Before : Travel Palawan, Philipines
El Nido, 238 km northeast of Puerto Princesa, is booming because means of transportation are better and the stunning panorama of pristine white beaches combined with limestone cliffs, and the clear water… oh, the virgin islands and ocean so full of wildlife. El Nido is the gateway to Bacuit Bay and the 45 islands, big and small. The limestone cliffs’ jagged surfaces and peaks look so beautiful. The emerald water, blue sky, you name it. They make amazing photographs too. It chases away wariness, relaxes, but also revives.
The 3 Pillars of Eco-Tourism here is interesting. It was a team work of The Asian Conservation Foundation (ACF), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the local government of El Nido to ensure the protection of their nature.
The Three Pillars are:
- Natural Asset Protection - The coral reefs and forests of some islands are protected against illegal fishers and loggers.
- Enhanced Visitor Experience - Tour operators should strive to maximize their offerings to make the stay of their visitors as pleasant and enjoyable as possible.
- Direct Community Benefit - All tourism activities should contribute towards the holistic development of host communities.
Tour A consists of the three lagoons around Miniloc island (Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Small Lagoon), 7th Commando Beach, and Shimizu Island. Because we took Tour A and Tour B on the same day, we missed visiting 7th Commando Beach.
Shimizu Island
The island was named after a Japanese diver who died in an underwater exploration near the island. We spend our afternoon snorkeling leisurely here. Shimizu island is known for the rich marine life.
Secret Lagoon
Our boat glided into the karst area. The jagged-surfaced limestone cliffs surrounded our boat felt welcoming. I looked around and wonder which part is the Secret Lagoon. I really want to tell you but I don’t want to spoil your experience. Find it out yourself will be much better. All I want to say here is that you need to swim a little and walk in the water (knee-deep) to reach the lagoon.
Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon
Our boat sailed around Big Lagoon a bit till we came to a stop near the gap into Small Lagoon. From here you can either swim or paddle a kayak to enjoy Small Lagoon. We opted for kayaking around. I found it very therapeutic to the soul. Kayak can be rented at 400-700PHP.
Tips:
- There’s a power zoning policy in El Nido because of the limited power supply. Book hotels that have generators so you can charge your electrical devices anytime you wish.
- Beach attire - You are going to be wet most of the time, so don’t bother wearing anything but your swimming clothes when you are on island-hopping tours.
- Waterproof Camera and Waterproof Bags - I recommend that you have with you a waterproof camera for underwater activities. There will be a lot snorkeling and swimming. At the very least invest in waterproof bags (You can buy them in every sizes at road side stalls or sellers will offer you when you dine at the beach watching sunset).
Waterproof Bags - Sunscreen - Always apply sunscreen
- Beach Shoes - Buy if you travel to beaches a lot because they protect your soles when you walk in the water. Don’t buy if you go to the beach only once every five years.
- Crappy, Useless Souvenirs - Be mindful of what you want to keep after the vacation is over. You don’t want to add to the hoarder’s pile.
- Tourists have to pay for Eco-Tourism Development Fee (200PHP/person) that is good for 10 days. Ask for a receipt so you don’t have to pay again when you visit other places.
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