Placid Paradise: Puerto Princesa Palawan
The waves of noise from the bustling metropolis made me long for a worry-free getaway. Fortunately, I didn't have to repine for forever because I got the chance to visit Puerto Princesa in Palawan.
Knowing Palawan as one of the most sought-after travel destination in the world, who am I to resist the call of its charms? Although the brevity of my getaway hindered me to explore El Nido, another must-visit destination in Palawan, my sweet escape in Puerto Princesa made me see different hues of life. In a span of two nights and two days, here are the places in Puerto Princesa that made my heart skip.
My colleague and I visited one of the most popular tourists' attractions in Puerto Princesa. After almost an hour of traveling via public vehicles (jeepney, tricycle), we were able to witness the grandeur of Baker's Hill.
Life-sized statues, fascinating flora and fauna, and freshly-baked goods are some of the things that await any tourists who set foot in Baker's Hill. Few details such as its history are available online about the attraction. However, it became popular for good reasons. The place is a fresh idea of what makes a good park. Apart from its infamous hopia, its landscape and architecture are a sight to behold. Baker's Hill is a perfect wonderland for tourists and locals in Puerto Princesa.
It was my first time to see a living peacock in Baker's Hill!
Going places is something that I consider as a good way of rewinding. However, it takes quite an effort to look for a safe and good place to stay in especially if you haven't been to the destination of your choice.
That's exactly what I went through when we visited Puerto Princesa. Both of us haven't been to Palawan and while the idea of traveling gave us an undeniable sense of adventure, we would be hypocrites if we'd deny our nervousness. Fortunately, a week before flying to Puerto Princesa, I was able to secure a place for us to stay in. I must have done something really good because it was such a good deal.
I booked a room for us to stay in Bamboo Hostel. From its name, it is a hostel mostly made out of bamboo. Even though I have researched thoroughly about the place, I wasn't expecting that much. I do know how online reviews can sometimes be misleading. Nevertheless, we went for Bamboo Hostel and we were not disappointed.
For a very affordable price, we were able to stay in Bamboo Hostel for a couple of days. Free breakfast was included in our stay which we enjoyed while being close to nature and with a book at hand. The hostel offers a good area suitable for worthwhile activities such as reading, chatting with the other backpackers, or something as simple as enjoying a cup of joe. Bamboo Hostel also offers exciting tours.
I love the fact that they have an artsy way of promoting love nature by painting their tables.
I also love how they welcome their guests. I was surprised to see my name on a board right at the hostel's entrance.
With the help of the internet, I was able to find Gypsy's Lair Art Cafe. The cafe truly lives up to its name. With its gypsy-inspired interiors and food selections, one shouldn't miss out the hip of the cafe. Looking at every nook of Gypsy's is synonymous with exploring a sea of curiosities. The art weaved in every detail of the establishment is magnified to its fullest purpose. It will leave you gnawing with wonder.
Is there a better place to wait for 4 hours before your airplane flight takes place? I couldn't think of a better way other than chilling in Gypsy's.
The highlight of my quick getaway is when my colleague and I availed for a firefly watching tour in one of El Nido's aquatic bliss. I have never seen a living firefly my whole life. I've read about their luminous allure in books and on the internet, but we all know how exhilarating would it be to see them live.
For a little less than $25, we were able to witness the magnificence of thousand breathing stars as we quietly explore a placid river. We do not have the proper camera to capture such idyllic scene, but I have zero regrets and sadness. After all, the most beautiful things in life cannot be seen by one's' naked eye.
We just sat quietly in our Lilliputian boat. The moon above us humbled herself as it listens to the silent brood of the river. Happiness flowed like honey in my heart as I look around and watch the river tattoo the mountains and the moon in its body. At that moment, the only thing that lits up the lush part of the river are the fireflies.
Our tour guide told us that fireflies do not live long after they've fulfilled their purpose in life which is to reproduce. I sat and embraced my wistful thoughts whilst she continued her fair share of knowledge. Then a thought plunges into my mind like a stone on a placid water: as humans, we do not live just to reproduce. We dream, we revolutionize, we aspire, we love, we live. And aren't we all fireflies who shine the brightest when darkness wraps us?
The next morning, I left Puerto Princesa along with a promise: to shine the brightest.
love lots,
Tin
