Fate sometimes leads you to unexpected places – just like what happened to this trip to Anda de Boracay. We were playing volleyball that afternoon when Arjonna suddenly pops up an invitation to Bohol. I was hesitant at first, but when the magic word “free accommodation and food” was mentioned, bags were instantly packed and off we went to Bohol – without exactly knowing where we were headed. We had a sleepover at Arj’s place and then woke up early to catch the first trip to Getafe, Bohol via Cordova, Cebu.
“Did you bring a dress?” Arjonnah suddenly asked out of the blue. It was later that we found out that we were actually going to the wedding of her cousin! Wait, what?! The trip to Anda de Boracay was actually a family trip (a kind of gathering after the wedding). From Getafe, we rode a jeepney going to Ubay, Bohol where the wedding ceremony was held. So imagine the four of us, fresh from the long boat and land trip, in front of a church, carrying big backpacks with us.
From the church, we proceed to the reception of the wedding and dine with the family and relatives of the groom and bride. Awkward was an understatement. But well, Boholanos proved to be very hospitable individuals. They made us feel like we’re part of the family (or probably they didn’t know that we’re actually just gatecrashing). After lunch, Arj’s sister and her husband took us on a short trip to Ubay municipality proper wherein we feasted over some balot after we visited a picturesque dam.
Unexpected Trip to Anda de Boracay
The following day, we tagged along with the newly-wed’s family and relatives to one of Bohol’s best beaches – Anda de Boracay. True to its name, Anda de Boracay resembles to Boracay’s white sand beach (though not as fine). As it was a weekend and the place was opened to public, there was a quite number of people on the beach that day. Nonetheless, it didn’t spoil the beauty that the beach already has and the fun we had. We stayed until after and saw how the place can transform into something magical. As the tides change, we saw a number of species hidden underwater. Though the sunset on the area isn’t as majestic as of the real Boracay, it was still such a sight to behold.
I personally don’t want to compare Anda de Boracay to Aklan’s world-class island. Anda is beautiful on its own; so, why bank on to another island’s fame? With its rich biodiversity, fine white sand beaches, great number of cave pools, enchanting caves, and hidden waterfalls, there’s so much that Anda can boasts.
PS. Forever grateful to Arj’s family for adopting me on this two-day trip. Thanks as well to Shiela and Angel for the wonderful company. Hoping to venture on another unexpected trip with all of you soon.
How to get to Anda (Bohol)
- From Manila – Flights from Manila to Tagbilaran City, Bohol are available daily. From the airport, you may ride a tricycle going to Dao Terminal where you can catch a bus (P100) or van (P120) going to Anda. Travel time is around two to three hours.
- From Cebu City – Several fast crafts and ferries departs from Cebu to Tagbilaran, Bohol every day. From Tagbilaran Port, you may hail a tricycle going to Dao Terminal and then ride a bus or van bound for Anda.
Going around Anda is easy. Motorbikes (habal-habal) and tricycles are the main mode of transportation in the municipality. Minimum fare is at P8.00. There are also several cheap hostels and tourist inns around for your accommodation. Make the most of your trip in Bohol. Enjoy Anda!
Have you been to Bohol? What places have you been to? Share them down below! For more random trips, checkout Dakilanglaagan on Facebook and Instagram. Hope to see you on trails soon!
Dakilanglaagan 