By Bernard L. Supetran
Mention the word island, and it will surely send sparkles in the eyes of wanderlusts yearning for that back-to-nature feels away from the urban concrete jungle. And as an archipelago of 7,641 islands, the Philippines boasts of an infinity of idyllic hideaways of sun, sea and sky, and all the exciting things in between.
One such island which exudes the right mix of tropical vibe and basic modern amenities is Camiguin, a proverbial paradise in a nutshell because of its natural wonders in a tiny southern province.
So, when it launched its new tourism brand called “Isle Be There”, it was a grand coming-out party and invitation in a post-pandemic reboot of a tourism thrust. Alongside with the launch, the provincial government also put in place the Clean Camiguin QR code as part of its Smart Tourism digitalization for a secure and consummate travel experience.
The capital of Mambajao is the province’s aerial gateway with flights from Cebu and Manila, and also has a seaport which connects to Jagna, Bohol through a four-hour sea voyage.
The town is the tourism hub, being home to the many of Camiguin’s recreational establishments, must-see destinations, as well as the top resorts and restaurants. Not to be missed is the Instagrammable 200-meter long, crescent shaped White Island Sandbar where guests frolic in the crystalline water powdery sand and marvel at the imposing Mt Hibok-Hibok.
Take a rejuvenating dip at the icy natural pools of Katibawasan Falls formed by its 100-meter drop, and at the warm natural pools of Ardent Hibok-Hibok Spring Resort which are both tucked in the mountain’s bosom.
In neighboring Catarman town are the Sunken Cemetery which is known for its the iconic giant white cross, the Old Church Ruins which was declared by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure, and the 1.5-km Walkway to the Old Volcano which is dotted by lifesize Stations of the Cross.
Another must-see is the marine biodiversity-rich Mantigue Island Nature Park in Mahinog, a haven for scuba diving, snorkeling and beach bumming in northern Mindanao.
Nearby is the Benoni Crater Lake which is dotted with seafood restaurants on stilts, and a center for watersports such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and pedal boating.
Quaint boutique resorts, blend the tropical feel and modern comforts, such as Balai sa Baybay, Bintana sa Paraiso, Paras Beach Resort, and the newly-opened UNWND Boutique Hotel, the isle’s first hospitality chain brand.
Bask in the luxe Nouveau Resort, and revel in its high-end room features, delectable cuisine, and manicured landscapes.
Despite the logistical challenges, home-grown restos never fail to surprise guests with their gustatory offerings. Pizza and pasta food lovers can sink their teeth on these global staples at La Dolce Vita, Chills Beach, and Luna Ristorante prepared by Italian chefs who have settled here.
Other dining haunts are Kape Isla which offers all-time favorites in a repurposed ancestral house, Haruhay Eco-Beach Tavern which specialize in plant-based gourmet dishes, and Guerrera Villas and Restaurant which take pride in its Asian specialties.
An exciting time to visit is during Lanzones Festival every October which has a bevy of special events, street dancing, and tons of the sweet seasonal fruit being sold at rock-bottom prices.
With a consummate experience and sweet memories that is about to unfold, you’ll surely come again in this isle of dream.
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