Aloha Palawan: A Weekend in Puerto Princesa + New Things to Do
Summer came earlier this year as Air Asia flew me to one of the best islands in the world, Palawan. The trip was dubbed #AlohaPalawan. I was looking forward to the event/trip as I expect it to be a very relaxed trip, the exact opposite of the recent adventures that I took part in several weeks ago.
Clark to Puerto Princesa via Air Asia
I have been to Palawan several times, but it was my first time in Puerto Princesa. It was also my first time to fly from Clark, Pampanga to Puerto Princesa. The flight time was short of 2 hours, but it was a comfortable flight in which Mae and I used to catch up.
If you guys are wondering how to get to Clark International Aiport from Manila, check out this very helpful guide by PoorTraveler.
During our boarding process, I was held by the Air Asia staff. It appears that my luggage was not properly secured and locked, and they alerted the gate staff to remind me so I can check and lock it before they load it in the plane. Thank you, Air Asia!
Clark International Airport is 3 hours away from Manila. I know there are news that they are planning to move domestic flights in Clark. I somehow hate the idea. I know how crazy traffic can be in NAIA but I still prefer to fly from Manila airports.
Clark Side Trip: If you guys are coming from Manila to Clark, you may want to dine in at these two restaurants: Matam-Ih Authentic Kapampangan Cuisine and 25 Seeds.
Matam-Ih Authentic Kapampangan Cuisine serves really good Filipino food. If you are in luck, you would get the chance to hear the 3 talented locals who perform song medleys. They were amazing!
While dining in 25 Seeds is like visiting a relative’s home. The mansion was said to be built in 1920s, abandoned, and later on renovated and designed by resident chef, Sau del Rosario. 25 Seeds offers farm-to-table dishes that Chef Sau crafted with the authentic Kampangpangan flavors.
Where We Stayed: The Hue Hotel
We arrived in Puerto Princesa past 8 in the evening and we were dropped off at the hippest hotel in Puerto Princesa – the Hue Hotel. It is only 30-minute drive from the airport and is just right beside Robinson’s Mall.
We were welcomed with the usual drinks, cold towels and a performance by the locals. This neat and hip boutique hotel was our home for 2 days in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. I love its spacious lobby with interesting patterns of different designs and hues.
I shared room with @karlaaroundtheworld in a Deluxe Room with cable TV, safety deposit box, high-speed internet and complimentary bottled water. I love how Hue Hotel separated the toilet and shower room (will write a separate post about the hotel).
The #AlohaPalawan Crew made sure that we were ready for the sweet escape. They left some goodies and notes in our hotel room (we didn’t get the Sour Cream & Onion Banana Chips though).
😭😭😭😁😁😁
If you would ask me, I am okay to stay in Hue Hotel. I love the pool!
Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa?
Matiz Restaurant and Tapas Bar
A good food is always a part of a good vacation. We didn’t need to go far to enjoy different cuisines and flavors while we were in Puerto Princesa. A quick visit Hue Hotel’s outlet restaurant, Matiz Restaurant and Tapas Bar gave us a taste of Spanish, American, Vietnam and Filipino Food.
On our first night, we had a Spanish Themed Dinner.
I want these bulbs for my home
We asked @mayoilagan to sing for us that night 😁
We all requested for a plate of rice and soon after, they served us the Paella
Tapas
Yes, we love good food and good chicka
Filipino Food waiting for us after our camping in Inaladelan Island
Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa | Golden Elephant
Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa is one of the popular resorts in Puerto Princesa where the Golden Elephant Restaurant is housed. We feasted on authentic Thai food but my favorites are Grilled Pork Ribs with Honey and Deep Fried Lapu-lapu with 5 Kinds of Herbs.
We went at night but I am guessing, it is a perfect spot for shoot during daytime.
Getting Around Puerto Princesa
There are buses and vans that tourists can take to go around Puerto Princesa. For a more comfortable ride and package tours, you can check Amika Travel and Tours.
New Things to Do in Puerto Princesa
Check out the Biggest Inflatable Playground in Asia | Kamia Bay Resort
If you think that you have already experienced everything in Puerto Princesa, well, the biggest Inflatable Playground in Asia is waiting for you – the AquaPlay Park.
Located in Kamia Bay Resort in Binusalian Bay, the site is only 45-minute drive from the city proper. Kamia Bay Resort offers a balance of relaxing view and thrilling adventures for friends and family.
They wanted us to write down our #hugot and forget about the negative feelings. But I don’t have hugot that day.
Although I have set my mind to just chill and enjoy the beach, I had to gear up and explore the Inflatable Playground.
