take you to Bantayan Island. Plan your trip accordingly as the ferry trip to Bantayan island is not 24 hours.

Tip: take the earliest trip that you can so you can skip the traffic. First ferry trip to the island is 1 am and the last trip is 5:30 pm. If you arrive in Cebu in the afternoon, it's best to stay in the city and travel to Bantayan the next day.

Go to the terminal beside the MyBus Terminal at SM City Cebu
Take a bus or a premium van going to Hagnaya Wharf. The ride will take 3 hours - 4 hours, depending on traffic. Van fare would be around Php 300 while the bus fare is approximately Php 260 - 280

Tip: Vans (Black Taxi) are generally faster (they could cut the trip to 2 hours!) but has limited space. If you only have a carry - on then taking the van is the best option.

Upon arriving in Hagnaya Wharf, a ferry will take you to the island. The trip would take up to an hour. The fare is Php 325 which includes terminal fee*.
Hail a tricycle that will bring you to your preferred resort or better yet arrange for pickups with the resort. The fare is usually Php 30 per person.

Tip: If the tricycle drivers would ask you to pay for the whole trip which is around Php 150 - 200 per way, you may walk away and wait for another Tricycle outside the port. Also, if you have arranged a land tour, ask the driver if they could pick you up from the port.

Via Private Vehicles

The road going to Hagnaya is paved with concrete so any vehicle can take you there. You can leave your car in several paid parking spaces at Hagnaya wharf. Price is usually Php 150 per day - not 24 hours. Please confirm the timing with the owner to avoid conflict

You can also bring your car/motorcycle/bicycles to Bantayan Island via cargo vessels.

*Last update: March 2024

If you miss the last ferry trip, you may check out the accommodations below

Hagnaya Beach Resort

JJS Hotel and Resort

Mar Azul Travellers Inn and SPA

Accommodations near the Bus Terminal to Hagnaya Port

Radisson Blu Cebu

Bayfront Hotel Cebu - North Reclamation

Sugbutel Family Hotel

9:00 AM
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How to survive Boracay on a budget

Boracay

Yes, everything in Boracay comes with a price - waayyyy higher price. But if you're part of Forbes' richest. This post is not for you.

We all love to travel. But it's not that easy to show up in an airport and choose a random destination (how I wish I can do that). We have to carefully lay out a plan and that includes a travel budget.

Boracay - one of the most visited beach in the Philippines. With its clear waters, powdery sand, various food hubs, and fun-filled activities, you'll easily break your bank in a matter of hours.

Luckily, I've found a few ways to survive without draining my funds.

1.) Book an accommodation ahead of time - This way, you'll have the luxury to choose the best accommodation that is easy on the wallet. There are heaps of inns that offer an air-conditioned room for as low as Php 900 a night.

When I was there, We booked with Tan's Guest House located in station 2. They have great rooms! Most rooms come with a fridge. And, it is literally 30 seconds away from the beach. Price starts at Php 1000.

For other discounted Boracay accommodations, click this link

2.) When exploring the island, be on the lookout for cheap eats - Boracay is packed with different food places. And watch out for fancy looking restos because you'll definitely shell out more notes for a pasta meal.

Take advantage of local promotions. For instance, Tilapia 'n Chips' local treat - fish fillet paired with rice plus a glass of iced tea for only Php 99. Or you can also have your obligatory meal with Andok's. Gobble up their fried chicken and/or breaded pork chop. And thou shall not forget Mang Inasal! They'll be your life saver when the ultimate hunger kicks in. For under Php 150, you can enjoy their unlimited rice.

And of course, how can we forget the all-time favourite turo turo / carenderia for only Php 40 per viand.

3.) Do not spend all your money on expensive concoctions/cocktails - Walk a few minutes to Budget Mart. Buy your favourite bottle and enjoy whilst viewing the sunset. But, if there's really an urge to buy that expensive booze to experience the ambience of the bar, go ahead!

Also, most drinking hubs offer a happy hour that will satisfy your inner alcoholic self on a budget.

4.) Do not rush in paying Boracay water activities - you'll never know if the next person you'll bump into would offer a lower price. Be patient and learn to haggle. For sure, you'll get a better price.

5.) Plan your activities - yes, this is the ultimate money-saving technique. Have a budget and stick to it!

For cheap and discounted Boracay deals, check out this link

Well, that's an easy list! Good luck on your next Boracay Adventure!

2:02 PM
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The Great Apo Island Experience

Dumaguete

On the southern tip of Negros Island, a hidden paradise is awaiting its discovery. From majestic rock formations to rich marine life. Everyone should include this in their lists!

The island boasts several marine treasures. This marine reserve is quite popular to scuba enthusiast and snorkeling fans.

How to Get There?

From Robinsons Dumaguete City:

Ride a Jeepney bound for Zamboanguita at Bread Camp across the old Caltex Gas Station. Fare is Php 20
Remind the driver to drop you off at the corner of Zamboanguita port
You can either walk to the port or hail a tricycle going to the port. Tricycle fare is Php 8
Upon reaching the port, you need to fill out a few documents before you can hop into your wavy adventure. A tourism officer will assist you with all those stuff.
You need to pay the boat fee (standard fee) which starts from Php 2,500. But, I highly recommend that you get the bigger boats because the waves are challenging.

Standard Boat Rental Fee

1 - 4 capacity - Php 2500

5 - 6 capacity - Php 3000

7 - 8 capacity - Php 3500

9 - 10 capacity - Php 4000

11 - 12 capacity - Php 4500

13 - 14 capacity - Php 5000

15 - 16 capacity - Php 7000

17 - 21 capacity - Php 8000

Where to Stay?

