Friday, October 10, 2025

Land of Bruce Lee and Magellan

Day 1: 18 Oct 2025 CCU (0200 HRS) >BKK (0800 HRS) > Hong Kong (Arrival at 1145 HRS & Night Tour & City Explorations )

Day 2: 19 Oct 2025 (Hong Kong City Tour)

Day 3: 20 Oct 2025 (Macau Day Trip)

Day 4: 21 Oct 2025 (Lantau Island & Big Buddha )

Day 5: 22 Oct 2025 (Departure) Hong Kong (17 40 HRS) >Manila,Philippines (20 10 HRS)

Day 6 : 23 Oct 2025 : Manila, Philippines - Colonial City Tour

Day 7 : 24 Oct 2025 : Manila, Philippines - Museum Tour

Day 8 : 25 Oct 2025 : Manila,Philippines (0630 HRS)> Cebu,Philippines (0840 HRS) - City Tour

Day 9 : 26 Oct 2025 : Cebu,Philippines - Bohol Tour

Day 10 : 27 Oct 2025 : Cebu,Philippines (20 05 HRS)>Mactan Island tour> Manila,Philippines(21 40 HRS)

Day 11 : 28 Oct 2025 : Manila, Philippines (02 05 HRS) > Hong Kong (04 30 HRS)

Day 11: 28 Oct 2025 : Departure : Hong Kong (1825 HRS) >BKK(23 35 HRS)>CCU(00 40 HRS)

Apply for Visa

See this wonderful video to know about problems of visa application from India, especially Kolkata, Hyderabad and Chandigarh. If you apply from these cities, Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) Process will be unsuccessful, like my application, inspite of visiting 47 countries. But there is nothing to worry about, still you will get visa. See this video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5vTDJpfD-U

For documents required, follow this link -

https://www.gov.hk/en/nonresidents/visarequire/visasentrypermits/applyvisit_transit.htm

Ultimately I got visa by paying Rs 2300 approx.

Hong Kong: Country Snapshot

Population: ~7.5 million (2025 est.) — one of the most densely populated regions on Earth.

Islands: Comprises over 260 islands, with Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories forming the main regions. Hong Kong means all of these 260 Islands.

Area: ~1,110 sq. km — about 1/80th the size of West Bengal, yet with far higher population density.

Per Capita Income: ~USD 53,000 (India ~USD 2,700)

Religion: A blend of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, with Christian minorities and a growing number of non-religious residents.

Languages: Chinese (Cantonese) and English are official languages; signage and government services use both.

Currency: 1 Hong Kong Dollar ≈ 10.7 Indian Rupees (2025 est.).

Industries: Finance, trade, logistics, tourism, and professional services — Hong Kong is Asia’s major financial and shipping hub.

Famous Street Food & Night Markets in Hong Kong

✅ Ladies Market, Mong Kok — famous for street food like curry fish balls, egg waffles, and stinky tofu.
✅ Temple Street Night Market — more street snacks and souvenirs.
✅ Mong Kok Food Stalls — look for Hong Kong-style French toast, dim sum, egg tarts, roasted

Climate: Subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. October is pleasant and dry, one of the best months to visit.

Climate in Oct: Pleasant, 22°C–28°C, mostly dry.
History
Originally a small fishing village.
Ceded to Britain after the First Opium War (1839–1842) under the Treaty of Nanking.
Developed into a global port and financial hub.
Returned to China in 1997 as a Special Administrative Region under “one country, two systems.”

✅ Transportation & Travel Tips

Octopus Card — Buy at airport for seamless travel (MTR, buses, ferries AND shopping).

Day 1 (18 Oct 2025) — Arrival to Hong Kong and Kowloon Peninsula Tour

Arrival in Hong Kong — And the Bus That Adopted Us (A21 Edition)

11:45 AM: We landed in Hong Kong, fully charged, fully excited—and mildly overconfident about our budgeting skills.

Hong Kong offers many ways to reach the city… but only one truly respects your wallet.

Enter the A21 Citybus—a double-decker legend that stops right at the airport and delivers you to the heart of the action without emotional damage to your bank balance.

The Legendary A21 — Our Lifesaver (and Soon, Family Member)

Fare: A friendly HKD 34
Route: Airport → Middle Road, Nathan Road
Walking distance to hotel: ~30 metres
Travel time: 50–60 minutes
Timings: 05:00 – midnight
Night shift cousin: N21 (for nocturnal travellers)

By Day 2, the A21 had become so integral to our lives that we half expected it to ask us how our day was going.

Now yes, there’s also the sleek, futuristic Airport Express—fast, efficient, and priced at HKD 105 one way… after which you still need another metro to reach your hotel.

We respectfully declined this luxury and remained loyal to our budget .

The Octopus Card & A Psychic at the Counter

We bought the famous Octopus Card at the airport:

Deposit: HKD 42
Initial top-up: HKD 128
Total: HKD 170

As we stood there, the staff casually asked: “Are you going to Chungking Mansions?”

I looked at them and replied: “Are you an astrologer?”

They smiled knowingly. Clearly, our budget aura was visible.

They said you have to get down at Middle Road and take A21 bus (double decker bus).

🌉 From Airport Island to Kowloon — First Glimpse of the City

The airport itself sits on an artificial island, and soon we were gliding over bridges, crossing into Kowloon—the dense, buzzing heart of the city.

2:30 PM: We arrived at Middle Road.
20 metres later: We were at our hotel.

Efficiency level: Hong Kong.

Chungking Mansions — Chaos, Culture & Controlled Confusion

Welcome to Chungking Mansions—a 17-storey concrete legend on Nathan Road. If Hong Kong has a heart, this is the part that beats twice as fast—and occasionally skips a beat.

A Mini United Nations (with a Khidirpur Branch Office)

Inside, you don’t hear Cantonese first.
You hear:

Bengali
Hindi
Urdu
Arabic
Tamil
Punjabi

…sometimes all at once.

At one point, I genuinely wondered if I had accidentally taken the A21 back to Khidirpur.

This place is home to traders and travellers from over 130 nationalities, many dating back to the 1980s–90s when Hong Kong had easier visa policies.

Food at All Hours (and All Accents)

The ground floor is a culinary United Nations:

Indian restaurants
Bangladeshi eateries
Nepali momo stalls
South Indian dosa counters

Here, you can:

Eat biryani at 2 AM
Fix and top up your phone at 2:30 AM
Debate cricket at 3 AM

All in Bengali.

The Great Lift Adventure (Extreme Sport Category)

Chungking Mansions has 5 blocks (A–E), each with its own lift.

Which means:

Enter the wrong block → instant building tour
Lift queue → time to rethink life choices
Lift movement → governed by philosophy, not physics

Surviving these lifts should qualify for a medal in endurance sports.

Location — Absolutely Unbeatable

Despite the internal chaos, the outside location is perfection:

Star Ferry Pier → 7–8 min walk
Tsim Sha Tsui MTR → across the road
Nathan Road → right outside
Bus stop → 30 metres
Cheap & fantastic food → Everywhere around you
Big Shopping Mall just outside
There are at least 6 currency exchanges inside Chungking Mansion, giving the best possible rates anywhere in the world.

