My life in El Nido didn’t turn out as I expected it to be. My plan to stay longer got somehow waylaid due to unforeseen work circumstances. Though I no longer have work commitments I took it as an advantage to do more exploration in El Nido. Visiting more islands and off-beat destinations in the region.
Further Inland El Nido
Living in El Nido, I’ve often heard from the family I’m staying at and the locals that there are other interesting places in the region not too many people visit yet. I tagged along my travel buddy there and decided to do more exploration. If you’re island hopping and you see a peak in the mainland where a large falls can be seen, that’s the Bulalacao Falls. The two-hour trek within the steep forest trail and dodging jumping leeches was well worth seeing Bulalacao Falls, the lower tier was a perfect place to relax.
Ille Cave and its towering limestone holds some significant artefacts for the Philippine history. The climb to the top was also fun. Not as strenuous (or dangerous) as the Taraw Cliffs in town.
I got to experience small town living in Sibaltan El Nido and finally a glimpse of the sunrise in the region. The fun part was mustering the courage to kayak to a nearby Bubog Island.
Bacuit Islands
Having some free time in El Nido gave me opportunity to do some writing and photo assignments. What better more than to check out the some prestigious resorts in the area like El Nido Resort’s recent opening, the Pangulasian Island. Even being in El Nido for a while I didn’t do much island hopping, the only island hopping tour I did was Tour B which includes the Snake Island when a balikbayan friend came in town for a visit. It’s a good thing since I haven’t done that before.
More Beach Bumming
Yes I love the beach and it shows in my sun-kissed skin. When not traveling far, I enjoy the walks and discover hidden coves and stretches especially in the rocky coast of Caalan area and boy there lots there to bum around.
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
