When people think of Panay Island, they usually associate it with Boracay, Aklan. However, any seafood fanatic would know the captivating (and uncrowded) destination of Capiz.
You can reach its capital, Roxas City, in 45 minutes by plane or 16 hours by ship from Manila. Unfortunately, Capiz was one of the provinces hit by Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). Upon arrival, you'll see the roof of the terminal and some houses were destroyed and trees leaned or rested on the ground. In spite of this, the terminal was packed with people: passengers getting their luggage, resort reps with placards of guests' names and families fetching their loved ones.
You may also ride tricycles to your hotel or any other place within the city. Depending on your destination, fares range from Php8 (minimum for 2km) and additional fifty cents per succeeding kilometer. For your home away from home, San Antonio Resort is located at Baybay beach and ideal for family travelers. Some of its amenities are in-house restaurants, adult and kiddie swimming pools and a man-made lake for boating and kayaking.
Dubbed as the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines", the province not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers rich historical and natural sites to see. If you're a history buff or just wondering why Roxas City, Capiz was named as such then a must-visit is the Ang Panubli-on. Located at the city centre, this white dome-shaped structure was originally built to be a water reservoir for the residents and later on converted to house Capiz's historical artifacts. Inside you will also learn about the life of the province's famous son -- the late Pres. Manuel A. Roxas. Another well-known tourist spot is the Sta. Monica Church or Pan-ay Church which houses the largest bell in Southeast Asia. Going up the bell tower is not for the faint of heart as you will climb five stories via a steep steel staircase. Now for risk-evaders, there is a replica of the bell near the church entrance for picture purposes.
Onto the province's other tourist attractions: The Cadimahan River Tour and Olotayan Island, both would require a half day of your itinerary. The river tour was established to prohibit illegal fishing methods, restore the beauty of the river and provide alternative livelihood to its residents. Tourists may opt to bring packed lunch or order food, to be cooked by the locals, before boarding the bamboo-made boat. Aside from admiring the sights of mangroves and feeling the cool breeze; you can also avail services like foot spa, pedicure and massages. If you're dying to take a dip, the Olotayan Island is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the white sand beach and, if the weather permits, go snorkeling.
Of course, no travel is ever complete without food. Check out the numerous restaurants along Seafood Plaza at Baybay Beach for the freshest catch. Get ready for some serious seafood overload: dried fish, stuffed squid, shrimps, crabs, oysters, and the list goes on. Others who are allergic to these can order pork liempo (grilled pork belly), BBQ and even pizza (from the local pizzeria, 'Yellow Box'). Don't forget to try their suman (sticky rice cake) dipped in sweet sauce for a light snack.
If you have free time, you can take a side trip to Kalibo. It is accessible by land from Capiz, just take a 2-hr van ride from the city terminal.
Go to Panulce bakery near the City Hall for pasalubong. Best-sellers are the Biscottini (toasted bread) and Diet Cake (chocolate moist cake). You can also stop by the market for dried fish, a delicious viand for breakfast.
The Roxas City Airport has a play area for kids in its departure area. Your little ones can spend time reading books and playing with toys while waiting for your flight.
In light of the recent calamity, Capiz is being promoted as a volunteerism destination. Now that's one way of seeing the rainbow after the rain. To learn more about how you can have a awesome vacation and help the Capizenos, you may visit their website: http://capiz.gov.ph/