Bohol, a small island in the central Philippines, is an excellent travel destination for those residing in Korea who are looking for an affordable yet breathtaking getaway. With its stunning natural landscapes and budget-friendly travel expenses, Bohol has become increasingly popular among travelers. Thanks to its convenient route via Cebu and variety of activities, it offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll provide essential information for foreign residents in Korea who are planning a trip to Bohol.
1. How to Travel from Korea to Bohol
The most common way to reach Bohol is via Cebu (CEB). Although direct flights from Korea to Bohol are limited, transiting through Cebu is a popular and efficient option.
1) Direct Flights:
Flights from Korea to Cebu are available through airlines such as Korean Air, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Jin Air. The flight duration is approximately 4–5 hours.
2) From Cebu to Bohol:
There are two primary ways to travel from Cebu to Bohol:
3) Ferry:
A ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol takes approximately 2 hours. Several operators, such as OceanJet and SuperCat, provide regular services.
4) Domestic Flight:
A domestic flight from Cebu to Bohol’s Panglao Airport (BCD) takes only 30 minutes.
2. Why Bohol is an Affordable Travel Destination
Compared to other famous tourist spots in the Philippines, Bohol offers a lower overall cost of travel.
- Flights: Round-trip airfare can be found for ₩300,000–₩500,000 during the off-season, making it an economical choice.
- Accommodation:
- Luxury resorts: ₩50,000–₩100,000 per night
- Guesthouses or local inns: ₩20,000–₩30,000 per night
- Food:
- Local restaurants offer delicious meals for ₩5,000–₩10,000 per dish.
- Fresh seafood and Filipino cuisine are both affordable and delicious.
- Transportation:
- Tricycles (motorbike taxis): ₩1,000–₩2,000 per ride
- Motorbike rentals: ₩10,000 per day, providing a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the island.
3. Must-Visit Attractions in Bohol
Bohol is renowned for its spectacular natural scenery and diverse activities. Some of the top attractions include:
- Alona Beach – A lively beach with crystal-clear waters, beachfront restaurants, and bars.
- Virgin Island – A secluded sandbar in the middle of the ocean, perfect for relaxation.
- Balicasag Island – A famous diving and snorkeling site, home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Chocolate Hills – A UNESCO-listed geological formation with 1,268 cone-shaped hills that resemble chocolate mounds.
- Tarsier Sanctuary – A conservation site where you can observe the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier, in its natural habitat.
4. Top Activities in Bohol
1) Whale Shark Encounter 🦈
One of the most thrilling experiences in Bohol is swimming with whale sharks (butanding). These gentle giants can be spotted in Lila, Bohol, where visitors can snorkel alongside them in their natural habitat. This activity is safe, eco-friendly, and an incredible way to observe the world’s largest fish up close.
2) Sardine Run Snorkeling 🐟
Bohol is home to an impressive sardine run, a breathtaking underwater phenomenon where millions of sardines move in synchronized formations. This can be experienced in Balicasag Island, a top snorkeling and diving site near Bohol. Snorkeling among the swirling school of fish is a mesmerizing sight and a must-do for ocean lovers.
3) Sea Turtle Watching & Snorkeling 🐢
For those who love marine life, swimming with sea turtles is a magical experience. Balicasag Island is also famous for its crystal-clear waters and abundant sea turtles, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Visitors can observe these beautiful creatures in their natural environment while exploring vibrant coral reefs.
4) Dolphin Watching Tour 🐬
Bohol is one of the best places in the Philippines for dolphin watching. Early morning boat tours take visitors to the Bohol Sea, where playful dolphins can be seen leaping out of the water. The best time for dolphin watching is between March and June, when the sea is calm and the dolphins are most active.
5. How Foreign Residents in Korea Can Travel to Bohol
For foreign nationals residing in Korea, it is essential to check Philippine entry requirements before traveling.
- Visa-Free Entry:
- Many nationalities can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days.
- However, some nationalities (e.g., India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, certain African countries) may require a pre-approved visa from the Philippine embassy.
- Flight Booking:
- The most common travel route is via Cebu, followed by a ferry or domestic flight to Bohol.
- Getting Around in Bohol:
- Tricycles (motorbike taxis) and motorbike rentals are the most cost-effective ways to explore the island.
- Accommodation Reservations:
- Book hotels in Alona Beach or Tagbilaran City through Airbnb, Agoda, or Booking.com for the best deals.
6. Budget Travel Tips for Bohol
To make the most of your trip while keeping expenses low, consider the following tips:
- Travel During Off-Season:
- Visiting between June and October can help you find cheaper flights and accommodation.
- Eat at Local Restaurants:
- Enjoy affordable yet delicious Filipino dishes at local eateries instead of high-end restaurants.
- Book Tours in Advance:
- Many tours and activities offer discounts when booked online in advance.
- Use Grab for Transportation:
- The Grab app is available in the Philippines and can help you find affordable transportation options.
Conclusion
Bohol is one of the best budget-friendly travel destinations near Korea, offering stunning landscapes and exciting activities at a reasonable cost. Foreign residents in Korea can easily visit by flying to Cebu and taking a short ferry or domestic flight to Bohol. With its affordable accommodations, low-cost transportation, and breathtaking attractions, Bohol is the perfect getaway for those looking to explore a tropical paradise without overspending. 🌴✈️