ENVIRONMENT & CONSERVATION
I
’ m sitting here with my feet wet in rain, sheltered by a native cottage on a mat called a banig which is weaved with mustard yellow and grass green dried buri leaves. Before me a garden blooms enjoying the fresh water from the sky. All I recognize by name are the Travellers Palms, our guide Ronald tells me that the tree emits an aroma that is good for those with heart problems, which I never knew.
Bronze sculptors of crabs are a playful addition to the garden. And here and there in this botanical park is a curiosity, another beautiful touch to an otherwise lovely garden.
This is Tarsier Botanika. One of the creations of Nicolas and Patricia Moussempes, a French-filipino couple residing in Panglao Island Bohol, just a few minutes ride from Alona Beach. The park began as a one-hectare hobby by Patricia. And
3,000
“ species and varieties of tropical plants. A collection of the couple that just a year ago was their own private enjoyment.”
Just like Heaven
Philippe Tarsier
Story & Photography by Maria Tajanlangit
Botanical Park, Animal Sanctuary, Art Museum, & Café
64 7107 ISLAND TRAVEL