Budget traveller verdict: Paradise found. I was warned before booking this place. But this is a very safe place. In fact there is Holiday Inn hotel nearby.

Our Hotel — Small but Complete

Located on 6th floor
Reception on 16th floor !
Room size: “Minimalist philosophy meets real estate reality”
Facilities: Everything you need
Bonus: Free water dispenser & microwave

A gentle reminder that Hong Kong has some of the highest real estate prices in the world

Historical & Cultural Significance

Built: 1961
Became migrant hub: 1980s–90s
Featured in: Chungking Express - the classic Wong Kar-wai film (1994), making it part of cinematic history.

Academics call it: “The most global building in Asia” - because residents come from over 130 nationalities.

Chungking Mansions may not win an award for luxury, but it will definitely win one for character, chaos, and unlimited stories. If Hong Kong is a modern skyscraper, then Chungking Mansions is the colourful basement nobody wants to admit they love — but everyone secretly does.

Currency, Rest & The First Walk

While Mohua rested, I heroically went downstairs and exchanged USD 200 at 7.70 HKD/USD—a rate so good it deserved a round of applause.

Walking Tour Begins @ 4 pm — Kowloon Unfolds

Inspired by Lonely Planet, we began our walking tour.

A friendly Bangladeshi gentleman guided us to the Tsim Sha Tsui (pronounced "chim-sa-choi") metro (globalisation at work again) and we reached Prince Edward MTR Station.

Prince Edward — Markets, Markets & More Markets

Named after Prince Edward (later King Edward VIII), this area has been buzzing since the early 20th century.

Highlights:

Flower Market: Orchids, lilies, colours exploding everywher.It became Hong Kong’s main flower hub in the 1970s. We saw flower aucitons going on
Pet Street: Goldfish, birds, snakes and creatures more pampered than humans. Goldfish are considered lucky in Feng Shui

Starting from Prince Edward MTR, we wandered down to Jordan MTR. We tried egg tarts (HKD 7.5) at the bakery inside the MTR.

Mong Kok — The Gariahat of Hong Kong

We wandered into Ladies Market Mong Kok:

Huge street market
Pedestrian-only in evenings
Souvenirs everywhere
Food cheaper than most places

Felt like Gariahat… but with better lighting and more neon

Temple Street Night Market — Sensory Overload (in a Good Way)

Founded in the 1920s, named after the nearby Tin Hau Temple,

Temple Street Night Market is where Kowloon truly comes alive.

We:

Ate seafood fried rice & noodles
Had softie (HKD 9 — happiness in a cone)
Watched life unfold in neon light

👉 It’s an assault on all five senses—delightfully so

Kowloon Park & A Language Realisation

A quick stop at Kowloon Park gave us some breathing space.

One observation: English is slowly stepping back, Cantonese is firmly in charge

Why Kowloon is Called “Nine Dragons”

“Kowloon” means Nine Dragons:

8 mountains + 1 emperor (Song dynasty)
Acquired by the British in 1860 under the Convention of Peking

Today: It remains the vibrant, neon-lit soul of Hong Kong

End of Day 1 — Back to the Madness We Now Loved

After a long day of walking, eating, observing, and pretending to understand Cantonese, we returned to Chungking Mansions.

A building that doesn’t just offer accommodation— It offers stories. Endless stories.

Day 2 (19 Oct 2025) — Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island Tour

Morning Energiser: Breakfast & Bruce Lee
After breakfast (Masala dosa @45 HKD - huge size. Another shop was selling the same at 40 HKD) at Chettinad Restaurant in the Chung king Mansion , we strolled along the Kowloon Promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and pretending to be in a slow-motion movie scene.

Our aim was to visit the Bruce Lee Statue, because who can resist paying tribute to Hong Kong’s greatest icon?
Bruce Lee stands here in his legendary fighting pose — erected in 2005 as part of the Avenue of Stars project — silently reminding tourists to stay hydrated in the Hong Kong heat.
While walking, we noticed a number of pleasure cruises leaving from the promenade. Very tempting, but we had a strict schedule. If Lonely Planet said “Walk”, we walked… even if we melted.
Walking Tour 2 – Kowloon Edition
We followed Lonely Planet’s Walking Tour 2, starting from Star Ferry Pier 1.
Highlights included:
Avenue of Stars
Hong Kong’s answer to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame — reopened in 2019 — with handprints and sculptures of classic Cantonese cinema stars.
Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower
Built in 1915, this red-brick beauty is the only remnant of the old Kowloon–Canton Railway.
It looks like a lighthouse that failed UPSC and instead became a historical monument.
1881 Heritage
The former Marine Police Headquarters (built 1884) turned into a luxury shopping complex.
We admired the colonial architecture from outside because our wallets trembled at the thought of entering.
By this time, the sun was doing its own version of Bruce Lee’s flying kick. Mohua wisely left the walking tour midway and returned to the hotel, while I bravely continued like a roasted potato.
Hotel Break (AKA Air-Conditioning Nirvana)
After the walk, I returned to the hotel, revived myself, and summoned Mohua again — this time for an expedition to Hong Kong Island.
We took the Tsim Sha Tsui MTR to Sai Ying Pun MTR, ready for Round 2 of our pedestrian adventures.
Walking Tour 1 – Hong Kong Island
We began near Kennedy Town tram stop (Sutherland Street) or Sai Ying Pun MTR, depending on which entrance we accidentally found first. We saw the historic old town of Hong Kong.
This walk was full of:
- Steep slopes
- Instagrammable street art
- Old shophouses. The streets in Sheung Wan specailized in various kinds of Trade.
- Famous Western Market
- Man Mo Temple
The walk ended at Sheung Wan MTR, the heart of old Hong Kong’s trading district since the 1840s, when the British first settled here after the First Opium War. The China Town was located here in Sheung Wan. Sheung Wan was historic, atmospheric. It soon became first Commerical and residentail centre of local Chinese, after HK became British Colony. The road was called Connaught Road. There is Jervois Street (there is a Jervois Street in Singapore also) and Lascar Row (British interpreted as Indian sailors) - which is home to Antique markets. We also saw remaining Chop and Printing Shops.
The Famous Hong Kong Tram Ride
Since time was short, we skipped Walking Tour 2 of Hong Kong Island. Instead, we did what every sensible tourist does — hopped onto the iconic double-decker tram. These trams have been in operation since 1904, making them older than most countries’ electrical systems.
We rode all the way to the last station and then returned to Star Ferry Pier 7, enjoying:
- Cool breeze
- Rattling tracks
- And the feeling that the tram was older than some of its passengers
From Pier 7, we took the MTR to go back to the Kowloon Peninsula.
Overnight in Kowloon

Returned to our base in Kowloon, legs tired but hearts full, ready for the next adventure.

