I have no plans of blogging this week. I'm battling my deadliest deadline for the documentation project. While trying my best to apply my cramming skills, I'm really tested by my laziness hormones. Added to this some personal issues I have to endure. But somewhere along the way, someone made me the happiest!

I received one of the best gifts from the blogosphere! You don't often encounter a very kind and generous blogger. 

Thank you Leah!

And to all the pearl enthusiasts reading this, please visit Leah's blog here. She is currently hosting a bid for a great piece of Saltwater Pearls from Palawan. You can directly access her ebay listing here.

• May 30, 2014
• friends

Thank you Leah!

I have no plans of blogging this week. I'm battling my deadliest deadline for the documentation project. While trying my best to apply my cramming skills, I'm really tested by my laziness hormones. Added to this some personal issues I have to endure. But somewhere along the way, someone made me the happiest!

I received one of the best gifts from the blogosphere! You don't often encounter a very kind and generous blogger. 

Thank you Leah!

And to all the pearl enthusiasts reading this, please visit Leah's blog here. She is currently hosting a bid for a great piece of Saltwater Pearls from Palawan. You can directly access her ebay listing here.

Read More

As I was browsing my travel series for Palawan, I realized that I forgot to blog this first hand experience.

Call it as a shallow achievement but it took me years to finally experience and learn how to kayak.

I never had plans of learning how to kayak. However, my boss was a very persistent adventure buddy. He insisted that I try. How could I say no if it becomes an order from the boss? ;)

My first taste of kayaking happened on our second day in Palawan. While everyone was waiting for breakfast to be served, the boss was asking for kayak companions. It was another male colleague who joined him first. All the while, I thought I was already relieved. Minutes later, my colleague passed to me the huge and heavy paddle. I don't want to be the biggest KJ (killed joy) in this expensive and probably, once in a lifetime trip. Hence, I dipped in the cold waters of Kubo sa Dagat and there, the photo above made it.

Of my short lived kayaking experience, here are a few reasons why I learned to love it.

1. I discovered an alternative for swimming. To begin with, I never had formal swimming lessons. In effect, I'm always afraid to move away from the shore. I don't swim in areas that my feet can't reach. When I learned how to kayak, I discovered another way to reach the middle of the sea. I don't have to exhaust my lungs for the breathing techniques I never learned.

2. I can reach places. If I will rely to my self-learned swimming skill, it would take me a lifetime to move away from the shore. Kayaking offered me a faster and better alternative to experience the sea.

3. It's a great form of exercise. I've been wishing for an exercise that wouldn't make me feel that I'm torturing myself. Kayaking gave me this opportunity. As I paddle my way to reach places, my upper extremities received it much needed exercise. The continuous paddling made my arms feel tired once in a while, but I was surprised of my fast recovery.

And of the few days I ventured to kayaking, here are some things I learned.

1. Even though you can't swim, you can still kayak. Swimming is not a requirement for recreational kayak. As long as you have an expert companion and a life vest, you can take the challenge. Though in my photo, I was brave enough to forget my lifevest. :)

2. Choose the still water. Beginners like me are encouraged to start their kayaking adventures in still water. It supports stability and removes your fear of losing your balance.

3. Being able to balance your body is one of keys to a successful kayak adventure. Though balancing in a kayak is not as demanding as riding a bike. I have to say that because I never learned to bike. Hence, balancing my body against another sporting equipment was never in my vocabulary. Surprisingly, my kayak adventure didn't require me to achieve that perfectly balanced sitting stance. Sitting up straight, having stretched and relaxed legs, leaving body weight from the waist to hips and leaning against the seat are the key points in finding your balance.

4. Paddles and direction are inversely related. If your direction is leaning to the right, paddle from your left side. A forward movement means that paddle should move backward and vice versa.

5. Aside from balance, having the right grip of the paddles is another major challenge. The paddles are designed to be a bit heavy. Paddling demands having stretched and relaxed arms. So how do you have relaxed arms with a heavy rod that needs to be constantly moved? In my case, I have to stop paddling once in a while to rest my tired arms. The technique to survive the paddling requirements is to have a male companion who has stronger and firmer arm muscles. haha

6. The most important requirement, NEVER PANIC! Relax and enjoy the scenery. In case you feel that you will soon lose grip and balance, remember that you have your life vest.

