BOGO: The getaway

You don't have to travel far! The city of Bogo is only a two-hour drive up north from Cebu City making it a wonderful day or weekend trip. There is just enough to do there plus, it is stress-free, as well. Driving through the well-paved roads surrounded by hectares of sugar cane fields in this clean and green city, we were stunned to find some unexpected gems!

Passing through a district called Daihagon, I saw a sign that prompted vehicles to make a turn into a dirt road that leads you to a place called the Mercedes Golden Village and Beach Resort. It is Bogo's Korean Village complete with 130 beach rooms, Casino e-games (yes, gambling here is possible right in the middle of a field and close to the sea, as well), a pool, spa facilities and a restaurant. The place is almost up and running and looks rather pretty. But what a find, I was in for quite a surprise! For any inquiries and reservations, you may call (032) 516-0900 and (032) 513-0841 to 42.

Directly beside this village is the attractive Mercedes Golf and Plantation. It's hard to imagine that such a place exists in between sugar cane fields. Why not hit a few balls at the driving range or play an 18-hole game of golf? Its restaurant also offers great food choices. Plus, it's extremely peaceful on most days of the year.

A short drive away across the city center, on the same street, you can find the Nailon Beach Resort and beside it, the Hisoler Beach Resort (with newly renovated rooms). Both are good places to hang around, to stay either for the day or overnight. As I looked towards the sea, some four-kilometers away, I spotted one tiny island, the Capitancillo Islet, made famous for its lighthouse, marine and aquatic life. Huts have been built on this island, making it a great place for a picnic. It's relatively easy to get there; you may hire a boat without any prior reservations but ensure to agree on a cost with the boat driver beforehand. You may choose to swim, as well if you're up for the challenge!

One miraculous district in Bogo is called Odlot, famous for its healing phenomena, a place that has drawn so many people into this part of town. This is where I personally met the very welcoming parish priest, Father Romeo Gilbuela Desuyo at Our Lady of Remedies Parish, who was more than pleased to take the time to talk to us and share some wonderful stories. It was witnessed by many that the Birhen de los Remedios had shed tears on the 21st of June 2008, which lasted from 11.30a.m. up until midnight. This happened again four days later.

If you choose to stay in this district, there is a place called Odlot Hideaway Beach Resort (air-conditioned rooms start from P1,500 a night). The atmosphere here is quite relaxing; I was attracted to the beach huts and salt-water pool. The diving boards are excellent, most especially during high tides. Across the road from this resort is the Mountain Resort and Café where one can eat in peace and tranquility! Further along the road (access is through private property or you make a take a boat for public viewing), I have witnessed a rather strange experience. It is an area where you will find so many live prawns but they are red in color! In unusual occurrences, I normally say to myself that there has to be a logical explanation to it. But this, I just couldn't work out the sense or connection at all!

Driving back towards the centre, we visited the Tugbungan Mangrove Eco-Park and Forest, a vast mangrove eco-reserve. Walking through the beautifully built wooden walkway surrounded by endless mangroves made such a wonderful outdoor experience. Be sure to wear the right footwear, though. This place is relatively tucked in, so ask around for directions and expect some bumpy roads getting there! Accommodations are air-conditioned rooms with a queen bed, a balcony and a living room at P1000 a night for two. Ask for a room on the second floor and don't forget to purchase one of their mugs as a souvenir.

Heading back to the city, you will see a sight that marks the centre of Bogo, the Bogo Fountain. It is interesting how this fountain has stood there for years. In all those years, I never noticed it, only until recently. In the same park, there is the Museum and Public Library, which had just opened two years ago. It is quite pretty how this small museum has creative displays of native crafts, paintings, music, etc., so neatly put together. Admissions fees cost P10 for adults and P5 for children/students. Another sight is the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Vicente Ferrer where we lit some candles and admired its beauty. It's worth a visit.

There are so many places to stay in Bogo but if you choose to be right in the center, I would recommend the city's newest bed and breakfast, the Bogo Northomes Pensione (www.bogonorthhomes.com) along Pelaez Street or the Bogo City Lodge (located close to the Bogo Wharf). For places to eat, there are plenty! There is the outdoor barbeque place by the wharf, The Pizza Pub (if you opt for European food), Jollibee, the Sweet Spot (located in Gaisano Bogo) and many more!

Just before leaving, climb up the many steps to work your way up to the top if you opt for another sight to see, The Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. But if you choose to take another road, (which takes you directly to Sogod), from Bogo, turn left towards Dakit and you will drive through another Bogo barangay called Guadalupe. Here, we found a house built on the 10th of April 1937, probably the only one that hasn't been torn down since World War II. I couldn't get over its old architecture so we had to stop the car, get off and take a photo of it!

The city of Bogo has proven to be growing city and it seems cool even under the hot sun. My expectations overall were met for this mini vacation!