The Best of Visayas: Summer Escapes

By: Carla Jane Gomeri

Summer is one of the most anticipated time of the year, it allows us to express our best selves by putting our worries aside, and focus on memories. This is the time wherein we can take a breather from all of the stress and focus on the lighter side of life. Since the Philippines is a tropical country, I am sure that going to beaches are on everyone's summer bucket list. With that stated, if you are searching for your next summer’s perfect getaway, Visayas is the best place for you to visit!

The Visayas Island region is situated in the Philippines' central archipelago. It is made up of seven big islands, and these are: Cebu, Bohol, Masbate, Negros, Samar, and Panay. Hundreds of tiny islands are also found in the area.

Visiting Visayas tourism attractions typically means seeing some of the world ’s most beautiful beaches, waterfalls, diving spots, and other natural wonders of the Philippines. While it is well-known for attractions such as Boracay, there are many other magnificent Visayas tourist destinations that have yet to be explored.

With that in mind, here are my top 3 Visayas Summer escapade ready for you!

3. Twin Lakes, Negros Oriental

The Twin Lakes of Sibulan are one of Negros Oriental's most popular tourist destinations. Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao are two small but deep fresh water lakes that make up the area. The blue sky that reflects in the water of the Twin Lakes, is creating the ideal setting for relaxation. The lakes are surrounded by narrow mountains and is encircled with exotic plants. When the mountains are hidden by fog, the scene resembles something out of a fairytale or folklore. Going to the Twin Lakes is an adventure, much like going to a mysterious land in a story. The relaxing ambiance will wash away any undesirable stress once a you take a glimpse of the place.

The place offers various of activities to choose from , this includes: boating, kayaking, walking, and camping. A boat trip costs Php 250 per hour and may accommodate 1 to 7 people. Kayaking, on the other hand, will set you back Php 150 for an hour of fun. The routes are open to the public for easy hiking and trekking. A guide for a group of three persons can be hired for Php 300 for a full excursion.

2. Apo Island, Negros Oriental

Apo Island, located near Dauin, Negros Oriental, is a truly beautiful place. This small island has some of the best diving in the Philippines and is home to hundreds of sea turtles, attracting people from all over the world. This pretty tiny island has a village of friendly residents, scenic walks, and beautiful powdery white sand. It can be reached by a 40-minute boat ride from Zamboanguita, Philippines, off the southeastern coast of Negros. It's also accessible by motorized boat from Malatapay, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, which takes 30 minutes.

There are a lot of activities that you should try while in Apo Island which are: snorkeling, swimming with the turtles and visiting the lighthouse.

1. Bantayan Island, Cebu

If you’re looking for paradise, it’s just on Bantayan Island. it is definitely my number one favorite spot in Visayas If you enjoy the sea, the beach, and island life, Bantayan Island is a must-see. Bantayan Island, with its turquoise blue waves and white sand, is one of Cebu's most popular tourist destinations. It was one of the locations in the popular Filipino film Camp Sawi. There are many exciting things to do in Bantayan as well, such as visiting Ogtong Cave. Ogtong Cave is a beautiful subterranean cave that provides travelers with various leisure activities. . The cave's water is cold, turquoise clear, and clean. The list goes on of the places to visit in Bantayan but one thing's for sure, It can create the best experience ever!