Day 3 (20 Oct 2025) — Lantau Island & Big Buddha

A Windy Day, a Giant Buddha & Hong Kong from the Top (and the Sea)

Getting to Lantau Island

We took our trusted Citybus A21, fully confident that it would take us everywhere in Hong Kong except maybe the moon. Of course, A21 goes straight to the airport, so we had to change buses at Lantau Bus-bus Interchange Stop to reach Lantau Island—a small reminder that even life-saving buses have boundaries. If you do not get down here A21 will take you to Hong Kong Airport or HZMB Passenger clearence building.

Our grand plan was to take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, famous for its jaw-dropping aerial views of North Lantau Country Park and Hong Kong International Airport. Sadly, Mother Nature had other ideas. It was too windy, and the cable car was shut.

So, like sensible (and budget-conscious) travellers, we took the bus from Tung Chung, proving once again that buses never abandon you—even when cable cars do.

Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) & Po Lin Monastery

Our first stop was the iconic Tian Tan Buddha, popularly known as the Big Buddha.

Completed in 1993, this 34-metre-high bronze statue is one of the largest seated outdoor Buddhas in the world.
It symbolises harmony between man, nature, and faith.
The nearby Po Lin Monastery was founded in 1906 and remains an active Buddhist centre.

The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking. There is also a small museum inside, which quietly reminds you to calm your soul after the stair-climbing trauma.

Tai O Fishing Village: The Place That Got Away

We wanted to visit the charming Tai O Fishing Village , famous for its stilt houses and fishing heritage dating back over 300 years. Unfortunately, time said “No”, and Tai O remains on the Next Time, Definitely list.

Victoria Peak: From Daylight to Dazzling Darkness

By afternoon, we rushed back to Hong Kong Island to catch the legendary Peak Tram or Funicular —and thankfully, this was running.

Peak Tram trivia:

Operational since 1888, it’s one of the oldest funicular railways in the world.
Originally built to transport British colonial residents to their hillside homes.

We reached Victoria Peak while there was still some daylight. Slowly, magically, Hong Kong transformed into a sea of lights. The transition from dusk to darkness was nothing short of cinematic.
Yes, it was crowded. Yes, there was a Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. But honestly, the view alone steals the show.

Star Ferry: The Grand, Cheap Finale

To end the day, we boarded the legendary Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour.

Why this ferry is special:

Operating since 1888
Costs less than bottled water
Offers million-dollar views of Hong Kong’s skyline

The sight of skyscrapers shimmering over the water is pure magic—and probably the best-value experience in the entire city.

Back Home

After conquering Buddhas, peaks, buses, and boats, we finally returned to our hotel.

7/11 was our life saver in Hong Kong for various reason - snacks, water, re-charge Octopus Card.

🛏️ Overnight in Kowloon

Day 4 (21 Oct 2025) — Macau City Tour

Macau: Beyond Casinos, Gondolas & a Very Useful Bus

Morning Mission: Hong Kong to Macau (A21 to the Rescue—Again)

We left early in the morning for Macau, once again placing our full faith in the life-saver Citybus A21 from Tsim Sha Tsui (Nathan Road).This dependable friend dropped us at the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB) terminal.

From Tsim Sha Tsui, this is the most budget-friendly way to reach Macau. After immigration at the Hong Kong side, we boarded the HZMB shuttle bus and crossed one of the world’s longest sea bridges.

STEP 1: Take Citybus A21 from Kowloon

Get down at HZMB Hong Kong Port

Fare: ~HK$ 33

Time: 60 minutes

Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes

Operating hours: ~05:00 to ~00:00 (After midnight, use N21)

Important: Stay on the bus until “Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge or HZMB Hong Kong Port” stop.

STEP 2: Walk to Immigration (Hong Kong Side)

Once you get down walk 5 minutes following clear signs: “HZMB Hong Kong Port – Departures”

Hong Kong Exit Immigration

Passport check
No visa needed for India exit (normal HK exit)

STEP 3: Take HZMB Shuttle Bus (Public Bus)

After Hong Kong immigration: Board HZMB Shuttle Bus

Route: HZMB Hong Kong Port → Macau Port

Fare: HK$ 65

Time: 45 minutes

Frequency: Every 5–10 minutes

You’ll cross the 55-km Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (opened 2018, world’s longest sea bridge)

STEP 4: Macau Immigration

At Macau Port: Macau Entry Immigration

Passport stamping
Indians get visa-free

## Yes, there are immigration checks at both borders, but the process is smooth if you’re not trying to smuggle !

STEP 5: Macau Port → City (Ordinary Bus or Free Shuttle)

Now you are officially in Macau SAR

Option A: Ordinary Public Bus (Cheapest)

Buses like 101X, 102X, MT4
Go to Macau Peninsula / Senado Square

Fare: MOP 6–10
Time: 20–30 minutes

Option B: Casino Free Shuttle - Free

Venetian
Galaxy
Lisboa
Londoner

Time: 15–25 minutes

Costs & common sense:

Bus: HK$ 65–70 one way
Bonus: No pre-booking needed for bus
Ferry / Express Bus options: ~HK$ 160

HZMB Shuttle Bus (Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge shuttle) — cheapest overall

Macau basics :

Population: ~7.5 lakh
Currency: Macanese Pataca (MOP) (HKD also widely accepted)
Status: A Special Administrative Region of China, like Hong Kong
Former colony of Portugal (1557–1999)

If someone air-dropped you into Macau, you’d think it’s just another normal city—buses, taxis, schools, and people rushing to work. It is not one giant casino, despite what my neighbour Sushanta (and some travel agents) led me to believe.

Macau Is Not One Place (Despite Appearances)

Macau has multiple areas:

One part where most people actually live—a proper city
Another part (Cotai Strip) where casinos live their best life
These are connected by long bridges.

Unlike Las Vegas, Macau is a real city first, casino capital second.

Casino Crawl: Free Entry, Paid Curiosity

From the Macau port, we opted for option B and took a free shuttle to the casino area.

The Venetian (Venezia)

A Venice-themed mega-structure: hotel + mall + casino + artificial sky
Yes, you can take a gondola ride inside (for a fee)
An Italian lady playing the violin completed the illusion beautifully
Entry to the Casinos and shows : Free

Impressive? Yes.

Would I visit again and again? No. Once is enough unless I suddenly discover a love for slot machines.

Galaxy Macau - Another gigantic casino-resort complex:

Famous for its shows
The Crystal Show was sadly closed for renovation
I watched another show instead—still entertaining, minus the crystals
Entry to the casinos and shows : Free

From Galaxy, you can easily hop to:

The Londoner (London-themed, complete with Big Ben vibes)
The Parisian (Paris-themed, Eiffel Tower included)

When Sushanta visited 10 years ago, Londoner and Parisian didn’t exist—proof that casinos multiply faster than rabbits !

The Real Treasure: UNESCO Heritage Macau

After enough artificial canals and fake European skies, we went to the UNESCO World Heritage area of Macau by a local bus, outside the Galaxy Casino —and this time, we paid happily.

