2013 - Page 2 of 3 - Senyor Lakwatsero

The Stunning White Island of Camiguin

Camiguin’s most popular tourist attraction, the exquisite and picturesque White Island located in the town of Mambajao, is definitely one of my favorite beach destinations in the Philippines. It is accessible via a small pumpboat from any of the beachfront resorts in barangay Yumbing or Agoho. Travel time from the jump off point to the island is approximately 10 minutes. Fare is P500 for a maximum of 6 persons. The island is composed of white sand only and is devoid of any trees so it is best to bring an umbrella as a shade.

For this blog post, rather than describing in words how we had a great time and how beautiful the island is, I would let the following pictures speak for me. Warning: I seriously thought of using “Selfie Overload in White island, Camiguin” as a title for this article 🙂

Ferry From Cebu To Camiguin And Vice Versa

Part of our Cebu itinerary was a side trip to Camiguin island. We decided to take the overnight ferry service from Cebu that will take us to Camiguin the next day. Super Shuttle Ferry was our only option. It was the only passenger ship company that was serving this route. The ferry is scheduled to leave Cebu every Friday at 8PM only, and then return to Cebu from Camiguin every Sunday at 8PM. In Cebu, you may find the ferry at Pier 8. Make sure to tell the taxi driver to bring you to Pier 8, as there are several ports within the city. Based on our own experience, some cab drivers do not know in which pier Super Shuttle Ferry is located.

Advance booking may be done at SM Traveller’s Lounge, or one may just go to Pier 8 and buy tickets directly at the company’s office, which is just a few steps away from the gate. Without any hassles or complications, the trip from Cebu to Camiguin could take up to 12 hours. Ours wasn’t exactly smooth sailing though. Our trip took 15 hours instead.

We got to pier 8 at 7PM. We decided to buy tickets to the air-con section for more comfort and better sleep. Fare is P1,000. Fare for the view deck ( non-aircon ) is cheaper by P100-P150 ( I couldn’t remember the exact amount but this should give you an idea 🙂 ) It was great that we were allowed to board immediately. It was my first time to sleep in a ferry overnight so I didn’t exactly know what to expect. I was thrilled nonetheless. The thought of sleeping straight through the night and waking up the next day in a new place seemed exciting. It is the closest thing yet to a cruise holiday, which seems impossible to me at this time.

The beds which are upholstered with leatherette looked comfortable. A foam bed wedge, fixedly attached at the head of the bed, serves as pillows. Bed covers and additional pillows are available for rent. Two bunk beds are attached to one another so there’s a chance that one would be sleeping beside a complete stranger. Pray that the person sleeping beside/near you does not snore so loud. The rest room is dirty and is not comfortable in case you want to take a shower before you sleep.

The ferry left at 8PM as scheduled. Tired from our Moalboal trip, I was fast asleep in no time. I was occasionally awakened by the sound of the television and other passengers talking. We woke up at 5AM the next day and noticed that the ferry was moving so slow. A couple of hours later, they announced that a part of the machine has malfunctioned and that we would not arrive on time. They offered free breakfast of cup noodles and water to compensate. At 8AM, we could already see the island of Camiguin but the boat was sailing too slow, it seemed like forever to get there. We finally reached Balbagon Port in Camiguin at 11:00AM.

Travelling from Camiguin to Cebu was no different. Only this time, the delay was caused by a poor weather condition. A few hours after we departed from Balbagon port, I was awakened by the strong sound of waves smashing against the boat. The waves seemed so big, they were pushing the boat sideways. I got scared. I asked Jim, who was traveling with me that time if that was normal and he said yes. I tried to believe him, but I couldn’t. The other passengers started praying the Rosary and I didn’t know whether to feel thankful or annoyed with what they’re doing. I felt more scared. I closed my eyes and prayed quietly. The agony lasted for a couple of hours, or more. It rained heavily for a while, but soon after the rain passed through, the boat became steady in an instant, and we continued to sail smoothly from thereon. I was and will always be grateful to the Lord for the safe trip…

Travel Guide: MoalBoal, Cebu

Moalboal (pronounced as mwal-bwal) is one of Cebu’s most popular diving destination. Ten minutes boat ride away from the main land is the small yet very precious Pescador island. It’s underwater is considered as a diver’s paradise, It is filled with a variety of beautiful corals and many species of reef fish. It is home to thresher sharks, frog fish, turtles, and hundreds-and-thousands of sardines.

