Ronian's Hangout: WOW Philippines

Palawan - the Philippines' Last Frontier. Famous for its rainforests, outstanding dive sites, majestic mountains, primeval caves and pristine beaches. It's water are among the best in the world, not only for diving but also for fishings.

Its Natural Beauty:

Here are some that you must see as you want to explore.....

Man-Made

1. Palawan Butterfly Garden

It is the home of different species of butterflies endemic to the province, also found in Southeast Asia.

2. Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (formerly Crocodile Farming Institute)

It aims to preserve and conduct further research studies on endangered species of crocodiles. One of the structures is a ""hospital"" for sick and disabled crocodiles. It also intends to make good use of the raw materials derived from crocodile skin. The place also maintains a mini-zoo featuring some of Palawan's endemic animals, under the supervision and management of DENR-PAWB.

3. Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm

The colony encompasses a 37-hectare scenic farm planted with coconut palm trees, rice, and other crops cultivated by the prisoners and their families. The prison has about 4,000 population and many inmates live with their families in so-called rehabilitation areas. Within the farm is Balsahan River, known for its cascading waters coming from the nearby mountain. Iwahig is more like a modern farm, rather than a prison, where prisoners toil their farms unguarded and are allowed to earn an income by working in the many shops which turn out various handicrafts, most popular of which are the handcarved items made of mahogany wood. The farm is definitely a good shopping stop for tourists.

4. Mitra's Ranch

It is owned by the Mitra family, a known political clan in Palawan who also became senator of the country.The ranch gives the guests a sweeping view of Honda Bay and its islands.

5. Baker's Hill

This is a bakery with restaurants inside, a playground and mini zoo. A place to buy for your "pasalubong" like hopia.

6. Vietnamese Village

A former refugee center for Vietnamese boat people. The village has bakery that sells French bread, a rice noodle factory, and several homes of local Vietnamese who chose to stay and live in Palawan.

Nature

1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Underground River)

A world heritage site, this natural wonder features an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground river, reputed to be the world's longest, that winds through a spectacular cave before emptying out in to the South China Sea. This river flows within a deep cavern under rugged limestone and marble cliffs, special features of the park. Known as one of the world's wonders, this river stretches eight kilometers deep into an underground lagoon with crystalline waters. Within the hallowed recesses, one winds through the tunnel aboard a paddle boat with outriggers to be enthralled at every turn which reveals stalactite pillars, rock formations, and domed amphitheaters.

2. Trekking at Monkey Trail

Two hours walking and climbing three mountains on our way to the underground river.

3. Honda Bay

The bay consists of several islets with shallow reefs bordering fabulous beaches which have become the favorite swimming, snorkelling, and diving destinations of local residents and tourists. These islets are the Cannon (Cowrie) Island, Bat Island, Lu-Ii Island (derived from the word ""lulubog-lilitaw"", meaning floating and sinking island, is visible only during low tide), Meara Marina, Starfish Island (known for its fine white sand and clear water that teems with starfish), Snake Island (an island with a long stretch of fine white sand shaped like a snake), Pandan Island, and Senorita Island (the breeding site of lapu-lapu fish). Lodging facilities are available for overnight stays in the islands of Meara Marina and Starfish (Sandbar Resort).