Freedom and Realizations in Bohol

"All I want for you to give attention to is yourself. You've given so much to others and left you with almost nothing. You traded your dreams with others. Soon, we will be old enough to think of the plans that never came true, and I think that's just achingly sad," this was the message that hit me one morning when I finally made a brave decision to continue what I started. 

"Tells a lot about me - "

You see, I was given the Certificate of Sponsorship twice from a UK-based company I once worked for almost three years, but because of circumstances, I quit my job as a trainer and began to focus my career on social development. I enjoyed my job. I didn't even complain that despite feeling burnt out, I continued to move on. Then, something hit me straight, which opened my eyes: what was the purpose why I went back to Cebu? Why am I saving and working hard? Was it not because of a dream? 

"Dreams In Colour," our organization's tagline struck me big time. While I was busy helping people paint their dreams, I was left with grey colours. Of course, I couldn't be happier knowing that our girls are slowly realizing their dreams but the more I thought about it, the more I became aware that I forgot to paint my dreams. 

The Big Decision

I only had two days left of my vacation leave. I only had two days off despite my 2-week request holiday. I didn't complain because I still checked my e-mails and WhatsApp messages to keep me updated with work, even if it was my day off. I guess this was the downside of being so used to working to the extent that I couldn't live a day without it. 

"Leaving Cebu in a moment with this beautiful structure - CCLEX"

But that Thursday evening was different. My subconscious told me to arrange for a trip to Bohol and collect my PRC licenses needed for me to proceed with my application. 

The following day, I was off to Bohol. 

Behold Bohol

The reason why I claimed my licenses here was that pressing schedule last May. There weren't any slots in PRC Cebu at that time, and the latest one was in October. Since my UK sponsor was adamant about passing my requirements, I immediately arranged a ride to Bohol. 

"Bohol is truly something to behold"

Everything went smoothly between my employer and me. Until I finally decided to quit because of my schedule. I paid big time in exchange and killed my dreams instead of achieving them. I didn't complain. Maybe, I was bound to learn a lesson. 

Pays to Help Others

I think I am lucky, or my ancestors are watching over me from time to time. While lining up for a ticket bound to Bohol, a foreigner approached me and asked for help for his S-pass. I didn't hesitate to guide him, so with an S-pass approved; he became my companion during the trip. It was even unexpected that he booked a dinner reservation once we were in Bohol and the moment I claimed my licenses. 

It was one good dinner. 

"I got the chance to practice my sign language here..."

"Kids can even play here and be a cowboy."

Sikatuna and the Mirror of the World

The following day, after I had a hearty breakfast at a tapsilogan district, I proceeded to what was known as a segue to my real intentions. Of course, I had the whole day to wander in Bohol worry-free because I finally claimed my license. 

"Mirror of the World and Botanical Garden shows diversity and landmarks all over the world."

It was my first time to appreciate commuting in Bohol. Pre-pandemic, there were a lot of land tours, but now, I have become a local in Bohol. 

"Where would you want to go?"

I arrived at the Mirror of the World minutes before noon. I could see a handful of people posing and taking photos of different famous landmarks from all around the world. 

"Can you name them all?"

From the Merlion in Singapore to Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, I could only look at them in awe while imagining myself being there personally. 

"Here is another view"

"My DIY Shot"

I sighed. One missed opportunity is understandable, but I blew off the opportunity twice. It led me to no excuses. I couldn't let it slip away this time. I need to hold the reins again and take control of my dreams. I need to get back on track. 

The Sauna and the Massage

Instead of staying another night in Bohol, I decided to book a ticket back to Cebu. There are so many things I have to do once I am back.

"Takes a lot of courage to be who you really want to be"

The sauna and the massage helped me calm my mind and re-aligned my goals leading to my dreams. From that time on, it only takes courage to do things the first time. Yes! The first time is the hardest, but everything will follow. 

My friend left me a message that again pierced me hard, "We need people like this (brave), so as much as we can, we tend also to be the person that we need."

With this, I became even braver and determined to paint my dreams finally.

Bohol Travel Updates:

1. You can travel in Bohol with your a valid government ID, S-Pass (approved or pending), and vaccination card and/or vaccination certificate (DOH-issued). I presented all of them during my S-pass application.

2. I rode Oceanjet at 11:40 but you can check their website for fare and schedule. I paid 800 pesos for the fastcraft fare. Terminal fee at Php25.00

Getting There and Away:

1. I stayed at GV Hotel (twin room with A/C without breakfast for 552.00 - using my Agoda Coins for a discount). 

2. Minimum fare for tricycle is Php15 to Php20.00. I usually walk with Google map helping me around the city. 

3. If you are going to the Mirror of the World from Tagbilaran, just head to Dau Terminal across Island City Mall. Jeepneys or buses could take you there at Php40.00. 

4. Stop by at the Sikatuna Proper (Public Market), and ride another tricycle going to Mirror of the World. Fare at Php30.00. 

5. The entrance fee of the place is Php120.00 by day and Php150.00 by night. I went there at 11:00AM.

6. There is a restaurant at the botanical garden (Cafe Acropolis) with price starting with Php80.00 to Php120.00. 

7. There aren't a lot of tourists when I visited the garden maybe it is because of the pandemic but it was an advantage in my part. (Got to spend muni-muni moments)

Eats and Relaxation:

1. I had dinner at Garden Cafe at Poblacion (Rotunda) just across the park. It is a Western-Cowboy inspired interior with a relaxing ambiance. The good thing about the cafe other than their generous serving is their staff. Most of the staffs are deaf and mute. I later found out that the restaurant is ran by a foundation. 

2. Masaje de Bohol at Pook Pantalan (located at the 2nd floor) is a good spot for a spa and sauna. Since I still had time before my trip, I found myself in a sauna and grabbed a chance for a Boholano Amuma Massage. It was rejuvenating!

3. At the same building (ground floor), you can stop by for BJoy Tapsilogan. I had my breakfast there for a combo meal (bangus, rice, bam-i and iced tea) for only Php89.00. Across is an STK Restaurant. 

4. You can book a ticket ahead for Oceanjet located at the same building. 

5. Enjoy Bohol like a local Boholana/Boholano.