Paradise fit for a Princess: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

World-renowned underground river, pristine white beaches, exciting cuisine and great adventures—these are just a few of the things Palawan has to offer. This is one destination that every travel-enthusiast must visit. So pack your travel bag, book a flight to Puerto Princesa (Cebu Pacific and other local airlines offer promo fares), and head on to this majestic archipelago located on the western side of the Philippines. Here are some of the things we did on our visit to Puerto Princesa, Palawan:

Day 1
Hired a tricycle to tour us around Puerto Princesa City. This is a cheaper and more thrilling way to visit attractions that are just minutes away from the city proper. My friend and I paid our tricycle driver-slash-tourist guide P500 plus P100 tip for a half-day tour. We went to…

Crocodile Farm
Formally known as “Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center”. From baby hatchlings to mature crocodiles, this place is perfect for reptile lovers. Best to go there during feeding time to see the crocs in action. The conservation center also has a mini-zoo featuring some of Palawan's endemic animals.

Palawan Butterfly Garden
Butterflies fluttering around. Butterflies resting on flowers. Butterflies everwhere.

Mitra's Ranch
Ranch with a view. Hilltop residence of former speaker Ramon V. Mitra with a bird’s eye view of Honda Bay Islands. A nice place for a picnic.

Day 2
After touring the city proper, it’s time to explore the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Since the underground river is an hour and a half drive, plus a 15 minute boat ride from the city proper, we booked a tour with a travel agency. Tour package cost us P1,200 per person, which includes van transportation, boat ride, lunch and a guided tour.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
You must not miss this world heritage site! Palawan’s underground river is said to be the longest in the world—an 8.2 kilometer-long lagoon within limestone and marble cliffs. Riding a paddleboat, a trained boatman who also serves as your river guide, navigates through the placid waters of the river while pointing out the unique rock formations inside the cavern.

Vietnamese Village
Our tour group was able to convince our guide to stop at the Viet Ville for a quick merienda of their famous noodles.

Wood Worm Dare
A whole day of exploration worked up our appetite for fresh local fare. For those who are brave enough, you have to try their local delicacy: “tamilok”. A dish of wood worms steeped in vinegar and various spices. Some say it tastes like oyster. You be the judge.

Day 3
Palawan is known for its pristine white beaches and great diving sites. It’s only fitting that we end our Palawan experience by swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the gorgeous Honda Bay islets. Tour package was P800 per person including van transportation, boat ride and lunch.

Honda Bay is comprised of several islets, some of which are privately owned. Our tour guide brought us to three islets: Pandan Island, so named because of the pandan plants that thrive in its shore; Starfish Island, known for its crystalline waters studded with multi-colored starfishes; and Snake Island, named for its long, powdery white sandbar that’s shaped like a snake.

Day 4
Flight back to Manila.

Another wonderful adventure. Till next time…