THE boredom of the afternoon has led me to a travelogue I made a couple of years ago. As I scan through it, I am reminded of the happy trip to Bohol with my family. I remember witnessing the Chocolate Hills, their cone shapes resembling Hershey's Kisses, and I jokingly asked my mother if they were edible, as they appeared to be real chocolate, tempting me. My heart pounded at the sight, feeling like I was surrounded by a sweet dream. It was a refreshingly sweet experience that stayed with me.
I remember how I longed to see the tarsiers, since Bohol is known for them. Luckily, we were able to visit and tour their tarsier sanctuary, where I saw tarsiers greeting us with their picturesque stillness. I even thought they resembled rats because of their size and color. I also remember how we drove by and stopped at the Man-Made Forest, mesmerized by its towering trees and soothing tranquility.
Moreover, I remember falling in love with the renowned Loboc River Cruise, where we committed to paying 500 pesos each for the entrance fee and buffet. I would say it was all worth it, as the food was delicious, offering a variety of flavors, and the ambiance was breathtaking, with live music and locals serenading us with Bisaya and Tagalog love songs. The cruise made a brief stop at a local community, where children and adults performed on a wooden stage, playing ukuleles and cheerfully dancing with bamboo trunks as props. It was just nice to witness locals showcasing their talents while, at the same time, promoting their rich culture.
These are only some of the tourist attractions in Bohol that have greatly impacted me. Presently, I am wondering when I might be able to return to Bohol—perhaps in months or years? I still have to see its historical churches, pristine beaches (though I’ve seen and swam some), and other scenic views that Bohol has to offer.
Furthermore, this travelogue, though mute, remains to reverberate a vibrant as well as beautiful past. It is in my travelogue that I’ve come to remember Bohol again and miss how appealing and welcoming it is to a traveler like me, offering a therapeutic moment where nothing else seems to matter—a warm comfort that lingers. Bohol, you're one of the best! Jhon Steven C. Espenido
Jhon Steven C. Espenido, 24, writes from Surigao City.