It was actually my first time to try the Inflatable Playground and it reminded me of the time when I was younger and carefree. I didn’t miss the 40-feet high inflatable slide. Two rounds in the fun slide and I already got my dose of adventure.
But for those who are set to greater heights and dips, do not miss the human launcher, over-sized trampolines and various floating obstacle courses. The resort also offers water sports like kayaking and jet ski. There is also a bike trail that you may explore during a day-tour.
That’s me and @pinoytravelfreak trying out the slide
@thomascaja trying out the Human Launcher
Here’s what was waiting for us after the adventure.
Life is good, indeed!
Here are the Aqua Park Rates:
Aqua Play: Introductory rate of Php 788 per person inclusive of a one-hour aqua park pass, eco tour, and buffet lunch
Aqua Play Adventure: Introductory rate of Php 1,188 per person inclusive of one-hour aqua park pass, eco tour, buffet lunch, and roundtrip transfer
Aqua Play Unli: Introductory Rate of Php 1,788 per person inclusive of unlimited aqua park pass, eco tour, and buffet lunch
Aqua Adventure Unlimited: Introductory rate of Php 1,788 inclusive of unlimited aqua park pass, eco tour, buffet lunch, and roundtrip transfer
Exploring the inflatable playground is like being a kid once again – but it is a lot more challenging. You need strength, skills and a sense of balance. It is very safe though, with instructors and life guards in every spot. The life vest is equipped with a whistle which you can use when you need help (remember Rose in Titanic?).
I highly recommend that girls wear something that is secured (like a rash guard and tight bikini). They won’t allow shorts with buttons or zipper. I came unprepared but thankfully, I didn’t get seriously injured. Just a few scratches that I am hopeful Lucas Papaw Ointment can cure.
Ready for the adventure?
Check out Amika Main Office in Puerto Princesa to book a slot.
Camping at Inaladelan Island, Palawan
If you want to escape from the city and the crowded beaches, I think we found the perfect private island for you – the Inaladelan Island. I am so excited to go back to this place especially after the announcement of Boracay’s Closure for Island Rehabilitation.
It may take a long drive to get to the exotic island. But just like any great treasure, it is hidden in a beautiful site via the Port Barton. Inaladelan Island is just 3-hours land travel and 30-minute boat ride from Puerto Princesa, where the main international airport is located (nearer than El Nido).
When we arrived in Inaladelan Island (also known as German Island), it was like conquering a new world. We were welcomed with fresh buko juice and upbeat sound that screams tropical days.
The island is an unspoiled spot that is perfect for day tour or camping (learn more about camping with Oudoor with J). There is no better words to describe the 12-hectare property but “white sand, deep blue sea and the tropical experience”.
Finally got to meet the Poor Traveler(s)
The island is decorated with hammocks, wooden beach chairs, swings and an island bar that sells snacks and drinks. There is also a covered pavilion that guests can use for holding functions or meetings. The pavilion also serves as a charging station from 5 pm to 12 midnight.
There’s a restroom with water. Do not, however, expect a bathtub.
You can snorkel, swim with sea turtles (or if you lucky, catch them during hatch season in January), or just plain waste your time doing nothing.
Food is prepared fresh and with flair by the resident chef.
At night we had a feast via boodle fight before we were treated to a fire dance show.
The morning after
For the curious cats, here are the Inaladelan Island Rates:
Day Tour: Php 1,500 / person minimum of 5 pax.
Includes round trip boat transfers, entrance fee, lunch and light snack
Overnight Camping Rate: Php 2,500 / person minimum of 2 pax.
Includes 2 days 1 night stay, round trip boat transfers, camping tent with foam bed and pillow, dinner and breakfast, 1 hour free use of kayak
Walk-in Entrance Fee: Php 100 / person.
Inclusive of island entrance fee, access to the beach, swimming and use of hammocks. Boat transfers and meals not included.
Website: Inaladelanisland.com
It is a beautiful place to get lost and disconnect – and reconnect with yourself
(please wait for a separate post about my camping experience) ❤️
Follow the adventures #AlohaPalawan
Thank you once again to the #AlohaPalawan Team for taking care of us and for the super fun weekend!
Check out this video guys!
I just want to give a quick shout out to the following:
✈ AirAsia
📷 TPL Digital and Media Aloha Palawan
📍Kamia Bay Resort & Inaladelan Island Resort
🏨 Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa
🚙 Amika Travel and Tours
🍴Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa (The Golden Elephant Seafood Village)
👚 Laag PH
‘Til the next sweet escape!
Follow me @ruthilicious
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