Palawan back to Manila

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The night previous to travelling to Palawan the group went on another bender in Boracay, minus ourselves - either we are boring or sensible!
We knew we had an eventful half day of boats, jeepnees and planes ahead, unbearable for some seeing the state they were in😱
All went pretty smooth, apart from the having to unpack all our luggage on the runway due to our western body weights hitting the kg limit alone. Understandable when you look at the size of the plane!

Finally we arrived at El Rio Y Mar. All bad thoughts of luggage arrival and hangovers were wiped clean when we saw the resort - it really hits all expectations and more! The welcome singing brought tears to many. Again, really made to feel special. Seems to be the warm Philippino way.

Our cottages were amazing, fresh flowers everywhere. We took a walk up the hills bordering the resort (see the photos) and got some great panoramic views of the area, we really were in the middle of nowhere. Spent lots of time by the pool and snorkeling, though alas we didn't see the dugongs... much to Steve's disappointment!

A nice boat trip around Coron island with all the amazing lakes tucked behind the rock islands. One was a little challenging to get to, having to dive under some rocks. Emma chopped herself up whilst I lost all vision (well my contact lenses!).

After all this relaxing, still we could have stayed there a lot longer, it was time to get back in the very small plane and head back to cloudy Manila. Sad to leave this place, and we think the staff were also sad to see us leave. We were as much entertainment to them as they to us. Normally this island resort is more of a couple get away (they even do a deserted island, for those who want to tick "on a beach" of their list!), so we think having a group to drink and laugh with was a holiday for the staff too😊.

We had a final meal, again courtesy of the Claveria's relatives. One thing that we will always associate with the Philippines is how generous not only family members are, but everyone towards anyone. The Philippines is definitely a place we want to visit again, such amazing friendly people giving everything when they have nothing to give.

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Photos

Welcome!
A really warm welcome from all the staff at El Rio Y Mar

Mangrove plant
One lone little mangrove plant making a bid for freedom on the beach outside our cottage

Infinity pool
The swimming pool at El Rio was amazing

Kayangan Lake
We climbed up over the surrounding rocks to discover this lake, it was like a scene from The Beach, beautiful warm clear waters

Hills overlooking Busuanga and Coron
We took an early morning hike (vertical ascent!) to the top of these hills for amazing views of the surrounding islands

Tiny Plane!
Maybe this is why Palawan is so lovely and quiet - the plane ride was an experience to say the least!

Comments

[Cresce]

Ahhh Wow!
Hey guys.... so enjoyed reading your blogs... you have taken some amazing photo's which I'm gona have to nick from you! Hope all is well with you both and we did have such an amazing holiday..... looking forward to reading more from you... love lots and lots, Cresce xx

[Marco]

Philippines
Enjoyed reading your blog... Red Horse, balut, beaches and comfort rooms. That's the Philippines for you. Be back soon, there are 7000 more islands to discover. And, fyi, the author of "The Beach" actually got his inspiration while he was in El Nido, in Northern Palawan. That might be your next pit stop.

[Adele]

So jealous
As I'm sat with a year 10 class I'm so incredibly jealous of you guys!!!! Photos look great and I probably will have to avoid looking for a few days as it's making me miserable. Looking forward to hearing more tales of your travels, wish I was there!!! Take care Adele x