Travel Guide: How to go to Coron, Palawan, Philippines

 

There are hassle-free options to get to one of the most beautiful islands in the world — Coron, Palawan! The main portal of travelers visiting Coron via plane is the Busuanga Airport (USU), also known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport. However, for visitors taking the ferry routes, their gateway is the Coron Bay Port.

As soon as you are at the airport’s arrival area, you will be greeted by barkers looking for passengers. They will ask what hotel you will be staying in. They will instruct you which shuttle or van you will take. The fare is ₱150/ person. However, some hotels have assigned drivers that will fetch the tourists. You are advised to check with the resort you will check in if they have such a service.

If you are staying at the “now-famous” Skylodge resort, their driver will fetch you. However, Skylodge’s van cannot pick up their guests lesser than 6 tourists per trip. In that case; you will be assigned to any of their van partners waiting at the airport’s arrival area which costs ₱150/ pax.

From the airport, you will surely enjoy the 35-45 minutes ride before arriving at the Coron proper. On your way, you will be astounded by the highway’s heavy-forested surroundings. Indeed, a tranquil short joy ride in the countryside!

When you will arrive at Sitio Dinagpan, you will take a narrow road stretching to the uphill where Skylodge nestled.

Below are the routes going to Coron:

MANILA TO CORON

One would choose to travel quickly by taking the plane routing to Coron. In NAIA terminal, we have Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific offering trips to Busuanga Airport, which is the entry to Coron proper. The estimated time of trip doesn’t exceed to 1 hour and 10 minutes.

CLARK, PAMPANGA TO CORON

For travelers near Clark Airport (CRK), you can book Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific’s trip going to Busuanga Airport (USU). Approximately, the trip will cover an hour and 5 minutes or lesser.

CEBU TO CORON

Tourists taking off from Cebu via plane, they can check with Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines for their tickets going to Busuanga Airport (USU). The trip is estimated to last for an hour and 35 minutes upon take off.

But if you prefer to wander towards the ocean, you can take 2GO Travel and Atienza ferries taking off from Manila Pier to Coron Pier. Suffice yourselves with the ocean view while calmly journeying the vast sea for 12-15 hours before reaching Coron, Palawan.

FERRY SCHEDULE (Manila to Coron)

2GO Travel is scheduled weekly to take trip from Manila’s Harbor Pier 4. The Ferry departs at 7:00PM every Friday. Fare starts at ₱1032/ USD 20.38for Mega Value.

Aside from 2Go, Atienza Shipping Lines also sails forCoron every Wednesday at 6PM. The air-conditioned accommodation costs about ₱1300/ person while ₱ 1200 if without air-conditioner.

FERRY SCHEDULE (Puerto Prinsesa to Coron)

From Puerto PrinsesaPalawan, 2Go vessels sail to Coron twice a day. The ferry departs every Saturday at 11:59PM. Approximately, your expedition is expected to last for 15 hours. Fare starts at ₱1300 for Super Value Class accommodation.

FERRY SCHEDULE (EL Nido to Coron)

If you are coming from El Nido going to Coron, a ferry which is the Montegro Lines leaves at 6AM daily. The fare should be approximately ₱1760/ person. Other than Montenegro Lines you can aboard big boats namely Bunso and Jessabel that departs El Nido between 7:30-8:30AM daily. Approximately, the fare costs about ₱P1600/ person. For about 5-9 hours you can reach Coron Port.Jomalia Shipping Corporation is sails to Coroneveryday at 12:30PM. The fare is ₱P1800/ person. Phimal Fast Ferry also sails every day at 8:20 in the morning with a fare amounting to ₱1760/ person.

From the port of Coron, you will be fetched by Skylodge resort’s accommodating driver for FREE to bring you to the serene place of the resort.

 

Reasons Why Tourists are Returning to Coron, Palawan

 

Tourists are always in awe of the captivating mountain and sea landscapes enveloping the island of Coron, Palawan. It is a paradise-like place secluded in the region of Mimaropa. The island is known as a home or an ancestral domain of the Tagbanua tribe protecting the natural wonders. Traveling on the vibrant land of the municipality will mark amazement and great memories. Returning to the place is a non-negotiable decision as it will make you feel that it’s always a first-time experience. Now, why should you set foot the second time around?