If you’re visiting Moalboal anytime soon, here’s some information that might help you plan your trip:

HOW TO TO GET TO MOALBOAL FROM CEBU CITY

1. From any part of Cebu, hire a cab or ride a jeep to the South Bus Terminal.
2. Ride a Ceres bus going to Moalboal. Aircon bus costs P111. Non-aircon bus only costs P107.00
3. Get off at Moalboal town , then hire a tricycle or habal-habal for either Panagsama or Basdaku beach.

Most tourists opt to ride a V-hire(vans) to Moalboal since it’s faster. Fare: Php120. They are located at One Citilink Terminal, a few minutes walk away from the South Bus Terminal.

Travel time from Cebu City to Moalboal takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

WHERE TO STAY: PANAGSAMA VS BAS DAKU(sometimes spelled as Basdaku,Basdako)

These are the two main beach destinations in Moalboal. Both offers easy access to Pescador island which is the main diving spot in the area.

Panagsama does not have a white sand beach. Instead, dead corals line its shores. If you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Moalboal however, you would probably prefer to stay here as you will find more cheap, budget and affordable rooms in Panagsama.

There are fees that you need to pay before you get to Basdaku White Beach- P5.00 each for the barangay and P10.00 each for the owner of a private lot that is being used as an access to the beach. Accommodation in Basdaku is not as cheap as the ones in Panagsama, most probably because Bas Daku has a long white sandy beach. There is plenty of accommodation at the beachfront including nipa huts and cottages which can be rented for a day or overnight use. The beach is nice but there’s really nothing to rave about. Simply put, you’re not really missing that much if you decided to stay in Panagsama. There’s plenty of more beautiful beaches in Cebu than the white beach in Basdaku.

We arrived in Basdaku after our great experience at Kawasan falls in Badian at lunch time. Just like what happened in Matutinao, Badian, we were immediately swarmed by local men, this time, tricycle and motorcycle drivers offering their services. We ignored them and walked straight to the market for a quick lunch in one of the carinderias. One of the motorcycle drivers was very persistent, he followed us and waited until we finished lunch. Eventually, we agreed to hire him to take us to our accommodation in Panagsama for P150.00. Later, we struck a deal with him to bring us to Basdaku beach and pick us up later in the afternoon to take us back to Panagsama for another P150.

BELOW P1,000 ACCOMMODATION IN PANAGSAMA BEACH, MOALBOAL AS RECOMMENDED BY TRAVELERS AND BLOGGERS

1. Rosita’s Cottages

Address/Location: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot(Moalboal), Cebu
Rate starts at P750 and even lower depending on the season. (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +63916 920 5618
Email Address:n/a
Website/Other Resources: n/a
My own Review: We stayed in one of their fan rooms for P750.00 during our visit to Moalboal. The cottages are clean and spacious with free wifi. What I really liked about this place was the availability of a kitchen complete with kitchen utensils and a fridge, which we really took advantage of. I have a good cook who travels with me 🙂 The lady caretaker was very nice. Highly recommended.

2. Eves Kiosk

Address/Location: Panagsama Beach , 6032 Moalboal, Cebu
Rate starts at Php500 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +6332 4743008 /+63917 950 5249
Email Address: eveskiosk@live.com.ph
Website/Other Resources: Facebook Page
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: We went there for a family getaway. Me, my husband, parents and children stayed here for 4 days. The value for money is good. Rooms are clean, they have nice garden and decent pool if you don’t fancy the beach. We ate here a lot as well because the foods are nice and good value for money as well. Read more>>>

