Apo Island, The Philippines

To get to Apo Island, we decided to go for the easier but slightly more expensive option. With a snorkeling tour, we were able to go directly from Siquijor to the island instead of taking a tricycle-ferry-bus-ferry. That's how we arrived in paradise early in the morning.

The island is so small that it doesn't have any roads or motorized vehicles. And the electricity is only available from 6-10pm. Then it gets dark on the whole island. And there are only a few accommodations with running water. Most people have to carry it around in canisters. But it's just perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

Apo Island is also known for having the first and oldest marine sanctuary, which was established by the community, the island residents. This includes a protected zone for sea turtles, among other things. And sometimes when snorkeling, you can actually spot up to 5 of these huge creatures gracefully moving in the water.

Since I got so hooked on snorkeling, I decided to get my Padi Open Water certification during our stay, so that I can go diving with Rahel in the future. We were told that the island and Mario's Dive Center, which is a small family business, is the best place for that.

And so I completed the course in 3.5 days and passed successfully. :)

Around the island, you can dive in the most beautiful and colorful coral gardens that we have ever seen and you can discover the most colorful and extraordinary marine creatures. I really enjoyed the course, especially because we went straight into the sea from the beginning and every time after the exercises we had to do, we went on a real dive. In addition, Rahel and I were able to do a night dive and a drift dive together at the end. This is not a matter of course when you are still on the Open Water course or have just completed it. I am looking forward to many more dives.

After 5 nights in this wonderful place, we continue to the island of Bohol. It is the last island before we head back to Cebu, where we already have to take our flight to Thailand. :(

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