Where to stay: For budget stays, it’s a toss-up between Villa Forte in Agoho, Mambajao or Villa Paraiso in Mambajao town proper. If you prefer business accommodations, try the dependable Paras Beach Resort in Agoho or Bahay Bakasyonan in Balbagon. For high-end luxuries, you cannot go wrong at Balai sa Baibai also in Agoho.
Where to eat: Our favorite place for lazing about at night is La Isla Cocina (tel. 0917-7112733), a cozy bistro with the funkiest Spanish-Mexican offerings. It’s on the ground floor of a bahay-na-bato in Agoho. Nearby is Northern Lights, known for its pizza and Filipino food. For the best pizza and pasta in the island and probably elsewhere, walk a few steps more to Luna Ristoranti in Yumbing, Mambajao.
Pasalubong musts: Turrones de mani at La Salud. Soling’s pinato, Peanut Brittle, and ampao (rice crispies). Vjandep’s Pastel. For a divine treat, we highly recommend Sweet Island Pastil at Tupsan, seven kilometers from Mambajao proper.
Island guides: Neil Pagalaran (tel. 0926-5550000) can direct you to the best island tours—from laid-back vacations to adventure challenges.
(Related story: ‘Camiguin’ is shorthand for ‘Come again’–and again)