Apulit Island, El Nido Resorts Travel Guide: The Lost Eden

East Water Cottages

Apulit Island Resort is part of the El Nido Resorts (Miniloc, Lagen, and Pangulasian) although this dragon shaped island is located in Taytay, Northern Palawan and not exactly in El Nido.

Formerly Club Noah, Apulit Island Resort was acquired by the El Nido & Ayala Group and formally opened again last December 2010. They changed the name from Club Noah to "Apulit" to use the actual name of the island, which means "napadpad" in Tagalog.

If you are up for a total relaxation, isolation and communion with nature, then heading to Apulit Island Resort is probably your best choice. Price may be a bit steep but after your trip, you can say that all's worth it and you really get what you paid for.

Below is a 3 days and 2 nights travel itinerary to Apulit Island Resort in Taytay, Palawan.

Photos courtesy of  Liz Reyes


Getting There:

Puerto Princesa Airport

There are actually two ways to reach Apulit Island which is beautifully and strategically secluded in Taytay Bay. Via the ITI plane which is very expensive or go for a long road trip via Puerto Princesa.

Via Puerto Princesa: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, Zest Air and Air Asia have daily flights to Puerto Princesa. Be sure though to take the earliest flight so you can catch the 9:00AM van going to Taytay. The free boat service in Taytay Port to Apulit leaves at exactly 3:00PM but be sure to be at the port an hour before lest you want to pay for a Php5,000 special trip if ever you get left behind.

Below is the list of vans that can transport you from Puerto Princesa to Taytay. Note that all of them are headed to El Nido and will just pass by Taytay van terminal.


* Lexus Van - 0912-1002651 (Puerto Princesa terminal)
 - 0917-8599602
-  0917-5859619 (Taytay terminal)

***I highly recommend Lexus Van because even though they only have plenty of passengers, when they say they leave at 9:00AM they will leave at 9:00AM with an allowance of only 15 minutes in case they are still waiting for someone.***

* Eulen Joy - 0949-4498858
 - 0927-5209197
Email -eulenjoyexpress@yahoo.com
Website: http://eulenjoyexpress.com

* Fort Wally - (048) 434-2004
             - 0917-2762875
             - 0921-3118755
             - 0920-9815702

There are already lots of tricycles waiting outside Puerto Princesa Airport so going to San Jose Terminal, where all the vans are located, is a breeze. Fare from the airport to the terminal is Php120.00 and will take you 15-20 minutes at most depending on the traffic.

Lexus Van Terminal in San Jose, Puerto Princesa

Travel time from Puerto Princesa up to Taytay is approximately 4 hours with two brief stop overs. If you will leave Puerto Princesa at exactly 9:00AM, then it is expected for you to arrive in Taytay terminal by 1:00PM. Too early for your 3:00PM trip to Apulit, but again, it's better to be early than to cram. Take a tricycle from the terminal to Taytay Port which costs Php60.00. At the port, there's a nice restaurant there with lots of nipa huts where you can order some snacks or even take a nap while waiting for the service boat.

Boat travel from Taytay Port to Apulit Island usually takes 1-1.5 hour at most depending on the water current. Once all your luggage are securely sealed in their water protector bag, you will be offered cold towels, coconut cookies and hot salabat (ginger tea) by your tour guide.

Via ITI: The Island Transvoyager, Inc. or ITI is a 19-seater Dornier with a flight time of approximately 75 minutes from Manila to Cesar Lim Rodriguez Airport (CLRA), Taytay, Palawan.

Photo taken from El Nido Resorts Website

ITI’s private terminal and passengers’ lounge is located at A. Soriano Aviation Inc. (ASAI) Hangar along Andrews Avenue, Pasay City (not at the Manila Domestic Airport).

Upon arrival at the Taytay airport, guests will be taken to a 10-minute jeepney ride to Tamisan Jetty (port) then a boat transfer of approximately one hour to Apulit Island. Flight reservations via ITI can be done by contacting holiday@elnidoresorts.com. Guests are only allowed 10kg of luggage including hand carry items. Excess baggage will be charged Php100 per kilogram.

Roundtrip transfer via ITI costs a total of 11,144.00. Same with Batanes' airfare already.

Things You Need to Know

Water Cottage Room

Accommodation: Apulit Island resort has 50 cottages that are built on stilts above the sea with surrounding islands, and majestic limestone cliffs. There are 30 Water Cottages, each has its own private veranda overlooking the bay and can accommodate a maximum of two persons. On the other hand, each of the 20 Deluxe Water Cottages has a loft and staircase in its private veranda that leads you directly into the water in case you feel like swimming anytime of the day. The Deluxe Water Cottage is ideal for families because aside from the bed on the second floor, a double bed may also be set-up in the ground floor.

