Are you planning a trip to Bohol? If so, you are going to have a fantastic experience! Bohol is well-known for its remarkable Chocolate Hills, adorable tarsiers, and stunning beaches. However, there is so much more awaiting you beyond these popular attractions. One gem you should definitely visit is Ubay, especially the lively Ubay public market. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see and experience the true daily life of the people of Bohol.
Why Ubay Market?
Ubay Market is more than just a grocery store; it’s a lively center of activity. Picture yourself surrounded by the bustling sounds of vendors proudly selling their fresh fruits and vegetables, the enticing smell of delicious local food wafting through the air, and the colorful sights of various agricultural goods. It’s not just any market—it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the everyday lives of the Boholanos.
Ubay is a first-class municipality. In addition to the market, you can visit the famous Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park, a large 33-hectare park honoring one of the prominent figures of Bohol and a Philippine president. You can also see the Ubay Stock Farm, which is a government-run facility showcasing a variety of livestock breeds.
Before you dive into the beautiful beaches of Anda or explore the iconic Chocolate Hills, make sure to make Ubay a key part of your trip! It’s not just a simple town; it’s an authentic experience of Boholano culture.
What to Expect at Ubay Market
The market reaches its peak activity in the morning, so aim to arrive by 8:00 AM to truly absorb the vibrant atmosphere. Here’s what you can look forward to finding:
Fresh Produce: You’ll discover an array of locally farmed fruits and vegetables. Expect an assortment of delicious items like papaya, mangoes, bananas of various types, leafy greens, and many other colorful options. Feel free to try something you’ve never tasted before!
Seafood: Since Bohol is surrounded by water, exceptional seafood is available, and Ubay Market is spot on. Fresh fish, shrimp, crabs, and shellfish can be found here. If you enjoy cooking, you can buy some fresh catch to prepare yourself or talk to a local eatery to cook it for you.
Meat and Poultry: A section is dedicated to meat and poultry, where you will find vendors offering pork, beef, chicken, and duck. Typically, the meat is fresh and perfect for any cooking enthusiast!
Dry Goods: You can also find a variety of dry goods, including rice, beans, spices, and noodles. This is a great spot to stock up on essentials if you plan to stay for a little while.
Local Delicacies: This is where the true culinary delight lies! Look out for local rice cakes called kakanin, like biko, puto, and suman. You might also find kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), grilled meats, and many other regional specialties; don’t hesitate to give them a try!
Handicrafts and Souvenirs: While Ubay Market focuses on food, there are also vendors selling handcrafted items, including woven baskets, bags, and other lovely souvenirs.
Must-Try Foods at Ubay Market
Now, let’s talk about the most important part: the food! Here are some must-try delicacies that you should keep an eye out for at Ubay Market:
Biko: This sweet rice cake is made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar. It’s sticky, sweet, and utterly delicious—only around PHP 20 or USD 0.35 for a slice.
Puto: These are steamed rice cakes available in various flavors. The traditional white puto is a must-have, and you may also discover cheese puto or ube (purple yam) puto as well, priced around PHP 5-10 or USD 0.10-0.18 each.
Suman: This is made with glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaves. Often, it’s served with latik (caramelized coconut curds) or sugar—typically around PHP 15 or USD 0.27 each.
Kinilaw: This is Filipino ceviche featuring raw fish marinated in vinegar, onions, ginger, and chili peppers. It’s a bright, flavorful dish that is perfect for a hot day, with prices varying according to the fish type but generally falling between PHP 100-200 or USD 1.78-3.56 per serving.
Bibingka: This baked rice cake is traditionally prepared in clay pots lined with banana leaves and is typically topped with salted egg and cheese, usually selling for PHP 30-50 or USD 0.53-0.89 per piece.
And don’t miss out on trying street foods, especially kikiam and fish balls! They are tasty and quite budget-friendly.
Tips for Visiting Ubay Market
To help you make the most of your trip to Ubay Market, here are some practical tips:
Go Early: Since the market is at its liveliest in the morning, try to arrive early to soak up all the excitement.
Bring Cash: Most vendors prefer cash payments, so ensure you have enough Philippine pesos with you before you start shopping. Small bills work best!
Bargain Respectfully: Haggling is common at markets in the Philippines. When negotiating prices, do it with a friendly attitude. Remember, these vendors rely on their sales for a living.
Be Open to Trying New Things: Feel free to step outside your comfort zone and sample dishes you’ve never had before. That’s what travel is all about!
Learn Some Local Phrases: Simple greetings in Waray-Waray or Cebuano, like “Maayong buntag” (Good morning) and “Palihog” (Please), can help create a positive experience.
Be Mindful of Your Belongings: In a bustling place full of people, always keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.
Bring a Reusable Bag: Help protect the environment by bringing along your own reusable bag for your purchases.
Getting to Ubay Market
Ubay is located on the northeastern shore of Bohol. Here’s how to reach the market:
From Tagbilaran City: You can take a bus or a van from the Tagbilaran City Integrated Bus Terminal to Ubay. The ride usually takes around 2-3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from PHP 150-250 (USD 2.67-4.45) based on the vehicle you choose.
From Tubigon Port: If you’re traveling to Bohol by ferry arriving at Tubigon, connect to Ubay via van or bus, with travel time also around 2-3 hours.
Tricycle: Once you’re in Ubay, getting to the market is easy via tricycle. Fares are often negotiable, but you can expect to pay around PHP 20-30 (USD 0.35-0.53) for a short ride within the town. Just say “merkado palihog” to let the driver know your destination.
Beyond the Market: Exploring Ubay
While Ubay Market is a highlight on your visit, there’s more to explore in Ubay. Consider checking out these attractions:
Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park: A beautiful park commemorating the former president of the Philippines, born in Ubay. Enjoy a stroll in the lush greenery and soak up the cultural experience.
Ubay Agri-Park (Ubay Stock Farm): This government-run stock farm showcases a variety of animal breeds and offers insight into agricultural practices.
Lamanok Island: Take a trip to explore caves and learn more about the local culture. It’s an adventure worth having!
If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay in Ubay, consider:
GV Hotel Ubay: This hotel is usually a preferred choice for travelers.
Ubay Plaza Hotel: This hotel provides convenient access to many key establishments and attractions in the town.
Call to Action
Visiting Ubay Market is an exciting way to dive deep into the real culture of Bohol. This lively market is where you can sample flavorful local foods, uncover fresh produce, and connect with the everyday lives of the Boholano people. So, don’t hesitate to add Ubay Market to your Bohol travel itinerary. You’re sure to make unforgettable memories! After that, relax at Anda Beach Resort for a serene getaway.
FAQ
Here are some commonly asked questions about visiting Ubay Market:
What are the market’s opening hours?
Ubay Market is open daily, although its busiest hours are in the early morning, typically from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Is it safe to eat the food at Ubay Market?
Usually, yes, it is safe. Just look for vendors with clean stalls and freshly made food. If you’re sensitive to certain foods, it’s wise to start by trying small portions.
Can I use credit cards at Ubay Market?
Unfortunately, most vendors only accept cash. Make sure to carry enough Philippine pesos with you.
What should I wear when visiting Ubay Market?
Dressing comfortably is key! Wear clothes and footwear that are easy to move in. Since the market can be dusty and crowded, wear something you won’t mind getting a bit dirty. A hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun.
Is it easy to find transportation to and from Ubay Market?
Absolutely! Tricycles are readily available throughout Ubay town, including around the market area. Just wave one down to get to your next stop!
Indulging in the culture and charm of Ubay Market will surely enrich your Bohol experience. Happy travels!
