Filipiny – co warto zobaczyć

Filipiny – co warto zobaczyć

The Philippines – over seven thousand islands like pearls in a turquoise sea, a place where nature begins with the first step on the hot sand. We will visit noisy towns and quiet villages. We will discover hidden beaches, dream under the stars, dive among reefs. From the deck of a boat, we will see the world like a dream . Azure lagoons, paradise islands. We will look where children laugh among palm trees and the difficult life is rooted in nature and daily rituals. It is not just a journey on a map, it is a journey deep into nature, deep into ourselves. We invite you to a world that can delight and change forever. Stay with us and discover the extraordinary Philippines. Our journey through the Philippines begins with a flight from Manila to Busuanga Island. To reach the capital of the Philippines, you need several hours of travel and several stages . This flight from the capital to one of the islands lasts an hour. Below us, the azure blue of the South China Sea , intersected by strips of reefs and tiny islands, these are the first Philippine islands we see; from above, we will soon touch their sand. Landing on Busuanga seems almost in the middle. We immediately feel the jungle , we are far from the hustle and bustle of big cities . Welcome to Busuanga. Luggage is transferred manually in the open air, and behind the wall is the arrivals hall, and that’s it, we’re here. There are no jetties, glass terminals, or hundreds of monitors. It is in this intimate atmosphere that our adventure in Busuanga begins. There are no random travelers. We come here with a specific purpose : to discover what is wild, beautiful, and not yet fully explored. The driver holds a sign with the name of our hotel . Is everyone there? And so begins our journey through the unknown. The entire team checks in. Hello, hello, welcome to Coron. We will spend the next few days together, discovering islands, seas, lagoons, and natural wonders. We travel from the airport to Coron city through lush green landscapes, passing the first tropical homes in Coron. We will spend two days there, and from there we plan to set sail on a 3-day cruise. We arrive at our base. Hotel Zuri Resort Coron is an elegant, modern hotel located on the outskirts of town, overlooking the bay and hills. The bright rooms immediately draw our attention to what’s most important here: the surroundings and the proximity of nature. The hotel itself is a perfect place to rest after excursions around the island and is a starting point for further exploration. Coron lies on the eastern shore of Busuanga Island. Before the arrival of European explorers, the lush forests and turquoise waters of Coron were home to the Tagbanua people. The indigenous inhabitants, deeply connected to the land and sea, were hunters, fishermen, and traders. The arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the late 16th century. It marked the beginning of a new era in the city’s history. One of the Spanish explorers named the Filipino settlement after the town of Coron in Spain at the end of the 19th century. The Philippines came under American control during World War II, and several Japanese warships were sunk in the bay. Now it is a popular diving destination after the war. Coron began to develop initially thanks to fishing, mining, and agriculture. Now, tourism dominates here . However, Coron still has the atmosphere of a small town with a Filipino soul. In the thicket of local islands, their names and town names, you can get a bit lost. We are currently on Busuanga Island. In the city of Coron , the municipality of Busuanga covers the western part of the island. The municipality of Coron covers the eastern part of the island, along with the city of Coron , and next to Busuanga Island there is an island called Coron. All this is part of the province of Palawan , but Palawan is also a huge island located south of Busuanga Island. It is a bit complicated, but it is worth realizing this, at least to a small extent, because soon we will be facing a journey through many Philippine islands . The city of Coron is dominated by Mount Tapyas, a distinctive hill with a cross and a viewpoint offering a spectacular panorama of the city, sea, and islands. It is worth climbing 700 steps and climbing to a height of 210 meters. During the day, look at the town, or in the evening, watch the sunset, and set off to explore the Philippines . What is the best way to get around? The symbol of local transportation, a tricycle , is a three-wheeled vehicle. This motorcycle with a passenger compartment attached is an integral part of everyday life in the Philippines. On many islands, there are no regular taxis, but you can find tricycles everywhere. They are perfect for the narrow Philippine roads, they fit everywhere. Riding a tricycle is an unforgettable experience, and quite cramped. You have to try it in the Philippines. They are loud, uncomfortable, they do not protect you from dust, and they are also poor against rain. They are simply fantastic because they are an authentic element of the Philippines. Drivers spend entire days and nights in them , eat and sleep here, and appear whenever they are needed. Tricycles are also used to transport goods, and there is probably no amount that cannot be transported. These are other vehicles – symbols of Filipino culture – jeepneys. A popular means of public transportation, they carry a lot of passengers and are usually overloaded. Jeepneys became popular after World War II, when many American vehicles remained in the Philippines. Jeepneys became The name comes from a combination of the words “Jeep” and “Jitney,” meaning a type of shared taxi. We reach the harbor by the bay on a tricycle. This place is called Lualhati Park. It has little in common with the park. It’s a place where boats are moored, a harbor that flows into a larger port. You could say that the entire coastline is an endless harbor for boats of various sizes. However, all of them derive from traditional Filipino bangka boats. For centuries, they have been an integral part of the lives of Filipinos. They were traditionally made of wood, most often bamboo, with characteristic floats on the sides. This provides stability to the narrow boat. The boats come in many varieties and sizes, but the prototype was the Filipino bangka carved in wood. Filipinos call them water butterflies. At the harbor , we also visit the local market. It seems that you can find everything at the local stalls , but you can also observe the local culture. You can see the simple, humble life , but also the smiles that often appear on the faces of Filipinos. The warmth of the locals welcomes us here often. Welcome to Coron, a beautiful, charming, and atmospheric town. A port where views are everywhere and the sun is so hot that Łukasz has to buy a hat at the marina. The city of Coron is also expanding towards the water, creating a housing estate on stilts. We reach the central square near the market. Something like a market doesn’t seem to make much of an impression, but you can find a tourist information point here. We wander through the small streets of Coron. We observe with interest the life of Filipinos in the heart of Coron. The modest church of San Agustin stands. The first chapel was built here in 1901. Over the years, the church