1. SCUBA DIVING ADDS THRILL TO YOUR SECOND-TIME EXPERIENCE

Going island-hopping is just a portion of the exciting activities in Coron. The untouched underwater wonders openly welcome tourists to experience the joy of plunging into the waters. The Philippines is a haven to dive sites, and Coron island also has several spots for an extraordinary vacation. One of the dive sites that continuously fascinate the divers and even the beginners is the Dimanglet Reef. Descending below several times gives you a different experience that you will always want to re-try. How bewildering it is to explore the undersea with diverse marine sanctuaries. A group of Fuselier fish, the colorful parrotfish, and sea turtles swimming just before your eyes will stun you.  The corals, like the cabbage, giving colors and life to the animals below are breathtaking. One couldn’t take their eyes from these wondrous beauties beneath the calm waves.

There are more breathtaking subaquatic sights at Siete Pecados. It is open water that is best for beginners. You can only think of admiration once you submerge and immerse yourself with the astonishing creatures of the deep such as the sea fan and table corals spreading under the vast ocean of Coron. If you are fond of watching how various fish enjoy their haven underwater, the angel, trigger, red snapper, and damselfishes will surely melt your heart —they are lovable! Indeed, it is a call to revisit the island. 

2. THE PRISTINE BEACHES STUN EVERY VACATIONIST

Every beach on the island is a breathing haven for travelers! You can overhear other vacationists exclaiming that their second time around is always a discovery. The astounding white-sand beaches serving as relaxation spots are satisfying the visitors. Maybe the word "satisfying" is an understatement for the feeling the beaches are embarking on to the adventurers. The coconut and other trees growing became lusher this time, making the coastline of every beach rewarding for travelers to rest from the hustle and bustle of the city. You are living a dream when visiting phenomenal beaches such as Malcapuya island, banana island, and Bulog Dos.

 I, who is a returning visitor is still in awe with Malcapuya island, which is one of the gems of the island. Have a look at this spectacular wonder!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Rem Tarcelo (@remtarcelo)

3. THE WORLD WAR II SHIPWRECKS

Coron earned the spot as the best shipwreck diving in Southeast Asia. The historical shipwrecks are making the island famous to local and international divers. Certified and advanced divers return to re-experience and not just re-imagine the enchanting wrecks found beneath the sea. Different versions of stories from people who descend through the deep are thrilling but rewarding new adventures for them.

There are a few shallow wartime ships that sunk suitable for snorkeling. These are the Lusong gunboat and East Tangat. The latter showcases vibrant seabed inhabitants, which are vividly visible using goggles. Having your eyes wander below will leave a mark of astonishment.

The following are the identified historical shipwrecks that you can dive into and their respective estimated depths:

1. Lusong Gunboat – 5 to 15 meters
2. East Tangat (Tirukaze Maru) – 3 to 22 meters
3. Skeleton shipwreck – 5 to 22 meters
4. Irako Maru – 34 (deck) to 45 (seabed) meters
5. Akitsushima Maru – 22 to 35 meters
6. Olympia Maru – 30 meters
7. Okikawa Maru – 10 to 26 meters
8. Morazan Maru – 25 meters
9. Kogyo Maru (Ekkai Maru) – 22 to 36 meters
10. Kyokuzan Maru (Busuanga) – 20 to 39 meters meters
11. Nanshin Maru (Black Island Wreck) – 21 to 32 meters

4. THE AFRICAN VIBES

Some vacationists have not yet visited the Calauit Safari in Busuanga, Palawan. It is a neighboring municipality of Coron, which is a 45-minute to one-hour land transport. From the Busuanga proper, you will travel by land for 30 minutes and another 20 minutes boat ride before reaching the entrance to the park. It is a vast land located towards the end of Busuanga.

Surprisingly, Calauit Safari brings a unique jungle experience to an island home to pristine white-sand beaches. You will have a close encounter with Kenyan giraffes and zebras freely wandering the extensive park. Once you enter the haven of the wilds, you will see some Calamian wild deer sharing life with the various trees and grasses sprouting in the vicinity.

By riding a truck, the tour guides will bring you to another park with a python caged in his home, little crocodiles, porcupines, philippine eagles, and monkeys. Calauit Safari should be in your bucket place when revisiting Coron!

 

5. HOSPITALITY AT ITS BEST!

Locals are welcoming to the guests. They safeguard you wherever you wander because it brings them joy seeing the tourists safely and comfortably journey with them. The hotels and resorts lived with the hospitality engraved by the ancestors in our hearts. One of the most-accommodating resorts in Coron is SkyLodge Resort. In January 2020, the hotel received a Traveller Review Award, granted by booking.com, for its excellent customer service. It is no doubt that visitors love and enjoy their vacation at the place.