El Nido Resorts gives complimentary Buri Bag, Eco Nido Bag, polyethylene bag for trash (they encourage guests to pick up trash around the resort to help them maintain the cleanliness of the place), native slippers (you can't take home this one ^_^) and the Eco Diversity check list where there are list of animals and underwater creatures that you need to spot while you are on the island. Once you have spotted the animals on the check list, be sure to take note of the date and place where you saw it. This is actually a fun way to be more observant of the fishes, birds and other animals living in the island.


Meal: The Apulit Island El Nido package is already inclusive of full board meals so no need to worry. You only have to pay for incidentals in case you get something from your room's refrigerator or order something from the restaurant or bar.

Breakfast

The buffet meal, I must say is just so-so. Nothing really special, though I must say that I love their raisin and cinnamon bread. I love the food in Dos Palmas, Palawan more. Lots of choices. I am not sure if choices of food has something to do with the few number of guests that time or it’s really like that. I know someone who also went to Apulit Island and she said food was great so I am not really sure if it's just me.

Tour: Activities like caving, trekking, kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing and island hopping is already included in the package. Every guest is assigned with his/her very own Activity Coordinator who will fix the preferred activities every day. Activity Coordinator will assign tour guides for every activity, but in our case, we only have one tour guide during the duration of our stay, he’s Kuya Eddie.

Tip is not compulsory but we gave our guide (Kuya Eddie) and activity coordinator (Angel) a tip because of a job well done.

Perfect spot for breakfast

Important Things You Need

* Sun block.  Aside from island hopping you need more sun protector when you go kayaking and Hobie Cat sailing.

* Camera and underwater camera. (your guide will take you to the best coral reefs near Apulit Island so having an underwater camera is a no brainer. You can also take it with you during kayaking and hobbie cat sailing. Bringing your precious DSLR during these activities is actually risky so better shun away the thought of shooting using your DSLR while kayaking and sailing.)

* Shades. (protect your eyes)

* Insect repellent lotion (there are many trees and plants in Apulit Island, which we all know is a favorite spot among mosquitoes. You will also need this during the trek)

* Snorkeling gear. (free use of snorkeling gear but much better if you bring your own if you happen to have one.)

* Good book. Just in case you want to lounge in the pool side or in the comfort of your room's veranda.


Budget

Good for 2 persons (3D and 2N stay via Puerto Princesa)

- Airfare: Php 1, 730.00 (roundtrip airline promo fare) Approximately Php5, 000 (roundtrip without promo)

- Trike and van transfers: Php 2,000 (back and forth)

- Accommodation and food: Php30, 000 (Water cottage, good for 2 nights and based on lean season from June 1-Sept 30)

- Pasalubong: (there are few souvenir items at Apulit Island so you can just buy pasalubongs in Puerto Princesa)

- Miscellaneous:  Php 4,000 (for tips and conservation fee. This price also covers your accommodation and meals if you plan to stay overnight in Puerto Princesa or even hire a tricycle to take you to Baker's Hill and Tiangge for pasalubong)

You need to have:  Php40, 000 for 2 persons is a very safe budget. This is also considering you were able to score an airline promo fare to Puerto Princesa. This price already covers terminal fees and taxi fares to and from the airport. If you are planning to take the ITI, then obviously, you need to add at least Php20, 000 to this budget.


Daily Itinerary

FIRST DAY: Catch the earliest flight to Puerto Princesa to make sure you catch the 9:00AM van to Taytay. Pray that flight won't get delayed because any delay will drastically change your schedule and break your budget. In our case, everything seems to be an amazing race and we were always in contact with Lexus Van Puerto Princesa terminal to inform them where we are already so they don't leave without us.

Take off time in Taytay port is 3:00PM so estimated time of arrival in Apulit Island is between 4:00-4:30PM. Few meters from the island, you will be transferred to a speed boat to take you to the resort’s main jump off point. You will be greeted by a welcome song and dance by the staff with welcome drinks and snacks to boot. After settling down in their lounge, you will be greeted by your Activity Coordinator to give more information about the island and activities available for you to enjoy. Your Activity Coordinator will recommend activities for the day and will call your room from time to time update you on your schedule.

Water Cottage veranda

First days in Apulit Island are usually meant for just settling down, lounging in your room's veranda or for a night swimming. The long road trip can be pretty tiring so enjoying your room and the sunset view is the best way to spend your first few hours in paradise.

If your cottage is situated on the east side of the resort, taking a long night exposure shot is perfect. The majestic limestone behind your water cottage is truly an amazing sight to behold. Enjoy your dinner, lounge in the pool for a while and call it a night. Place is usually quiet as early as 8PM or 9PM. You may even schedule a massage in their very cozy massage area.