was gradually expanded. The interior of the church delights with its simplicity and peace. Arched windows, stained glass, and a gilded altar create an atmosphere of concentration and reflection. San Agustin is not only a place of worship but also the center of Coron community life. The Philippines is the largest Christian country in Asia. Over 80% of Filipinos are Catholic, and faith permeates all spheres of life here. This is the legacy of over 300 years of Spanish colonization , which Filipinos cultivate with pride, however, with a cheerful, colorful, and deeply rooted faith, venturing slightly outside the town center, of course by tricycle. After 20 minutes, you’ll discover an extraordinary attraction. You can arrange a return trip with the driver, and he’ll be waiting for you. Without further ado, let’s get straight to the point. Besides the obvious attractions on the Philippine islands, there are also places in Coron that you wouldn’t expect here. These are hot springs. Hot springs in the Philippines are something for those who love really high temperatures. High air temperatures and even hotter water. See this place with us . This place seems to be created solely for a stop in the rush of travel. Maquinit Hot Springs is a natural, hot spring hidden between hills and mangroves, on the edge of the bay. The water that flows here has a temperature of about 40 degrees Celsius. It flows from deep within the earth, heated by geothermal processes under the volcanic island. It is one of the few saltwater hot springs. Maquinit is not only a place for bathing, it is a space for regeneration. It is ideal after a day full of island exploration, diving, and cruises. It is a moment when the body rests and the mind calms down. It is the perfect time to relax with friends after water attractions. We are hungry, and you know we like to eat. In Coron, you will find a lot of local cuisine; so it is time for Filipino delicacies. Filipino cuisine is mild, you will not burn out, always and everywhere you will get plenty of rice, and everything seems sweet to us. This is adobo, probably the most famous Filipino dish prepared with various types of meat marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, pepper, bay leaves, and soy sauce. It is an extremely diverse dish, with numerous varieties and variants. Adobo is considered a national dish. It is also very meaty. Sisig is a dish most often made from Pork, offal, or seafood . The meat is first marinated in a marinade made of vinegar, lemon juice, and a mixture of spices , then boiled, baked, and fried. The most common spices used in this case are a mixture of Japanese kumquat and sour mandarin, chili pepper, and even mayonnaise. Filipinos also know how to cook delicious soups. Sinigang is a sour, slightly spicy, and thick soup made with seafood , vegetables such as radishes, beans, eggplant, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fish sauce. The soup owes its characteristic sour flavor to the addition of tamarind. Filipinos also love to grill. The most unique type of local grill is lechon, which is simply a whole piglet stuffed with vegetables and spices and roasted for several hours. However, on special occasions, Filipinos more often grill fish, poultry, and pork. In fact, you could say they can grill anything because offal is also included. paws, legs, etc. It’s also worth mentioning that filleting the meat here is rare; it’s roasted with the bones and then portioned. You’ll often find pork knuckle on the menu here , but it’s prepared differently than in Poland. The meat is first marinated and then deep-fried in its entirety, making it incredibly crispy. You can also try the Filipino version. Spaghetti would be quite standard if it weren’t for the fact that, of course, as befits the Philippines… it’s sweet. What’s for dessert? Maybe halo-halo. Various ingredients are layered in a tall, transparent glass or bowl. The base is ice, then fruit such as mango or bananas, condensed milk, jelly, beans, coconut pieces, and the main ingredient of ube, which is purple sweet potato, which is what gives it its unique color. The most popular drink is San Miguel beer , a Filipino brand. Although it can be a bit misleading, there is only Spanish Miguel and Filipino San Miguel. While in the city of Korona, you can also try beer from the local brewery. You can also choose Lambanog , a distilled palm liqueur made from naturally fermented coconut palm sap. Commonly sold as coconut vodka or palm brandy. The undisputed leader when it comes to stronger alcohol is rum . The most popular brand is Tanduay, which is very aromatic and very cheap in the Philippines. It’s best to enjoy all these delicacies in the evening in the hot Philippine climate, when it gets cooler, the bars open their doors. Evening work, tourists are returning to the city after their day-long excursions. The city of Coron is beginning to breathe its evening rhythm. Residents are going about their daily lives because, despite the increasing number of tourists, Coron remains a very authentic Filipino small town. Countless scooters and tricycles are swarming the streets. Young people are on time for sports. All facilities are open outdoors, so only now the temperature allows for training. There is some kind of band practice in the San Agustin Church. We don’t want to disturb, so we peek in cautiously, wanting to be unnoticed. For tourists, it’s also time to find a market and do some shopping, of course, accompanied by the numerous stray animals. Coron tries to be interesting, but not at the cost of losing its identity . This isn’t a city that never sleeps. This isn’t a place that’s thoroughly prepared, cleaned, renovated, and modernized. The main roads are bustling with life, but just around the corner are small streets where it’s so dark you can barely see your steps. Coron is perfect for getting to know Filipino life, perfect for people who want to spend time away from the tourist crowds, closer to everyday life than to the resort. It’s time to relax because tomorrow we have an important cruise . This time we’re taking you on a trip to the Philippine islands. A three-day cruise awaits us, during which we’ll visit unique pieces of the Philippine mainland, see beautiful beaches like this one , dive to see Philippine coral reefs , swim with turtles, and also spend the night on beaches. Stay with us and enjoy watching. A new day, a new adventure. Coron has just risen. But the port is already buzzing. Today we set sail on a three-day cruise from Coron to El Nido on Palawan Island. The route takes us through countless islands, reefs, lagoons, and bays, through spaces so wild and inaccessible that they can only be reached from the sea. We will learn about the life of Filipinos in small villages and spend the night on Philippine beaches. In the morning light, the port looks like a stage before a big premiere. The humid air smells of salt, fish, and engine oil. We move to the hall where the expedition participants gather. Their luggage must be inspected. At this moment, everything begins. We really don’t know what awaits us. We only know that we have three days ahead of us with wind, water, sand, often without signal , and only the basic necessities of life. We finally get to know our ship and those who will be our sea group. Both the crew and the travelers are about to