They call it in the guide books: the outback of the Philippines. More and more tourists are coming here but it is still destination off the beaten track, the long island famous for the unspoiled nature, great beaches and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
To get there from Cebu I had a choice to take a ferry from Iloilo (like 36 hours, 770 peso, twice a week – I had to wait) or to fly to Puerto Princessa for 2000. Domestic flights are inexpensive in this country – I can recommend Cebu Pacific Air selling ticket in internet… Sorry, no free drinks or snacks on board.
An hour over the blue sea and I landed on Palawan. The airport is only 2 km from the city so I took junky tricycle pyk-pyk-pyk to Banwa Pension. This backpacker accommodation has a lot of atmosphere – many people sleep here. For single room with fan and shared bath they charge 350 peso.
Puerto Princessa is like main town on Palawan. You will find here nice blue cathedral. But for me the main attraction was the kampong on the shore – hundreds of wooden houses on the stilts. It has shops, eateries, laundries… I was wondering there alone accompanied by local kids only, looking the real life. Fantastic experience!