3. Maya’s Native Garden

Address/Location: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot(Moalboal), Cebu
Rate starts at P600 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: Mobile: +63 915 480 96 10 Landline: +63 32 4743084
Email Address: Contact Form
Website/Other Resources: http://mayasnativegarden.com
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: This place is really good. The rooms are native looking and have a good feel to them I took the fan room because that is native. The staff was nice and easy going. This is a great place to stay located in Panagsama town. Read more>>>

4. Moalboal Backpacker Lodge

Address/Location: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot Moalboal, Cebu, 6032, Philippines
Rate starts at Php275 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +63 917 751 8902 / +63 908 607 6240
Email Address: info@moalboal-backpackerlodge.com
Website/Other Resources: http://www.moalboal-backpackerlodge.com,Facebook Page
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: Thank you guys for a great times! The place is super clean, the staff is very nice and helpful, and the location is very good. Excellent place at an excellent price. The best place to meet other sole traveler. I had the best time there and defiantly will be back again for good times. Read more >>>

5. Pacitas Beach Resort

Address/Location: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot Moalboal, Cebu, 6032, Philippines
Rate starts at Php700 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +639108587222 / 032-474-0182
Email Address: n/a
Website/Other Resources: n/a
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: I stayed in Pacita’s Resort for 5 days and I felt as my home. The people are really exceptional and the room was useful, clean and spacious. I also have a garden with my private hammock… was spectacular spend my rest after diving there! I recommend it to all. Read more >>>

6. Quo Vadis Dive Resort

Address/Location: Panagsama Moalboal, 6032 Moalboal, Cebu
Rate starts at Php750 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: (032) 474 3068
Email Address:
Website/Other Resources: http://quovadisresort.com,Quo Vadis Facebook Page
Guests’ Reviews/Comments:

7. Sunshine Pension House

Address/Location: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot, Moalboal, 6032 Cebu
Rate starts at Php700 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: Smart+639216891865, Globe +639273051105, Sun +639327303090
Email Address: sunshine_pension@yahoo.com, sunshine.pension@gmail.com
Website/Other Resources: http://www.sunshinepension.webs.com/ Facebook Page
Guests’ Reviews/Comments:Right from the beginning on arrival Aida and her family were very friendly and welcoming, making us feel at home! I stayed there in total for 6 weeks, so we were a bit of a different group compared to the usual tourists, but the overal care and attention Aida gave to us was no different to the other guests. Read more>>>

CHEAP AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION IN BASDAKU WHITE BEACH, MOALBOAL AS RECOMMENDED BY TRAVELERS AND BLOGGERS

1. Ester’s Homestay / Ester Escabas Cottages

Address/Location: Basdaku, Saavedra, Moaboal, 6032 Moalboal, Cebu
Rate starts at Php 1500 for 4 persons (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +63927-578-5983
Email Address: malyn_esc7106@yahoo.com.ph
Website/Other Resources: Facebook Page
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: Our trip coincided with the town fiesta hence Tita Ester said the rent rose to 1,700. We haggled a bit over the phone so she said she can give the room for 1,600 and food will be free since its the town’s fiesta. Winner! When we got there she brought us to the aircon room. When we were all settled…Read more >>>

2. HK Beach Resort

Address/Location: Basdaku, Saavedra, Moaboal, 6032 Moalboal, Cebu
Rate starts at Php 1500(Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number:+63919 4766385.
Email Address: n/a
Website/Other Resources: n/a
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: We stayed in HK resort for one night and for a P1,500/night room, it’s all okay. There are no other amenities like a tv set or free breakfast, but we had a comfortable stay. If you love the sea, the sun, and white sands but don’t care for a five-star accomodation, this is definitely for you. Read more>>>

3. Magic’s Place

Address/Location: Basdaku, Saavedra, Moaboal, 6032 Moalboal, Cebu
Rate starts at Php1,500 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number:+63905 906 6956/ +63906 347 3555
Email Address: n/a
Website/Other Resources: n/a
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: he last time I went to Magic’s Place there was no air conditioned room but after almost a year, almost all the rooms were air conditioned. Amazing! However, the room rates raised. From 1200 pesos to 2500 pesos, it SURELY raised. There was the only non aircon room too which costs 1500-2000 pesos. My friends would like to take it but I wanted the room where I could see the beach. Read more >>>>