set sail. We will see what will happen. Full of fear and hope, the first anchor is raised. The boat’s engine finally starts. The shore of Coron is behind us, everything is taking on a new pace. We leave behind the land, the city, everyday life, and the ordinary. Let’s get to know each other. We begin with the whole group , meeting the crew. Each of them has a specific task, although as you can see, most of them are busy with almost everything around the ship. The surroundings are like something from the most beautiful nature films. Every now and then, another island emerges from the sea. It’s a shame to close your eyes for even a moment to avoid missing something interesting. So, get to know us better. Our ship has a lower and upper deck. The lower deck is more covered. There’s a wide table for meals and benches on both sides. The upper deck allows you to admire the beautiful views. It’s only slightly sheltered from the sun . Those who are already tired can simply lie down on the stern. The upper deck has another relaxation area to admire the views. The wide bow makes docking easier , but during the cruise, you can also sunbathe here. We check on the captain. His serious gaze seems to guarantee a peaceful cruise. We also look into the galley, which is located at the rear of the ship. It’s quite large, and next to the galley, there’s a grilling area for meat, fish, and seafood that will soon be on our table. We know no one will ask, and everyone wants to know. Now we go find a restroom. So, yes, that’s it. The toilet is quite simple and flushed manually with a pot. As we know, modern life requires charging many electronic devices with various power strips and extension cords. We can connect everyone who wants to throughout the day. You can ask for coffee, tea, soft drinks, or for those who enjoy drinking rum and gin, there are ice cubes, limes, and lemon, but it’s not time for drinks yet because we’re reaching the first of the Philippine islands , Bulogdos. There will be many such unique gems during the cruise. Before each island, we receive information about our location and how much time we have available to reach the island. Those who wish can also use the kayaks used by the crew, who always keep an eye on us so we don’t get lost. Although the island of Bulogdos is tiny, depending on the tides, it can be connected to neighboring islands by sandbars or isolated. Sand, rocks, and crystal-clear water are our first such pleasant, paradise-like sensations. You can also use the postcard-like swing. It’s simply wonderful, so much so that you don’t want to return to the ship. But there are further points on the program. It’s never precisely known before the cruise begins . Where we will appear depends primarily on the weather, wind, and possible storms . Philippine weather is very changeable, and even during the dry season, which we are currently experiencing, it can surprise us. However, the island that everyone wants to visit is one of the showcases of the Philippine islands . Let us remind you that this is the Calamian Islands archipelago, we are about two hours from the city of Coron. We dock at the wonderful island of Ditajtayan. The island is deserted, with only a few Filipino huts for tourists. Another stop on our cruise , another paradise island. There are several beaches around it , but the most famous is this wonderful, curved sandbar. We have plenty of time to enjoy it. The crew even brought a kayak with a portable bar so we could enjoy drinks there. Once we get there, as always when we visit such beautiful islands, we have to say that we would like to spend more time here, staying overnight in one of the Filipino cities. You can also go on a one-day, several-hour cruise during which one or more of these islands will be the destination. We sail around Ditajtayan Island and dock on the boat. It’s time for dinner. Preparing all these delicacies for a group of 30 people is a challenge. We are impressed by the selection of delicious dishes and what the chef has conjured up on the ship. Everything tastes better here . Maybe it’s the views, maybe the sun , or maybe because we’re really hungry for adventure. So thirsty for all these experiences, we realize that something is coming. It’s time to reach our first campsite. We reach the beach of Culion Island. The island is large, but tiny beaches like this one are only accessible from the sea, so we’re quite remote and it really feels like we’re reaching a deserted island. We quickly realize that the guys from the crew can take us to the island in a kayak, but you can also paddle there on your own, which is recommended because whoever gets there first can choose which of the huts they want to spend the night in. And on the lead, the campsite is called Lubog Annex Campsite. There are a few wooden huts and silence, which is drowned out by nothing but the waves. The sunset comes quickly, spilling orange over the water before disappearing. It ‘s early evening, quite beyond the line of islands. We get to know this small place that will be our home for a few hours after the all-day cruise. We finally reach our campsite. On the island where we’ll be staying, there are huts, huts, we’ll show them to you soon , and that’s where the next night will be. Dinner is waiting for us soon, maybe some attractions , and we’ll tell you until tomorrow morning. I’ll show you what’s going on here, how this night went, and you’ll already know. Evening turns into night. Small torches spread out on the beach prevent us from drowning in complete darkness. The chef rises to the occasion again, serving us a delicious dinner. Although everyone is exhausted after a full day of excitement , everyone still has the energy to use the small bar here. The crew transported everything on tiny kayaks. Some are partying, others are soaking up the atmosphere, gazing out at the night sea. As everyone slowly disappears into their huts, the noise dies down and everyone falls asleep in the blink of an eye. It’s only fair to add that one malicious rat hasn’t slept. who got into some bags, finding peanuts in one of them. The morning starts very early here, before the sun even rose for good. We can take a look at our camp and the charming, intimate beach. We don’t hesitate any longer, kayaking with the crew, we return to the ship. We have already left our camp. You can use the kayaks and then they will arrive, they run between the beach and the ship , or you can swim like our friends here. For example, the distance seems short, but you need some strength to swim it in the evening. Łukasz swam from the ship to the beach. What did you see today? I didn’t feel like it yet. Without breakfast, the next day of the cruise brings an encounter with Filipino life. We reach a beautiful island called Inapupan, but admiring the local views is not the goal. Here we go to a Filipino village. Together with our crew, we walk among Filipino huts, meeting the locals , although the desire to learn about local life is enormous, we feel a bit embarrassed intruding as Another group of tourists enters the life of the local community, a life so simple, governed by the laws of nature and daily rituals. We visit the local church and stop at what seems like the village’s central square. Children even have a playground here, and even at that age they can play. For older children, a regular part