Coron, Palawan

We hopped off our [tiny] airplane and already felt a difference in the air—gone was the hectic, polluted air of Manila—we were soaking in the island breeze. 

After a bumpy ride through Palawan’s countryside [and past imported Aussie cows eating imported Aussie grass], we arrived at our hotel, the Princess of Coron.

After a quick nap, we hopped into our swimsuits and headed out to the Maquinit Hot Springs. Our mode of transportation was what Filipinos call a tricycle. It’s basically a motorcycle with a side car and roof attached to it (and it has 3 wheels). They’re fun to ride around in, even though they feel dangerous at times.

When we finally arrived at our destination, we were all amazed at the beauty before us at the hot springs. 

We wandered around and took touristy pictures—marveling at the amazing view, the clean air, the clear water, and eventually got around to taking a dip.

Whew, it was hot! The water was the perfect temperature to loosen up our muscles and push us into a deeper level of relaxation. We sat under the waterfalls and felt the water melt away previous stresses. 

About an hour later, we decided it was time to leave this magical place and head back for dinner. With rumbling tummies we were greeted at the hotel and invited to the owner’s birthday celebration and a ceremony blessing the hotel’s dining room. Oh. My. Goodness. The food was amazing. There were at least 5 different pork dishes in different sauces, grilled tropical fish, enough rice to feed a small army, and a giant smoked pig. 

It was a feast fit for royalty. Sadly, being as I was starving and jetlagged (so not thinking clearly), I only got a picture of the hog. 

After dinner, the day finally caught up with me and I was in bed and asleep by 8 pm.