Massage area

Infinity pool at night

Big Limestone

SECOND DAY: 1st stop:  Trekking. After taking your heavy buffet breakfast, rev for a long hike. You would be surprise that there are lots of activities to do in the island alone. Little did everyone know, aside from water activities, the huge limestone houses lots of plants and animals like the Palawan Squirrel and Tabon Bird.

If you have hiking shoes or sturdy sandals like Sandugo, then climbing the steep limestone is a little bit easy. The rocks are spiky and you really have to hold on to them so as not to fall. However, if you only have flip flops, then that would do, just be careful where you'll step. I was wearing my havs when I hiked and it's still okay until now.

Trekking with our guide, Kuya Eddie

There's really nothing much to see up there but the challenging trail makes the hike worthwhile and perfect way to burn some calories in the morning. If you are in luck, you might see Tabon Birds, Palawan Squirrel, Palawan Mouse Deer and Monitor Lizard, you just need a quick eye though. From the top, you will also get to see the water cottages below, nice site for taking photographs although trees may block the view at times. Aside from animals, you will also get to encounter interesting plants and orchids. Ask your friendly tour guide about the names of each plant and he'll gladly identify them for you.

You can opt to go down the west beach where you can take a swim or just near the Deluxe Water cottages where you can walk to the waiting area or jump off point for your next activity, which is the island hopping.

Interior of the Deluxe Water Cottage (1st floor)

Deluxe Water Cottage's veranda

 

Lopez Reef. Can you see the small white sand bar?

2nd stop: Island hopping.  You have the option to choose what islands to visit although this also depends on the water current. Your tour coordinator would know what's best. Apulit management has a long list of islands for their guests but most popular are Lopez Reef, Isla Blanca and Nabat Island. By the way, aside from a tour guide, every touring boat has its own security so don't be surprised when you see security people with a firearm hidden in a bag. That's how El Nido Resorts value the security of their guests.

Lopez Reef is a place great for diving (you can do diving but with an extra charge) and snorkeling. Your boat will just dock in the middle of the sea where you will get off and swim your way to the rich marine life. Few meters away is a small white sand bar. There's a small water current in that area so even though I have this strong urge to go there, I shun away that idea. Better be safe. Although taking a picture on that very small sand bar must be really cool. Lopez Reef, as the name implies, is surrounded by large coral reefs.

Isla Blanca

Isla Blanca, on the other hand, is a stretch of 50 meters white sand dotted by coconut trees. This is where a kunch picnic under coconut trees are usually set up by your tour guide. (There are some island dogs in Isla Blanca and they are so thin and look famished so please spare them some food from your lunch. They are good and behaved dogs ^_^)

While eating lunch Kuya Eddie, our tour guide, seized that moment to make a hat made out of coconut leaves which he later gave us as a gift.

My hat woven out of coconut leaves

Isla Blanca has an amazing coral reefs and abundant fishes. We're not really great swimmers but Kuya Eddie brought with him a lifesaver where we can hold on to while we snorkel so we can check out the majestic underwater life of Isla Blanca. Saw bloat fishes, Christmas tree worms, parrot fish and lots of underwater life. He took time pointing interesting creatures to us and occasionally tells us the name and some trivia about those creatures. One thing more, I saw again a territorial fish and Kuya Eddie pointed it to us when I told him I was bitten by one in Coron.

At Isla Blanca

After island hopping your boat will take you back to Apulit Island where you can first lounge at the pool while enjoying the view and waiting for the sunset. A large cross sitting on top of the limestone is hard not to miss. Management said that guests can climb on top off it then rappel down, but the Resorts Manager was not there during the time of our visit so climbing and rappelling the huge limestone was prohibited.

Waiting for the sunset in our room's veranda

Black Tip Reef Shark below our Water Cottage

 THIRD DAY: Wake up really early on your last day to wait for the sunrise. Every morning you will notice a school of dilis just below the water cottage, be very observant since just few minutes after it, black tip reef sharks will start appearing from anywhere. These tamed sharks hunt dilis for food every morning.

As early as 6:30 AM your guide will meet you at the jump off point for caving. Surprisingly, aside from its lush virgin forest, Apulit Island is also surrounded by caves.

Bat Cave

1st Activity: Caving. First cave stop is the Bat Cave where thousands of bats thrive. We did not enter the cave since Kuya Eddie told us that we can't see anything inside that morning since bats are still sound asleep.  Few steps away is a small cave called the Secret Cave. It's a small opening few meters from the water. When you follow the track inside, it will then lead you to the bigger cave which is the Bat Cave. Yes, the Secret and Bat caves are connected. While in your speed boat, you may also enjoy watching Black Nip birds gliding in the water hunting for food. If you’re also in luck, you’ll see on top of some small limestone rocks their chicks.

Black Nip birds. Can you see their chicks?

