justquirkyann

Imagine: turquoise waters lapping against pristine beaches, limestone cliffs rising majestically from the sea, and a sense of serenity that washes away all your worries. This wasn’t just a dream – it was our reality during our unforgettable escape to El Nido, Palawan in February 2024. Join us as we relive the magic of this island paradise, from breathtaking island hopping adventures to serene sunsets that painted the sky with a thousand colors.

Our island fever reached a fever pitch this past February, and where else to quench it but in the paradise that is El Nido, Palawan? We embarked on a short but action-packed trip from February 16th to 19th, 2024, ready to explore hidden coves, pristine beaches, and soak up the vibrant island sun.

A Change of Plans (and a Shoutout to Cebu Pacific!): Our journey began with a slight detour. Mother nature had other plans for our initial arrival in El Nido on the 16th. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we couldn’t land at the airport. But a huge shoutout to Cebu Pacific for their excellent customer service! They swiftly rescheduled our flight for the morning of the 17th, ensuring we got to El Nido safe and sound, albeit a little later than planned.

Landing in Puerto Princesa, we hopped on a 5 – 6 hour land travel to El Nido. Our home base for the trip was the conveniently located Marianne Suites Hotel in Sitio Cabugao, El Nido. The location was perfect – close enough to El Nido’s vibrant nightlife for those seeking evening entertainment, and with a bonus Samgyupsal restaurant right below the hotel! (Let’s be honest, a delicious Korean BBQ feast is never a bad way to start a vacation!)

While the beaches were undoubtedly the stars of the show, El Nido offered more than just stunning scenery. We explored the lively town center, indulging in local delicacies and soaking up the laid-back island atmosphere. One evening, we ventured out for a glimpse of El Nido’s nightlife, enjoying live music and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers.

Exploring El Nido on Two Wheels:

While the island hopping tour was a highlight, our free day on the 17th offered a chance to explore El Nido at our own pace. We opted to rent a motorcycle, the perfect way to navigate the island’s scenic coastal roads. Our journey led us to Lio Beach, a breathtaking stretch of white sand and turquoise water. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues, we witnessed a sunset so stunning it etched itself into our memories forever.

This unexpected detour from our planned itinerary turned out to be a blessing in disguise. We discovered the thrill of exploring El Nido on our own terms, stumbled upon a hidden gem of a sunset, and learned the valuable lesson of embracing the flexibility that travel often demands.

Island Hopping with a Twist:

With Tour A slightly modified, we set sail on the 18th, eager to discover the wonders that awaited. Our first stop was Shimizu Island, a paradise adorned with towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. We kayaked through the serene waters of Secret Lagoon, a hidden gem nestled amidst the cliffs, and marveled at the diverse marine life teeming around the coral reefs. Our island base for the tour, either Small Lagoon or Big Lagoon, offered a picture-perfect spot for relaxation and swimming – a welcome respite after a morning of exploration.

El Nido Farewell

Our short trip flew by, leaving us with a treasure trove of memories and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the Philippines. As we boarded the plane back home, we carried a piece of El Nido’s magic with us, already dreaming of our next island adventure.

Tips for Fellow Travelers:

• While El Nido is a popular tourist destination, it’s still a good idea to book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
• Be prepared for potential weather delays – having travel insurance can provide peace of mind.
• Pack for all kinds of activities – sunscreen (which I totally forgot to bring during the tour, dang it!), swimwear, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Don’t forget your sense of adventure! El Nido is a place to disconnect, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, if you’re looking for an escape to paradise, El Nido should definitely be on your travel bucket list!