How to get to Bantayan Island - The Secluded Paradise

We have booked our Cebu flight last May since Cebu Pacific Air is having their PISO FARE promo at that time and yes, it was really hard to book a flight when they a piso fare promo. Why? no matter how many times you refreshed your browser, even if you have already picked the date that you wanted, most of the time, it will get sold even though seconds ago it was not yet. But fortunately, I was able to booked a flight for 2 to Cebu for the month of October. :) 

The Date: Departure from Manila - October 19, 2011 6:30 p.m.

Me and my companion, Van went to NAIA terminal 3 around 5 p.m. we waited there even though our flight got delayed for about 45 minutes or so. I was really excited since this is another amazing adventure that I am embarking on. I promised myself that I will be traveling more. I want to explore. Enjoy the best of life. Step by step. 

We arrived at Cebu around 9 in the evening, we went straight to Sugbutel since we already planned out where we should stay, Sugbutel offers cheap accommodations although when we got there it was already jam packed. It was getting late, since our plan was to get to Bantayan Island as early as possible so that we can enjoy the island more. We decided to go straight to North Terminal (jeep fare is P7.50), even though Van, my companion knows how to speak Bisaya, we were still having a hard time talking to Cebuanos. Most of the time we got lost and we ended up walking but I don't mind it though for as long as we're safe. It's part of the adventure right?:) 

We ate noodles (P15.00 cooked) at the terminal and waited. Waited. At long last, at around 2:30 a.m we rode the bus going to Hagnaya Port (Bus fare is P130.00). Thankfully, it was breaking dawn :) We didn't get to experience the dust and hotness of the ride since we only ride an ordinary bus. Still, when we got to Hagnaya port, we both looked so tired and sleepy as if we came from a battle. We waited for the ferry that will take us to Bantayan Island. The ferry will operate from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. only (The fare is P170.00). An hour later, we arrived at Bantayan Island. We were welcomed by the pristine beach and crystal clear water of Bantayan Island. What a relief, I said to myself. The tiring trip was definitely worth it after seeing the Island. It was picturesque. We then meet Kuya Toto who became our tourist guide all throughout our wonderful journey at Bantayan Island. 

We stayed at Beach Placid Resort for our overnight stay, where we paid P600.00 (Electric fan only). The airconditioned rooms were already fully booked. I must say that even though we only get to stay at the said room, it was still a nice, worth it room. Clean, with bathroom and we really just need a place where we can leave our things safely. We also rented a habal habal for P350.00 24 hours. We used it while we stroll around the island. Our island hopping is about P900. 

Bantayan Island’s appeal to me were beyond than the white beaches that surrounded it. Honestly speaking, I love Bantayan Island more than Boracay. Why is that? We all know how popular Boracay is, during summertime where it is really the peak season for tourists and vacationers to go there, you don't get to enjoy the beach that much. It's commercially jam packed.Plus, I would rather enjoy the serenity of the beach than go partying and bar hopping at Boracay. But nevertheless, I still love Boracay too.  I loved how small the island is that you could go around the barrio just by walking. A short habal-habal ride would then take you to other towns. There’s not much to do in Bantayan Island, but the quietness, the serenity does something to you. It’s so inviting you don’t want to leave the island anymore. I even fantasized myself living at the island where simplicity is the key to a serene life. We stayed there for 2 days and 1 night. 

Virgin Island

We also went to Virgin Island which also looks like Puka Beach at Boracay but I love Virgin Island more since it was so quiet there. We were the only guest when we went there! we get to walk around, goof around and sleep. This is definitely one of the best beaches the country has to offer.

Kota Beach Park

Sugar Beach Resort

The next day we went to Mangrove Park. We also went to Sugar Beach Resort, they also have cheap accommodations plus they also have the best sea lining. White beach at it's best. They have a lot of cottages as well. We also went to Kota Beach Resort, nice beach front. PAG ASA even put a station there to monitor the weather in the Visayas area. 

Bantayan Island is definitely something to consider if you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and seeking for some relaxation and peace. I’d definitely come back to this island, no doubt about it. We didn't get around on visiting Malapascua Island and Ogtong Cave.