4. Ravenala Beach Resort / Bungalows

Address/Location: White-Beach Saavedra, Moalboal,Cebu Island,Philippines
Rate starts at Php3,000 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +6332 474 00 75 / Mobile Phone Number: +63917 550 01 02
Email Address: edschaap@yahoo.com
Website/Other Resources: http://www.ravenala-resort-moalboal.com
Guests’ Reviews/Comments:Stayed two nights at Ravenala and thoroughly enjoyed my stay there. Staff were very attentive and courteous. Breakfast was included in the rooms and was a very nice and simple meal (bacon was nice and crispy). Had the 3 bed family room but it could fit 4 people easily and had a ref in it Read more>>>

5. Club Serena Resort

Address/Location: Baranggay Saavedra, Basdako, Moalboal, Cebu Moalboal 6032
Rate is a little expensive and starts at P5,600 (Note: Rates may change without prior notice. Call or email them to find out the latest rate)
Contact Number: +63 920 902 8888 (3pm to 2am) +63 928 507 2026 (9am to 6pm)+63 920 927 2939 (9am to 6pm)+63 908 894 5847 (9am to 6pm)+63 918 965 1673 (9am to 6pm)+63 939 345 4127 (9am to 6pm)
Email Address: info@clubserenaresort.com,nudibranch@clubserenaresort.com
Website/Other Resources: http://www.clubserenaresort.com, Facebook Page
Guests’ Reviews/Comments: This resort is a splendid bastion of good taste in the island of Cebu. Everything emanates style and subdued elegance. The rooms are excellent. The restaurant not a rip off with great food. The beach is very nice, the snorkeling the best I’ve had in a while, and it is just 2 hours from Cebu City. Read more>>>

GETTING AROUND: Take a motorcycle or tricycle. Fare should be around P25-Php50 to either Basdaku or Panagsama. You may also rent a motorbike for Php135 to Php900/day depending on the type of motorbike you want to rent.

Recommended activities. Aside from snorkeling/diving at Pescador island, I highly recommend a side trip to Kawasan Falls in Badian which is approximately 30 minutes ride away from Moalboal.

Note: I am not affiliated with any of the above accommodation so in case you have questions, kindly communicate with them using the contacts provided. Pictures were randomly picked from the internet. No Copyright infringement intended. In case you own one of the pics and would like me to include your links here, please let me know. Thank you Mr. Dan Ocampo for allowing me to use your turtle pic! I’ve always been a fan of your underwater photography

Heavenly Shower Massage At Kawasan Falls, Badian Cebu

We reached Kawasan Falls after approximately 1 to 1.5 hour from Oslob (fare: P73) , where we had a great time swimming with the whale sharks earlier that morning. To get there, we had to ride an ordinary bus from Tan-awan, Oslob going to Bato first (fare:P20,) and then transferred to another Ceres bus that would pass by the town of Badian. The bus dropped as off at barangay Matutinao, Badian, just in front of the big Kawasan Falls signage. We were immediately approached by men offering to guide us to the falls. We knew beforehand, based on research, that it’s just a short easy walk to the foot of the falls so we ignored them and started walking, following the small road leading to the most popular spot in Badian.

The vegetation surrounding the pathway provided a natural shade against the heat of the sun. The turquoise, cold and clean waters of the river on the left side of the road made me want to stop for a while and take a dip. We continued to follow the scenic route to the falls though, and in about 15 minutes we finally reached the spot; the first falls, that is, as there are two smaller falls on the upper side.

We paid P10 each as entrance fees. The first falls is the biggest though and where a picnic area is located. There is a resort restaurant on one side of the waterfall. Tables and chairs are available for rent for P300. At 9:00AM, we were the only tourists at that time.

A man approached us and suggested that we rent the bamboo raft for P300 to take us to the waterfall itself for a refreshing shower and natural back massage. Sounds great! But as soon as we said yes, he added that we pay additional P250 each for two men who would pull the ropes to bring the raft to the falls. Annoying! We backed out immediately. Too much! An obvious ripoff attempt! There’s no way we’re going to pay them P250 each considering that we only intended to stay there for an hour or two. Besides,it’s not too hard to pull the ropes and maneuver the bamboo raft. He and the other two men started lowering the price until they agreed to P50.00 each.