There are more various astonishing tourist attractions you need to discover in Coron, especially if you only stayed for three or four days. Some visitors say that staying for 2 weeks lets them see more fascinating facts about the place. Let us wander with your as re-discover and uncover hidden gems on the island. BOOK WITH US NOW! 

READ: TOP 5 REASONS WHY TOURISTS LOVE SKYLODGE RESORT

READ: HOW TO GO TO CORON, PALAWAN?

Author: Remson Tarcelo

Things to do at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar for an ultimate staycation

 

Things to do at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar for an ultimate staycation

A rewarding and serene getaway sounds perfect especially after all that has happened in 2020. Not only guests can help in jumpstarting the domestic tourism industry, but one can finally experience the dream adventure that everyone has been dreaming off since the lockdown.

At Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, guests are in for a treat no matter how one wants to spend their beautiful vacation. Whether they’re the adventurous type or the chill traveler, Las Casas lined up activities for everyone’s pleasure.

Guests have the option to stay overnight, in the property’s hotel rooms or casas, or for day trip only. Day tour rates are PHP 1,850 for weekdays and PHP 2,500 for weekends.  

Play with the waves. Enjoy the sun and the water as Las Casas offers exciting water activities including Kayak (for as low as PHP 300/ 30 minutes for two persons), Jet ski (for PHP 2,500/ 30 minutes and PHP 4,500/ one hour), Banana Boat (PHP 2,800/ 15 minutes for eight persons), and speed boat (PHP 6,000/ one hour maximum of 20 persons).

Surrounded by West Philippine Sea, Las Casas’ waters are perfectly suited for cruises.  Avail the sunset cruise for as low as PHP 8,000 for one hour with a maximum of 10 persons.

Discover secrets of the past in a historic adventure.  History buff or not, one can easily be captivated by the architectural treats Las Casas offers. But what makes a trip to this heritage site more meaningful are the colorful stories each restored house holds. 

Join an interactive Heritage Walking Tour with Las Casas’ storytellers to fully immerse one’s self as it they are transported to another era. 

Guests may also try horseback riding (PHP 300/ 30 minutes), kalesa ride (PHP 75), balsa ride (PHP 600), viewing of Hotel de Oriente, Las Casas’ premier convention center (PHP 200), and tramvia ride.

Casa Lubao also offers indoor activities like darts, billiards, table tennis, and Filipino pool.

What better souvenir can anyone bring home than a photo with La Casa dela Fotografia, Las Casas’ in-house photo studio, for as low as PHP 350.

Go on an epic foodventure. Aside from Las Casas’ unique sights, the property is also known for offering sumptuous feasts.

This site nestled in the quaint town of Bagac houses a number of restaurants including Cusina ni Nanay Maria for warm Filipino meals, La Bella for Italian staples, Café Marivent for International cuisine, and Café Del Rio for Spanish tapas. Food stalls are also open for quick snacks. Head on to Pica for Filipino street foods and La Parilla for some refreshments. Meanwhile, cap off the tiring day with cocktails and spirits at Dapitan Bar. 

For more information, visit www.lascasasfilipinas.com of follow Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar’s official social media pages.   

# # #

A Weekend In The City: Manila, Philippines Edition

Manila, Philippines – Summer is just around the corner. Book a weekend stay at Century Park Hotel (or any hotel with swimming pool in Manila) to start a fun and frenzy adventure. Even with all the noise, pollution, and overpopulation, the historic City of Manila can still charm and endear its way into anyone’s heart. Valentine’s Day is over, but there still always time to plan a weekend in the Philippines’ capital. Here are some ideas how to spend your time during your visit:

Patio Pilar 

You must be hungry. Check out this Castilian-inspired courtyard café that also doubles as an events venue. It features a pair of heritage structures with an appealing blend of the traditional and the trendy. It basically captures what is quintessentially Ermita—an area once graced by the mansions of elite Filipino families in the 1900’s and then later known for its artsy, bohemian flair.

Arroceros Forest Park

Also known as ‘Manila’s last lung,’ this urban park built along the Pasig River in 1993 now houses at least 60 indigenous tree varieties, 8,000 plants, and 10 bird species. Sadly, the previous admins have failed to maintain the area, but there are reports that the new admin will restore it to its former glory. Despite all that, Arroceros Forest Park still offers a serene setting for afternoon strolls and sunsets.