If given the chance, I want to regularly engage myself in this activity. But before that, I have to remember the reality that I can never bring Palawan in Manila. So I guess, I really have to stick with jogging again .. sigh

• April 29, 2013
• life

I learned something new in Palawan

As I was browsing my travel series for Palawan, I realized that I forgot to blog this first hand experience.

Call it as a shallow achievement but it took me years to finally experience and learn how to kayak.

I never had plans of learning how to kayak. However, my boss was a very persistent adventure buddy. He insisted that I try. How could I say no if it becomes an order from the boss? ;)

My first taste of kayaking happened on our second day in Palawan. While everyone was waiting for breakfast to be served, the boss was asking for kayak companions. It was another male colleague who joined him first. All the while, I thought I was already relieved. Minutes later, my colleague passed to me the huge and heavy paddle. I don't want to be the biggest KJ (killed joy) in this expensive and probably, once in a lifetime trip. Hence, I dipped in the cold waters of Kubo sa Dagat and there, the photo above made it.

Of my short lived kayaking experience, here are a few reasons why I learned to love it.

1. I discovered an alternative for swimming. To begin with, I never had formal swimming lessons. In effect, I'm always afraid to move away from the shore. I don't swim in areas that my feet can't reach. When I learned how to kayak, I discovered another way to reach the middle of the sea. I don't have to exhaust my lungs for the breathing techniques I never learned.

2. I can reach places. If I will rely to my self-learned swimming skill, it would take me a lifetime to move away from the shore. Kayaking offered me a faster and better alternative to experience the sea.

3. It's a great form of exercise. I've been wishing for an exercise that wouldn't make me feel that I'm torturing myself. Kayaking gave me this opportunity. As I paddle my way to reach places, my upper extremities received it much needed exercise. The continuous paddling made my arms feel tired once in a while, but I was surprised of my fast recovery.

And of the few days I ventured to kayaking, here are some things I learned.

1. Even though you can't swim, you can still kayak. Swimming is not a requirement for recreational kayak. As long as you have an expert companion and a life vest, you can take the challenge. Though in my photo, I was brave enough to forget my lifevest. :)

2. Choose the still water. Beginners like me are encouraged to start their kayaking adventures in still water. It supports stability and removes your fear of losing your balance.

3. Being able to balance your body is one of keys to a successful kayak adventure. Though balancing in a kayak is not as demanding as riding a bike. I have to say that because I never learned to bike. Hence, balancing my body against another sporting equipment was never in my vocabulary. Surprisingly, my kayak adventure didn't require me to achieve that perfectly balanced sitting stance. Sitting up straight, having stretched and relaxed legs, leaving body weight from the waist to hips and leaning against the seat are the key points in finding your balance.

4. Paddles and direction are inversely related. If your direction is leaning to the right, paddle from your left side. A forward movement means that paddle should move backward and vice versa.

5. Aside from balance, having the right grip of the paddles is another major challenge. The paddles are designed to be a bit heavy. Paddling demands having stretched and relaxed arms. So how do you have relaxed arms with a heavy rod that needs to be constantly moved? In my case, I have to stop paddling once in a while to rest my tired arms. The technique to survive the paddling requirements is to have a male companion who has stronger and firmer arm muscles. haha

6. The most important requirement, NEVER PANIC! Relax and enjoy the scenery. In case you feel that you will soon lose grip and balance, remember that you have your life vest.

If given the chance, I want to regularly engage myself in this activity. But before that, I have to remember the reality that I can never bring Palawan in Manila. So I guess, I really have to stick with jogging again .. sigh

Read More

On our last day in Palawan, we were off to our last island hopping adventure. I told you, Palawan never runs out of islands to be experienced. 

We left Kubo sa Dagat early in the morning and docked off towards the main road. We traveled by land for more than an hour. It was almost a smooth sailing ride except for the humps and bumps along the road. There were roads waiting to be developed. I hope the local government of Palawan will do their share. Palawan is to beautiful to be tainted by poor infrastructures.

After a not-so-smooth land travel, we took the final boat to our destination.

According to our tourist guide, this docking site was built by the management of the high-end Club Paradise Resort. However, tourists and other local boatmen also benefited from this initiative. This became our entry point to our last island adventure.


I just have to say that I love this dock off point. I love the uneven wooden bridge, the small boats, the atmosphere of the refreshing water and the view of the greeneries.  It would have been nicer if I had my photo taken in this site. 

