My birthday month this year was a blast. Thank you, Lord for all the blessings and back-to-back celebrations. As I have said, my HEART was overwhelmed. <3
I’d like to start by thanking my family and friends who greeted me a Happy Birthday when it hits 11-11-11. Some of my close friends expressed their love with little surprises. Thank you!
In celebration for my birthday, I went on a 4 days 3 nights vacation in Palawan with two of my closest friends in the office. They were so excited to ride the plane for the first time and I wanted to do something different since I am celebrating my 24th birthday with a special date, which is 11-11-11.
Our flight going to Puerto Princesa was at 7:30 AM on November 17, Thursday. We were blessed with a bright weather that day. We arrived on time in Palawan and were picked up at the airport going to Casa Fuerte Bed and Breakfast where we stayed. It was just few minutes away from the airport and it’s also one of the newest hotels in place. We were given welcome drinks at the registration area while waiting for check in time.
For Day 1, we went on a half day City Tour. We visited Baker’s Hill, Mitra’s Road, Crocodile Farm, Binuatan Weaving Shop, Puerto Princesa Baywalk and Immaculate Church to name of few of the destinations. We also went to buy souvenirs on the first day. I have learned that pearl as jewelry is famous in Puerto as it were original South China Sea pearls. In Baker’s Hill, I have tasted the yummiest hopia when we tried the Ube Hopia. I learned that it’s also a must-try.
For dinner, we went to Kinabuch’s Grill and Restaurant. I noticed a lot of tourists having their dinner. Also, we had a chance to eat the Tamilok (shipworm). It’s a delicacy prepared as kinilaw (eaten raw). Only, we ordered the breaded version. ;) It looked like calamares in the photo.
In Crocodile Farm, we were asked to have pictures taken with a baby crocodile. I’m too scared to wrap it around me. I just touched the crocodile and it felt cold and slippery. Also, they are serving crocodile sisig which we didn't have the chance to taste. We are given limited time to visit the next stop.
For Day 2, we are scheduled to visit Ugong Rock. We went caving/spelunking and zipline by the end going back. Caving is harder than I thought. For me, it’s 2 times trekking! I remembered the movie 127 Hours. It's truly amazing how the rocks were able to form the way they appear. We had buffet lunch by the Sabang beach afterwards.
Then, it’s time for the Underground River tour. I was looking forward to this tour as it was a recent entry to the New 7 Wonders. I enjoyed the 45-minute river tour not only because it’s so beautiful inside but also because I had a good laugh listening to the boat man’s stories. If you know me I can laugh at any joke even the corniest. I didn’t know the tour would be so funny! It was hard laughing with my mouth covered. Why I had to cover? Visit the place! :P
We had dinner at Bilao't Palayok that night since we couldn't get reserved seats at Kahlui's. The place was beautiful though. It has a "romantic" ambiance. It's well-lighted just for a sweet dinner. :) I hope to find a place like it here in Manila. There was a long pond near the entrance. I also noticed small nipa huts along the side for couples. Too bad, I wasn't able to take a photo of the place with my camera. My battery got exhausted. They served good Filipino food there, by the way.
For Day 3, it was Dos Palmas Day Tour. Our most awaited tour. By the time our ferry reached the island, we are welcomed with kulintang-playing crew and drinks. I felt like a special guest just like in the movies! Our first activity is snorkeling. Fishes were all over me. I was overwhelmed by their beauty, colors and SIZES! Our guide says “only in Dos Palmas!”. I remember the time I went scuba diving at 35 feet while at 10 feet I can see/touch all those fishes. After the activity, we had buffet lunch. Dos Palmas served a shrimp meal which we really enjoyed! Then, we went kayaking. Funny part, I laughed when the guide said "ang bigat mo pala maam". He was slowly pushing me to the water so I can start. I can't stop laughing while doing the kayak! We spent our last night at Balinsasayaw restaurant where I also ordered FRESH buko juice along with my chicken inasal.
For Day 4 - November 20, our flight back home was at 9:10 AM. We were saddened of coming back to work the next day from a fantastic vacation. It was a fun-filled vacation at Palawan! Thank you Lord, we arrived at the NAIA 3 safely. =)
P.S
Puerto Princesa is truly a beauty of its own. Good job Mr. Hagedorn! We came across different people along our vacation. Some were natives, some tourists like us. They were all so nice to us. Not to mention the people who volunteered to take photos for us. We are looking forward for our next trip. THANK YOU PUERTO PRINCESA!