Cinematheque Centre Manila

‘Netflix and chill’ might be the popular thing to do, but you can never go wrong with tickets to a culturally relevant movie for two. Aside from film screenings, you can also learn about film history, production, and all things related to cinema and filmmaking. There’s also an in-house cafe inside where you can sit down and discuss films with like-minded fellows after.

National Museum of Fine Arts

Juan Luna’s Spoliarium. Nuff said.

National Library

The National Library of the Philippines is also known as “the repository of printed and recorded cultural heritage”.  All they require is a valid ID to get access to all the titles and references you need. Before your visit, you can also check their Online Public Access Catalog to see if they have what you need. The National Library also offers services for copyright registration.

Binondo

The World’s Oldest Chinatown is home to various spots offering cuisine heaven. The fried dumplings at Dong Bei, the xiao long bao at Cafe Mezzanine, and the fried chicken at Sincerity Cafe. You could also try the fresh lumpia at New Po Heng. Vegetarian delights at Quan Yin Chay, and the steaming, hot mami at Masuki.

Escolta

In the daytime, Escolta is a busy strip with interesting shops and old buildings. At night, it turns into a hip block party where you can buy stuff from local artisans, eat gourmet street food, and drink cheap booze while dancing in the street all night long.

ABOUT CENTURY PARK HOTEL

Situated at the center of the Philippines’ vibrant capital city, Century Park Hotel Manila is accessible to the business, shopping, and entertainment districts of the metro. Its convenient location invites you to a relaxing stay in the heart of Manila, even as you try to combine business and pleasure. Its 500 well-appointed rooms are designed for your comfortable and leisurely stay. True to our brand of warm Filipino hospitality, our courteous and friendly staff will always assist you with a smile and help you unwind at the end of the day. For your corporate needs, the hotel offers 14 function rooms and a business center. These venues are perfect for your meetings, events, and significant celebrations. If you are looking for a vacation within the city, this hotel in the Manila area is a fantastic choice for staycations. Our modern facilities include internet access and a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment. There’s also three outdoor swimming pools and a poolside bar. For the lovers of food, Century Park Hotel Manila have 5 dining outlets. We provide a wide range of options and flavorful cuisines to please your gastronomic cravings. For more information on Century Park Hotel rates, log on to www.centurypark.com.

All The Small Things: 5 Cool Spots in Makati That Show Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Go big or go home? The Mini Suites, a couple of lifestyle stores, and two specialty shops in Makati City will show you that show good things can also come in small packages:

1. PURVEYR POST

Post is the lifestyle store of Purveyr—a multi-dimensional media brand that aims to positively influence perspective of life through digital, print, events, service, and retail mediums. The regular pedestrian may not be wowed by its unassuming space in Bangkal, Makati, but fans of outsider art and street culture will be impressed by what it offers. In addition to local street wear, there’s also exhibitions, occasional live performances, and barbering sessions. Post has also recently opened a second location in Poblacion to further promote their cause.

Address: 5650 Don Pedro St., Brgy. Poblacion / 1403 Apolinario St., Brgy. Bangkal.
Website: http://purveyr.com

2. PLAKA PLANET

Vinyl records and vintage turntables are back. Plaka Planet, the best and most budget-friendly place to get your audio fix is hidden inside an archery range. Bobby, the owner, is very cool and will even let you test any pressing even if you’re not planning to buy anything.

Address: Kodanda Archery Range, Makati Central Square
Website: www.facebook.com/pg/PlakaPlanetMak ati

3. GUITAR PUSHER

It just might be a single condo unit in a quiet high-rise in the city, but for musicians and guitar geeks, Guitar Pusher might as well be called ‘Guitar Heaven’.

Address: 124 H. V. Dela Costa, Bel-Air
Website: http://www.guitarpusher.com

4. SLICK BARBERS CO.

From its humble beginnings of just a couple of monobloc chairs and mirrors on the first level of co- founder Christian “Indio” Bendañas house, SBCo is now a full pledged barber shop and lifestyle brand with a cult following. Their specialty? Clean fades and buzzes a.k.a ‘gentleman’s cut,” which not many barbers in the country can pull off.