This is another part of the dock site. I believe that the white metal bar holds the rope of the docked boats. My weird imagination tells me that the metal bar could have been nicer if it became a fake mailbox or a bird's house. If I will build my own vacation house, I wanted my backyard to have the same scenery.

The journey to our last destination was already a treat.  

We were mesmerized by the Decalachao River (Mangrove River).

The trees in the background form the unending mangroves of the Decalachao River. If only my camera has excellent zooming capacity, you will really appreciate the abundance of mangroves.

Decalachao River in Coron

So this is how I define peace and tranquility

The entire trip became a showcase of what seems to be an infinity of mangroves.

According to some of my colleagues, the stretch of mangroves in this area is longer than Bohol's Loboc River. I haven't been to Bohol so I can't really tell. In the future, let's hope that I will be given the chance to see and compare with Bohol.

We landed to our last destination after a 30-minute boat ride. 

The sand here may not be perfectly white but it uniquely feels so fine, soft and smooth. It's like stepping on a thick icing of a cake. ;)

It still managed to have the perfect crystal clear water of Palawan.

Here's a clearer proof

I can perfectly see my feet.

 My imagination tells me that the huge rock formation here is a giant chocolate crinkles haha

I didn't swim this time because my face is already aching from all the sunburns.

This is life! 

We stayed in this area until lunch time. My colleagues wanted to stay longer and spent the entire afternoon swimming. Unfortunately, the area was flooded with small jellyfishes. We don't want to risk anything so we left the place so early. Most of us opted to kayak to avoid possible injuries from the jellyfishes.

If you are staying at Kubo sa Dagat, this island is automatically a part of their island hopping tour. Unlike the Banol Beach, this area provides a two-storey house equipped with electricity, water supply, shower room, toilet cubicles, dining area and bedrooms. So even though you don't have intentions of swimming, you can still enjoy the place.

Since I work for a Catholic institution, we were required to attend the regular Sunday mass. Our company President who happens to be a priest officiated a Holy Mass in this beautiful chapel.

Some bloggers identified this as the Malbato Church. Some mentioned that it's St. Vincent Ferrer Chapel. What I know for sure is that the Reyes Family, the same family who owns Kubo sa Dagat, built this chapel for the residents.

Before you reach this beautifully mosaiced chapel, you have to survive this path

The entire chapel was made from fragments of different  bricks. Here's a closer look of the chapel's intricate detailing

 Amazing!

The chapel's altar is made of locally produced materials.

The intricate brick detailing is everywhere

And even the floor tiles

This ends my travel posts for Palawan adventures. :)

Despite the allergies, costs and all those tedious preparations, my Palawan experience was all worth it. If given the chance, I will surely come back in the near future.

Till my next travel adventure!

• April 23, 2013
• Palawan

Travel Diaries - Last post for Palawan

On our last day in Palawan, we were off to our last island hopping adventure. I told you, Palawan never runs out of islands to be experienced. 

We left Kubo sa Dagat early in the morning and docked off towards the main road. We traveled by land for more than an hour. It was almost a smooth sailing ride except for the humps and bumps along the road. There were roads waiting to be developed. I hope the local government of Palawan will do their share. Palawan is to beautiful to be tainted by poor infrastructures.

After a not-so-smooth land travel, we took the final boat to our destination.

According to our tourist guide, this docking site was built by the management of the high-end Club Paradise Resort. However, tourists and other local boatmen also benefited from this initiative. This became our entry point to our last island adventure.


I just have to say that I love this dock off point. I love the uneven wooden bridge, the small boats, the atmosphere of the refreshing water and the view of the greeneries.  It would have been nicer if I had my photo taken in this site. 

This is another part of the dock site. I believe that the white metal bar holds the rope of the docked boats. My weird imagination tells me that the metal bar could have been nicer if it became a fake mailbox or a bird's house. If I will build my own vacation house, I wanted my backyard to have the same scenery.

The journey to our last destination was already a treat.  

We were mesmerized by the Decalachao River (Mangrove River).

The trees in the background form the unending mangroves of the Decalachao River. If only my camera has excellent zooming capacity, you will really appreciate the abundance of mangroves.

Decalachao River in Coron

So this is how I define peace and tranquility

The entire trip became a showcase of what seems to be an infinity of mangroves.

According to some of my colleagues, the stretch of mangroves in this area is longer than Bohol's Loboc River. I haven't been to Bohol so I can't really tell. In the future, let's hope that I will be given the chance to see and compare with Bohol.