of the day is drawing water. While we wonder how difficult life must be here, that radiant smile again appears on the Filipino faces. We realize that it is the Filipinos’ cheerful attitude to life that allows them to live a simple yet serene life. How richer we return to our ship. We, the tourists, see in this land the paradise islands from postcards, social media, and movies. Are they truly so heavenly to the Filipinos themselves? Our ship doesn’t reach the island this time. We dock, it would seem, in the middle of the sea , but what’s most important here is underwater. Diving takes us to another dimension . The underwater world of the Philippines delights us from the first dive. It’s like exploring a living picture. From the top of the water, the heat rises, and underwater everything dances. Corals, plants, schools of fish that dart between us . How do we know when it’s time to return to the ship? After all, he stays at a distance from us. We all keep an eye on the signal that says it’s time to get back on board. Unfortunately, we usually have to wait the longest for him. Again, we’re the last ones, like in Egypt . He’s always the last one . They always have to call us. Raising the anchor is an attraction for everyone. The crew makes each other laugh, although this reduces the effectiveness. Passengers watch, although some decide to help , although it’s a difficult task. As you can see, no one complains here. The crew probably can’t even count how many times they have to perform this ritual between each program item during the cruise. Time on the ship passes very peacefully. Some people take a nap. When the crew completes all their tasks, they also have time for themselves. You can play the guitar or sing, which Filipinos love. You can also braid another bracelet , which might become a gift from the guys for one of the passengers. It’s obvious that everyone here is waiting for the next program item, but the cruise itself is also the goal of this trip. We’ve already dived, admiring beautiful plants, colorful fish, and corals, but the next dive allows us to meet larger inhabitants of the local waters, meeting the giants that visit these waters. Turtles are hard to describe in words, you just have to experience them and look them almost eye to eye. Although they appear here often in these waters, meeting a turtle is a lottery. They usually hide from the next group of tourists approaching when the sun is already low on the horizon. Our ship is approaching another beach with a camp. We reach Linapacan Island. This time we know for sure. We have to jump off the ship as quickly as possible and simply swim there , taking the cabin we like best. Łukasz once again treats it like a competition of a lifetime. After winning first place , he now knows what those swimming sessions were all about, but he probably never imagined he’d use this form of exercise years later on one of the Philippine islands. Radek uses a kayak again, transporting handy items while keeping them dry. The crew will transport larger bags in more kayaks. We begin exploring our tiny beach. It’s a bit larger than the previous one, but also cut off from civilization . Our apartment is truly divine. I envy you another evening in unique surroundings. As dusk falls, the hustle and bustle begins at the bar over drinks, but that’s not all that’s planned for tonight. After dinner, things really heat up. An exciting fire show prepared by the crew awaits us. Could there be anything more to surprise us here? Yes, you can try your hand at a fire show yourself. Don’t try it at home. Everyone ran away , and it was Łukasz who got everyone’s heart racing. Let me warn you right away, no one was hurt. The whole group had a wonderful time. This beautiful evening ends with ballads sung by a guest musician. Some sing, others hum. The firelight dances on the faces of people who were complete strangers just yesterday, but today they share such a unique atmosphere that they will remember for the rest of their lives. Darkness falls, deep and real . There’s no signal, no internet. Only the sky, stars, and a warm breeze from the sea. And then we feel that we are truly far from everything familiar, yet close to something unique. Our next day begins early in the morning. Even before the sun rises, we can already hear the rustle of plants and the first sounds of life. The soft footsteps of the crew, the creaking of wood, the quiet laughter of the group. The morning allows us to better understand this charming place . Do you know what breakfast tastes like on such an island? It’s hard to describe today’s final stretch of our sea journey , the route that will lead us to El Nido , but before that, there are a few more stops and a few final delights that we will remember for a long time . The first of these, on an island located quite close to our campsite, is Cagdanao Island. Those who still have the energy and are still not thrilled can compete in a volleyball competition. For others, there are still unique beaches. Everyone here enjoys every moment. What could provide an even greater adrenaline rush? This is a challenge for thrill-seekers. For those willing, there’s the opportunity to swim to a magnificent cliff and jump into the water. As you can see, there’s no shortage of willing participants . Łukasz also succumbed to the temptation. The ship sets off on the next part of the route to show us more exciting islands. This one has a unique name: Cobra Island, although it’s also known as Manlihan . But where does this cobra come from? Because of the treasure left here by Japanese soldiers after the war, fishermen found a chest here, topped with a golden cobra. The white sandy beach is truly stunning. The substrate here is unique, consisting mainly of coral remnants. Even though it’s already the third day of the cruise, there’s still enough energy to take advantage of these opportunities for great fun, such as jumping into the water from the ship. A moment of madness, but the ship sails another section of the route and takes us to other unique places. Ahead of us is Tacling Island. Nature shows its beautiful face here. In fact, it’s just a piece of sand piled up by sea currents and waves. We’ve already seen so many islands during this cruise , but with each new one, we’re filled with great admiration for what Philippine nature has to offer. Before the ship sets off, we can’t resist checking it out. How durable are the floats of the famous Filipino boats? Now we can say, anyone who hasn’t sat on one of its floats hasn’t recognized a Filipino boat. This was the last island on our route. The city of El Nido slowly appears on the horizon. The ship is moving slower and slower. Everyone is looking ahead, looking out from the port , yet not wanting this journey to end. The signal from the conch shell sounds for the last time. This time it doesn’t beckon us, but announces our descent to the mainland. When we finally reach the shore, we feel that something important is ending. And so our cruise has ended without any problems, without any unforeseen or unpleasant events. We are a little sad to leave this ship . We will only have wonderful memories. We truly recommend this adventure to everyone. We are already in the port of El Nido and it’s time for the next stages of our expedition. Stay with us. The cruise was more than just a journey between