It was my first time to fly to the Visayas area in 2010. I flew all the way to Cebu to pursue my dream job. But when things didn't go the way that I've hoped for, Rubel and I just distracted ourselves with a DIY tour around Cebu --- Plus a side trip to Bohol.

So what did we see in Metro Cebu that was worth seeing? Here's our top choices:

TRYING OUT THE FAMOUS SKY EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE

My verdict: ONCE is ENOUGH! My fear of heights got the best of me. I only tried it for the experience and because I didn't want to feel envious of my friends take on it afterwards. :P So if you're willing to go all the way up the 37th floor to try this, then give it a go! :)

CONQUERING TRACKS AT THE KARTZONE

Although, I've never driven a vehicle before (except a bicycle), my thrill-seeking boyfriend was able to persuade me into trying kart racing. I really am afraid of driving anything on my own, so I was firm about not getting into a race kart. But I still drove one, as I didn't want Rubel to race on his own (excuses!) :P 

My verdict: Those 8 laps were heart-pounding! After my first race, I was able to get into another Kart Racing escapade last year at Enchanted Kingdom. :)

SENDING WISHES AT THE TAOIST TEMPLE

The Taoist Temple can be located inside this very posh village. Public transportation is prohibited from entering this area (like jeeps, tricycles, motorcycles), so it would be best to visit this with a hired vehicle. Finding a ride outside of the village can be scarce. So the only way that you can get out is to walk all the way to the village gate. A Habal-Habal (Cebu's famous motorcycle ride) will be waiting for you there. So brace yourself for that!

My Verdict: Visiting the Taoist Temple was enriching, culture-wise. I could see myself visiting the temple again. But with a hired vehicle in tow this time around. 

PAYING OUR RESPECTS AT THE BASILICA DEL STO. NINO

We said our prayers as soon as we got to the Basilica del Sto. Nino. It was customary for me to make a wish whenever I would visit a new church. 

My Verdict: It was a lovely and well-maintained church. 

LIGHTING CANDLES BY MAGELLAN'S CROSS

Magellan's Cross can be located just a few steps from the Basilica del Sto. Nino church. So you surely won't miss it!

My Verdict: Being present at the actual cross and site was euphoric. I was glad to have experienced such an enriching piece of our history.

Rubel and I still had some time to spare during our Cebu trip, so we allotted a day tour for Bohol. We were able to book our whole day affair through Island Skip Trips (via Supercat).

So what did we see in Bohol during our sight-seeing trip? Here they are!

TOURING THE GROUNDS OF BACLAYON CHURCH

The Baclayon Church is considered to be the oldest stone church in the Philippines.

My Verdict: It was such an amazing place! But for you to be able to tour the holy grounds, make sure that you come in wearing appropriate clothing. Otherwise, the caretakers will ask you to wear a long cloth to wrap around your waist.

CRUISING BY THE LOBOC RIVER

My Verdict: We had lunch on board. But the food during our Loboc River Cruise was just so-so. Then again, what made up for the cruise was the 'Ladies in Pink'. They serenaded all of the guests with their beautiful voices and lovely dance moves. =)

BUTTERFLY VIEWING AT THE BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

My Verdict: We were able to pass by this well-maintained eco-site, and was able to learn a lot about a Butterfly's life cycle. We were also able to taste some of the sanctuary's refreshing avocado and ube ice cream!

TARSIER VIEWING

It was my first time to see these Tarsiers. But we were strictly told not to make any unnecessary noise, as not to disrupt these promisians.

My Verdict: I LOVED the sight of these cute primates! These tiny and delicate creatures are a sight to behold. Truly, they are God's wonders! 

HANGING OUT AT THE BILLAR MAHOGANY MAN-MADE FOREST

I was enthralled when I stepped foot on this man-made forest. It was truly enchanting! 

My Verdict: I was instantly spellbound when our tour bus entered the vicinity of this forest. It surely shows how a few years of good upkeep, love and patience can grow such a lovely forest! 

EXPERIENCING THE GRANDEUR OF THE FAMOUS CHOCOLATE HILLS

What's a day-trip to Bohol without seeing the Chocolate Hills, right? Being in the presence of a hundred cone-shaped highlands were remarkable! I couldn't help but be awe-stricken with these natural wonders. Despite the heat and the far climb up the viewing deck, the scenic sight was super worth the physical pain (LOL)!

SEEING THE BLOOD COMPACT MONUMENT UP-CLOSE

We got to see another historical site. The monument itself commemorated the Blood Compact that was held in Bohol.

My Verdict: I was blessed yet again to have seen this piece of history in actual. So I couldn't pass up a chance to have my photo taken here. :)