While researching about our destination through government websites, blogs and online travel guides, I learned about Kuya Rommel Fulgencio, a local guide, whom I contacted weeks ago to help us navigate the city, conduct the city tour, find accommodation (for our first night) and book for us an underground river tour group. I actually wanted to try to do a DIY underground river tour, but since it’s peak season and it seems to be a very tedious and long process (feasible only perhaps if you stay in Palawan for at least a week), I did not bother anymore. Here’s our itinerary for our short but sweet 3D/2N stay:
ETA: March 14, 2012 12:50
ETD: March 16, 2012 13:30
Day 1: Half-day city tour
Day 2: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River tour
Day 3: Half-day Honda Bay tour*
*cancelled eventually
After the one-hour flight, which was slightly delayed, we
were welcomed by the very humble Puerto Princesa airport. I must say we were
extremely delighted by how hospitable Palaweños are. The people seem completely
trained and equipped to be professional and compassionate in treating guests. We
felt very happy to be in a place where, despite the fact that we can easily be
mistaken as locals, people would never hesitate to treat us with hospitality
and very Filipino care.
We met Kuya Rommel at the airport’s tricycle terminal (no
taxis in Palawan). After he introduced us to the Corazon Tourist Inn staff, we boarded their van for a short ride to the inn where we rested for a short
while.
A few minutes of settling in and we’re off to a tricycle tour around Puerto Princesa City. Since it was already past 2pm (I think) when we started,
we had to take very short stops at each tourist spot. But it was all worth it.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (a.k.a. Crocodile Farm)
Palawan Butterfly Garden
It was our first time to enter a butterfly garden and we had a really great time, even more so because we saw not only butterflies in its final and early stages but also some amazing insects, worms and other creatures.
Mitra Ranch
A popular property of the province’s Mitra clan, this has
a spectacular view and a nice, family-friendly picnic venue. One can lie on the
grass mat for as long as desired.
Baker’s Hill
Famous for their
delicious freshly baked goodies such as hopia, this is a very interesting place. Beyond the bakeshop, it features a recreational park with attractions such as quirky statues, topiary and flowers, and the playground
area that will attract kids and adults alike.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Since it was a regular day and we seem to be with few other visitors, we were able to appreciate the solemnity and grandness of the church.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Since it was a regular day and we seem to be with few other visitors, we were able to appreciate the solemnity and grandness of the church.
After such a packed itinerary, we ended the day with a satisfying dinner at a restaurant in a far side of the city. It's a wise practice to research and look for a good, if not
the best, place to eat everywhere you go. For me, the Badjao Seafront Restaurant marks the spot in
Puerto Princesa. Offering Filipino dishes, the restaurant is a sure foodie hit with its
nice interior design and ambiance, a spectacular setting (best to go there at
lunch to enjoy the view) and great food. Situated above shallow mangrove-surrounded waters, its only
drawback is its inconvenient location. It is wise to have a tricycle scheduled to pick you up. In our case, Kuya Rommel went out of his way to drop
us off and pick us up at this remote food haven.
For questions about the tour, just leave a comment below. I’d also be happy to share the detailed itinerary and cost matrix via email.
No comments:
Post a Comment