Palawan...

Palawan is a narrow archipelago of 1,700 islands on the western border of the Philippines. Its geographical location makes it seem remote from the rest of the country, and in fact, some of its southern islands are closer to Malaysia than to other provinces.  The waters of the South China Sea lap the western shores of Palawan, while the Sulu Sea hugs its eastern coast.  With a land area of more than 1.7 million hectares, Palawan is the country's largest province.

Its irregular coastline stretches almost 2000 kilometers long, indented by numerous coves and bays.  Highlands and rolling terrain covered with lush forests create a cool and scenic landscape.  Palawan is generally typhoon-free.  Warm weather prevails from March to May, while the coolest months are from December to February.  Heavy rainfall is usually experienced in July and August, often accompanied by the  southwest monsoon.


Palawan is the well preserved major island group in the Philippines.  It is also the largest province in the Philippines in terms of land area.  The rain forest, caves, coral reefs, mangroves, beaches and clear blue waters are its best assets.  One has to go around the islands of Palawan to see how its people and the local government's conservation efforts have born fruit. 

With almost 2,000 kilometers of coastline, Palawan is known as having on of the most beautiful seascapes in the world.  Sprawled beneath the seas are nearly 11,000 square kilometers of coral reefs.  Palawan was proclaimed as a fish and wildlife sanctuary in 1967 and to this day, this group of islands are probably the most protected province in the whole Philippines.


Palawan has been called the "island of the gods" and it is not without reason, the spectacular sea and landscapes of Palawan; especially at El Nido, gives the impression of seeing heaven's beauty on earth.  Acknowledged as the Philippines' last frontier, Palawan is a must see for travelers who appreciate the majesty and splendor of nature. 

How to get here: 
The Province of Palawan being an island is accessible by Air & Boat from Manila, Iloilo & Cebu.  It is approximately 55 minutes by air from Manila, 1hr. & 15mins from Cebu.  Ferries leaving from Manila travel 24hours and 36 hours from Iloilo.
          
Getting around Palawan
Public transport within the island consist of buses, vans and tricycles. There is a big well-organized transport terminal at the capital Puerto Princesa City, from where travelers can take off to other parts of Palawan.  Private vehicles may also be hired from car rental companies.  Traditional bancas - motorized outrigger boats - can also be easily hired for hopping around the islands.  
Tourists/Visitors can also get help from the City Information Office or the Provincial Information Office.


Popular places in Palawan

A must see is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (also known as Sabang's St. Paul Subterranean National Park). It is a wonder to behold; carved by nature for millions of years; the length of cave and river network is unknown up to this day.  The cavern stretches away in an almost perfect rectangle with walls and ceiling decorated with natural carvings in many colors.  Stalactite and stalagmite seem like they have been intentionally crafted to awe the visitors.  Further inside, one reaches a grand chamber, decorated with multi faceted colored stones.  One has to be there to see its granduer.

El Nido - the place with crystal clear waters and many wonderful dive spots with first class resorts.  El Nido Marine Reserve is noted for its very expensive and edible birds' nests that is harvested on majestic limestone cliffs that end up on our dinner table as Bird's Nest Soup.


Honda Bay - just 30 minutes from Puerto Princesa is Honda Bay.   One can take a boat and beach hop the dozens of beaches on the islets that dot the bay.  One can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving or just relaxing on the beach amidst the clear waters and fine sand.  The panoramic view would surely leave a lingering impression on the visitor.

Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty and richness of marine life.  Tubbataha Reef is made of 2 atolls (North & South reefs) located 92 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Princesa City covering 33,200 hectares. The North Islet serves as a sanctuary for birds and marine turtles.  


What to do
Scuba diving, island hopping, nightlife bar hopping, surfing, kayaking, water skiing, swimming, and lots of fun...

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