Adto na 'ta

Because Palawan in itself is an archipelago, island hopping is an activity that should not be skipped.  Each island in the entire archipelago has a distinct characteristic.   So on the second day, Honda Bay was my destination.  Honda Bay is the gateway to Starfish Island, Lu-li (lulubog-lilitaw island), Snake Island and Pandan Island.  It is located at Bgy. Sta. Lourdes, the rainstick capital of Puerto Prinsesa.  Legend tells that the natives of yore used the rainstick in requesting for rain from the gods.  Nowadays, this product from bamboo, is a popular gift and decorative item. The rainmaker produces a sound similar to that of the sea rushing to shore.  It is very soothing and helps reduce stress and tension.  The price of the rainmaker depends on its length and size, small ones are P15.00.  Some are more beautifully decorated, so expect a higher price for them.

                                                        Starfish Island off Honda Bay How does one start recounting good times,  enchanting scenery, mouth-watering food,  and  natural wonders?   This is what I experienced during my 4-day idyllic holiday in the City in the Forest, otherwise called Puerto Prinsesa, the capital city of Palawan.   I arrived in time for the city's celebration of Baragatan.  Baragatan is a Cuyunin word meaning "kita-kita" and is a gathering together of the Palawenos.  It is celebrated the entire month of June and showcases the wealth, talent and spirit of the Palawenos. Everyone comes together at the provincial capitol or Ramon V. Mitra Building to participate in the celebration. The provincial capitol is well-decorated and stalls and stalls of goods are exhibited.    It was such a great welcome to the City in the Forest.         

Taal Volcano was a picture of tranquility when we went there one day in April.   The sight of the world's smallest active volcano instantly wiped away the sweat from our long ride from Los Banos, Laguna, the muggy air disappeared.   This volcano which lies within the lake which is also inside a crater is one of the most visited travel destinations in the Philippines, being near Manila, the country's capital.  We thought we would just enjoy the breeze, while looking at it from the highway.  But when a local guide approached us and encouraged us to go see it closer, we sort of got talked into it.  We rented two motorized "bangkas", each one carrying 7 passengers and worth 1,400 each (that makes it 200/head) .  We were glad we decided to go the inner crater because we crossed the lake and felt the cooler air.  But the water is not safe for swimming because of the many fish pens built in the lake, so imagine what has accumulated at the bottom of the lake.  But desp