Ostrich Farm in San Vicente, Palawan

Ever watch The Swiss Family Robinson and was curious to see how an ostrich runs in real life? Well in San Vicente, you might just get the opportunity to if you just ask Andy. Andy Caratao is the caretaker at the local Ostrich Farm and knows how to get these birds into action. Mysterious and almost mythical, ostriches are a fascinating paradox to witness, with their long limbs, tall stature, and large, feathery bodies. When we first arrived, we visited the Brooder House, home of the 1 month old baby ostrich chicks. What an adorable sight! The chicks have ample room to run around and interact with us as we were introduced into their playpen. It was an experience we will never forget! Afterwards we ventured on to feed the adult ostriches and watched how these birds of a very peculiar feather run at astonishing speeds. Check out the Ostrich Farm when you're in San Vicente, and it will be a highly entertaining afternoon, spend it with the largest and possibly most amusing birds on the planet!




Judy's Resto and Bar, Port Barton, Palawan

Have you ever tried a banana blossom burger? While in Port Barton, make sure to try one at Judy's restaurant. Her secret recipe is completely vegetarian and made from fresh banana blossoms and "lots of garlic and onions," Judy says with a smile. We tried it and and we can honestly say it's one of the tastiest burgers (vegetarian or meat) we've ever had. Crispy and hearty, with onions, tomato and fresh cucumber, one bite will leave you hooked wanting more. Judy's is a popular hangout among locals and travelers and is the only place around town with a late night bar, for now. She's most famous for her home cooked meals, relaxed atmosphere, and fun decorations.

Judy Balle hails from Mindoro Philippines and has been in business in Port Barton since 2006 where she runs the restaurant with her sister Angie. Judy stumbled upon the town by chance while on a motorbike journey through Palawan with a friend and fell in love with the place. "Port Barton Barton is such a laid-back place to be with beautiful views and beaches," says Judy. "It's a great place to hang out, relax, and enjoy nature."

 

Her menu selection is quite extensive and international, which is impressive for a place that makes everything fresh and from scratch, including the bread. They even hand squeeze the calamansi juice which is the perfect refreshment in this tropical climate. Her chocolate pancakes is also a local favorite, guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate lover!

Make sure to come to Judy's when you're in Port Barton & tell her Tina and Kelly sent you!

San Vicente Dairy Farm

Today we took a banca boat from Port Barton to nearby San Vicente and decided to visit the local Dairy Farm. What an adventure it was! We hired two motorcycle guides, strapped our gear to the bikes, and took off on the rocky terrain. It was an exihilerating 45 minute ride on a gritty, dirt road. Whizzing past forests, rice fields and even an ocean view, we finally arrived at the 420 hectares (over 1,037 acres) of cow pasture. The panoramic landscape is a breathtaking sight, with pastures that stretch out as far as the eye can see. With just over 130 cows, the animals have ample space to roam and graze.

Here they produce the signature San Vincente milk. The cows are herded in shifts for the daily feeding and milk pumping. After witnessing the process, we were invited to taste the fresh milk. We were not disappointed, it was one of the most flavorful and creamiest glasses of milk we've ever tasted. It was definitely worth the trip and we highly recommend this for those who love adventure and want to explore some local culture. 

On our way back one of our motorbikes had a flat tire. Luckily, we were close enough to the farm that the tire was fixed within an hour and we made it back to our boat by sundown.