Why this area matters:

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005
Represents over 400 years of Portuguese–Chinese cultural exchange
Features beautiful Baroque architecture, churches, forts, and civic buildings

Key highlights include:

Ruins of St. Paul’s (built 1602–1640) – Macau’s most iconic landmark
Senado Square – colonial civic centre with wave-patterned pavement
Old churches, forts, and narrow streets that feel genuinely European

You can start the walking tour from Largo do Sendao and it ends at Maritime Museum - 2.30 hours

This part of Macau is beautifully preserved, something I felt was less visible in Hong Kong, which has raced ahead into ultra-modernity.

Going Back: Bus Beats Ferry (Again)

I initially planned to return by ferry, but reality intervened. Ferries are:

More time-consuming
More expensive and we board the Ferry it was already dark

So we did the sensible thing: took the bus back to Hong Kong over the magnificent HZMB, watching the sun set over engineering excellence.

Overnight in Kowloon.

Day 5 (22 Oct 2025) — Departure : Hong Kong (17 40 HRS) > Manila (20 10 HRS)

Check-out from Hotel and took ever reliable A21 bus to Hong Kong International Airport for onward flight.

While Mohua boarded her flight back to Kolkata, I headed in the opposite direction—towards the Philippines. Interestingly, our flights were scheduled more or less at the same time. The moment she took off, I officially transformed into a temporary bachelor in the Philippines, navigating life, luggage, and meals all by myself. She left , since she did not have any leave left in her office.

Indian nationals are required to complete the eTravel registration before entering the Philippines. This digital pre-arrival registration is mandatory and serves as an essential part of the country's immigration and health monitoring systems.

How to Complete the eTravel Registration

Visit the Official Website: Go to https://etravel.gov.ph.
Select “Arriving”: Choose this option to begin your registration.
Fill in Required Information:
- Personal details (name, nationality, passport number, etc.)
- Flight information (arrival date, flight number, port of entry)
- Accommodation details (hotel name and address)
- Health and customs declaration
Submit the Form: After completing the form, submit it online.
Receive QR Code: Upon approval, you'll receive a QR code via email or on the confirmation page.

Mobile App Option

You can also complete the eTravel registration through the eGovPH app, available in Android devices. This app serves as a one-stop platform for various government services, including eTravel registration.

Download for Android: eGovPH on Google Play

Registration Timeline

When to Register: You may register within 72 hours (3 days) prior to your arrival in the Philippines. And not before 3 days
At Check-in: Present the QR code during check-in and upon arrival in the Philippines.

Arrived in Manila in the evening.

Arzo Hotel Grand Lodge: 1440 San Marcelino St, Ermita, Manila, +63 963 584 5578

Arrival in Manila: Chaos, Choices & Coffee at ₹40

Manila greeted me exactly the way Kolkata does—chaotic, noisy, slightly confusing, and strangely familiar. At one point, I half-expected a yellow taxi to shout “Dada, jaben?”
My hotel was in Ermita, a historic district of Manila, and reaching there from NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) came with multiple options.

How to Reach Ermita from Manila Airport (NAIA)

1️⃣ Budget Adventure Mode: Bus + Jeepney / Tricycle

This is for people who believe travel builds character—and leg strength.

Combination of bus + local jeepney or tricycle

Cost: ~ ₱60

Time: ~ 1 hour (or more, depending on traffic )

Jeepneys, by the way, are a Filipino cultural icon—colourful, loud, and inherited from modified US military jeeps left behind after World War II (post-1945).

2️⃣ Semi-Comfort Mode: Airport Bus

These buses head towards Taft Avenue or Roxas Boulevard, from where you switch to a jeepney or tricycle for Ermita.
Time: ~ 45 minutes to 1 hour

Roxas Boulevard, built during the American colonial period (early 20th century), runs along Manila Bay and was once considered one of Asia’s most scenic boulevards.

3️⃣ Lazy-but-Wise Mode: Taxi / App Taxi

Since the Philippines is relatively inexpensive— I opted for peace over heroism.

Designated taxi lanes at NAIA

Official white/yellow airport taxis

Cost: ~ ₱400

Time: ~ 25 minutes

The best part?

There are designated airport counters that book the app taxi for you. You don’t need to install anything, click anything, or argue with anyone. Just nod politely and follow instructions—very un-Indian, I must say.

Late Night Check-in & 7-Eleven Fine Dining

By the time I reached the hotel, it was quite late. I checked in, dumped my luggage, and went out in search of food—only to discover that 7-Eleven is practically a national institution here.

Had a decent coffee for ₹38

Clean, quick and various options for food. I wonder why there is no 7/11 in India.

There I met some Indian , Nepali and Sri Lankan students. They are studying medicine since it is chepaer here.

At one point, however, I accidentally walked into the wrong kind of restaurant, where pimps were waiting for their clients. I made a smooth U-turn worthy of a seasoned bachelor in a foreign land .

First Impressions of Night-time Ermita

Roads were surprisingly dark

Street lighting was inadequate

The city felt alive, but not brightly lit

Ermita, once a fashionable residential area during Spanish and American rule (late 19th–early 20th century), has seen better days. Today, it’s a mix of history, budget hotels, nightlife, and everyday Manila chaos.

Conclusion: Bachelor Mode Activated

With Mohua safely flying back to Kolkata and me navigating Manila alone, I officially entered Bachelor Mode: Philippines Edition—armed with Google Maps, ₹38 coffee, and a strong sense of direction (mostly away from suspicious restaurants).

Philippines: Country Snapshot

Population: ~115 million (2025 est.), larger than West Bengal (~100 million).
Islands: ~7,641.
Area: 300,000 sq. km (≈ 3.4 times West Bengal’s 88,752 sq. km).
Per Capita Income: ~USD 3,500 (India ~USD 2,700).
Religion: ~80% Roman Catholic; others include Islam, Protestantism.
Languages: Filipino & English official; 170+ local languages.
Currency: 1 Philippine Peso ≈ 1.5 Indian Rupees.
Climate: Tropical; October is in the rainy season (carry an umbrella).
Industries: Electronics, BPO (outsourcing), tourism, agriculture.
1565–1571: Cebu was the first Spanish capital
1571: Capital officially moved to Manila : Better harbour, trade access, defense, and strategic location. This shift marked the beginning of Manila’s 450-year dominance as the political heart of the Philippines.
Enjoy a short stroll along Roxas Boulevard with its famous sunset views over Manila Bay. This is a good way to ease into the country’s tropical rhythm.

Ferdinand Magellan: The Man Who Went Around the World… Almost

Ferdinand Magellan was a Portuguese explorer sailing under the Spanish Crown—a classic case of international freelancing. In 1519, he secured royal approval from King Charles I of Spain to do something extremely ambitious: find a westward route to the Spice Islands. After all, spices were worth more than gold at the time.

Departure: Big Dreams Begin in Spain (1519)

The expedition departed from Seville on August 10, 1519, sailing down the Guadalquivir River.
The official oceanic journey began from Sanlúcar de Barrameda on September 20, 1519.

Magellan set sail with 5 ships and a truly global crew—Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Greek, and Malay sailors—proving that globalization existed long before LinkedIn.

They ventured into uncharted waters, crossed the terrifying strait that would later be named after him , and entered the vast Pacific Ocean, finally proving that a continuous sea passage beyond the Americas actually existed.