Saint Joseph's Cave

Next cave stop is the St. Joseph's Cave. It's named as such because near the entrance of the cave is a naturally sculpted limestone which really looks like a giant statue of a saint. Saint Joseph's Cave is really big in the inside, in fact, it was also my first time to enter a dark cave with a spelunking headlight so I was very thrilled. To be able to explore the inside of the cave, one needs to climb a narrow bamboo stair leading to the seven chambers. There are many interesting formation of stalactites and stalagmites inside St. Joseph's Cave that are really worth exploring.

Going inside St. Joseph's Cave

Inside St. Joseph's Cave

North Cave

Another small cave that we did not explore is the Lobster Cave where lobster is abundant, Kuya Eddie said that lobsters there usually come out at night so we did not bother going inside anymore.

Last cave stop is the North Cave. North Cave has a sort of small pool inside where one can actually swim. The water is very clear and inviting. This cave is also perfect for marriage proposals since Apulit management can actually prepare a private, romantic dinner for two. Imagine having a candle light dinner inside a cave surrounded by water, you will feel you’re a star in the movie Castaway.

Hobie Cat

2nd Activity: Hobie Cat Sailing. After caving and taking your breakfast, put on lots of sun block and pray for some wind so you can enjoy Hobie Cat sailing to the fullest. Wind is what makes the Hobie Cat move that it can sail faster than a speed boat depending on the wind. Before sailing, your tour guide will teach you the basics in Hobie Cat sailing especially switching places with your partner and when to bend over for safety purposes. It's tempting to bring your DSLR during the sail but you'll never know what will happen so just bring underwater camera instead.

Hobie Cat sailing at Apulit Island

3rd activity: Kayaking. Since there are only few number of guests in Apulit, doing water sports is not limited so you can take all your time to master the art of kayaking. It was my first time to kayak but it did not scare me at all since I feel very safe at Apulit.

Preparing to kayak

4th activity: Swim at the pool. Seize your last few hours in Apulit by basking under the sun and swimming in their infinity pool. Order a fresh buko juice in a shell, admire the beautiful view and wait for lunch. Make sure all your stuff is ready for pick up already. If you still have time, you can ask your friendly guide to teach you how to wind surf.

Swimming at the beach

Relaxing view from the pool

Buko Juice by the pool

Like their welcome song, Apulit staff also sends off their guests with a song. Truly, Apulit is a secret paradise waiting to be explored and enjoyed, however, aside from its natural beauty, the staff is definitely one of its best assets that guests would always come back for.



***Shout out to our new found friends, whom we met while we were in Apulit. Hello Hallie and Lisa ^_^ ***

***Thanks to TravelBook.ph for this once in a lifetime experience. We owe you lots!!!***

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Coron: The Philippines' Last Paradise (4 days and 3 nights travel guide)

Kayangan Bay

Coron is located in Northern Palawan and is one of the 1,780 islands of the province of Palawan. This small fishing village located southeast of the island of Busuanga, Palawan is known as the homeland of the Tagbanuas who are also the owners of some of the most popular islands and tourist spots in Coron.

Being a popular diving location, the island of Coron has been a favorite among divers and anyone who loves marine life. As a matter of fact, Forbes Travel Magazine regarded Coron among the Top 10 best scuba diving sites in the world on the year 2007 because of its rich marine life and WWII Japanese Warships wreck that sunk in Coron Bay during the 1940's.

Below is a 4 days 3 nights travel itinerary to Coron, the Philippine's last paradise.

Photos courtesy of Liz Reyes

Getting There:

By air: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines and Zest Air have daily flights to Busuanga. Don't be confused though, Busuanga is the same as Coron so don't go around looking for a flight to Coron because it's like looking for a needle in a haystack. Busuanga and Coron share the same airport- Francisco B. Reyes Airport. By the way, Cebu Pacific uses propeller planes to Busuanga, not sure of the other airlines.

Philippine Airlines

Tel no: (02) 855-8888

Website: http://www.philippineairlines.com

Facebook: Philippine Airlines

Cebu Pacific

Tel no: (02) 7020-888

Website: www.cebupacificair.com

Facebook: Cebu Pacific Air

Zest Air

Tel no: (02) 855-3333

Website: www.zestair.com.ph

Facebook: Zest Air

Air Philippines

Tel no: (02) 855-9000

Website: www.airphils.com

Facebook: Air Philippines

By sea: The cheapest way to go to Coron is via Super Ferry which takes 12 hrs. For more information, visit their website at www.superferry.com.ph

Things You Need to Know

Accommodation: There are lots of affordable hotels and pension houses in Coron. You have the option to choose whether you opt for a place far from the city if you want a more naturey feel or book for a place in the town proper if you want to eat out and drink at night.