points. It was our rite of passage from everyday life into something completely unknown. For three days, we were part of the sea , part of the islands, part of the local nature and elements, although we had only just landed on the shore. We’re already longing for those moments. If you ever dream of a multi-day cruise around the Philippines, don’t hesitate for a moment; the memories will last a lifetime. Mabuhaj, or welcome to the Philippines. Welcome to the next part of our Philippine journey. In this episode, we’ll show you the town of Elnido, located on the island of Palawan. We’ll also set sail from here to see famous sites: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizo Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. More Filipino adventures await us. This is the next part of our story about our adventures in the Philippines. Now we reach the town of Elnido. As a reminder, we arrived here after a three-day cruise from Koron Town on Busuanga Island to Palawan Island, where Elnido is located. We’re choosing the Elnido Garden Resort for our accommodations . It’s located in the very center of town, but also right on the seafront overlooking the bay. Be warned, the hotel also has rooms facing the other side, and from these you have a view of the neighboring building. Rooms at Elnido Garden Resort are spacious and comfortable. You can also relax in the lush garden and the intimate pool, which also offers a beautiful view of the bay. Elnido is located in the northern part of Palawan Island, 400 km south of Manila, the capital of the Philippines, and almost 300 km north of Puerto Princessa, the capital of Palawan Island. Elnido’s history is inextricably linked to the sea and its riches. The city of Elnido, also known as Baku, has been inhabited for several, perhaps even a dozen, centuries BC. Chinese traders regularly visited the area in the first and second centuries AD. The city traces its roots to the small village of Tagbanwa. The Spanish who lived here in the 19th century chose the name Baku, and both Spanish conquistadors and Chinese settlers settled here . After the establishment of the republic and independence in 1954, the name was changed to Elnido, in honor of the edible hedgehog nests found in the crevices of the local rocks. Elnido means “nest” in Spanish. Elnido encompasses 45 islands and islets. The city has a population of approximately 50,000 . The main occupations are fishing, agriculture, and, of course, tourism. Ennido is located on the Sulu Sea to the east and the South China Sea to the west. The city lies in Baku Bay, and the central part of the city is right next to the beach. However, it isn’t the prettiest and is mainly used as a marina. To discover the most beautiful beaches in Elnido, you have to venture outside the center of Elnido. The most famous of them is Nakpan Beach. You can take a tricycle ride. It’s a symbol of Filipino transport. A trip in a typical taxi is inexpensive. The small vehicle fits anywhere and can carry a lot. When choosing a destination, you can arrange with the driver to wait for you there. You can arrange a sightseeing tour with some of them, and I’ll show you around. The most interesting places in the area. To explore Palaan Island on your own, you can rent a scooter for the day and go wherever you want. The cost is around 30 złoty for the whole day. One of the attractions in Enido itself is the Kanopi Walkok. A walk along the suspended bridges leading to the Tara Cliff viewpoint is a short but exciting hike, rewarded with a beautiful view of all of Elnido. Those looking for a more adrenaline-filled experience should head to Las Cabanas Beach. There, you can zipline between two islands above the blue Sulu Sea. The harbor, a small beach, narrow streets bustling with life, tricycles pass tourists, and children run barefoot in the sand. A typical day in Elnido. The town still retains its Filipino charm, but during the dry season, it’s besieged by countless tourists. If you’re looking for a secluded, quiet place, you won’t feel right at home in Elnido. What attracts such large crowds of tourists here? The town of Elnido itself is interesting, but it’s not the destination of all these trips. To see what’s most interesting here, you have to set sail. They say Elnido is the gateway to the Baku Archipelago, one of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia. [Music] Early in the morning, we set off on another cruise at the port of Elnido. What are we expecting, Łukasz? Beautiful views and thousands of tourists. Every morning, the port of Elnido bursts with life from the early hours . Crowds flock to the marina to embark on one of the island-hopping cruises. We chose our tour and operator the evening before. How do you find cruise companies? Just have it written on your face that you’re looking for a cruise, and someone will surely find you. In the morning, we gather at the designated spot. The group slowly forms. Following our guide, we reach our boat. The traditional Filipino bankka is already waiting for us. Bankkas, used in the Philippines for centuries, are renowned for their long, slender silhouette and widely spaced side outrigger fins, which ensure a stable course for this narrow boat . A tightly packed group of around 30 people meets at the beginning of the cruise and must follow the guide’s instructions. In the morning, countless boats depart from Welnido Pier, each packed with tourists eager to see the local natural wonders. The archipelago consists of over 40 islands and islets scattered across the turquoise sea like jewels. Four basic island-hopping itineraries are available: A, B, C, and D. A is the most popular option, encompassing the region’s most interesting attractions, including beaches, diving, and lagoons. It’s also the most popular destination. Version B is for cave enthusiasts. Version C focuses primarily on paradise beaches and snorkeling. Plan D covers less popular beaches. We decided on plan A. Overboard, we pass fascinating views. This is our next cruise, as we’ve already completed a three-day itinerary. But what you can see here never gets old. Everyone turns in all directions, trying not to miss anything interesting. [Music] The boat slows down, signaling that we’re reaching the first attraction. Vertical cliffs rise straight out of the sea. They seem inaccessible, but a bit of white sand beckons us to get there as quickly as possible. [Music] It’s worth mentioning that the boat doesn’t go right to the beach. It docks at a distance. You have to cover this distance yourself, swimming, walking, and wading. Remember this by taking only the essentials. If you have as much equipment as we did, a special waterproof bag is essential. If you ‘re only taking a smartphone, pack it in a waterproof case, preferably a floating one. On a small beach, the massive rocks seem even larger, even inaccessible to visitors. [Music] We make our way through scattered, sharp rock formations and reach the main attraction. A mysterious chamber created by nature hides behind this entrance. As you can see, the queue to enter this unique place is as long as a butcher’s shop. Prepare to wait . For now, the Philippines is testing our patience. Yes, yes, yes. As you can see, to get into the Secret Lagoon, you have to wait in a long line. The Secret Lagoon may be inaccessible, but that doesn’t mean it’s secret. [Music] So off we go. We squeeze through a narrow opening and find ourselves in another world. [Music] W. