Sunday Paradise: Bohol Trip

Bohol is the island just south of Cebu, and a 2-hr boat ride away.  Ever since learning I would go to the Philippines for my CSC assignment, Bohol was in the visiting itinerary for its gorgeous beaches, unique geological formation - The Chocolate Hills, and smallest monkeys - the Tarsiers...

Half of the team started off on Fri night after work, and the City Hall crew joined them after our festivities with our clients (see May 14 blog entry).  The trip was trying as the SuperCat was 1-hr late, and we just couldn't wait to get there.  A 70P (<$2) 30-min massage on the Pier eased the pain, and we were delighted to be greeted by the Amarela driver on the other side.

Buko (Coconut Water)

We went to Alona Beach for dinner - for me, consisting of grilled fish and veggies and a cold San Miguel... an excellent way to celebrate our first weekend since starting our official assignments.

It's hard to believe it's only been a week and at the same time, it's hard to believe it's already been a week, or 1/4 of our time here.

The Amarela Resort in Panglao was even more breathtaking than my dear friends who visited it a month ago had described, and the beach was truly magical.

Woke up for sunrise and the light's warm and welcoming hues were inspiring - wish Mike were here and hope we have similarly gorgeous weather in June before the rainy season starts.

Only one night away felt like a true vacation and despite a very full and hot day, it was most rewarding.  ... a theme with the CSC assignment so far and a unforgettable experience!

I loved the Amarela beach hammocks and the swimming pool, and wished I could have spent all day here.

Amarela Resort - Dreamful

Our room, 106

I took a walk along the beach to check out the next large resort - Bohol Beach Club, a few miles away - also very nice and with a range of accommodation options - hotel, suites, and several types/sizes of villas.

By 9 AM, we had called a driver and headed off to the Loboc River for a tour, w/ Janet. The rest of the crew went snorkeling or opted to rest till later and meet us poolside.  David and Denise were to arrive Sun morning to join for the afternoon activities.  

Executive Suite/Villa at Bohol Beach Club

Bamboo Hut on the riverbank

Water play

The Loboc River trip was great - beautiful views, peek into the life of the near-by villagers who were fishing, washing clothes, bathing, swimming and playing in the clean river, and finally a visit to the local waterfalls.

Janet on the Loboc River

Loboc River Waterfalls

For the

Garima with a live butterfly

afternoon, the full CSC gang of 12 loaded onto a van en route to the famous
Chocolate  
  Hills and
  they didn't
  disappoint - can't
  wait to take my
  daughter,who's been
  dreaming of visiting them for a few months now.

   We also stopped at the "Simply Butterfly" Gardens and had a very nice tour.
   And of course, we got to see the Tarsiers (flying lemur) monkeys at the
   Camaya-An Tarsier Place.  They are absolutely adorable and tinier than I
   had expected, maybe ~4 in tall.

Will be back in a few weeks to share this treasure with my family and until then, sweet dreams and back to work on Monday, ready for week 2!

First set of recommendations is due in just a few days, and I am excited to continue stretching my skills, developing my nascent issues-based consulting skills, and constantly practicing active listening and patience as we operate in the new culture, team dynamic, and political office. Couldn't have asked for more!