Oriental Lodge

Oriental Lodge

Telephone no: (63)9198282934

Email: orientallodge@yahoo.com

Website: http://orientallodginghouse.webs.com

Sea Dive Resort

Telephone: (63)9209458714

Email: seadive@seadiveresort.com

Website: http://www.seadiveresort.com

Coron Village Lodge

Telephone nos:(632)805-3414, 801-0623, 0928-2020819, 0916-4200252

Email: darala@pldtdsl.net/ anndaet@coronvillagelodge.com

Website: http://www.coronvillagelodge.com

Sunz En Coron

Telephone:(63)915901 2642, (63)9062060048

Email:sunzencoron @ hotmail.com

Website:www.http://sunzencoron.ph

Princess of Coron

Telephone: (63)9194095548, (63)9186950563, (63)9165400288

Website: www.princessofcoron.ph

Facebook: Princess of Coron

Dive Link

Telephone: (632) 413-6007, (63)(9189592604)

Email: divecoron_link@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.divelink.com.ph

Facebook: Dive Coron Link Resort

La Sirenetta

Meal: if you will be staying in the town proper of Coron, then finding a restaurant won't be that hard. Surprisingly, everywhere is within walking distance only. Food is not that cheap in Coron so expect that pricing of food will be the same with Manila's.

However, if you are the cowboy type and eating street food sounds exciting to you, then you will surely enjoy the strip of hawker food stalls in the Harbour Center that are open until the wee hour of the evening. Try the mango shake (Php10) and cheese waffle (Php5), my favorite merienda.

Hawker Food at Harbour Center

Beside the Harbour Center is also the Coron by Night Food Trip Carinderia where foreigners and locals alike flock every evening for affordable meals. They also serve Goto and Mami. Other restaurants to try are Sea Dive Resort restaurant, La Sirenetta, Bistro Coron and Manneken Pis Resto/Bar.

Tour: There are lots of touring companies in Coron that offer trip to various tourist attractions and neighboring islands of Coron. The best way to choose the perfect guide is to ask travelers who have been to Coron already and have tried and tested the tour guides that you are eyeing for.

You have the option to go for a group tour which is obviously much cheaper or a private tour which is more expensive but you have the freedom to decide how long you plan to stay in a place that interests you.

- Kuya Charlie Labajo- (0929) 3019172

Email:charlielabajo@yahoo.com

(Highly recommended! He is part of the Tourguide Coron Busuanga tour operator and also a freelance himself. Very nice and knowledgeable guy)

- Tour Guide Coron Busuanga

Email: info@tourguidecoronbusuanga.com

Website: www.tourguidecoronbusuanga.com

Facebook: Tourguide Coron Busuanga

YouTube Videos: TJ Tourguide

Mobile no: 0919 257 2926

- Coron Galeri

Email: corongaleri@yahoo.com

Website: www.corongaleri.com.ph

Mobile: (0919) 3054363, (0920) 2546553,(0915) 2543246

Facebook: Coron galeri palawan philippines

- Mang Jun - (0927) 7922226

- Kuya Elmer (0919)4417721

Check HERE for a complete list of Accommodations and Tour Guides/Operators in Coron.

Our touring boat

 Important Things You Need

• Sunblock (you'll need lots of it. If you don't want to get too much tan, apply every after you swim)

• Camera and underwater camera (you will regret it if you don't bring an underwater camera. If you don't have one, you ca rent an underwater camera for Php500 a day , just provide your own SD card. Ask your friendly tour guide about it.)

• Snacks (if ever you get hungry during the island hopping)

• Shades (protect your eyes)

• Insect repellent lotion (black out is very common in Coron. Although all the establishments have generators, it's still best to be protected)

• Snorkeling gear (this can be rented for Php150 per day but much better if you bring your own if you happen to have one.)

Budget

Good for 2 persons

Airfare: Php 1, 901 (roundtrip airline promo)

Approximately Php 11,000-12,000 (roundtrip without promo)

Package rate for a private tour: Php 6,500 per pax. Inclusive of the following.

• Accommodation

• Two way airport transfer

• Breakfast (hotel) and lunch (island tour)

• Entrance fees

• Island Tour: Lualhati Park, Mt. Tapyas, Maquinit Hotspring, Siete Pecados, Kayangan Lake, Atwayan Beach, Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon, Twin Peak, Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck, Pass Island, Coral Garden (this can be customized. Instead of the last three destinations, you can opt for Malcapuya Island, Bulog Dos and Banana Island if you want more beach hopping rather than underwater life and wrecks)

Dropped by Lualhati Park first before heading to Mt. Tapyas

Pasalubong: Php 1,000-Php 2,00 (cashew nut costs Php100 per small pack so if you plan to buy loads of it, you really need to allot big budget for pasalubong. Buy few keychains, pearls and souvenir shirts. Be sure to visit Everly's souvenir shop. This is the only place in Coron where you can check out lots of souvenir items.)

