Country | Cost | |
Australia | 81.4 | 4.2 |
Canada | 80.7 | 5.0 |
France | 81.0 | 4.0 |
Germany | 79.8 | 3.8 |
Japan | 82.6 | 2.6 |
PALAWAN
Palawan is an island province that consists of the main island, Palawan Island, and around 1,768 small islands and islets surrounding it. It is the country’s biggest province with a land area of 5,656.3 sq mi. It has been considered as a nature sanctuary because of its megadiversity. More than a thousand species of animals and plants can be found in Palawan, bearing a Biosphere Reserve status since the early 1990s.
Today, there are several resorts and establishments found in the area but it has maintained its natural beauty despite these developments.Palawan is also only the Philippine island cited by the National Geographic Traveler Magazine as the best island destination in East and Southeast Asia region in 2007 because of its incredibly beautiful and natural landscapes and seascapes.
Where To Go:
Coron Reefs – The Coron Reefs is comprised of 7 lakes surrounded by cliffs made out of limestone. Visitors are welcome to go trekking and mountain climbing. There are also several hot springs in the area, where tourists can take a dip and relax.
Diving is one of the main attractions here in Coron Reefs where Japanese shipwrecks from World War II can be found. Wreck exploration is one of the main activities found in this area.
Tubbataha Reef Marine Park – along with the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park has been nominated as one of the “New7 Wonders of Nature”. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a sanctuary for fishes, birds and marine turtles.
El Nido Marine Reserve Park - El Nido Marine Reserve is noted for its very expensive and edible birds’ nest that is harvested on majestic limestone cliffs that end up on our dinner table as Bird's Nest Soup.
With its spectacular scenery, El Nido is also a haven for various forms of wildlife, including the rarest marine mammal, the Dugong or sea cow.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park – This destination offers a view of a fairly unique evolving ecosystem. You will see several rare species of plants and animals. You can tour the park’s river and see the rare geological formations.
Tour boats take tourists for a one hour exploration inside the subterranean river to enjoy one of the most beautiful natural treasures of the world. Visitors can enjoy the different limestone formations and the bats flying above the cave.
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.
Melville Lighthouse –This century old landmark has served as a guide to the marine vessels many years ago. Even thought this lighthouse no longer functions, tourist can still appreciate the spectacular view of the islands pristine waters.
How To Get There:
By Plane
Major airline carriers offer flights to the island which take about 45 minutes to an hour. The majority of flight land on Puerto Princesa Airport but there are also regular routes to Coron and El Nido.
By Boat
Traveling by boat is by far cheaper that air travel but the travel time lasts about 20 hours. The boats only course through Puerto Princesa and Coron so tourists who plan on going to El Nido would have to take a bus route after the boat ride.
How To Get Around:
Most tourist packages offer transportation services so guests would not have to worry about going around the island. But for those who are in a mood for an adventure can opt to take jeepneys, motorcycles, and tricycles to go around.
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