There's more to see in Palawan

Yes, we all know what Palawan is all about. Or do we?

It's one of the premier paradise destinations in the Philippines. It's also the country's so-called “Last Frontier” - boasting diverse wildlife and majestic natural formations that make, not only our mouths but also our eyes, drool in pure astonishment. It is home to the country's sole nominee to the world's new 7 wonders of nature: the 8.2 km-long Puerto Princesa Underground River. Also, if you're familiar with your 4th grade Philippine history, it is the site of what is considered as the cradle of Philippine civilization: The Tabon Cave.

But wait, there's more.

There is one particular place found in the remote island of Pamalican, located North of Palawan, that you might not have heard of yet: The Amanpulo.

Named after the Sanskrit word for peace, aman, and pulo, the Tagalog word for island, Amanpulo is a serene retreat featuring pure white sands, turquoise seas, endless blue skies and pristine coral reefs. A must-see travel destination, this private natural paradise resort is the definition of luxurious, extravagant and majestic. 

Reaching and leaving this “peaceful island”is only through a private jet, though those who have been there can assure any aspiring visitor that leaving this little-known paradise would be awfully hard. Being an exclusive island getaway that offers world-class accommodations, getting in is not that easy. One must inquire ahead of time to secure a reservation. But being featured in the book, “Places to See Before You Die,” this haven is surely worth the wait and effort.

The five-kilometer island resort is surrounded by powdery-white beaches and fringed by seven square kilometres of untouched coral reefs. Its facilities enjoy a spacious layout that accentuates its natural surroundings.

Still, there's more.

Casitas, which are spaced very wide apart, are situated on the beach, amongst the treetops or on the hillside overlooking the tranquil Sulu Sea. The Beach Club, which is said to be Amanpulo's pride and joy, has a wide area spread with soft decks and pillows and walkways leading to the pristine pools or the magnificent beach. 

But this paradise is not a feast for the eyes alone for its attractions also undoubtedly satisfy all the other senses. The place simply called The Restaurant serves both a variety of delectable Asian and Continental cuisines. And from the sound of the reviews, it is on a league of its own, serving freshly grown greens form the island's vegetable garden. Furthermore, various recreational activities await those who travel to this Palawan wonderland. The brilliant blue waters of the Sulu Sea is a perfect spot for sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing. How about the activities that I can enjoy on land? The island is ideal for events such as nature walks, cycling, bird watching, private dining and stargazing at night.

Palawan, with all that it has to offer, is a place that brings out every bit of tourist in us. And Amanpulo is yet another certified paradise that makes Palawan all the more worthy of our visit. This might be one of the dream destinations on which you have yet to disembark.