Miscellaneous: Php 4,000 (inclusive of food during dinner, tips and incidentals)

You need to have: Php 25,000 for 2 persons is a very safe budget. This is also considering you were able to score an airline promo fare to Coron. If you plan to join a group tour, then you'll be able to save more.

Daily Itinerary

FIRST DAY: You can catch the noon flight to Coron to make sure that your room is ready for check in upon your arrival. This is granting that your flight won't get delayed.

Coron town tour usually starts between 4:00-4:30PM when the sun is not already at its hottest. In this case, make sure you get to rest first to prep yourself for a long trek to Mt. Tapyas.

Mt. Tapyas' peak

1st stop: Mt. Tapyas. In order to reach Mt. Tapyas summit, you need to brave the 725 steps to have a good view of Coron Town. Mt. Tapyas is one of the most popular destinations and the second highest place in Coron. Jump off point is beside a community basketball court which can be reached via tricycle or by foot if you want some warm up before the long trek.

The hike to the top usually takes 30 minutes depending on your pace. Bottled water are being sold at the jump off point and at the summit but bringing your own water is also nice idea. At the peak, you will be greeted by a giant steel cross at the spacious view deck that seems to be the overlooking guard of the whole town of Coron. Watching the sun set is perfect at Mt. Tapyas but you might want to reconsider it if you plan in heading to Maquinit Hot Spring afterwards. Maquinit Hot Spring closes at 8:00PM so it's better to be there earlier to fully enjoy the place.

View from Mt. Tapyas' peak

2nd stop: Maquinit Hot Spring. A dip at the Maquinit Hot Spring is perfect after a tiresome hike to soothe your legs. If you will be missing the sunset at Mt. Tapyas, then watching it at the infinity saltwater hot spring is a good alternative.

The therapeutic, natural hot water at Maquinit can be quite daunting at first because of its temperature that is close to almost 40 degrees celsius, but after few minutes in the water, you'll definitely get used to it and wouldn't want to leave anymore. Although swimming or diving under the water, in my opinion, is really something that's hard to do because of the water's temperature.

There are few tables and chairs at Maquinit Hot Spring but since the place is always packed with people, prepare to share a space with other tourists.

Sea Dive Resort

3rd stop: Dinner time. If you are billeted near Coron town proper, then finding a place to dine in the evening won't be a problem. The town of Coron is swarming with various restaurants because of the heavy influx of tourists all year round.

If you want a view of the sea at night (although you can't really see any good view at all in the evening because it's dark out there) or a feel of the ocean breeze, then dining at La Sirenetta or Sea Dive Resort is a perfect idea.

La Sirenetta's feel is more of laid back because of its ambiance while Sea Dive Restaurant is more hip because beside it is the Helldiver's Bar where you can play billiards and listen to good music while downing some beers with friends.

A word of caution though, don't get yourself too drunk because you wouldn't want to miss the island hopping the next day.

SECOND DAY: Island tour usually starts as early as 8:00 AM. Thus, it is expected for you to take your breakfast in your hotel at 7:00AM then prepare your things before your tour guide pick you up.

***Please be reminded that the Coron Loop tour can be customized but the Coron loop itinerary below is the most usual or common.***

1st stop: Siete Pecados. One of the best sites for snorkeling is the Siete Pecados. Siete Pecados or Seven Sins is a cluster of seven islets with rich marine life, abundant corals and fish of various species.

Urban Legend has it that Siete Pecados got its name because it was said that long time ago, there are seven stubborn sisters who disobeyed their parents and went swimming where they eventually met their demise. Well of course it's just an urban legend so nothing to be frightened about. =)

Most tourists love fish feeding but actually, fish feeding is bad for the fish and divers. Marine fish feeding disrupts the natural ecosystem. So yes, if your tour guide is knowledgeable enough and cares for the marine life, he won't even suggest you to feed the fish.

Here's more about marine fish feeding so you won't be tempted to feed the fish in Coron. Be a responsible tourist:

"Overall, feeding marine fish is a bad idea for everyone, including divers, fish and the ecosystem. Contrary to popular belief, fish have memories and can learn. Through behavioral conditioning, fed animals learn to associate people with a meal. When this happens, fish anticipate the hand-feeding experience and depend on handouts from divers... A fish conditioned to feed on diver deliveries may actually stop normal foraging patterns and become malnourished, stressed and can even die...Hand-feeding creates other ecological disturbances. These disturbances change community structure. Introducing a ration of food to a fish, even a ration of semi-natural food, is significant. By affecting the natural feeding behaviors, fish feeding can destabilize a number of ecological relationships including species abundance...Hand-feeding-induced attacks on humans do occur. Feeding wildlife can place people in harm's way."

Source: Florida Fish and WildlifeConservationCommission

So next time, before handing out food to the fish, think again.