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Shallow water and a space enclosed on all sides by rocky walls. You can focus on the countless tourists, but you can also cut yourself off, internally experiencing this poignant place. [Music] The return from the Secret Lagoon to the real world takes place again through this narrow opening. The shuttle only shuttles in one direction, guided by local guides. [Music] We return to the ship. [Music] Time for the next part of the cruise. [Music ] The next stop on the route offers us not only a visual experience but also a taste. We reach the small island of Shimizu Island. Here, too, are beautiful white-sand beaches nestled among rocky formations. Together with the moored boats, they create a paradise setting. Here, we focus not only on the views but also on the flavors. Lunch is organized here during our cruise. You can see how the staff has prepared a lot of delicacies for the half-board meal. There’s fish, seafood, chicken, vegetables, and plenty of fruit. As with most stops on such islets, there are also vendors where you can buy water and other drinks. And we couldn’t resist a refreshing drink of cool coconut water in this paradise. Such pleasant moments stay with us forever. This is the moment when the comment, “They’ll live like this,” might come to mind. It’s time for the biggest attraction of this cruise. Huge rocks rise in the distance. The boat stays a distance away. This is a unique place you discover on your own, kayaking. So we slowly [Music] between the towering black cliffs that guard the entrance like monumental gates. The water here changes color from deep blue to emerald and turquoise. Calm, transparent. Be careful, there’s a rock here. The famous Big Lagon lies before us. The passage is several hundred meters long. The depth changes gradually. Right at the entrance, it’s shallow, but a few moments later, the depths open up again. [Music] A natural bay carved by time and tides. In such a space, among such exciting natural wonders, one becomes so small. Big Lagoon isn’t just one large, wide strip between two high side walls. It’s also the opportunity to navigate small, tight rock labyrinths. [Music] In them, even a small kayak sometimes seems too big. We’re waiting for the passage. Listen, it’s coming soon. But we bravely press on with our team, undeterred by the sometimes claustrophobic atmosphere. Pabo [Music] A stay in Big Lagon isn’t just another stop on the trip. It’s an experience, an experience. The wonders of nature will enchant everyone here. [Music] I’m dying. Returning in a small kayak and crossing from the calm Wudlagun to the sea waters seems less poetic. However, we must bravely overcome these waves and reach our ship. The next stops of the cruise await. This time, we moor between two towering peaks. This is Twinrocks. A spectacular place above the surface, but the greatest attractions lie beneath the water. Here we stop to dive. It’s the perfect spot for a deep dive or surface snorkeling. Here, Philippine marine life reveals itself in all its splendor. What happens underwater resembles a kaleidoscope of nature. Every now and then, schools of colorful fish or single, lost small creatures flit by. The current stirs the coral fans and unique marine plants. Everything here lives and breathes to the rhythm of the sea. [Music] At the end of our cruise, only blissful relaxation awaits us in this paradisiacal setting. We’re reaching the final stop on the itinerary. Seeven Commandos Beach is right in front of us. [Music] Most people are obviously immediately interested in the name of this place, but here are a few There are so many ideas about why the beach is named after the seven commandos or the seven soldiers. [Music] None of these theories are confirmed, and it’s really unclear where they came from. The most important thing to focus on here is the paradisiacal surroundings. [Music] White sand, practically a wall made of palm trees. And all of this is enveloped by green hills. You can simply find some refreshment here in the shade of the vegetation, sunbathe on the hot sand, play volleyball, simply soak up this nature and wildlife. [Music] In the afternoon, we return to the port of Velnido. [Music] We experience what we had the opportunity to see today. The wonders of the Bakuid archipelago are so beautiful they seem unreal. It seems that the films showing these places are technically modified, but these places are absolutely real and tangible, even though they look so improbable. Nature in the Philippines is exceptionally generous with landscapes. [Music] [Music] After all these attractions, you might get hungry. Elnido is also a place where you can experience the Philippines on a plate. While there are plenty of tubars and restaurants serving international cuisine, catering to the tourist crowd, you can also find places serving local delicacies. Try the Philippines’ signature dish, adobo. Prepared with various types of meat marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, pepper, bay leaves, and soy sauce, it has numerous variations and variations, but is often considered a national dish. This includes pares, Filipino braised beef in a bowl like a soup or stew, served with garlic fried rice. Another type is pares mami, a combination of pares and mami, a Filipino soup with egg and noodles. This is Filipino pork knuckle, or crpy pata. It’s truly crispy because the marinated piece of meat is deep-fried. Kar is a very popular Filipino dish. It’s called Filipino kar. It’s distinguished by its thick peanut sauce. It’s like a stew. We only ordered the vegetable version, but it’s mostly meat, most often oxtail. It’s also often served with fermented shrimp paste. Western dishes, such as spaghetti and hamburger, are especially delicious in the Philippines, and they come in sweet versions. Yes, sweet flavors dominate Filipino cuisine. You’ll find more Filipino specialties in the other parts of our Philippine journey. [Music] After all the day’s cruises, expeditions, and excursions, things are much calmer in Baku Bay in Elnido. The boats are moored, the owners are perhaps cleaning, renovating, tidying up, and certainly preparing them for the next day, because tomorrow everything will start all over again. Meanwhile, all the tourists who enjoyed these attractions during the day are now storming the city. You can visit bars and restaurants, party in clubs, shop, and, in short, enjoy the nightlife of Elnido. The town resembles a tourist-filled seaside resort. [Music] You can also win something in gambling. They’re probably not very complicated, but we see that Filipinos are the ones who choose them. Are they trying to multiply the money they’ve earned thanks to us today? Young people have time to play sports now that the weather’s a bit cooler. Łukasz has the opportunity to choose another Filipino delicacy. Łukasz, what did you buy? I bought a chocolate roll. Oh, let’s see how it tastes. It’s not chocolate. What’s in it? It’s sugar. Chocolate rolls in the Philippines are filled with sugar. You can also purchase internet access. We had to ask the local youth what it was all about. The machine creates some kind of Wi-Fi that’s active for the purchased time. How much does it cost? 