We flew from Cebu to Puerto Princessa, the main city in Central Palawan. From there we hopped in a van that drove us over 3 hours to Port Barton. The drive rocky, but full of lush tropical landscapes. Port Barton is a quaint town away from the hustle and bustle of city life and has a charm all its own. Located in the San Vicente region, it is a portal to explore a variety of islands, such as Exotic Island, German Island, and White Beach, all great places for snorkeling and relaxing in the sun. Around town, there are several small cottages by the beach and local restaurants. We will feature some of our favorites in upcoming posts. Next Stop: San Vicente Dairy Farm!
Quick Tips:
There are many airlines that fly to Palawan such as Philippine Air, Cebu Pacific and Sea Air. Many flights go to Puerto Princessa City daily from Manila. Some days, there are flights directly from Cebu to PPC or Coron. We flew from Cebu-Manila-PPC, but also considered flying from Cebu-Coron. Sea Air also flys to El Nido from Manila 3 days a week.
-Accomodations: If you book in advance, most places will help you arrange transportation to Port Barton from Puerto Princessa or wherever you may be traveling from. We stayed at Ysobelle's for appox. 800-1200 pesos a night for double occupancy. Another place nearby we can recommend is Elsa's Garden Resort for about the same range. Most places don't have air-con, only fan and electricity is on from 6pm-midnight. There are no hotels in Port Barton, only natural, hut-style cottages.
-Transport to Port Barton from Puerto Princessa City: We hired a private van for approx. 4000 pesos or $80 dollars. This is the most expensive but more comfortable option, as the drive is between 3-4 hours on unpaved road. We were traveling with a small group at the time so we chose this option. Another option is to take a jeepney (Filipino bus) for about 200 pesos or $4 with open windows and no air-con, with about 50 people. Your bags will bags will be strapped to the top. This is how many locals get around and the most inexpensive option. We took this jeepney from Port Barton to Puerto Princessa City and concluded that this route is for the more adventurous traveler who wants a cultural experience and doesn't mind rough and rugged travel. There is a boat from Port Barton to PPC for about 1500 pesos ($30) a person if you have a group of four. The boat ride would be 7-9 hours.
-Things to Bring:
Plenty of Sunblock, a sarong (can come in handy & double as a light towel), bug spray, vitamins, ointment, band-aids, hat, bathing suit(s), plenty of pesos- the only city with atms is Puerto Princessa. We recommend that before you arrive in Palawan, come prepared with plenty of cash (& some extra) as most places don't accept credit cards. And places that do, will charge an extrat 5-7%.