I hopped on the raft still feeling a little irritated. That however began to fade away as we got nearer to the falls and felt it’s strong gush of water.

And as soon as we were under the falls, whatever negative feelings that’s left in me disappeared in an instant, and I automatically started shouting with glee!

The feeling, as the waters massaged my head, back, shoulders, and literally, my entire body, was heavenly!

It was refreshing, rejuvenating, uplifting, and believe me, I’m not exaggerating. Somebody did feel the same 🙂

The guides showed us the different ways to position ourselves under the water so we could fully enjoy the falls.

As a finale, our guides suggested that we pass through the middle of the waterfall. I hesitated. The flow of the water at the middle section seemed so strong. I was worried my body wouldn’t be able to handle the vigorous water flow. I decided to take the risk however, because that would surely complete the entire experience

We were told to lie flat on our stomach, and then asked to clasp our hands together interlocking our fingers, then put our chin on top of our hands. This will serve as a cushion for the head and would protect the face from hitting the bamboo raft. When we’re ready, they started pulling the ropes so the bamboo raft would pass through the center of the waterfall.

The water was flowing down so strong, especially on the head, that I had to really keep it steady on its position or else, my mouth would hit the bamboo raft and this experience would end with my front teeth broken. I don’t recommend this. Matter of fact, my lips and my mouth hurt a little when we’re done.

Our guide asked if we wanted to go back and do it once again. We declined. Besides, I’ve been wanting to swim and dive into its clean, greenish blue water since I arrived. It was refreshingly cold and I was enjoying every minute in the water.

Kawasan falls may not be the tallest, or the grandest waterfall I’ve seen but my visit to Badian’s most popular natural attraction was simply the most amazing waterfall experience I’ve had so far.

TRAVEL GUIDE:

HOW TO GET KAWASAN FALLS FROM CEBU CITY:
1. Ride a cab ( about P80.00) or a jeepney (P7:50) to Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT).
2. Ride a CERES, LIBRANDO or ROUGH RIDER BUS. Travel time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Fare: P120.00.
3. Tell the driver or bus conductor to drop you off infront of Matutinao church. Facing the church on your right side, you will see the Kawasan falls’ signage where you could find the road leading to the falls. It’s a short and easy 15-20 minute walk to the first falls.

Tip. You don’t need a guide to get to the first falls, which is referred to the as the picnic site, If you’re into more adventures and intend to see all three waterfalls, then you may need the services of the guides. You just need to be careful when negotiating with them though as I’ve read a lot of scam stories from those who have visited Kawasan falls. (Another tip: When haggling, we always base the price on the daily minimum wage in most of the provinces in the Philippines which is around P250-300, and the difficulty of the task) It will take about 2 hours to get to “the source,” or the top of the river/falls.

WHERE TO STAY IN KAWASAN FALLS, MATUTINAO, BADIAN

We did not stay overnight, but in case you’re looking for accommodation near Kawasan falls, simply click on this link >>>: LIST OF ACCOMMODATION NEAR KAWASAN FALLS IN MATUTINAO, BADIAN

A Refreshing Morning with the Whale Sharks of Tan-awan,Oslob

I am not a morning person, but there was definitely a good reason to wake up very early on that beautiful Thursday morning. We were at Oslob, Cebu, in Barangay Tan-awan, and were scheduled for whale shark watching that day. After a quick breakfast of cup noodles, we were off to the beach. Kuya Jimmy, a barangay kagawad/konsehal and the caretaker of Friendly’s Resort where we stayed for the night, was already at the beach along with some of his friends. He told us last night that he would assist us throughout the entire process of the tour. He referred us to a boatman, who seemed to be a friend of his. We were later brought to the orientation area which is about 3 minutes away from the resort. The orientation was quick which lasted for about a couple of minutes only.

