A beautiful island lies northwest of Cebu, capturing your heart from the very first gaze. It’s the island of Bantayan! It is located across the Tanon Strait in the Visayan Sea. According to the 2010 census, it has an estimated population of 136,960.
The island was administratively divided into three municipalities: Bantayan–This is the largest of all three municipalities, covering the island’s central part. This island is considered to be a municipality of first income class. It is also the island’s most populous city. Madridejos–Located in the northern part of the island, this is a fourth income class municipality. This municipality’s old name is’ Lawis.’ Santa Fe – This municipality’s area covers Bantayan Island’s southeastern part. This municipality is considered to be the gateway to Bantayan and its islands because within the municipality there is the airport and the main ferry port.
Here are some of the fun things that you can do in the island:
Enjoy the white sand beaches! This sure will not be out of your list. The island is full of majestic beaches. Aside from the main island, Bantayan, there are numerous small islets surrounding the island that are worth your visit. Each has distinctive beauty to offer.
Bantayan Snorkeling – Since the island is jampacked with fascinating beaches, it sure has beautiful marine ecosystem that is perfect for snorkeling. The untouched waters of the islets hold amazing surprises for the visitors.
Bantayan Island Hopping – Because Bantayan is composed of many neighboring island and islets, there is no reason you don’t explore their beauty within.
Bantayan Hotels and Bantayan Resorts – Relax yourself in the emblem of beautiful resorts.These numerous resorts found in the island can each give a unique service that a guest will have a reason to keep coming back. Just pick up the resort of your choice that will suit your relaxation needs.
Bantayan Skydiving – A new adventure is up for grab in the island; it is the skydiving in Santa Fe. Despite the great risk, many are still so anxious to try the adventure especially those that thirst for adrenaline rush. It’s a must try, they say, as long as you have the courage and money to do it.
Bantayan Churches – The island has many historical places. Among those are their old-aged churches like the St. Peter and Paul Parish Church which was built in 1863. It is the seat of the very first parish in the Visayas and Mindanao which was founded on June 1580.
Bantayan Natures – In Bantayan, there are still a lot of places that you can go to where you can just sit down and appreciate the nature and God’s creation. At dawn, you will be fascinated by the beautiful sunrise by the seashore and also at twilight, the sunset is a perfect sight. You can as well have a romantic night while stargazing together with your loved one.
With regards to the food in Bantayan, a combination of cuisine is served on the island with a taste of restaurants serving Filipino, Thai, and Japanese to European menus. A massive selection of sea foods fresh from the day’s catch is very well dished up since most of the people of the island are fishermen that cast their nets on the abundant Visayan seas. One can even visit the wet market to see fishermen unpack their precious catch from the sea. Fresh live fish from groupers to blue marlin’s are just two of the many surprises. Shrimps, crabs and lobsters are displayed in large quantity in the market. After a full meal one can choose a selection of fresh fruit shakes with choices from mango to choco banana.
Here is a guide on how to get to Bantayan Island:
From the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, ride a taxi going to the Cebu North Bus Terminal. Fare for the taxi will be around P150.00-P200.00 and will take around 30 minutes or more depending on the traffic situation. (Tip: better travel during non-peak hours; the best time to travel is early morning because you can also catch an early bus ride going to Hagnaya) Board a bus going to Hagnaya. Buses leave every hour from 4:00 a.m. until evening. The bus ride going to Hagnaya will take approximately 4 hours so it is best if you travel early. The fare ranges from P150.00-P170.00 depending on the accommodation of your choice. Aircon buses are more expensive but are more convenient for a four-hour ride. From Hagnaya, ride a Ferry Boat going to Santa Fe in Bantayan Island. The boat ride will take around 75 minutes and the fare is approximately P170.00. That’s why travelling early is the best because the ferry boat going to Bantayan Island has a daily schedule. The boat’s schedule starts from 5:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. only. Going to Bantayan Island is a must included in your bucket list. Experience an adventure that no other island can give.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSDf1TewrCo
-Cherry May Santillan
Gr 12- Accountability
Aventurier 