Bohol 1-day itinerary

Start early with a hired motorbike or van to the Chocolate Hills viewing complex in Carmen — over 1,200 grass-covered limestone mounds stretching across the interior plateau, turning brown in the dry season like giant chocolate truffles. Climb the 214 steps to the main viewpoint for the iconic panorama. On the way back, stop at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella to observe the world's smallest primates clinging to branches in their protected forest habitat. The sanctuary limits visitor numbers to reduce stress on the animals.

Head to the Loboc River for a floating lunch cruise along the emerald-green waterway flanked by dense coconut palms and jungle. The buffet boats drift downstream for about an hour with live Filipino music and stops at a small cultural show. After the cruise, visit the centuries-old Baclayon Church — one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, built by the Spanish in the 1590s — and explore the quiet countryside roads past rice paddies and hanging bridges.

Drive south to Panglao Island and Alona Beach for the evening. This 800-metre white sand strip is Bohol's main beach hub with dive shops, bars, and seafood restaurants lining the shore. Watch the sunset from a beachfront table with a San Miguel beer and a plate of grilled squid. The evening atmosphere is relaxed and social — a good place to meet other travellers and arrange diving or island-hopping for the next day.