There are a lot of homestays across the island. We stayed at Roners behind the school. We paid Php 150 each for the night. They usually put signages with prices. But if you have great haggling skills you can get a cheaper price.

I really can't recommend our homestay for the reason that it's located behind a school - not beach front. You can get a beachfront location at Liberty Lodge for Php 250 a night.

For Cheap Dumaguete City Accommodations, check out the link below
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

Where to eat?

If you're into cooking your own food, you can bring your own portable stove and cook. You can also ask the in-charge of your homestay to do the cooking. The usual charge is Php 50 - 100 depending on complexity. Just remember to bring your own ingredients because items are a little bit costly on the island.

Alternatively, you can avail of Liberty Lodge's accommodation with full board meals for Php 800 a night.

How much will I spend?

If you're from Cebu, for a group of 5+, you can bring around Php 1700 - 2500 each all in and that's good for 2 days and 1 night. I've also noticed that they have several fees. Below are some fees

Dock Fee - Php 300 per boat

Island Entrance Fee - Php 100

Guide Fee - Php 300 per guide

Snorkel gear Rental Fee - Php 100

Life Vest Rental Fee - Php 100

What to do?

Obviously, you need to dive, snorkel, swim, and repeat. Aside from that, you can also trek for about 20 mins to the lighthouse. From there, you'll see a glimpse of the island.

You can also immerse yourself in the community. Observe their activities. Talk to a local. Ask questions. Explore.

And oh, one thing you need to remember. The island runs on a generator so electricity is only available for 3-4 hours a day; from 6 pm to 9-10 pm.

So gather all your friends and explore this hidden gem.

For Cheap Dumaguete City Accommodations, check out the link below
Agoda's Top Recommendation
Travelbook's Top Recommendation

2:36 PM
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Just another to-do-list in Cebu

Cebu

Hey there, traveler! If you want to see Cebu from a new perspective then you've come to the right page! Experience the daily hustle and bustle of the city.

1.) Eat at a "pungko-pungko" spot - this infamous hole-in-the-wall dining experience is a must do in your Cebu trip. However, this is not for the picky eater. You won't be eating with silverware but with plastic gloves. You won't have a well-trained wait person but a funny little cashier/server/vendor/entertainer. And lastly, you won't be eating restaurant-quality food but tasty fried dishes. And yes, I'm talking about fried pork intestines, fried pig brain, fried pork fat, fried sausages, fried pork tongue, Fried pig tripe, fried spring rolls (but not the fancy stuff), and everything that can be fried. It may sound fatty but it's a sure hit for the Cebuano palate. And believe me, this sinful delight wouldn't even cause you a fortune!

Popular "pungko-pungko" places:

Across Apple Tree Suites

Across Cebu Doctors' University

Near Redemptorist church

2.) People-watch at Cebu IT Park - This is really a great time-killer and you'll get to observe the hardworking professionals of Cebu's BPO industry. I recommend you find a spot along i2 - i3 building. This is a great spot since this is near the big BPOs. Best time to go is at night. And if you get bored of people-watching then you can just dine at any resto in the area.

3.) Explore Sugbo Mercado - This is part of Cebu IT park but I think it deserves a spot in our list. Sugbo Mercado is the first successful food market in Cebu. It boasts different cuisines that are enjoyed by cebuanos.

4.) Visit Cebu Museums - There are a lot of museums around the city. From Museo Sugbo to Casa Gorordo to Cathedral Museum of Cebu, these sites boast the city's rich heritage.

5.) Run a few laps at Abellana Cebu City Sports Center - Need to shed some pounds? Well, you gotta visit here and work those easy-going muscles. This is where most Cebuanos spend their afternoon/early morning jog. Aside from the oval track, there are also other amenities like gym, lap pool, volleyball court, etc.

6.) Eat Lechon - Need I say more? One does not simply skip this sumptuous Cebu offering.

Popular Lechon spots:
CNT Lechon
Talisay Lechon
Carcar Lechon

7.) Enjoy Cebu's streetfood - We've got barbecue spots almost everywhere! Plus several food carts that offer good ol' fried goodness. You may also visit the Barracks of Carbon Market.

8.) Try a Tuslob - buwa meal - This originally came from Pasil, Cebu. People here are the grandmaster chefs of this treat. Recently, a lot of restaurants have commercialised this treat making it more available to the public. What's remarkable about this meal is you get to cook it on your own. So if Yakiniku is for Japanese, Samgyeopsal is for Korean then Tuslo-buwa is definitely for the Cebuanos. This tabletop treat is best served while it's hot.

Popular Tuslo-buwa spots:
Azul
Papart's

9.) Gobble a few Siomai from Tisa - This piece of heaven is a popular Dimsum treat. But since Cebuanos are very creative, we've decided to create our own version. Luckily, this famous Siomai / Siumai sa Tisa can be availed almost anywhere! Just look for a banner that says, "Siomai sa Tisa available here".

10.) Swim, swim, and swim - Whether it's from the lush Mactan resorts or from the backpackers inn in Moalboal, this is a must thing to do when you're on this beautiful island.

And yes, those are some things that you can try while you're in Cebu. A little bit of new experience won't hurt ay?

9:58 AM
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kentisnowhere

Swim with the Famous Oslob Whale Sharks

Biliran

How to get to Bantayan Island

How to survive Boracay on a budget

The Great Apo Island Experience

Just another to-do-list in Cebu

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