First Contact with the Philippines (1521): History Enters the Tropics

Magellan’s expedition first landed in the Philippines on March 17, 1521, at Homonhon Island (now part of Eastern Samar). This marked the first recorded European contact with the Philippine archipelago—a moment that would change regional history forever. From there, things moved fast.

Limasawa: Mass, Brotherhood, and Blood (March 31, 1521)

Limasawa (Southern Leyte) was Magellan’s next major stop.
On March 31, 1521, the first Catholic Mass in the Philippines was held here.
A blood compact (sandugo) was performed with Rajah Kolambu.

What is a Blood Compact?

This was a sacred pre-colonial Filipino ritual symbolizing alliance and friendship:

Small cuts were made on the arms or chests of both leaders
Blood was collected in a cup (often mixed with wine or water)
Both leaders drank from it, officially becoming “blood brothers”

Diplomacy, 16th-century style—no paperwork, just commitment.

Cebu: Conversions and Alliances (April 7, 1521)

Magellan arrived in Cebu on April 7, 1521, where he:

Converted Rajah Humabon and hundreds of locals to Christianity
Formed a political and religious alliance

At this point, Magellan probably felt unstoppable. History, however, had other plans.

Mactan: Where Overconfidence Met Reality (April 27, 1521)

Magellan moved on to Mactan Island, now accessible by a bridge from present-day Cebu, today’s Cebu airport.

On April 27, 1521, during the Battle of Mactan, Magellan was killed by the forces of Lapu-Lapu, a local chieftain who had absolutely no interest in being subjugated—for Spain or anyone else.

Thus ended Magellan’s personal journey, though not his expedition.

Summary of Key Philippine Stops

Although Homonhon Island was the first landing point, Magellan’s most historically significant stops were:

Limasawa – First Mass and blood compact
Cebu – Conversion and alliance
Mactan – Battle and Magellan’s death

The Voyage Continues Without Him (1522)

Magellan may have fallen, but the expedition did not. One ship, Victoria, captained by Juan Sebastián Elcano and guided by Malay navigator Enrique, continued westward. In 1522, the Victoria returned to Spain with just 18 survivors, completing the first recorded circumnavigation of the globe.

Why This Voyage Changed the World

This expedition was monumental because it:

Confirmed the Earth’s spherical shape beyond doubt
Opened the first westward trans-Pacific trade route to the Spice Islands
Transformed global navigation and European geographical knowledge

In short, it changed how humans understood the planet—permanently.

Magellan’s Name: Immortal on Earth and Beyond

Although he never completed the journey himself, Magellan’s legacy is everywhere:

Strait of Magellan – The navigable sea route at the southern tip of South America that he discovered and crossed
The Magellan spacecraft – A NASA Venus orbiter (1989–1994) that mapped the planet’s surface
Magellan Route / Road – A term often used to describe the historic circumnavigation path

Magellan set out to find spices, accidentally helped redraw the map of the Earth. He didn’t make it home—but his name did, traveling farther than he ever imagined. Not bad for a journey that began in 1519 and still echoes across oceans, textbooks, spacecraft, and history itself.

Day 6: Colonial Manila (23 Oct)

Manila Day One — An Walk Through History, Heat & Helpful Strangers

I began the day on foot from my hotel, immediately embracing Manila’s heat and humidity—something that felt oddly familiar. My first stop was Paco Cemetery, a quiet and slightly eerie circular cemetery built in 1822 during the Spanish colonial period. Originally meant for Spanish aristocracy, it later became a burial place for Filipino elites.

Along the way, I encountered my first colourful jeepneys—former US military jeeps converted into Manila’s most artistic (and loudest) mode of transport. Every jeepney looks like it was designed during a creative outburst.

United Nations Area & NBI Office: Welcome to “India Abroad”

Passing the United Nations building, I noticed a crowd gathered beside it for online registration at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)—the Philippine equivalent of our police clearance system.

Outside the NBI office:

Agents were openly offering “help”
Candidates were standing in long queues
A large sign screamed: “NO TO FIXERS”

At that exact moment, I smiled and thought: “Yes, I am definitely not far from India.”

Churches & Crowds

Next, I walked past the Central United Methodist Church, a Protestant landmark built in 1901, symbolising American influence after Spain ceded the Philippines to the US following the Treaty of Paris (1898).

Nearby, there was a massive crowd at the Maritime Industry Authority, where recruitment for seafarers was underway. Given that the Philippines is one of the largest suppliers of seafarers globally, the turnout made perfect sense.

Brunch Break: Chowking to the Rescue

By now, the heat was becoming aggressive. I escaped into an air-conditioned Chowking restaurant—a popular Filipino fast-food chain combining Chinese-style meals with local flavours.

Affordable prices
Quick service
Blessed air-conditioning

Sometimes, history can wait—comfort cannot.

Rizal Park (Luneta): The Heart of Filipino Nationalism

By late morning, I reached Rizal Park (Luneta), one of Manila’s most historically significant places.

Here lies Dr. José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines:

Born: 1861
Executed: 30 December 1896 by Spanish authorities
A doctor, novelist, poet, linguist, and reformist
His execution ignited the Philippine Revolution against Spain

Rizal is often described as “the Gandhi of the Philippines”, though he predates Gandhi and believed in reform through intellect rather than violence.

Within the park, I saw:

The exact execution site
Museums detailing Rizal’s life and writings
Monuments symbolising Filipino nationalism

After visiting Fort Santiago, I truly understood how extraordinarily versatile Rizal was.

Fort Santiago: Prison Before Martyrdom

Next stop: Fort Santiago, inside the walled city of Intramuros.

Built: 1571 by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi
Entry Fee: Just 75 Pesos
Served as a military fortress, prison, and defence stronghold

Here:

Rizal was imprisoned before his execution
His final walk is marked with bronze footsteps
The fort offers grand views of the Pasig River and Manila skyline

By sheer coincidence (or destiny), I met a Bengali from Dum Dum inside Fort Santiago. Kolkata, as always, refuses to leave me alone—even abroad.

🚻 Survival Tactic: The Diagnostic Centre Strategy

Walking for hours has consequences. I tactfully entered a diagnostic centre, pretended to be a patient, and successfully located a large, clean toilet.

Manila Cathedral & Wedding Woes

I then moved on to the Manila Cathedral, an imposing structure that has been rebuilt eight times since 1581, due to earthquakes, wars, and fires. The present version dates from 1958.

Next was San Agustin Church (1607):

A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The oldest stone church in the Philippines
Survived earthquakes and WWII bombings

Unfortunately (again), I was not allowed inside due to a private wedding. Apparently, Filipino couples are determined to block my church visits.

Casa Manila: Spanish Colonial Life

Just opposite San Agustin Church is Casa Manila, a beautifully recreated 19th-century Spanish colonial house. It offers insights into how wealthy Filipino elites lived during Spanish rule.

Walking through it felt like stepping into a period drama—minus the subtitles. It has a steep entry fee.

