Panglao Island: Where Our Fam-Barkada Vacation Turned Into a Real-Life Postcard
May 7, 2022 - Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines
If you’ve ever tried planning a vacation with both family and friends, you know it’s part travel planning, part group therapy. But somehow — between packing fails, overstuffed luggage, and someone forgetting their swimsuit — we made it happen.
Destination? Panglao Island, Bohol.
Mood? Tropical chaos with a side of unforgettable.
And let me tell you — this trip wasn’t just fun. It was legendary.
First Stop: Instant Paradise
The moment we arrived at Alona Beach, it was like walking into a desktop wallpaper. I’m talking blinding white sand, crystal-clear water, and coconut trees swaying like they were dancing just for us.
We checked into our resort, dumped our bags, and within minutes someone yelled, “Shot na!” while others ran straight into the ocean. The trip had officially started.
Snorkels, Sandbars, and Sea Turtles — Oh My!
Early the next day (emphasis on early), we climbed aboard our island-hopping boat with sunblock, snacks, and zero chill.
Balicasag Island blew our minds. We snorkeled with real-life sea turtles — like, actual sea turtles — and floated above coral reefs that looked like underwater jungles. There were screams, laughs, and a few “I swallowed seawater!” moments, but we loved every second.
Next stop: the dreamy sandbar at Virgin Island. Imagine walking on a strip of sand surrounded by the ocean on all sides, munching on fresh scallops and sea urchins from local boats. Some of us pretended we were on a travel show. Others were just trying not to drop their food in the water.
Land Tour Shenanigans
Because we’re not just beach bums (okay, maybe a little), we took a day to explore Bohol’s iconic sights.
First up, the Chocolate Hills — giant, grass-covered mounds that made us feel like we’d wandered into a fantasy world. We climbed to the top, struck ridiculous poses, and declared which one of us was “the most photogenic hill.”
Then came the Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the cutest creatures ever created. Those tiny eyes! Those baby hands! The group chat is now 50% tarsier memes and we have no regrets.
Lunch? Oh, just a chill little feast on a floating restaurant cruising down the Loboc River. Lechon. Seafood. Halo-halo. Acoustic band. singing “Take me home, Country roads.” It was very on-brand for us.
Pool Nights = Peak Vibes
If you think the fun ended after sunset — think again.
Evenings were spent at the resort’s pool bar, where we clinked beers, shared stories, and laughed until someone snorted (you know who you are). The karaoke machine came out, and naturally, a Bohemian Rhapsody showdown followed. It was emotional. It was theatrical. It was slightly off-key. And it was perfect.
Meanwhile, the kids splashed around nearby, creating their own chaos while we soaked in the moment — toes in the water, hearts completely full.
Leaving? Already?
On our last morning, we walked the beach in slow motion, pretending we weren’t checking flight schedules or secretly Googling how much it costs to move to Bohol full-time.
We arrived as a group looking for a break.
We left as a tighter crew with inside jokes, tan lines, shared playlists, and a group photo that’s now everyone’s wallpaper.
The Bottom Line?
Panglao isn’t just a destination. It’s a vibe.
If you’re looking for tropical perfection, nonstop fun, and a place to reconnect with your people — this is it.
So pack your bags, bring your barkada, and prepare to make core memories. Just don’t forget to leave space in your luggage for pasalubong… and maybe a few life-changing moments.
By: Meme Borja