At 6:30 in the morning, there weren’t a lot of tourists yet. Our boat was the first to go. We reached the spot in 5 minutes. Yes, the feeding area where tourists could watch the whale sharks or tuki to the locals is very near but deep enough at approximately 25 feet for these gentle giants to be able to swim comfortably. Our boatmen immediately threw krill or “uyap” into the water to be fed to whale sharks. Within seconds, he pointed to a dark silhouette slowly approaching our boat. “There is one”, he said. And as quickly as we stood up to look at what the boatman pointed to us, it’s mouth appeared. Our excitement grew. “ You may get into the water, sir” our boatman smiled. As I prepared my camera, I heard a splash and saw my friend Jim dove into the water.

After a few seconds, he emerged and said excitedly,” Ang laki!( It’s really big!)” Then we saw another one, followed by another, until Jim was already surrounded by four whale sharks. They’re bigger than our boat!

I dove excitedly to join him. I started taking pictures underwater. Using only a dicapac case for my SLR, I struggled to take good photos. One of the boatmen offered to take our pictures and I did not hesitate to hand him my camera. After giving him a few instructions on how to use the camera, I snorkeled to see the whale sharks.

The water was crystal clear and the view underwater was spectacular. It felt like watching Nat Geo Channel on a giant screen, maybe even better. It was like I had been plunged into a different world.

The whale sharks are really gigantic. We were told to keep a distance of at least 5 meters away from them but they were swimming around us so near, so close that I feared I might kick one of them accidentally while swimming.

At some point, one of them swam just right beside me that I felt its skin touched my arms. While I was full of excitement, I must admit that I felt a little uncomfortable for a while. I know it’s safe, that they do not eat humans, but their size really made me feel apprehensive.I got back on the boat and rest for a few minutes. I saw that two more whale sharks came in to join the party. Meanwhile, Jim was having a great time.

At that instant, the boatman called my attention and said,” Ayan na yung pinakamalaki (There’s the biggest!) He was pointing to an enormous, Ceres bus-sized whale shark swimming towards our boat.

All the anxiety that I felt turned into excitement at once. In a matter of seconds, I was underwater again, watching, swimming, and totally enjoying my time with the whale sharks of Tan-awan. The experience was simply A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

Just as more whale sharks started to appear, other tourists began to arrive. Our 30-minute paid encounter with the gentle giants was also almost over. After one more glance of the whale sharks underwater, we hopped on the boat and went back to the shore.

WHALE SHARK WATCHING AT TAN-AWAN, OSLOB TRAVEL GUIDE:

FEES: P500.00 for local tourists, P1,000.00 for foreign tourists, inclusive of snorkeling gears. If you chose not to snorkel and just want to watch the tukis from up the boat, you will only be charged P300.00. Underwater cameras are available for rent at P100.00

CHEAP ACCOMMODATION IN TAN-AWAN, OSLOB: Although there’s a lot of hotels in Oslob town proper, it is best to look for accommodation in Barangay Tan-awan, where the whale sharks are being fed. Fan room would normally cost P800.00 while air-conditioned rooms are priced at P1,500.

During our trip, we stayed at Friendly’s Resort, a homestay type of accommodation. We were charged P800.00 for a fan room with two single beds. The price was basically the same as that of the other resorts nearby but what made us choose them was that they allow their guests to cook. I highly recommend Friendly’s resort specially to families and groups. If you’re traveling alone, they could also provide you space for P400.00. And if you brought your tent with you, they would allow you to set up your camp near the beach. Kuya Jimmy, the houses’ caretaker who is also a barangay kagawad is very nice and accommodating. With his help, the entire process of the tour would be much easier. During our stay, we had the chance to meet the owner of Friendly’s, Ms. Grace Dunnet and her husband Doug, who were on vacation that time. We were very much impressed by their hospitality. Very nice couple. We were treated like old friends. We felt as though we were spending time with treasured friends. For your inquiries and reservation, please contact Kuya Jimmy at 09334886886 or you can add Friendly’s on Facebook.