Missed Stops & Missed Meals

Due to time constraints, I had to skip:

Destileria Limtuaco Museum (est. 1852) — the oldest distillery in the Philippines
Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, famous for cultural performances during dinner (and expensive food)

I skipped lunch too.

Culture, Crafts & Shopping Success

Later, I saw the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and finally reached the Silahis Arts & Artifacts Center, one of the very few genuine handicraft stores I encountered in Manila.

I bought:

Beautiful capiz shell items
Traditional Filipino crafts

Souvenir shops are surprisingly rare in Manila, so this felt like treasure hunting.

Intramuros Walls & An Unexpected Friendship

Walking along the walls of Intramuros—the historic walled city built by the Spanish—I met a friendly college student. Our conversation flowed so well that he offered to take me on his bike to Roxas Boulevard.

Roxas Boulevard & Manila Bay

Roxas Boulevard runs along Manila Bay, famous for its sunsets and scenic views. Nearby are major shopping malls and entertainment hubs.

We:

Had dinner at a mall
Walked along the boulevard
Shared stories

I skipped Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) due to lack of time.

End of the Day: Full Circle

He dropped me back at my hotel. We exchanged numbers. It genuinely felt like he liked me a lot.

Route Summary

Rizal Park → Fort Santiago → Manila Cathedral → San Agustin Church → Casa Manila → Intramuros Walls → Roxas Boulevard → Hotel

Final Thought

Kolkata trained me.
Manila tested me.
And both rewarded me—with chaos, kindness, and unforgettable stories.

Day 7: Rizal Park & Cultural Manila (24 Oct)

Manila, Day Two: Museums Won, Sin City Lost

By now, I had seen most of what Manila had to offer. So I stood at a moral crossroads:

Option 1: Go to Angeles City, famous for its raucous nightlife—effectively the Sin City of the Philippines.
Option 2: Go to museums, admire art, culture, and history, and behave like a responsible adult.

I chose museums. (Please note: this decision may not be permanent !)

Checkout, Backpack, and Back to Rizal Park

After checking out of my hotel, I kept the luggage at the reception and I took the now-familiar route back toward Rizal Park (Luneta).

The National Museum Complex is located right beside the park, and the best part?
All museums are absolutely free. Zero pesos.

Stop 1: National Museum of Natural History

I began with the National Museum of Natural History, housed in a stunning neoclassical building completed in 1940 and beautifully renovated in 2018.

The star attraction is the “Tree of Life”—a dramatic glass-and-steel dome at the centre, symbolising the Philippines’ extraordinary biodiversity. The country is one of the world’s 17 megadiverse nations, and this museum proves it convincingly.

World-class, well curated, air-conditioned. I lingered longer than planned.

Stop 2: National Museum of Anthropology

Next came the National Museum of Anthropology, focusing on the Philippines’ indigenous cultures, maritime history, and ethnographic collections.

This museum explains why the Philippines looks the way it does—a mix of Austronesian roots, Spanish influence, and local traditions. Boats, textiles, weapons, rituals—it’s all there.

I also learnt about Baybayin. It is an ancient pre-colonial writing system of the Philippines, used as early as the 13th–14th century, long before Spanish rule. It is an abugida, where each character represents a consonant with an inherent vowel, similar to scripts like Devanagari or Javanese.

Baybayin was widely used for poetry, personal letters, and records until it declined after the Spanish introduced the Latin alphabet in the 16th century. Today, Baybayin is experiencing a cultural revival and is often seen in art, tattoos, logos, and heritage movements. It remains a powerful symbol of Filipino identity and pre-colonial history.

Stop 3: National Museum of Fine Arts

Finally, I entered the National Museum of Fine Arts, housed in the former Legislative Building (built in 1921).

Here hangs the country’s most famous painting: Juan Luna’s “Spoliarium” (1884)—a massive, emotionally charged work that became a symbol of Filipino resistance during Spanish colonial rule.

The museum stands beside the Intramuros Golf Club, which felt slightly ironic—colonial art on one side, colonial leisure on the other.

Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant: Missed Again

I had once again planned to eat at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant inside Intramuros—famous for traditional Filipino food served under chandeliers in a 19th-century setting, often with live cultural performances.

Once again, timing defeated appetite. By the time I finished museum-hopping, lunch hours had quietly slipped into history.

Evening Salvation: Binondo, the Oldest Chinatown

To compensate, I headed to Binondo or Chinatown. To get there, I crossed the Pasig River, Manila’s historic lifeline, once central to Spanish trade routes. The promenade near the Binondo–Intramuros Bridge had transformed into a lively evening scene—street performers, dance groups, music, and endless food stalls.

I ate my dinner-cum-snacks by hopping between stalls. Cheap, filling, delicious. No regrets.

Then I headed to Binondo, officially established in 1594, making it the oldest Chinatown in the world—older than San Francisco, New York, or Singapore.

Return to Base & the Midnight Taxi Drama

After spending some time in China Town, from Carriedo Station, I took the LRT and got down at United Nations Avenue, then walked back to my hotel.

My flight to Cebu was at 6:30 a.m., so I waited at the reception. Unfortunately, it was Friday night, and Grab prices had surged like stock prices after good news.

The receptionist calmly explained: “Sir, Friday night.”

The Old Trick Works Again

Just then, fate intervened. An app-taxi driver dropped another guest at the hotel.

I negotiated. Hard. Politely. Eventually, we struck a deal—far cheaper than the app rate, though not without a prolonged economic debate.

I left the hotel shortly after 1:00 a.m., victorious, sleepy, and feeling like I had just passed a practical exam in Southeast Asian travel economics.

Day 8: Flight to Cebu (25 Oct, 00:30 hrs)

From Manila to Cebu: An Early-Morning Migration

Our flight took off from Manila at the ungodly hour of 6:30 a.m. and landed in Cebu at 8:40 a.m.

My hotel was perfectly located in the heart of Cebu’s old town at 101 F. Gonzales Street, Cebu City 6000—an address historians would approve of.

One major advantage became immediately clear: Cebu–Mactan International Airport is far better connected to the old city than Manila’s airport.

Airport to City: Budget Transport, Philippine Style

From the airport, I boarded the wonderfully efficient MyBus to SM City Cebu, one of the city’s largest and most famous shopping malls.

Fare: ~ ₱50

Comfort: Fully air-conditioned

A rare airport transfer that didn’t feel like a test of human endurance.

Jeepney: The National Vehicle with a Personality

From SM City Cebu, I hopped onto a jeepney to reach my hotel area.

A jeepney looks like:

A mini school bus

Decorated by someone who really likes stickers and loud colours

Runs like an Indian auto-rickshaw, but on fixed routes

It’s cheap, chaotic, efficient—and comes with free people-watching.

I got down near Cebu’s most famous landmarks: Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross. From here, it was a 5-minute walk to my hotel. I was told that my booking has been cancelled possibly due to issue of new credit card, whose term has expired. Thankfully there were rooms available. I booked it online (using his wifi), which tunred out to be cheaper than Cash (1000 Peso) he was asking.

Hotel Check-In & Immediate Regret About the Weather

I left my luggage at the reception, splashed water on my face, and stepped out for a walking tour.

