I dream of travel

a glimpse of the master’s earthen creations. Then set off to Liliw to see how native slippers are made, and purchase sturdy casual footwear at bargain prices.

n ILOILO/NEGROS OCCIDENTAL. For the food alone, these two provinces are my best bets. When in Iloilo, hang out at Madge’s Cafe with its homegrown brews and pastries in the La Paz Public Market, after a bowl of steaming batchoy at Deco’s. For lunch or dinner, escape to a generous yet inexpensive meal of oysters, shrimps and more at Breakthrough. In Negros, a visit to Silay for the lumpiang ubod (Emma Lacson) and ensaimada (El Ideal) are also musts, in between tours of their heritage houses, along with a side trip to see the Church of the angry Christ in Victorias City.

n BOHOL. This province boasts of the most number of Spanish-era heritage churches, which have been rebuilt and fortified since that fateful earthquake in October 2013. Of course, one shouldn’t miss the Chocolate Hills especially during summer when the grass is all toasted. a river cruise along Loboc River comes with a hearty lunch and musical performers. after alighting from the boat, check out the tarsiers in one of the private sanctuaries. Kids will love these tiny furry creatures.

n CAMIGUIN. I’ve never seen white sand a powdery cream, and waters as clear as Boracay’s except in White Island. There are no shacks nor plantation to protect against the sun so it’s best to go early morning or late afternoon. Camiguin also hosts a number of well-preserved ancestral homes, some of which have been turned into restaurants. Life and property surround the still-active Mount Hibok-hibok, which helps nourish the province’s farms and feed its clean spring pools.

On my wishlist, as I’ve never been to these destinations before, are Siargao, with its myriad or islands and beaches in which to swim around; Caramoan Islands, the site of the reality show Survivor, with white sand beaches and limestone forest, and rich marine life; and Siquijor, with its hidden beaches, waterfalls and caves.

With our country’s more than 7,600 islands, it won’t be that difficult to find amazing destinations we can enjoy. I’m so looking forward to my next travel adventure. n