Address: 3919 Yague St. cor South Avenue
Website: www.facebook.com/slickbarbersco

5. THE MINI SUITES ETON TOWER MAKATI

The Mini Suites puts you in the center of all the sights and sounds of the city as you enjoy first-class accommodations all with full amenities and indulgent beds & pillows, you are sure to find that perfect mix of modern practicality, convenience, and touches of luxury to suit your needs. One of the best hotels in Makati, these suites will end your search for where to stay in Makati City.

Address: 128 Dela Rosa Street, Ayala South
Website: www.theminisuites.com

Your Weekend Guide: 4 Places To Go in Davao City

Only have a day or two to explore the Durian Capital? Here’s your weekend guide on where to go and where to stay in Davao if you are in the city for a short stay:

1. Magsaysay Park

Visit one of the oldest parks in Davao if you want to have fun and learn about some of Davao’s culture at the same time. There are a lot of activities to choose from: bike with your loved ones, have a picnic with your family, skate with friends, or go to Kadayawan Tribal Village. You can also try famous fruits of Davao—Durian and Pomelo—as the Magsaysay Fruit Stand is located in front of this park.

2. Roxas Night Market

If you’re looking for good food, great ambiance plus all the awesome things in between, this might just be the perfect destination for you. This popular place in Roxas Avenue is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. They have all sorts of food, clothes, accessories, and even whole-body massages. All of these without hurting your pockets! For starters, try their famous charcoal ice cream for a unique experience on your sweet trips.

3. Suazo

Missing the gigs in Route 196 or SaGuijo Cafe + Bar because you’re not in the metro? Fret not. Davao has its own indie hangout place. Suazo Bar in Poblacion is the right place for you if you want to know more about the local art scene, enjoy a chill night with friends, or even meet new people. Expect to have a chill night and do what they say on their FB page: “Beer. Booze. Music. Chill. Sit back and relax the Davaoeño way.”

4. Acacia Hotel Davao

After a day of strolling in Magsaysay Park, eating out at the Night Market, and chilling out at Suazo, you can sigh in relief and relax. If you’re looking for a place that can make you feel right at home, Acacia Hotel Davao is the accommodation for you. Spacious and classy rooms are what you can expect in this hotel in Davao. They also have a fitness gym, swimming pool with bar, café, Chinese restaurant, and other facilities that guests can enjoy. Hope this quick weekend guide helps you with the questions you have in mind, on where to go or where to stay in Davao city!

First time to Attend MassKara Festival? 4 Things to Know to Have a Great Time

It’s October again, which means it’s that time of the year for the biggest and grandest festival in Bacolod! With the theme “Bacolod, City of Smiles,” MassKara Festival is now in its 40th year. A wide array of activities await tourists and visitors—concerts, competitions, marathons, food trips, street dances, and a lot more!

Exciting, right?

1. Stock up on some knowledge about Bacolod and the festival itself

To save you the hassle of getting lost and not knowing what to do or where to eat, research first. This way, you can plan your itinerary which can save you lots of time and money. Also, search for weather conditions so you can prepare yourself well.

Another thing is to expose yourself to the background of MassKara Festival so that you don’t just enjoy the festivities, you also learn a thing or two about the history of Bacolod.

2. Pack the right stuff

Thousands of tourists visit Bacolod for the festival, so expect crowds at every turn. Make sure to bring comfortable clothes and shoes. You don’t need to flex your diamond necklace or gold earrings to have a good time.

Bring extra money for those unexpected merch you might want to buy. And don’t forget your sunscreen in case you go on a day stroll or food trip!

3. Go with a friend

The best way to enjoy the festival is to celebrate it with someone else. Going to Bacolod with a friend is ideal especially if you’re not familiar with the place. It will also save you some cash if you share food, transportation, and accommodation with someone.
Besides, who’s going to take those Instagram-worthy shots of yours who knows your flattering angles if not your friend, right?

4. Stay in a convenient accommodation

After all the joy and cheers of the festival, you would want to have a good night sleep so you’d have more fun the next day. Staying in an accommodation with sea and mountain views is a good consideration if you want a comforting feel.

With this, Acacia Hotel Bacolod is an excellent choice for accommodation. This newly opened hotel which boasts of its warm hospitality may be what you need for a complete MassKara experience. The hotel is also close to the port and popular attractions, making it accessible and convenient if you want to explore more of Bacolod.

Get more from Acacia Hotel Bacolod by booking directly from their website. For more information, check out their website here: www.acaciahotelsbacolod.com.