We landed to our last destination after a 30-minute boat ride. 

The sand here may not be perfectly white but it uniquely feels so fine, soft and smooth. It's like stepping on a thick icing of a cake. ;)

It still managed to have the perfect crystal clear water of Palawan.

Here's a clearer proof

I can perfectly see my feet.

 My imagination tells me that the huge rock formation here is a giant chocolate crinkles haha

I didn't swim this time because my face is already aching from all the sunburns.

This is life! 

We stayed in this area until lunch time. My colleagues wanted to stay longer and spent the entire afternoon swimming. Unfortunately, the area was flooded with small jellyfishes. We don't want to risk anything so we left the place so early. Most of us opted to kayak to avoid possible injuries from the jellyfishes.

If you are staying at Kubo sa Dagat, this island is automatically a part of their island hopping tour. Unlike the Banol Beach, this area provides a two-storey house equipped with electricity, water supply, shower room, toilet cubicles, dining area and bedrooms. So even though you don't have intentions of swimming, you can still enjoy the place.

Since I work for a Catholic institution, we were required to attend the regular Sunday mass. Our company President who happens to be a priest officiated a Holy Mass in this beautiful chapel.

Some bloggers identified this as the Malbato Church. Some mentioned that it's St. Vincent Ferrer Chapel. What I know for sure is that the Reyes Family, the same family who owns Kubo sa Dagat, built this chapel for the residents.

Before you reach this beautifully mosaiced chapel, you have to survive this path

The entire chapel was made from fragments of different  bricks. Here's a closer look of the chapel's intricate detailing

 Amazing!

The chapel's altar is made of locally produced materials.

The intricate brick detailing is everywhere

And even the floor tiles

This ends my travel posts for Palawan adventures. :)

Despite the allergies, costs and all those tedious preparations, my Palawan experience was all worth it. If given the chance, I will surely come back in the near future.

Till my next travel adventure!

Read More

I now officially consider Palawan as one of the best places I've been. If given the chance to repeat the entire experience, I'll definitely say yes even with the threats of allergies. Palawan is just so beautiful to be missed out.

As mentioned in my previous post, Palawan is comprised of different beautiful islands. So obviously, the best activity in Palawan is island hopping! My second day in Palawan was literally spent in the sea and a few islands. Here are some pictures that showcase my entire island hopping experience.

Ship Wreck's Site

Aside from the clear blue water and rock formations, you can see a huge ship that has been submerged before WWII in Palawan. We were told that it was a Japanese war ship that ended up sinking in this site. Over time, corals thrived in the ship and made it as a permanent part of the sea. I tried snorkeling in this area and saw a fraction of the wrecked ship. It was quite scary. The ship looked like a blackhole that will eat me up anytime :) 

A piece of reminder though, it is within this area that I felt something stinging on my legs. Just be observant and ask your guide to which area is best to swim and snorkel. 

Our main destination is the Kayangan Lake. We were transported by Kubo sa Dagat's reliable motorboat. This was what welcomed us to Kayangan Lake.

 Who could not appreciate this piece of beauty on earth?

I love the experience when our boat have to cross between each rock formation..

Off we dock!

After some walking and hiking, I was treated with this spectacular view of Coron

An entire stay in Coron Palawan will never be complete without an aerial shot of the Kayangan Lake. By all means, ensure that you have a photo in this site if you have intentions of visiting Palawan.

However, you have to exert some minor climbing to reach this area. So before the trip, be sure that your legs are prepared and well exercised.

After hiking this picture perfect angle, we hiked again for our swim

Please don't ever miss this place in case you will be visiting Palawan. The water is crystal clear and as you look above, you will be mesmerized by the towering rock formations. The water's temperature is perfect and the area is free from the frightening waves of the sea. Even though you don't know how to swim, the area is safe and protected. Just don't forget to wear your lifevest. :) 

A little warning though, some parts have rock formations that might scratch or bump your legs. They are usually found in the shallow areas together with some underwater plants, which I believed caused my minor allergies. 

Amidst the towering rock formations, I saw a cave as we hike the swimming area. I didn't bother to get inside but even the rock formations inside reflect the magnificent works of nature.

After our short swim at the Kayangan Lake, we headed back to our motorboat for lunch. Our tour guide brought us to the Banol Beach.

