Camotes lures

"We will set out on a journey of discovery. Beyond the familiar to the unheard-of, un-promoted, un-photographed places, people, festivals, images that are nevertheless deeply imprinted in the islands' colorful culture.- Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia "

Thirty five miles of Cebu, just slightly over an hour away by fastcraft lies a scrubby piece of land, marooned in a dazzling azure sea. Were you to see it from the air, you would notice that there are no cars, just tricycles and motorcycles along the single track road that winds its way around the island.

All the clichés of a tropical paradise come to mind - unspoiled sea teeming with fish, lush green forests, trees heavy with fruits, sunshine and blue skies - friendly and smiling faces everywhere. - simply a dream paradise.

Welcome to Camotes Islands!

At the recent "Suroy Suroy" get-away initiated by the Tourism Committee of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, we embarked on a week-end fun-filled adventure, not knowing exactly what to find, what to explore, what to experience.

Here's what we discovered:

Known as "The Lost Horizon in the South" because of its unspoiled setting, Camotes consists of 4 islands; Pacijan, Poro, Ponson and the tiny Tulang Island. Pacijan and Poro are connected by a paved road while Ponson Island is separated by the Camotes Sea.

We visited the islands' 3 largest settlements namely Poro known for its rich history, San Francisco for its stunning, pristine beaches and Tudela for its cave systems We experienced Filipino warm hospitality at its best. We likewise savoured the region's simple yet delectable dishes and delicacies. Naturally, lechon, the definitive fiesta dish, took center stage in every banquet.

At dusk we strolled on empty beaches while sipping wine under a star-filled sky...

Though much of Camotes remains undeveloped, for some there lies its beauty, but trust me it will not be for long. Slowly Camotes is preparing itself for the inevitable - progress and development.