Two instant realizations:

Cebu is historically fascinating

Cebu is very hot

Since my hotel was in the old city, the smart plan was to focus on Cebu City proper and skip faraway places like Lapu-Lapu Monument and Alegre Guitar Factory on Mactan Island (both at least 45–60 minutes away).

Walking Tour of Cebu City

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral

My first stop was Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, but fate had other plans. A private wedding was in progress, meaning entry was forbidden unless I suddenly transformed into a relative of the bride.

Founded: 1594

Rebuilt several times due to wars and earthquakes

Seat of the Archdiocese of Cebu

I admired it respectfully—from the outside.

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño

Next, I reached Cebu’s most sacred site, home to the Santo Niño (Holy Child)—the very statue brought by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.

Founded: 1565

Oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines

Spiritual heart of Cebu and centre of the massive Sinulog Festival

Dress code warning: Sleeveless shirts, shorts, and ripped jeans are not allowed. Faith requires full sleeves.

Magellan’s Cross

Just beside the Basilica stands Magellan’s Cross.

Erected: 1521

Planted by Ferdinand Magellan to mark the introduction of Christianity

The original cross is now encased in wood because history learnt the hard way that pilgrims love souvenirs

Street Food Interlude: Puso Village

On the way to the fort, I stumbled upon Puso Village, a hawkers’ corner selling a wide variety of food - though it was located inside a covered area. There was even an Indian food stall. I had only one lemonade - which was very good.

Fort San Pedro

I reached Fort San Pedro, and the atmosphere was unusually lively.

It turned out to be the feast day of St. Pedro Calungsod, a young Visayan missionary martyred in Guam in 1672. Locals were singing hymns right in front of the fort.

Built: 1738

Oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines

Used as a military base, prison, and—briefly—a zoo (history had range)

From the walls, you get excellent views of the harbour.

Cebu Port & Future Plans

Next, I walked to Pier 1, the main ferry terminal. Famous ferry companies like OceanJet and SuperCat operate from here.

I booked a ticket to Tagbilaran, Bohol:

Fare: ₱800

Departure: 6:00 a.m. next day

From this port, ferries also go to places like Mindanao—Cebu really is a maritime hub. The island of Mindanao has historically experienced conflict and terrorist activity from groups like the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Daulah Islamiyah (DI), and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). However, their presence and activities are typically concentrated in specific, more remote provinces of southwestern or Central like Davao or Panabo. Davao City came under international scrutiny in December 2025 after it was revealed that suspects in the Bondi Beach terrorist attack in Australia had stayed in a Davao hotel for nearly a month shortly before the shooting.On December 3, 2025, a powerful explosion occurred at the night market (Christmas Village) in Panabo City, a key economic center in the Davao Region. The Philippine government officially declared the incident a "terrorist attack."

Heritage Walk: Old Cebu at Its Best

On my way to Casa Gorordo , I passed:

1. Heritage of Cebu Monument

A dramatic mix of bronze, stone, and steel, narrating 500 years of Cebuano history in one glance.

2. Yap-San Diego Ancestral House

Right next door stands one of the oldest surviving houses in the Philippines.

Built: c. 1675

A rare example of Chinese-Spanish architecture

Still looks sturdier than many modern buildings

Casa Gorordo Museum

This elegant 19th-century house belonged to Cebu’s first Filipino bishop. Unfortunately, due to recent earthquakes, the museum was closed for repairs—history temporarily unavailable.

National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu

Then I visited the National Museum – Cebu.

Located in a former customs house

Covers Cebu’s pre-colonial trade, Spanish rule, and cultural evolution

I managed about one hour before closing time—clearly not enough, but better than nothing. It is somewhat similar to the one in Manila but on a smaller scale.

Quick History Bites Before Sunset

Cebu is the cradle of Christianity in the Philippines

Colon Street, laid out in the 1560s, is the country’s oldest street

The Santo Niño statue gifted to Queen Juana in 1521 is still worshipped today

Fort San Pedro predates Manila’s Intramuros by several decades

Day 9: Bohol Day Trip (26 Oct): From Cebu to Bohol: A Very Long Day Featuring Hills, Tarsiers, and a Broken Car

Early Morning Escape from Cebu

05:15 – I left my hotel in Cebu City while the rest of the city was still negotiating with sleep.
06:00 – 08:00 – Boarded a fast ferry from Pier 1 to Tagbilaran, Bohol.

The ferry ride was smooth, scenic.After reaching Bohol, I realized that there was no city tour available. The only scheduled tour had already departed. Left with no choice, I hired a private vehicle for ₱1,500 after a lot of negotiation.

Initially, I tried to book an auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk), but I couldn’t agree on a reasonable price with any of the drivers.

I also bought a return ferry ticket for 6:30 p.m., which turned out to be possibly the last ferry back to Cebu.

First Stop: Chocolate Hills

This is Bohol’s crown jewel and one of the Philippines’ most famous natural wonders.

Over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped limestone hills (some estimates say up to 1,700)
Spread across an area of about 50 square kilometres
Best viewed from the official Chocolate Hills Viewpoint

Why “Chocolate”?

During the dry season, the grass covering the hills turns brown — making them look like giant chocolate truffles generously scattered by nature.

Geological Significance

Formed from coral limestone deposits dating back over 2 million years
Shaped by uplift and erosion
Declared a National Geological Monument of the Philippines

So no chocolate involved. I checked. Repeatedly !

Bohol Enchanted: Where Animals Steal the Show

Next Stop: Bohol Enchanted

A quirky little stop that felt like a mini zoological surprise package. Here I saw:

A butterfly park
Sugar gliders
Snakes
A white carabao (rare and sacred — basically a VIP albino buffalo)

Unexpected, entertaining, and oddly educational.

Tarsier Sanctuary: Tiny, Serious Celebrities

Next Stop: Tarsier Conservation Area

Here I met the Philippine tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world.

Big eyes
Tiny body
Zero tolerance for noise or nonsense

Strict rules apply:

No flash photography
No touching
No shouting

Bilar Man-Made Forest: AC Provided by Nature

Driving through the Bilar Man-Made Forest felt like entering nature’s air-conditioned tunnel.

Stretch: ~2 km
Mahogany trees planted in the 1960s
A dramatic contrast to Bohol’s otherwise sunny, open landscapes

I briefly forgot I was in the tropics — until I stepped out of the car.

Things I Skipped

For lack of time and my healthcondition:

❌ Zipline (gravity and I are not on good terms)
❌ Floating lunch on a Loboc River barge

Plot Twist: Car Breakdown & Motorcycle Redemption

Just when everything was going smoothly, our car broke down — because no good travel story is complete without mechanical betrayal.

Plan B activated: I completed the remaining sightseeing by bike, which honestly made the experience far more memorable (and breezier), until it started raining heavily ! The bike was arranged by my driver and I did not pay anything extra (of course after telling them it is there fault). There I met a person who speaks Hindi, since in his Company there were many Indians !