On the way for lunch, I was really mesmerized by the crystal clear waters of Palawan.

There's no way you can experience this in the city.

You can see the surface of the water.

Here's another proof of how crystal clear is the water of Palawan 

 Priceless! I really hope that this gets preserved and protected. 

We had our lunch in this small kubo (nipa hut).

No one wanted to leave this haven that we discovered. Everyone was enjoying swimming, kayaking and some just took advantage enjoying the view. All good things must come to an end so we left the place with a heavy heart. :) Our tourist guide later brought us to another piece of heaven on earth

This is Palawan's Twin Lagoon!

The perfect rock formation is the first thing that will amaze anyone. However, the real thrill of the Twin Lagoon is a hollow area, where you can swim beneath the towering rock formations. If you have surpassed the lagoon, you will end up seeing the opposite side of this rock formation. The water in the opposite side is said to have a cooler temperature that is very ideal for a summer swim. 

Unfortunately, we failed to try the challenge of swimming inside the lagoon. We came in late and the area was already exhibiting high tide. As an alternative though, you can use the improvised wooden ladder to reach the opposite side of the lagoon.You can see the real twin lagoon experience in this site.

After the Twin Lagoon, we went to Siete Pecados, the best snorkeling site in Palawan. Unfortunately, I failed to take pictures in this adventure. Why? For one, the area is all about water and no piece of island at all. All you can do is snorkel and I don't have an underwater camera to document the experience. We only stayed in the area for a few minutes. The water may not be crystal clear but the sight of the all the underwater creatures compensate. So far, Siete Pecados form my best snorkeling experience. It's just so bad that I don't have anything to prove it. :(

After a long day of island hopping, we want back to Kubo sa Dagat tired and hungry. I took my most awaited bath and slept early after my longest island hopping experience.

PS My Palawan experience is not yet over. I still have one post to go. :)

• April 22, 2013
• Palawan

Travel Diaries - Island Hopping in Palawan

I now officially consider Palawan as one of the best places I've been. If given the chance to repeat the entire experience, I'll definitely say yes even with the threats of allergies. Palawan is just so beautiful to be missed out.

As mentioned in my previous post, Palawan is comprised of different beautiful islands. So obviously, the best activity in Palawan is island hopping! My second day in Palawan was literally spent in the sea and a few islands. Here are some pictures that showcase my entire island hopping experience.

Ship Wreck's Site

Aside from the clear blue water and rock formations, you can see a huge ship that has been submerged before WWII in Palawan. We were told that it was a Japanese war ship that ended up sinking in this site. Over time, corals thrived in the ship and made it as a permanent part of the sea. I tried snorkeling in this area and saw a fraction of the wrecked ship. It was quite scary. The ship looked like a blackhole that will eat me up anytime :) 

A piece of reminder though, it is within this area that I felt something stinging on my legs. Just be observant and ask your guide to which area is best to swim and snorkel. 

Our main destination is the Kayangan Lake. We were transported by Kubo sa Dagat's reliable motorboat. This was what welcomed us to Kayangan Lake.

 Who could not appreciate this piece of beauty on earth?

I love the experience when our boat have to cross between each rock formation..

Off we dock!

After some walking and hiking, I was treated with this spectacular view of Coron

An entire stay in Coron Palawan will never be complete without an aerial shot of the Kayangan Lake. By all means, ensure that you have a photo in this site if you have intentions of visiting Palawan.

However, you have to exert some minor climbing to reach this area. So before the trip, be sure that your legs are prepared and well exercised.

After hiking this picture perfect angle, we hiked again for our swim

Please don't ever miss this place in case you will be visiting Palawan. The water is crystal clear and as you look above, you will be mesmerized by the towering rock formations. The water's temperature is perfect and the area is free from the frightening waves of the sea. Even though you don't know how to swim, the area is safe and protected. Just don't forget to wear your lifevest. :) 

A little warning though, some parts have rock formations that might scratch or bump your legs. They are usually found in the shallow areas together with some underwater plants, which I believed caused my minor allergies. 

Amidst the towering rock formations, I saw a cave as we hike the swimming area. I didn't bother to get inside but even the rock formations inside reflect the magnificent works of nature.

After our short swim at the Kayangan Lake, we headed back to our motorboat for lunch. Our tour guide brought us to the Banol Beach.

On the way for lunch, I was really mesmerized by the crystal clear waters of Palawan.

