The Kangkaramel Bat Cave Expedition

Are you an intrepid explorer at heart? Does the thought of delving into the depths of a mysterious cave set your heart racing? If so, join us, Alison and Graham, as we don our headlamps and venture into the mysterious Kangkaramel Cave in Bohol for an adventure that’s not for the faint-hearted.

Are you afraid of bats or cockroaches? Follow us into the Kangcaramel Cave in Bohol! Watch our Bat Cave adventures over on Tou Tube!!

Off the Beaten Path: The Road Less Travelled

While most tourists flock to Bohol’s famed Chocolate Hills and adorable tarsiers, we opted for the road less travelled—a bone-jarring tuk-tuk ride on a gravel path leading to the secluded Kangkaramel Cave. It’s our way of embracing the unknown, away from the well-trodden tourist trails.

A Descent into the Goblin’s Lair

With only 65 steps separating us from the cave’s gaping maw, we felt like we were entering a goblin’s lair. As novice cavers, we stuck close to our guide, marveling at the natural sculptures of stalactites and stalagmites, all while nervously joking about the possibility of critters lurking in our gumboots.

A Symphony of Bats and a Whiff of Guano

The cave’s air was alive with the fluttering of bat wings and their high-pitched chatter. The overwhelming scent of bat guano was a stark reminder of the cave’s thriving ecosystem. With over 30 species of cave-dwelling bats in the Philippines, these nocturnal creatures rely on the cave’s protection and stable microclimate for their daily repose.

Thousands of bats line the roof of this limestone cave!

Encounters with Cave Scorpions and Albino Cockroaches

Our journey took a spine-tingling turn when we encountered the cave scorpion—a misnomer, as it’s actually a type of spider. And let’s not forget the eerie sight of albino cockroaches, creatures that have forsaken the need for camouflage in the perpetual darkness.

Fun Facts and Phobias

Did you know that the fear of bats is called chiroptophobia, and the fear of the dark is nyctophobia? These are just some of the fun facts we picked up along the way.

The Great Escape

Our return to the surface was a relief, greeted by the fresh jungle breeze. But not without its moments of mischief, as Graham couldn’t resist making me squirm with the thought of creepy crawlies in my hair.

Would you dare walk in a cave full of cockroaches?!

A Taste of the Tropics and a Cemetery Dog Encounter

After our cave escapade, we quenched our thirst with a refreshing green coconut, a welcome palate cleanser from the cave’s less savory tastes. But our adventures didn’t end there. In Dumaguete, we faced the challenge of navigating through a cemetery filled with stray dogs, all for the love of pizza. Would you dare walk through a cemetery in the dark, past the graves while knowing stray wild dogs lurked at every corner??

The Kindness of Strangers

Ultimately, we didn’t brave the cemetery at night. Instead, we experienced the warmth of Filipino hospitality, hitching a ride on a scooter, local style.

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Exploring the Vibrant Streets of Lapu-Lapu City

Jeepney rides, goat fights, bustling market stalls, and the aroma of delicious home-cooked Pinoy food—welcome to the heart of Lapu-Lapu City! Nestled on the picturesque Mactan Island in Cebu, this vibrant neighbourhood offers a captivating blend of tradition, everyday life, and warm hospitality. As we step off the beaten path, we discover a world so different from our New Zealand home, yet undeniably invigorating - A Real Taste of Filipino Culture

Walking tour of Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, in the Philippines

Jeepney Adventures

Riding the Iconic Jeepney

The iconic jeepney—a colorful, hard-to-miss mode of transportation—rules the streets of Lapu-Lapu City. These unique vehicles, adorned with vibrant embellishments, confidently ply through the main thoroughfares. Mid your head when you get in, be prepared to have more people fit than you ever thought possible, and pass your fare hand to hand to the driver, who will return the correct change in the same fashion. Hop on, and let the adventure begin!

A Lesson in Cebuano

Lost in Translation

During our dinner escapade in Maribago, we met CJ, our friendly guide. He graciously offered us a lesson in Cebuano, the local language. From basic greetings to essential phrases, we stumbled through the translations. The locals chuckled, and we joined in the laughter, even though we weren’t entirely sure what was so amusing! If you’re curious about our linguistic mishaps, check out the transcript for some hilarious moments.

Heartwarming Encounters

Celebrating Nana’s Birthday

Our most memorable encounter involved a Filipino family celebrating Nana’s birthday. They invited us to join them in their jeepney ride—a delightful mix of camaraderie and laughter. As we squeezed into the crowded vehicle, we exchanged stories, shared snacks, and sang along to local tunes. The warmth of their hospitality left an indelible mark on our hearts.

Street Dogs and Compassion

A Tale of Two Worlds

Dr. Alison, our resident animal lover and veterinarian, couldn’t resist the street dogs she encountered. Some were fortunate—cared for and fed by locals. Others, sadly, were in desperate need of veterinary attention. As we walked the bustling streets, we pondered how we could all make a difference. Whether it’s a little food, a kind word, or supporting an Animal Rescue Charity, every act of compassion counts.

Conclusion

Lapu-Lapu City is a microcosm of Filipino culture—a place where jeepneys weave through lively markets, where laughter bridges language barriers, and where kindness extends to both humans and furry friends. So, next time you visit, keep your eyes peeled for those colorful tricycles and scooters, share a smile with the locals, and perhaps lend a helping hand to a street dog in need.

And a special shout-out to Cafe Barrio House and Home Stay—a cozy haven where flavors come alive and stories unfold. Visit their Facebook page here, book yourself a homestay or order a coffee, and immerse yourself in the heartwarming spirit of Lapu-Lapu City.

Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey—the jeepney ride, the laughter, and the shared moments that make Lapu-Lapu City truly unforgettable. 🌟🇵🇭

Check out our full you tube episode here.