Weekend agenda: Underwater exploration in Bohol

MANILA, Philippines - Aside from the Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers and the ivory beaches of Panglao, what else is there to see in Bohol?

Bohol keeps within its confines some of the most astonishing natural (and man-made) wonders in the country. From the over 1,400 caves that play home to bizarre creatures, to the breathtaking stone architecture that peppers the land, the province is a treasure chest, whose shores safeguard a myriad of spectacles.

But not everything that’s good about Bohol can be found on land. Underneath its lush landscape, the province serves as a gateway to another spectacular world, whose colors and diversity lure tourists from all over the world.

Amorita also offers diving lessons for guests who wish to explore Bohol’s underwater marvels.

“Bohol is widely recognized as one of Asia’s finest diving destinations,” begins Nikki Cauton, general manager of Amorita Resort. “Our province prides itself on one of the most diverse marine lives in the world. When you go diving in Bohol, you see large schools of silver jacks, the big eye trevally, gold band fusiliers, big mouth mackerels, midnight snappers, red tooth trigger fishes, turtles, and of course, the famed Brydes Whale, which just recently decided to return to the area.”

But marine life is not all what makes Bohol a great place for marveling at — its dive sites are also revered for their deep, steep walls. Underwater landscapes created by continental shifts during prehistoric times serve as platform for an array of colorful soft, leathery, and stony corals that provide food and shelter to the thriving marine life in the area today.

“Bohol is a place that is definitely blessed by nature,” Nikki adds. “And that is a fact we can never overemphasize. From Kalipayan, Balicasag, the Habagat Wreck, Doljo Housereef, Arco Point, and Crystal Sanctuary; Bohol is a haven for divers of all levels. From those who are just starting out to those who have years of experience under their belt, we have dive spots that will surely leave everyone in awe and wanting to come back for more.”

Underwater landscapes created by continental shifts during prehistoric times serve as platform for an array of colorful soft, leathery, and stony corals that provide food and shelter to the thriving marine life in the area today.

Amorita Resort perches marvelously on top of a cliff along Panglao Island’s famed Alona Beach. Offering tours and activities that showcase a side of the province that’s beyond the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers, Amorita invites everyone to see the marvelous underwater panorama of Bohol.

For information, call +63-38-502-9002 to 03, 553-9549 or visit www.amoritaresort.com.

“From Kalipayan, Balicasag, the Habagat Wreck, Doljo Housereef, Arco Point, and Crystal Sanctuary; Bohol is a haven for divers of all levels,” says Nikki Cauton, general manager of Amorita.