There's no way you can experience this in the city.

You can see the surface of the water.

Here's another proof of how crystal clear is the water of Palawan 

 Priceless! I really hope that this gets preserved and protected. 

We had our lunch in this small kubo (nipa hut).

No one wanted to leave this haven that we discovered. Everyone was enjoying swimming, kayaking and some just took advantage enjoying the view. All good things must come to an end so we left the place with a heavy heart. :) Our tourist guide later brought us to another piece of heaven on earth

This is Palawan's Twin Lagoon!

The perfect rock formation is the first thing that will amaze anyone. However, the real thrill of the Twin Lagoon is a hollow area, where you can swim beneath the towering rock formations. If you have surpassed the lagoon, you will end up seeing the opposite side of this rock formation. The water in the opposite side is said to have a cooler temperature that is very ideal for a summer swim. 

Unfortunately, we failed to try the challenge of swimming inside the lagoon. We came in late and the area was already exhibiting high tide. As an alternative though, you can use the improvised wooden ladder to reach the opposite side of the lagoon.You can see the real twin lagoon experience in this site.

After the Twin Lagoon, we went to Siete Pecados, the best snorkeling site in Palawan. Unfortunately, I failed to take pictures in this adventure. Why? For one, the area is all about water and no piece of island at all. All you can do is snorkel and I don't have an underwater camera to document the experience. We only stayed in the area for a few minutes. The water may not be crystal clear but the sight of the all the underwater creatures compensate. So far, Siete Pecados form my best snorkeling experience. It's just so bad that I don't have anything to prove it. :(

After a long day of island hopping, we want back to Kubo sa Dagat tired and hungry. I took my most awaited bath and slept early after my longest island hopping experience.

PS My Palawan experience is not yet over. I still have one post to go. :)

Read More

I'm excited to share my recent travel adventure. It's not everyday that I leave the city and explore the best of the 7,107 islands of my country. Over the past years, I've explored the beaches in the islands of Boracay and Batangas. I'm happy to report that I've reached another island. Palawan made it to my list of dream fulfilled.

A short plane ride will take you to Palawan. We were booked via Philippine Airlines (PAL), my first time.  I'm loyal to Cebu Pacific for all my economy flights. However, when I stepped in PAL's plane I felt the obvious difference. PAL is just way better in so many aspects.

Would I consider shedding out additional money to experience PAL on my next flight? I'll think about it ;)

PAL landed us safely at Busuanga Airport. We traveled by land for about an hour (exhausting) and transferred to this

I lost count on how many times I rode this motorboat while in Palawan. We spent another hour in the middle of the sea. We were transported to our home over the last four days.

 We were literally housed in the middle of the sea!

We lived in Kubo sa Dagat for four days. Though to be honest, I have initial reluctance of staying here. But to my surprise, I survived. :) 

Here are more pictures from Kubo sa Dagat

Off we dock!

I immediately explored the entire place

I believe 90% of the entire place was made from the sturdiest local wood. 

Rooms were adjoined by a wooden bridge. 

This spot looks perfect even during the early morning when it's low tide.

I wake up with this view everyday.

 Since the curtains are always blown away by the strong wind, the owners stitched some sea shells to keep it in place.

I spent  most of the my time here.

 Wish I could take this home

Another interesting piece, a rocking chair made of thick and heavy wood.

This is life!

I will never forget Kubo sa Dagat. It's so far the most unique vacation house I've been. How could I forget sleeping in a house in the middle of the sea.  The gentle flow of the water beneath each wooden tile was soothing and refreshing. Summer air may not be that conducive, but the entire view of the sea and the mountain ranges compensates.

Despite having an all Filipino vibe, I discovered that Kubo sa Dagat have gained significant number of clients from European countries, mostly French and Spanish. Aside from the serene and unique experience, Kubo sa Dagat offers meals that complement the taste and preferences of Westerners. Upon asking some colleagues who arranged our trip, an overnight stay in the Kubo amounts to Php 3,000 (around $75) a night. It may look expensive but the entire package includes the room, complete meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and airport transfers. Kubo sa Dagat also offers other activities such as island hopping, snorkeling and kayaking. In our case, we were fortunate to receive discounted rates and free consumption of all amenities.

In case any of you will become interested in trying Kubo sa Dagat, here are some tips that can hopefully make your best experience.

