I was looking at all sorts of little seashells and the white sand grains of Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol, the refreshing cool waters at the well-looked-after beachfront, as they came in waves, causing the shells and sand to dance gracefully around my feet. The shells looked so precious, so very souvenir-worthy. But I instantly thought, “Take only photos and memories.”

I have been to a number of eco-tourism destinations and I am pleased to say they encourage everyone to do just that — take photos and memories and leave only footprints, as opposed to rubbish. Henann, for example, has big bins that promote and simplify the segregation of trash. Bohol Bee Farm has reminders all around their area to reduce rubbish, reuse and recycle. There are many little environment-friendly ways that all add up in the end. Every bit counts.

Most of us know about the rehabilitation that had to be seriously and determinedly undertaken in Boracay. We are certain that we must take care of all our breathtaking places so that future generations may enjoy these natural blessings. It all boils down to the efficient implementation of all these sustainable practices.

I had a most enjoyable and relaxing stay in the Alona beach area and parts of Dauis and Tagbilaran. I definitely took a decent number of photos, enough to fill my cell phone gallery and made heartwarming memories with loved ones.

Whenever I would think of Bohol prior to this, my first trip as an adult, the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers would be the first to come to mind. I neither ventured to those famed hills as it would take a total of four hours for a return trip from Henann Resort, nor did I see a single tarsier. I did however visit several beautiful historic churches, enjoyed the quirky industrial styling of Socorro’s and their delicious food, especially the crispy pata and bagnet with ginamos. I also heard Mass, dined and savored inspiring conversation with Bohol’s Bishop Alberto S. Uy, swam several laps at one of Henann’s three pools and bathed at Alona’s famous white sand beach. It was a trip to remember for sure.

I took several walks while on this short holiday. On one of my walks, I observed how there were so many tourists of different nationalities. I heard a couple speaking in French, a family chatting in Portuguese, a Korean clan in matching personalized shirts announcing that they are the “Park” family, a group of friends speaking in German and a whole lot of other foreigner-tourists. Of course, there were also many Filipinos speaking varied dialects, but the foreign tourists, at least in the four days we were there, seemed to outnumber the locals.

There is truth in what some say that sometimes locals take for granted what they have close by. I have lived most of my life in the Philippines, but this is my first time to visit Bohol. My grandparents took me here when I was still very young. That hardly counts as I cannot remember much from that visit. I must make sure to see more of the Philippines soon.

I spoke to a convenience store staff and she expressed thankfulness that many tourists visit her hometown. She is happy that the tourism business has given her a means of livelihood. I also had a chat with one of the drivers who showed us around Panglao and Tagbilaran. He shared how he is pleased that Panglao International Airport is now operational. He is optimistic it will usher in more visitors and businesses for his beloved Bohol.

Missing out on seeing Chocolate Hills and the world’s smallest primate only gives me good reasons to come back to Bohol — that, its pristine white sand beaches, mouthwatering delicacies and the many interesting stories from its friendly people.