Underwater life at Siete Pecados

2nd stop: Kayangan Lake. Kayangan Lake is said to be the cleanest lake in the Philippines so this site is definitely worth the visit. Before reaching the lake you need to trek a little (10 minutes) to get a great view of the Kayangan Bay. The Kayangan Bay is the most photographed view in Coron so it's actually hard to miss this spot, you'll recognize it the instant you see it. After reaching the top, you have to go down again to reach the turquoise lake.

There's a wooden platform at the Kayangan Lake which was made by the Tagbanuas, who are also the care takers of some of the islands in Coron. The wooden platform is the perfect place to rest or maybe get a tan, although this many not be an option because of the very inviting water.

There's a small cave at Kayangan Lake which is yet to be named but the small cave has spiky limestone rocks and a hole inside leading to the top where birds nests, the main ingredient for Bird's nest soup, can be found.

3rd stop: Lunch (Atwayan Beach, Kalachuchi Beach, Smith Beach, Banol Beach, 91 Beach) These are some of the places where you can have your lunch. In our case, we headed straight to Atwayan Beach. The place is very nice and not crowded.

This secluded island with few cottages and kalachuchi trees is just perfect for a tropical ambiance together with the freshly cooked buffet food that was cooked (in the boat during the tour) and served by our guide. We had inihaw na liempo, inihaw na isda (not sure if it's Bangus), sizzling pusit and inihaw na talong. I'm not really fond of eating when my clothes are wet but the food are simply irresistible, plus I'm too hungry after all the swimming.

It is best to have your lunch earlier before the place gets a little crowded at noon time, you'll also have plenty of time to swim and enjoy the clear water. Just a word of caution though, be wary of the fishes at Atwayan Beach, I don't want to generalize all the fishes there but a fish bit me while I was standing near our boat. I swam in the shallow part of the water and saw about two to three fishes (looks like white with a shade of yellow to me. Looks like a Smith's Damselfish) swimming. After a while I refrained from snorkeling and just stood there in the water. The water is thigh deep (I'm merely 5 feet) which is actually very shallow, all of a sudden I was startled when something bit me. I can't explain how the fish bit me but looks like I was bitten twice in just a matter of millisecond. True enough there are two circular swollen marks in my legs, same spot. Looks like inner circle and outer circle to me. Hehehe.

I'm not sure what kind of fish bit me, I was not even sure if it was the same fish I saw when I was snorkeling. Kuya Charlie, our tour guide, said that it was a territorial fish, but there are many kinds of territorial fishes so I'm not sure what it is to be specific so that fish is still wanted on my list. Hahaha.

Guess what, I even emailed and tweeted SEAFDEC (Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center) to ask for the types of territorial fishes that thrives in tropical countries and shallow waters. They were gracious enough to reply and gave me names and websites, but still, I can't identify what fish it was because I never saw the one that really bit me. I have a strong hunch that it is a Damselfish.

Anyway, this is not to scare away swimmers at Atwayan Beach, maybe the fish just feel like biting me. Let's say they are too selective. Hahaha.

4th stop: Skeleton Wreck. All boats are just anchored in the middle of the sea so you have to swim few meters to check out the Skeleton Wreck.

The wreck is actually 27 ft deep but you can see some parts of the ship's skeleton since the tip of the ship's wreck is only 10 feet deep. The wreck is really creepy but still very nice to capture with your under water camera. Funny that the song "My Heart Will Go On" keeps playing in my head while I was snorkeling near the wreck.

Outer lagoon

5th Stop: Twin Lagoon. As the name implies, Twin Lagoon consists of two lagoons (outer and inner).

The outer lagoon is where all the boats are docked and a wooden platform, like that of Kayangan Lake's, and a cottage was built by the Tagbanuas.

On the other hand, the inner lagoon will test your swimming skills as you need to swim into a small underwater cave to cross from one lagoon to another. There's actually a wooden stair that you can use if you are too scared to swim or if it's already high tide (the narrow entrance disappears when it's high tide) but the thrill of entering the little hole is part of the experience so I suggest you go for it.

Me swimming my way through the narrow cave entrance

Like the outer lagoon, the inner lagoon is also big that it's so hard to swim from end to end, not unless you are really a good swimmer. There's no wooden platform either where you can rest so your flippers will really be tested here. The water inside the lagoon is brackish (combination of salt and fresh water) so if you will look at the water clearly, it looks as if there's an oil in it. Don't worry, there's no oil, it just looks oily because of the combination of sea and fresh water.

I dared not go to the end of the inner lagoon because I am not a swimmer and I was told by Kuya Charlie that there are also territorial fishes there. Hehehe.

Inner lagoon

TRIVIA: Before entering the passage way to the inner lagoon, you will notice a big rock. This is where Marian Rivera, during her "Dyesebel" TV series, usually shoots. Check out the photo below, that's the famous rock.

