【講師コラム】アンソニー講師No.〜Explore Scenic Spots in Visayas’ Cebu and Bohol〜

The Visayas Island group is located in the central area of the Philippine archipelago. Seven large islands belong to the Visayan Islands. These are Cebu, Bohol, Masbate, Negros, Samar, and Panay. The region also consists of hundreds of smaller islands. My family and I live in Cebu City, Philippines: the Queen City of the South. Visiting Visayas tourist spots usually means exploring some of the best Philippines beaches, waterfalls, diving sites, and other natural attractions.

You can easily reach the Visayas as key destinations like Boracay and  Bacolod have domestic airports. But the main transport hub in this region is Cebu airport, which operates both domestic and international flights. From Cebu, you can easily hop on a ferry and visit neighboring islands like Bohol and Dumaguete.

Cebu and Bohol are two of the most-visited destinations in the Philippines’ Central Visayas region, and for good reason. Both Cebu and Bohol and the smaller islands appeal to those who love adventurous activities, with everything from water sports including diving and canyoneering to skydiving and zip-lining are on the offer. On a more sedate level, there are also the likes of yoga and cycling, wildlife encounters including whale and thresher sharks, dolphins and sea turtles, plus those pristine beaches for when you want to totally kick back and relax.

Despite being a tropical-island paradise, Cebu and Bohol have a rich history. This is where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted the Cross of Christianity in 1521, which paved the way for Spanish colonization. This historical wealth manifests itself everywhere from the colonial architecture and museums of Cebu City to the ancestral homes and centuries-old churches of Bohol.

Both Cebu and Bohol have a wide array of accommodation, including luxury options perfect for beach retreats. Mactan and Panglao Islands: Mactan Island next to Cebu City is especially popular, as is Panglao Island, which is linked by a causeway to mainland Bohol. accommodations are located in areas such as Lahug, Gorordo Avenue, Escario and Banilad. Crossroads, Ayala, Citi Times Square and Salinas Drive are popular spots for dining and city tours. Most scuba divers stay in Mactan, Moalboal and Malapascua in Cebu, and Panglao, Anda and Balicasag Island in Bohol. All in all, Cebu and Bohol are favorite destinations for both local and foreign guests. You will enjoy diving, snorkeling, and island. Explore and discover the wonders that await you in our 7,641 islands from especially Visayas’ Cebu and Bohol.