5 pesos, a long time. The nightlife in Enido won’t end anytime soon. It’s a shame this is our last night here. Although we’d love a break from the crowds. [Music] The next morning allows us to take another look at Elnido. Just on the way to the airport, Elnido is truly enchanting. The local nature is a beautiful spectacle for all travelers eager to discover something unique. This former small port town is now trying to find a balance between The old rhythm of life and the new tourist reality. Discovered by a growing number of tourists from around the world, it is slowly becoming a buzzing seaside resort. Elnido is a unique experience, and we hope that with the development of tourism, it will not lose the atmosphere and character sought by all explorers. We reach another small airport. It’s Lio Airport in Elnido. “Airport” is a completely inappropriate name for these few buildings. Everything we know from airports here is on a micro scale. A few buildings lie right in the jungle. Notices about not feeding animals are not often found at airports. [Music] [Music] Finally, our little plane arrives. You can often use umbrellas here. Perhaps to escape the sun, perhaps to avoid a sudden downpour. There’s also an elegant red carpet. It’s the perfect place to say goodbye to Elnido, but also to begin an adventure in the next place. We look down once more at these unique surroundings. [Music] And now, check out the next part of our Philippine journey. See you soon. Welcome to the next part of our journey through the Philippines. Welcome to Boracay, one of the most beautiful Philippine islands. In this episode, we will show you the famous Boracay island , how to get there, how to explore it, and what the biggest attractions are. More on this soon. Stay with us. The next part of our journey through the Philippines is mainly devoted to relaxation. We chose Boracay island. It’s not easy to get there. We fly from El Nido on Palawan island. We leave the Bacuit archipelago behind us, we are heading to the island. Well, not directly to Boracay, but to Panay island, to the Caticlan airport. In the city of Malay, however, the name Boracay Airport is often used, although it is not located on this island. Boracay does not have its own airport. Landing in Caticlan is an unusual experience. Right next to the runway stretches turquoise water, beaches, dense Philippine forests. Right after getting off the plane, we are greeted by smiles and a red carpet. The airport is literally intimate, and the staff is even waves hello but how do I get to Boracay from here? It’s best to buy a group transfer ticket after leaving the airport. It covers several stages of the journey, includes all necessary fees, and ends with you being delivered to your hotel. We are marked with special stickers to guide us, step by step, each tourist gets to their destination. First, we take a bus from the airport to the port. The port is filled with hundreds of tourists, but despite this, everything runs smoothly. I must admit, it’s a very nice solution. Either we follow the stickers or the colors. The boats are waiting, ready for a short crossing to the neighboring island . We set off on a quick cruise. After a few exciting minutes on the water in Boracay, we are greeted by the sun and a fresh sea breeze. It’s not over yet, it’s time for the transfer to the hotel. Okay, and for the last part of the journey from the ship, we transfer to a small bus and now go directly to the hotel. This is how we begin a new adventure. On the northern tip of Boracay , far from the hustle and bustle of the main beaches and crowded promenades, hidden in the greenery of tropical vegetation lies the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay. The first impression is silence, interrupted only by the rustle of palm trees and a quiet splash. Waterfront rooms with a view of nature. Of course, not all of them look like this one, but you can feel comfortable in all of them. The hotel complex is spacious, built to blend into the surroundings. The only dilemma may be deciding whether to spend time at the pool or head to the seashore, where the hotel is located. The hotel is located on Punta Bunga Beach , a private, almost hidden cove with white sand and azure waters, accessible only to guests of a few hotels. The beach is free of crowds and no pushy vendors. Beach lovers will be very happy. Those who enjoy swimming in the warm sea will also be delighted by diving underwater, you can discover further wonders of the local bay. If you want an oasis of peace away from the center of Boracay Island, the Mövenpick Hotel will be an excellent choice. Boracay is a small island with an area of ​​​​only 10 square kilometers. It has been attracting travelers from all over the world for years. For centuries, the island was home to the indigenous Ati people when the Spanish arrived in the Philippines in the 16th century. Boracay, like many smaller islands, remained largely untouched by the colonial transformation, thanks to which it retained its traditional character only in the 1970s. Boracay began to attract the first tourists, and over the following decades, the island turned into a famous resort. However, great popularity comes at a price. In 2018, the Philippine government decided to close the island for six months to rebuild the natural environment. The goal was to restore the balance between humans and nature. How do we navigate this tiny island? Of course, as on most Philippine islands, tricycles are used, but on Boracay Island, they are modernized, newer, larger, more comfortable, and what’s the biggest change, they are electric. Those who crave the nightlife that thrives on Boracay can calm down. Tricycles run until late at night, and maybe even all night long. A night trip by tricycle provides new experiences, especially if you’re also going to less populated parts of the island. It’s time to visit the most popular spot here : White Beach, one of the most famous beaches not only in the Philippines but also around the world. It’s about four kilometers long and runs along the western coast of Boracay Island. Its trademark is fine, almost white sand . The water is usually crystal blue… but not always, especially during the dry season. Algae tides appear, which affect the aesthetic and bathing experience . This is a natural phenomenon, but it’s worth being prepared for it, because then your photos won’t be perfect. The beach is divided into three main sections, called Stations 1, 2, and 3. 