The Negros

My final destination in the Philippines is the Negros in the Visayan Island group. Here you’ll find dive and snorkel spots, remote beaches and laid back towns.
I stayed in Dumaguete for a couple of days to get a feel of the area and to find out what to do. From there I went on a snorkelling trip to Apo Island which is famous for its turtles….and yes I did see and swam with many of them including colourful fish and beautiful coral reefs.
From there I was planning to visit at least 3 other destinations before heading to my next country Indonesia but when I arrived on Siquijor I was sold and knew I wouldn't get any further till I had to leave. This Island is just 45 minutes from Dumaguete but a real gem and a backpacker’s paradise with cheap accommodation. The breath-taking scenery has a South-American / tropical feeling but the Island is also renewed for its witches and healers. I stayed at a place with the most amazing view from the beach fronted communal area where I’m sure the Bounty commercial was shot many years ago. In the evening its quiet and with almost a full moon the beach and sea just looked magical. After my first night it wasn’t hard for my fellow travellers to persuade me to stay here instead of going to Bohol which was my initial plan. I enjoyed Siquijor by exploring it on a motorbike and relaxing in a hammock on the beach. Travelling on the motorbike made it possible to see the inland of the Island, people were pleased to see some tourists and were waiving or inviting you for a chat and drink. Most villages were a cluster of houses on the main road with always a church, little wooden convenient shop, petrol stall and basketball field (they love this sport and everyone plays it on a daily basis). The Philippino/Australian owners of my guesthouse said that many people stay here for at least 1 or 2 weeks and it’s easy to understand why….

Apo Island

Siquijor island...

Sunset at Siquijor