Baclayon Church: Faith Built in Stone

Next Stop: Baclayon Church

One of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines:

Construction began: 1596
Built by Spanish Jesuits
Made using coral stones, eggs, and limestone

Despite earthquakes and centuries of history, the church still stands — calm, dignified, and unimpressed by tourists like me.

Blood Compact Shrine: Diplomacy, 16th-Century Style

Final Stop: Blood Compact Shrine

This commemorates the Sandugo (Blood Compact) of 1565, a peace treaty between:

Datu Sikatuna (local chieftain)
Miguel López de Legazpi (Spanish explorer)

They sealed the deal by drinking wine mixed with each other’s blood — proving once and for all that modern diplomacy is actually quite boring by comparison.

Back to Cebu: Ferry, Fatigue & Reflection

18:30 – 20:30 – Ferry back from Tagbilaran to Cebu City
Night – Returned to my hotel, physically exhausted but historically enlightened.

Dinner, Diplomacy & Desi Entrepreneurship at Puso Village

Dinner that night happened at Puso Village Hawkers’ Corner, a lively street-food zone near Fort San Pedro.

For the uninitiated, puso is rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves, a pre-colonial Visayan innovation designed to be portable, durable, and perfect for people who didn’t believe in plates. The tradition dates back centuries, well before the Spanish arrived in 1521.

When Peso Runs Out but GPay Saves the Day

By the time I reached dinner, I had almost run out of Philippine Pesos—a situation every traveller knows, usually right before food ! Enter the Indian restaurant nearby, run by fellow Delhite (Zakir ) with global empathy.

Without charging any commission (and without me even ordering food), they kindly exchanged Pesos for GPay straight into their Indian account. No paperwork, no suspicion—just pure trust.

I tried various foods in the hawkers corner including Cebu lechon (famous local roast pig).

From Tourist to Temporary Samosa Salesman

Gratitude makes you do strange things. After dinner, I found myself helping them sell samosas and biryani, hawking like a seasoned professional— “Hot samosa! Biryani ! Authentic! ”

For a brief moment, I was no longer a tourist but a freelance Indo-Filipino street vendor, contributing to bilateral relations one samosa at a time.

Why This Spot Matters

Puso Village reflects Cebu’s living food culture, rooted in indigenous traditions
Located near Fort San Pedro (built 1738), it sits at the crossroads of colonial history and everyday life

I came for dinner. I left with food, cash, friendship—and an unpaid internship in samosa marketing.

History textbooks may skip this part, but for me, this was peak cultural exchange.

Final Thoughts

Bohol packs geology, wildlife, colonial history, and unexpected transport drama into one long day. Even with skipped activities and a broken car, it turned out to be one of the most rewarding side trips from Cebu.

🛏️ Overnight in Cebu City

Day 10: Cebu Exploration + Flight to Manila (27 Oct, Flight 20:05 hrs)

Last Day in Cebu: Grand Plans, Small Wallet, and Sensible Decisions

I checked out of my hotel in the morning but safely deposited my luggage at the reception.

The original plan was ambitious: Lapu-Lapu Monument, Magellan’s Shrine, Alegre Guitar Factory, and the Taoist Temple.

Plan A - that Didn’t Happen

Lapu-Lapu Monument & Magellan’s Shrine (Mactan Island)

Lapu-Lapu, the native chieftain, famously defeated Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 during the Battle of Mactan, earning his place as the first Filipino national hero. The monument and shrine commemorate this historic moment when local resistance beat European ambition—without any firearms.

Alegre Guitar Factory : Cebu is renowned for handcrafted guitars that blend Spanish musical tradition with local craftsmanship, supplying instruments worldwide.

Philippine Taoist Temple : Built in 1972 by Cebu’s Chinese community, the temple offers panoramic views of Cebu City and Mactan Island, along with a peaceful escape from chaos

Why I skipped all this:

I had nearly run out of pesos
Logistics were messy with luggage
I was travelling solo (single tourist = single wallet = higher costs)
No clarity on airport left-luggage facilities

So I did what all seasoned travellers do: changed the plan intelligently and pretended it was intentional.

Plan B: Walking into the Soul of Cebu City

Fuente Osmeña Circle – Cebu Waking Up

Just 2 km from my hotel, Fuente Osmeña Circle is the beating heart of modern Cebu—think Esplanade for Cebuanos. Named after President Sergio Osmeña (the second President of the Philippines), this circular park is where the city stretches, yawns, and starts moving.

Colon Street – The Burrabazar of Cebu

I walked past Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines, laid out by Spanish colonizers in the 1560s. Colon Street today feels like a mini Burrabazar—crowded, noisy, chaotic, colourful, and oddly charming. History here doesn’t sit quietly in museums; it shouts from every shop.

Fuente Circle to Capitol Area (and an Accidental Library Break)

From Fuente Circle, I walked towards the Capitol Area, passing the Rizal Memorial Library.
Curiosity (and heat) pulled me inside.

Inside the library:

Packed with students
Air-conditioned paradise

After entering my name in the register like a well-behaved citizen, I browsed a few books and cooled down. Clearly, knowledge here doubles as climate control.

Back to Where It All Began: History, Round Two

It was time to return towards Magellan’s Square, so I took a jeepney—cheap, chaotic, efficient, and endlessly entertaining. Since I had time, I revisited the National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu, this time properly. Two days earlier I had rushed; now I lingered, read labels, and pretended to be scholarly.

After collecting my luggage from my hotel, I walked to a nearby point where:

An AC bus took me to SM City Cebu
From SM City, another AC bus took me to Mactan–Cebu International Airport

Flight details: Cebu → Manila: 20:05 hrs, arrived 21:40 hrs

Some alternate tours from Cebu : Mactan Island Hopping tour

Visit Hilutungan Island, Caohagan Island and San Vicente in Olango Island, some of Mactan's most beautiful islands. All 3 islands have marine sanctuaries you can explore, with an abundance of corals and hundreds of tropical fish species. Go snorkeling or just sunbathe for a great day on the beach.

HIGHLAND VISTA TOUR : See the Temple of Leah, built in memory of a much-loved wife, the Sirao Flower Garden, home to windmills and a giant hand, and Tops Lookout, with sweeping views of Cebu City, Taoist Temple, sits on a hill in the Beverly Hills subdivision.

Day 11: Departure (28 Oct, 02:05 hrs)- The Long Way Home

My connecting flight from Manila to Hong Kong was scheduled at 02:05 hrs. At Hong Kong immigration, the officer politely—but with the firmness of someone who has seen too many overconfident tourists—pointed out: “You have already entered Hong Kong three times.”

At that exact moment, I was officially chickened out. Wisdom, long absent during most of my travels, suddenly made a surprise appearance. I decided not to exit the airport, fearing that unchecked curiosity might lead to detention . Later, enlightenment struck : my Macau trip was counted as an exit from Hong Kong, and my visa clearly allowed only three entries and exits. In short, Macau had quietly eaten up one of my precious entries.

Final flight sequence:

Hong Kong → Bangkok: 18:15 hrs, arrived 20:40 hrs
Bangkok → Kolkata: 23:35 hrs, arrived 00:40 hrs