Palawan Island combines natural and artificial wonders and will truly appeal to all travelers.
What to see
Palawan Island: Natural attraction
The port of Puerto Princesa is the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, the underground river of Puerto Princesa. The 8.2-kilometer underground river is known as one of the Seven Wonders of Nature. Surrounded by impressive limestone formations and inhabited by swiftlets and fruit bat colonies. For those who like to explore caves and other mysterious natural wonders, this is an ideal place to visit. For beach lovers, don’t miss the trip to Palawan Island like Honda Bay Island to the island. Where you can see amazing islands and beaches such as Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island.
At the same time, just three to four hours by bus from San Jose Pier in Puerto Princesa is San Vicente. Where you will find the famous Long Beach, the country’s longest white sandy beach. Its underdeveloped peace has attracted people who want to enjoy an undiluted natural experience.
The charming city of El Nido is full of natural wonders. From the magnificent lagoon to the beach and hidden caves. You will be captivated by the beauty of this place during your visit. Make sure to do an island tour based on what you want to see on the go. Some of its popular attractions are the size lagoon of Miniloc Island. The Secret Beach, Marimegmeg Beach, Nacpan and Calitang Twin Beach, Nagkalit-kalit Waterfall and Cave Cathedral.
Palawan Island
Coron is another city in Palawan where you can marvel at the many natural attractions. Palawan Island tours are also available so you can explore some of the most beautiful places in the world. Such as Lake Kayangan, Lake Barracuda, Double Lagoon, Malcapuya, and Banana Island. In addition to these tropical wonders, you can also enjoy hiking in the Tapyas Mountains. In addition, Coron is the main diving destination. The dive site is full of rich marine life and Japanese warships in World War II. Its underwater world is indeed a wonder.
Palawan Island: Artificial attraction
When you are in Puerto Princesa, be sure to watch crocodiles. Other animals at the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center. Horses and fireflies on the Mitra farm will take a night cruise on the Iwahig River. You can also visit the Palawan Museum and the Palawan Heritage Centre. For more information about the province’s history and culture. Of course, be sure to visit Mount Baker. In addition to buying and tasting cakes and snacks. If you want to visit some animals, you can also use the mini zoo.
El Nido
However, if this is not enough, please go to Calauit Safari Park in Busuanga. Giraffes, zebras, and other rare wildlife living in the safari will make you feel like you are in Africa. This destination has a separate tour. So make sure you can use it in any travel agency that offers this trip to Coron.
READ: Palawan: Best Places and Hotels in Luzon Philippines
Palawan Island: Events and festivals
It is highly recommended to engage in activities and festivals in Palawan to make your holiday more memorable and enjoyable. When you celebrate the Princess Harbor Seafood Festival in April. You will expect a culinary experience or during the third week of June at the Baragawan Festival. You will be delighted with colorful parades and street dances.
During the El Nido, participate in the Kalugtan Music and Art Festival held every May. Immerse yourself in the cultural experience. Finally, on August 28th, you will witness incredible street dances. Various competitions at the Coron version of the Kasadyaan Festival.
Where to eat: Palawan Island
Fast-food chain
Currently, you can only get fast food at Puerto Princesa. Especially at its Princess Robinson Mall and NCCC Mall. Some of which include Jollibee, Chowking and Mang Inasal.
El Nido
Restaurant
There are a variety of restaurants in the three main destinations of Palawan. Offering a variety of cuisines to suit the tastes of the tourists.
At Princess Harbor, be sure to dine at the Ka Lui restaurant. A sample of delicious seafood while enjoying the local flavor. If you like exotic, try the famous Tamilok and Sisig crocodile at the Kinabuchs Bar and Grill. For dessert, try the famous Divine Sweets chocolate cake called Amnesia Cake.
At El Nido, don’t miss the delicious pizza at Altrove or the Mexican cuisine at Lonesome Carabao Lounge. At the same time, Squiddo’s offers some of the city’s finest seafood dishes. So if you want to freshly cook seafood, then this is the place to go.
If you want to try some international flavors, just taste the delicious French cuisine at Coron in Bistro Coron. If you prefer Asian cuisine, then Sinugba sa Balay is definitely the place for you. European cuisine is served in the La Sirenetta restaurant. Freshly prepared seafood and other Filipino dishes are served at Kawayanan Grill Station.
Carinderia and street food
There are nurseries all over Palawan. If you want some quality and delicious local cuisine. You will definitely be a good investment. There are also street food stalls in certain public areas. You can find common street food in Palawan, including grills and other grilled meats and fish.
Local cuisine
When you are in Palawan, eat like a local. Taste the woodworm called tamilok and experience exotic cuisine. Another unique dish is Nido soup or egg soup. Which is made from the swiftlet nests that live in the caves of the province. This can be proved at the Balinsasayaw restaurant in Puerto Princesa.
Bars and clubs
Palawan also has bars and clubs that will appeal to the island’s tourists. In Puerto Princesa, bars and nightclubs on Rizal Street are popular place for tourists and locals. In addition, some restaurants in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. Have an in-house bar where you can have a drink or two.
PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA
Where to buy
Shopping center
Puerto Princesa is the only place in Palawan where shopping can be found. If you want to enjoy shopping and other entertainment options, head to Robinsons Place Puerto Princesa or NCCC Mall.
Market
If you are looking for a place to get the freshest seafood. Head to Palawan Town and the city’s public market. In addition to fresh ingredients, some public markets also serve as an indispensable pasalubong center, offering souvenirs and local food.
Street vendor
There are also some street vendors and stalls selling souvenirs. In addition to getting a large supply of goods from these suppliers. You can also support the livelihoods of local communities.
What Best to Buy
In addition to souvenir shirts, woven bags, key chains and other items on Palawan. You can also visit some famous pearl shops such as Cora and Delma and buy a pearl necklace or earrings.
ATM and Money Changers
El Nido does not have an ATM, so be sure to withdraw money at Puerto Princesa or Corón. There are also banks and exchanges in these two places.
Image by Andrea Santoni from Pixabay
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