Bring additional supply of food for snacks. Pack some chips and biscuits for your gastronomic survival. As you can see, the place is in the middle of the sea and snacks are not included in their package.

Avail of the island hopping adventure that comes in a little hefty price of Php 1,500 (around $37.5). Be sure that you are equipped with all your toiletries, though the house provides few sachets of shampoo and soap. They also provide bath towels that can be changed on a daily basis. You just have to personally approach their staff.

Aside from your sunscreen protection, also bring mosquito repellant lotion. I had my own share of minor insect bites during my last night.

Lastly, be sure that all your gadgets are fully charged before you move in the Kubo. They have solar powered electricity but the staff tend to regulate the consumption. There's only one outlet to charge all electronic devices.

This is just Day 1 of my Palawan adventure. As much as I want to continue writing, I need to get some sleep and recover from some unexpected allergies. Watch out for my succeeding Palawan posts :) 

• April 19, 2013
• Palawan

Travel Diaries - In the Paradise of Palawan

I'm excited to share my recent travel adventure. It's not everyday that I leave the city and explore the best of the 7,107 islands of my country. Over the past years, I've explored the beaches in the islands of Boracay and Batangas. I'm happy to report that I've reached another island. Palawan made it to my list of dream fulfilled.

A short plane ride will take you to Palawan. We were booked via Philippine Airlines (PAL), my first time.  I'm loyal to Cebu Pacific for all my economy flights. However, when I stepped in PAL's plane I felt the obvious difference. PAL is just way better in so many aspects.

Would I consider shedding out additional money to experience PAL on my next flight? I'll think about it ;)

PAL landed us safely at Busuanga Airport. We traveled by land for about an hour (exhausting) and transferred to this

I lost count on how many times I rode this motorboat while in Palawan. We spent another hour in the middle of the sea. We were transported to our home over the last four days.

 We were literally housed in the middle of the sea!

We lived in Kubo sa Dagat for four days. Though to be honest, I have initial reluctance of staying here. But to my surprise, I survived. :) 

Here are more pictures from Kubo sa Dagat

Off we dock!

I immediately explored the entire place

I believe 90% of the entire place was made from the sturdiest local wood. 

Rooms were adjoined by a wooden bridge. 

This spot looks perfect even during the early morning when it's low tide.

I wake up with this view everyday.

 Since the curtains are always blown away by the strong wind, the owners stitched some sea shells to keep it in place.

I spent  most of the my time here.

 Wish I could take this home

Another interesting piece, a rocking chair made of thick and heavy wood.

This is life!

I will never forget Kubo sa Dagat. It's so far the most unique vacation house I've been. How could I forget sleeping in a house in the middle of the sea.  The gentle flow of the water beneath each wooden tile was soothing and refreshing. Summer air may not be that conducive, but the entire view of the sea and the mountain ranges compensates.

Despite having an all Filipino vibe, I discovered that Kubo sa Dagat have gained significant number of clients from European countries, mostly French and Spanish. Aside from the serene and unique experience, Kubo sa Dagat offers meals that complement the taste and preferences of Westerners. Upon asking some colleagues who arranged our trip, an overnight stay in the Kubo amounts to Php 3,000 (around $75) a night. It may look expensive but the entire package includes the room, complete meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and airport transfers. Kubo sa Dagat also offers other activities such as island hopping, snorkeling and kayaking. In our case, we were fortunate to receive discounted rates and free consumption of all amenities.

In case any of you will become interested in trying Kubo sa Dagat, here are some tips that can hopefully make your best experience.

Bring additional supply of food for snacks. Pack some chips and biscuits for your gastronomic survival. As you can see, the place is in the middle of the sea and snacks are not included in their package.

Avail of the island hopping adventure that comes in a little hefty price of Php 1,500 (around $37.5). Be sure that you are equipped with all your toiletries, though the house provides few sachets of shampoo and soap. They also provide bath towels that can be changed on a daily basis. You just have to personally approach their staff.

Aside from your sunscreen protection, also bring mosquito repellant lotion. I had my own share of minor insect bites during my last night.

Lastly, be sure that all your gadgets are fully charged before you move in the Kubo. They have solar powered electricity but the staff tend to regulate the consumption. There's only one outlet to charge all electronic devices.

This is just Day 1 of my Palawan adventure. As much as I want to continue writing, I need to get some sleep and recover from some unexpected allergies. Watch out for my succeeding Palawan posts :) 

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