6th stop: Twin Peaks. After the Twin Lagoon, head again to the other twin, which is the Twin Peaks.

In my opinion, Twin Peaks has a richer marine life than Siete Pecados, the corals and fishes are more colorful at Twin Peaks and there are less tourists too. We also saw a group of scuba divers at Twin Peaks which justifies the vast underwater life in the area.

What overjoyed me was seeing the Neon Tetra Fishes. The fishes were clustered together forming a line. They look like an army of fish, yes, that's an army not a school, because they look more like a troop of army because they barely move. They are so behaved and cute.

Sunset at Lualhati Park

7th stop: Sunset watching, Rest and Dinner. Upon reaching your hotel, wash up quickly then head straight to the Harbour Center to buy some hawker food for late merienda. Try their cheese waffle, mango shake, squid and fish balls among others, afterwards, head to Lualhati Park and admire the romantic sunset.

For dinner, you may try Bistro Coron's famous pizza then head to Cafe Coronzy for some dessert and coffee.

THIRD DAY: Third days are usually dedicated for beach hopping to the various white sand beaches of Coron. Malcapuya, Banana Island and Bulog Dos are some of the most famous and favorite places among tourists, especially for those who love to sun bathe and have a good swim.

However, if you want to experience seeing a sunken ship up close, then going for a different itinerary which is the Lusong Gunboat shipwreck, Pass Island and Coral Garden can be one of your options.

Since lounging in three different beaches for one whole day doesn't sound very exciting to us, we go for the water less swam.

Kuya Charlie, our tour guide, and the shipwreck

1st stop: Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck. Seeing a sunken ship up close that you can actually step on it is definitely a one of a kind experience. Never in my life have I imagined myself getting near a six decade old sunken ship. The thought of it actually creeps me out, but since the area where the ship sunk is not too deep and does not look eerie at all, I actually enjoyed the whole experience. In fact, the area where the gun boat sunk is very shallow that even while you are in your boat, you can still see the sunken ship below and take a picture of it.

Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck

Lusong Gunboat wreck is just one of the 12 shipwrecks that sunk in the Coron Bay during the World War II. It was said that from afar, the Americans thought that the ship was an island but when it moved, they started bombing the said ship causing it to sink.

When we went down our boat, a school of fishes excitedly welcomed us and joined us for a swim. They must be waiting for some pieces of bread from us. See how they become dependent on people? The fishes are so many that they can actually bite you to death easily so don't train them to be dependent on people. Scary. ^_^

The Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck has rich marine life so it is also one of the best places to scuba dive. If you want to step on the ship, make sure you are wearing flippers or sandals because the metal edges tend to be slippery and sharp.

Thousand of dilis at the Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck

2nd stop: Pass Island. The hammocks, coconut trees, native cottages surrounded by nothing but powdery white sand, azure sky and sea make Pass Island truly a perfect place for unwinding and taking a nap while waiting for the sun to cool down a little. There are few people in the island so you'll feel like you own the small island even for a half day only. This is where we had our lunch, took few minutes nap and swim.

3rd stop: Coral Garden. The name speaks for itself. Coral Garden is truly a garden full of corals of various shapes, colors and sizes. Table corals, assorted hard corals, Acropora, Cabbage coral and Brain coral to name a few. The water is so clear that even though you are in the boat you can already see clearly the corals below. Aside from corals, fish of various species are also abundant here.

View of corals from our boat

4th stop: Souvenir hunting and dinner. Say your thank you and goodbye to your tour guide and boatman. Tip is not mandatory but we did give them because of a job well done. You can spend your last night in Coron by hunting for souvenirs. There are only few souvenir shops in Coron so to save time head straight to Everly Garden Souvenir and Gift Shop for some pearls, key chains, ref magnets, shirts and native products of Coron. For cashew nuts, go to Coron Harvest, make sure to take home Bandi or sweetened cashew. For dinner, try Kawayanan Grill, Manneken Pis or The Old House.

FOURTH DAY: You can wake up late on your last day or if you are not yet fully satisfied with your pasalubongs, you can opt to go to the market and buy seafood like dried pusit and danggit. Your fourth day is actually the best time to relax in your hotel room while waiting for your airport service.

Sangat Island

No bones about it, Coron Palawan is truly a paradise for people who love underwater life. Four days are actually not enough to see the beautiful places and islands that Coron has to offer. If you have more time and budget, you can visit Calauit Safari Park where you can see zebras, giraffes and other animals freely roaming around the island's hills and plains and Culion Island, a former leper colony and where the first cure or treatment for leprosy was discovered. For honeymooners, Sangat Island is the perfect hideaway and definitely one of Coron's best kept secrets. Price may be a little steep but it is absolutely worth it.

WOULD GO BACK TO CORON SOON!!! 

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