Hello Hive Friends! This is me again your travel momshie Kri. For this blog I'm super excited to share one of my favorite and most visited spots in the Philippines with you.
Trust me, I wouldn't recommend a place unless I loved it so much, that I went back again and again. If you are a Thalassophile and a beach lover person who can't get enough of the ocean and sunshine, this is the perfect place for you. Let's dive in!
(Blessed to be experiencing the beauty of Palawan!)
The beautiful Island of Palawan
My first Palawan adventure was in 2015, and next in 2018 and 2019. I was totally captivated by its beauty. It felt like I am in a different world a perfect getaway from the busy job environment. I found so much peace there. It was my happy pill, my place to recharge and to reset. You know, like when you need to escape and start fresh from all aspects of life and love life? I think you already knew what I mean from moving on stage HAHAHAHA
(Circa 2015)
(apparently I can't find my mandatory airport picture in 2018, so this photo op was taken last 2019)
First things first is when you landed in the Puerto Princesa International Airport, you'll be bombarded with travel package deals. It's crazy! You'll have so many options for things to do. Whether you're with your friends or flying solo, make sure to plan your trip.
If you're on a budget, don’t bother booking packages online. Just wait until you get to the airport. There’ll be a bunch of travel agencies outside, all trying to sell you cheap deals and offering affordable travel packages. Shop around and pick the best one. Please always be careful and be vigilant! Some places might be trying to scam you. To avoid scams, check their permits and what people say about them online. Don't rush into anything. Take your time and maybe even inquire and talk to the tourism office for more ideas.
Another thing to remember: Look for a travel package that includes decent lodging, transportation, and a free meal while island hopping. If they try to charge you extra for something that’s not in your package, don’t be shy about saying no. Always bear in mind to stick to what you really settled on from the very start.
Palawan is like the Philippines' best-kept secret tourist destination. It has super-clear waters, amazing beaches, and lush jungles. People call it the "Last Frontier" 'cause it feels like you're exploring somewhere totally untouched. Palawan is divided by its three beautiful cities, the Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron.
Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa serves as a gateway to all other superb tourist attractions and cities in Palawan, like El Nido and Coron.
What does Puerto Princesa have to offer? It provides an extensive array of activities for all types of travellers. Here are some of the best things to do.
A must-visit as most talk of the town, Puerto Princesa Subterranean underground River National Park, also known as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see, with a breathtaking subterranean river tour and an insanely interesting underground river that is well worth the journey. You can also indulge and enjoy in an Island-hopping activities in Honda Bay: Explore the beautiful shores, snorkel, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cowrie, Starfish, and Luli islands. Sabang Jungle: Enjoy thrilling activities such as ziplining, spelunking, and rock climbing amidst lush greenery. Firefly watching, the well-known Baker's Hill, and much more.
El Nido
El Nido is usually part of those travel packages offered and you can get at the airport or by travel agencies. El Nido is really far as in super far from Puerto Princesa, like really, really far. To give you an idea, if you're from Cebu or familiar with the province, the distance from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is comparable to travelling from the southernmost to the northernmost part of Cebu – that’s about how far it is. And the road trip? Oh no! Just be ready and or shall I say forget about it, it's super winding. If you get dizzy easily, bring lots of candy, gum, and that stuff for headaches don’t ever forget the liniment oils LOL 🤣 🤣!
Aren't you curious about what El Nido has to offer? It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers! This is where the island-hopping activities start! Explore the stunning lagoons, beaches, and coves of El Nido through island-hopping tours. You can choose from different tour package options (A, B, C, or D) to see different highlights again its all up to your likings on what tour package to avail. most of the popular spots include Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Hidden Beach, and Snake Island.
If you are an adrenaline junkie and up to challenges, you ought to try cliff climbing or kayaking activities. Explore hidden coves and lagoons inaccessible by boat. Hike to waterfalls like Nagkalit-Kalit for a refreshing dip. Discover the vibrant underwater world of El Nido with diving and snorkelling. Encounter colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Coron
Coron is a separate island in the Palawan province. Unlike the two city, Puerto Princesa and El Nido, which are connected by land, Coron is only accessible by sea or air. Travellers can take the ferry from Puerto Princesa or fly directly to Coron. While travelling directly is way more convenient and not time-consuming, it is generally more expensive than getting on a ferry and getting a flight.
What Coron has to offer? My goooosh, it has a lot more to offer when it comes to sea and ocean adventures. Coron itself can stand alone and is a stunning destination in the Philippines renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Nestled in the Calamian Islands, this tropical paradise offers a plethora of different kinds of activities for both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers. You can also go and enjoy their main activity the island-hopping to discover charming islands with hidden lagoons, secret coves, and beautiful shores. Hike to Kayangan Lake, a magnificent freshwater lake with emerald green waters surrounded by limestone cliffs. Swim through the famous Twin Lagoon and Barracuda Lake. If you enjoy diving, Coron features world-class sites with shipwrecks and beautiful reefs.
One quick tip: it's best to carry cash with you all the time don't just rely on your cards and online banking, especially for small purchases and tips, as not everywhere accepts cards. Always bring your water tumbler with you and don’t drink on a tap water!
For additional and most important tips, if you are planning to go to Palawan during peak seasons like summer and long holiday breaks, I suggest booking your tours and accommodations in advance. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing. Respect the environment and local communities.
So, stay tuned for more practical yet budget-friendly travel tips. Xiao!
To always Love,
Momshie Kri 🥀