Bantayan Island looking beautiful than ever

CEBU CITY, Philippines— The city life has been taking its toll on most of us for the longest time now due to the COVID-19  pandemic.

While some enjoy the comforts of their home, some still want to enjoy the sun, the sand, and the beach. And when it comes to these three, Bantayan Island in northern Cebu always comes to mind.

The pristine island opened and welcomed local tourists last October.

Read: Bantayan-bound tourists told to secure bookings ahead of trip

But how is Bantayan Island now under the new normal?

Ted Anthony Tarona and his girlfriend Larisse gave us a glimpse of how the island is doing after months of healing.

“There are fewer people on the island due to the pandemic and it’s a good thing because it gave the island time to recover from the volume of tourists from the past years and it has become more beautiful than ever. Even walking by the beach is romantic since it’s just me and her and no other people around,” he said.

The couple is no stranger to the island and that’s why they chose to spend their second anniversary on the island. Both wanted to see how it’s like to be on this once-so-crowded island.

“The fresh, salty air touching your skin, it’s perfect! At the end of the day, you’re greeted by the island’s golden sunset at Kota Beach. It’s like the island is thanking us for visiting her and that golden glow is her gift. It made us happy. We survived the pandemic together and made it here. Thank you Bantayan!” he added.

Unlike before, where one can randomly go to the island and search for hotels or places to stay, this time around, one needs to have a booking confirmation and a QR code sent by the hotel or your chosen accommodation.

Read: IN PHOTOS: Revisiting Bantayan Island in Cebu

Looks like the island is looking better as ever and is ready to welcome tourists who can strictly follow health and safety protocols.

/bmjo