1 is the area with the most expensive hotels and less crowded areas. Station 2 is the center of the bustle, with clubs, restaurants, and heavy tourist traffic. Station 3, on the other hand, is considered a quieter area in the south, with smaller hotels and a more intimate atmosphere. Right next to the shore, near Station 1, a small basalt rock formation, Willy’s Rock, rises from the shallow water . At low tide, you can reach it on foot, but not this time, and then there’s the algae. But we’re on pilgrimage because at the top of the rock there’s a small chapel with a statue of the Virgin Mary facing the sea, as if blessing not only the island but all who come to it. If the tide isn’t low when you see the statue, you have to go back in the water, but you can also use kayaks. Along the White Beach beach runs a crowded promenade made up of restaurants, beach bars, cafes, boutiques, and street stalls. This is where you can feel the strong presence of tourism the most. Everything is prepared with visitors from all over the world in mind. We continue along this market, we go, we go, if you like the hustle and bustle, if you like a lot of What’s going on on your vacation, choose this zone: Station 1 or Station 2, which are the most crowded with tourists. If you want peace and quiet on Boracay Island, then somewhere outside these main areas you can also find very quiet and secluded places on this island, but the main ones are, well, for some people even tiring. We don’t know if they can hear us because it’s so loud. You can hardly hear the sound of the sea here. It’s crowded, loud and expensive , and you can buy everything, from fresh coconuts to souvenirs . The aroma of grilled meat mixes with the scent of suntan lotions . Despite commercialization, White Beach remains a unique place, not necessarily paradise at all times, but certainly intense, lively and full of contrasts. This is where modern resorts and the old atmosphere of Boracay , from before the great wave of development, combine. It’s a space where you can relax… and just as easily get lost in the excess of impressions. A bit of Mielno, a bit of Krupówki , but Boracay Island is not only White Beach. To visit the interesting places of this narrow strip of land at sea, it’s worth using a tricycle, of course, but this time together we arrange with the driver that we will make a route around the island, stopping at the biggest attractions We also travel to less touristy areas of the island, where the former Boracay is best. As we mentioned, a tricycle can fit anywhere. It’s also not afraid of roadworks and a closed route. Away from the hustle and bustle of White Beach, on the eastern side of Boracay, there’s a place that surprises with a completely different face of the islands. This is the Boracay Mangrove Forest , a site with a mangrove forest, one of the last such ecosystems on the island. The path runs along a wooden bridge floating above the marshy ground, allowing you to enter the very heart of this unique world. The air is thick and humid here, and you can hear the sounds of tropical birds among the leaves. Protecting mangrove forests is key to maintaining a balance between what’s wild and natural and what’s man-made. This is a quiet, green, yet vibrant side of Boracay. The fullness of life can be felt on another of Boracay’s famous beaches: Bulabog Beach. Wild, windy, and full of energy. On this side of the island, the wind is almost constant, hence Bulabog Beach attracts kitesurfers and windsurfers from all over the world from November. Until April, there’s a real water sports season here instead of luxury resorts. Small hotels, sports schools, and atmospheric bars offer beach time. Beach time is a rare activity here. This is the coast of adrenaline sports and adventure. Why not visit another perfect spot for sunbathing away from the crowds of tourists and the hustle and bustle of White Beach? Hidden in a quiet bay on the northeast side of Boracay, Paradise Cove Beach is one of those places that truly deserves the name “paradise .” There are no hustle and bustle of bars or crowds, just the sound of waves reigns supreme . On this side of the island, the sea is calm. In addition, the lush vegetation is one of those places in Boracay that reminds you of what the island might have looked like before it became a tourist giant. Nearby is another attraction on Boracay Island. You have to walk a bit to get there, but the closer you get, the more you realize that it attracts a large number of tourists. This is a natural gate carved by time and the elements in a rock cliff. This formation resembles a huge keyhole, through which you can see the horizon. This is Cujo’s Keyhole. Although everyone gathers as close as possible, the formation also looks impressive from afar, blending into the rocky coast of Boracay. It’s worth visiting and getting slightly different photos of Boracay than just the beach ones. On a sightseeing tour of Boracay island, you can also take Hop-On-Hop-Off buses, which will also take you around the island, but a tricycle is definitely more familiar , but beaches are the essence of this island . Let’s visit one more, probably the wildest one. We reach the very northern tip of Boracay through a narrow passage between stalls, stands and bars. We reach Puka Beach , a place that until recently was known only to locals. Today, many people visit it to feel the sand under their feet and jump into the turquoise waves. The beach is truly stunning. A strip of white sand on the land side is enclosed by rocks and a forest providing shade. The sea is incredibly blue, with waves that just beg to be splashed in. This is one of those places in Boracay that reminds us that the joy of being on the beach is not only blissful laziness, but also laughter among the people. Waves and sand in our hair. On our way back, we pass the new New Coast development. We have mixed feelings. Although Boracay may seem like a paradise on earth, it’s not free from conflict. The problem is land ownership. The island’s population, who have lived here for centuries, often lacks formal ownership documents, and investors want to take over the land. During the island’s closure, a comprehensive review of the land’s legal status was carried out. Some buildings were demolished, and land designated for residents and investors was created. It’s hard to shake the impression, however, that the island is increasingly being taken over by investors , and the indigenous inhabitants are being pushed to the margins . Will it still be a Filipino island when the local population is merely a sideline? We spend the evening on Punta Bunga beach near our hotel. Our stay in Boracay ends, and so does our entire Philippine adventure. A cycle full of sun, wind, and water. Boracay, like a cohesive thread, ties together all Filipino experiences. On the one hand, the tourist bustle, on the other, the sound of waves, white sand, and relaxation , but our trip wasn’t just about Boracay. Throughout all these days, we tried to capture the spirit of the Philippines on the streets, in the market, on the water, and on the mainland in small towns, on tricycle trips. Through the smiling eyes of the locals, we learned about islands whose names you can’t even remember, but whose sight you can’t forget. A Philippine adventure is like a fascinating book, like an unreal movie. Thank you for being with us. A rarely discovered piece of land has already been discovered by us. Maybe our trip will make some of you decide to do it too . Don’t hesitate, now it’s your turn. Be sure to check out the rest of our Philippine trip. We’ll see you in our next trips.

Zapraszamy Cię na niezapomnianą podróż po Filipinach! Razem odwiedzimy magiczne miejsca:
Coron, El Nido, Boracay a do tego… 3-dniowy rejs między wyspami, podczas którego śpimy w szałasach na plaży i budzimy się w zupełnie innym raju.

Nagrywamy:
DRON – https://leadstar.pl/c?pid=109363&did=21062&ha=1419354808&r=7540
KAMERA 1 – https://leadstar.pl/c?pid=109363&did=21061&ha=322558056&r=9134
KAMERA 2 – https://leadstar.pl/c?pid=109363&did=21060&ha=777646552&r=8354
KAMERA 3 – https://leadstar.pl/c?pid=109363&did=21059&ha=2782781703&r=6393

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