My family of Tarsier Monkeys can be found on the beautiful island of Bohol in the Philippines.
The islands of the Philippines are over 7000 in number. They are a tourists idyllic wonderland with the countries all year round warm climate, comparitively low prices, breath taking natural and often unspoilt scenary, its peoples warm and friendly hospitality, white tropical palm edged beaches, clear blue warm waters, exotic fruits & vegitation and beautiful lakes and rivers.
One island that epitimises this is Bohol which is still gracefully metamorphosing into a tropical tourist destination.
Across the straight from Cebu is the island of Bohol where Spaniard Miguel Lopez de Legaspi made a blood compact with the local chieftain Sikatuna in the year 1565 - a treaty that sealed their friendship.
Nestling in the heart of the Central Visayas, Bohol is known for its coral and sea shell hills of oval shape.
These 1,200 hills change colour from green to a dark brown, chocolatey colour during the summer at sunset. A visiting American General called them the Chocolate Hills and the name stuck. My friend John says they are as good as an wonder on the world!
Bohol has numerous attractions besides the Chocolate Hills to capivate the tourist. - white sandy beaches, a whole gamut of aquatic sports, exotic wildlife, century old churches and more. It is also home to us Tarsier's in its forests of Anda, Loboc and Corella.
Bohol abounds with coral reefs. Its underwater dive area's are recognised as some of the world's best. Its coral line is equally rich in marine biodiversity.
Other places to visit in Bohol:
Caingit Beach
Alona Beach on Panglao Island
Punta Cruz Watch-tower (1796)
Ceiling Frescoes in the Loon Church (1753)
Basketware in Antequera Market
Inambacan Falls
The Legaspi and Rajah blood compact memorial
Ilaw International Centre
Baclayon - the oldest town in Bohol
Baclayon church and museum(1595)
Tontonan Falls and river trips
San Pedro Church (1602) and its painted ceiling
Badiang spring, waterfall and swimming pool
Chocolate Hill legends
1. Two giants had a fight and threw sand and stones at each other for days until they were both exhausted. They made friends and left the area. They never did tidy the battelfield and thus the Chocolate Hills.
2. Arogo, a young and extremely strong giant fell in love with an ordinary mortal Aloya. When Aloya died, Arogo cried and cried and his grief dried his tears into the Chocolate Hills.
The more likely reason. Bohol was under the sea at one time and these hills, made of broken coral and sea shells, were formed by current and wave action before the sea receded.
John prefers Arogo!
