There are no skyscrapers now, nor apparently strict rules about mundane things as jaywalking. But I do see nature everywhere, in between and surrounding small (and not so small) cities with chaotic streets and motorbikes and tricycles. And stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Yep, this was the Asia I remembered, and Phillipines is living up to my expectations! I didn't came with any fixed plans or must-see places, so the planning was even less that what I usually do in this kind of vacations (which is already too little - definitely a lot of room for improvement in this departament). The good part, is there is more room to be amazed at all the cool things you find. And Palawan, one of the islands in the west of the country, has no shortage of natural wonders.
From underground rivers to pristine beaches, Puerto Princesa is worth a short visit. Most tourists don't stay too long (and neither did I), but just the river trip alone makes the visit worth it.
One of the island's highlights though, is on the northern tip, and where most of my time will be spent. Think more amazing beaches...
....huge limestone cliffs....
... and all the wildlife I probably won't be able to capture on camera, such as the crab eating monkeys feeding on top of the trees, or the endemic hornbills flying by in front of the hotel. Those images will be lodged in my head. The other ones, I'll be sharing with you! And thanks to my new action camera, I can share the underwater world too!
There's so much to see down there! Being able to dive in this waters, with all the colourful wildlife, is a blessing on top of being able to enjoy this kind of travels.
For now, it's time to enjoy all that El Nido has to offer; because shortly, I'll be hopping on a plane again. The good thing is, it's still not the end of the vacations!
I could get used to this backpacking life... 😉