HOW TO GET TO TAN-AWAN, OSLOB (TRAVEL TIME AND FARES):

FROM CEBU TO TAN-AWAN, OSLOB:

1. Hire a cab from Mactan – Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) to South Bus Terminal. Travel time is approximately 30 minutes. Fare: More or less P200.00

2. Ride a bus to Tan-awan Oslob. You will pass by Oslob town proper so make sure to tell the bus conductor to drop you off at Barangay Tan-awan and not at Oslob town. Tan-awan is about 15 minutes away from the town proper. Travel time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Fare: Aircon bus (P155.00) Ordinary/Non-aircon bus (P155.00)

FROM DUMAGUETE CITY TO TAN-AWAN, OSLOB: While we were at Tan-awan, we realized that getting there is easier and faster via Dumaguete City.

1. From Dumaguete City, you can either hire a tricycle or ride a bus or multi-cab/jeepney to bring you to Sibulan Port. Travel time and fares: Depending on your mode of transportation, travel time is approximately 15-30 minutes. Chartered tricycle costs P150.00, good for 4 persons. Ceres Bus: P20.00; Multi-cab/jeepney: P11.00. Make sure you look for Ceres buses and multi-cabs with Sibulan signboard. From the Sibulan bus stop, you walk for 3-5 minutes to get to the port.

2. Ride a ferry or a pump boat going to Liloan, Cebu. Ferries depart every hour while pump boats are available every 30 minutes. Ferry ride cost P62 while pump boat ride only cost P45. Travel time: 20-30 minutes:
3. From Liloan Port, ride a bus or a jeep going to barangay, Tan-awan. Travel time: 15-20 minutes. Fare: P15.00. You may opt to hire a tricycle for P200.00

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT OR THINGS TO DO BEFORE OR AFTER WHALE WATCHING AT TAN-AWAN,OSLOB

Depending on the season and the number of tourists during your trip, your whale watching activity would probably last for about 30-45 minutes including orientation and waiting time. If you’re wondering how to spend the rest of the day in Oslob, you may consider including the following in your itinerary:

1. Day trip to Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort. Probably the best island resort on this part of Cebu, they offer day trips for Php1,500 on weekdays and Php2,000 on weekends per head. This includes lunch, boat transfers, use of swimming facilities and island activities such as snorkeling kayaking and trekking.

HOW TO GET TO SUMILON ISLAND FROM TAN-AWAN,OSLOB:

Ride a public jeepney or habal-habal from Tan-awan to get to Bancogon port, where Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort’s private boats are located. Travel time is approximately 5 minutes. At the port, register for a day trip. You will then be transferred to the island resort for 15 minutes. Boat transfer to and from the resort is included in the package.

Boat Schedule from mainland Oslob (Bancogon port) to Sumilon Island: (Monday to Sunday) 1st trip – 7:30AM, 2nd trip – 9:30AM, 3rd trip – 11:00AM, 4th trip – 12:30PM, Last trip – 4:30PM
Boat Schedule from Sumilon Island to mainland Oslob (Bancogon port): (Monday to Sunday)1st trip – 9:00AM, 2nd trip – 10:30AM,3rd trip – 12 NOON, 4th trip – 1:30PM, 5th trip – 3:30 pm, Last trip – 5:30 pm (5PM on Saturdays)

A cheaper way to get to Sumilon island is by renting a pumpboat. The pumpboat costs Php2500.00. You can only stay at the sandbar though.

We opted not to go to Sumilon, but for pictures and additional information, you may refer to the following blogs:

a. Sumilon, Oslob: Do-It-Yourself Travel Guide (Part 2)
b. Side Trip at Sumilon Island of Oslob, Cebu

2. Spend the rest of the morning at Tumalog Falls or otherwise known as Toslob falls, then head to the center of the town to visit Oslob’s heritage sites.

3. Do what we did. Travel straight to Badian and enjoy the heavenly invigorating waterfall massage at Kawasan falls!

Senyor Lakwatsero

The Stunning White Island of Camiguin

Ferry From Cebu To Camiguin And Vice Versa

Travel Guide: MoalBoal, Cebu

Heavenly Shower Massage At Kawasan Falls, Badian Cebu

A Refreshing Morning with the Whale Sharks of Tan-awan,Oslob

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