The rising paradise of San Vicente: A ‘Biyahe ni Drew’ itinerary

 

When you think of Palawan, the destinations that first come to your mind are Puerto Princesa, Coron, and El Nido. But do you know that another town is its mark on backpackers’ maps—the municipality of San Vicente.



Let’s discover what this place has to offer in this itinerary from “Biyahe ni Drew.”

How to get there?

After an hour of plane ride from Manila to Puerto Princesa, you can choose either to ride a van or a bus to reach San Vicente, Palawan. If you plan to ride a van, it will cost you P250. But if you ride a bus, you can save at least P 50. This travel will take three to four hours so be sure to take the earliest flight to Puerto Princesa to make the most out of your day.



Where to stay?

Coconut Island Resort

In Coconut Island Resort, a standard beachfront room is worth P1, 200 per night. This is inclusive of two electric fans, a mosquito net, and basic toiletries.

But if you’re going with a big group, for say 4-6 persons, you can avail of their family rooms which cost P3,000 per night.

Ausan Beachfront Cottages and Restaurant

You can also stay in Ausan Beachfront Cottages. Room rates start at P4,000 per night, good for 4 persons. If you want easy access to the beach, book their beachfront premium rooms which also have their own sala.

They also offer a treehouse cottage for P800 per night and suitable for 2 persons. It comes with basic toiletries but restrooms are located under the cottage.

Where to go and what to do?

Port Barton

Port Barton is one of the top destinations in San Vicente. Foreigners come here very often because of its unspoiled white sand beach. Since this area is still undeveloped, don’t expect to see luxurious hotels and resorts. On the other hand,  this is perfect if you want to spend a peaceful and quiet time with your family and friends.

Sea grape harvesting



Sea grapes or lato can be easily found in the waters of San Vicente. It may be abundant but harvesting them is a challenge because lato grows in the muddy parts of the sea, making it hard for you to see them underwater.

After harvesting, the sea grapes are then sold to resorts. One kilo of lato is worth P50. Some of the sea grapes are also exported giving residents a chance to earn money for themselves.

Bigaho Falls



To reach Bigaho Falls, you will need to ride a boat for 20 minutes from Port Borton. From the drop-off point, you have to walk for 10 minutes to get to the falls.

Bigaho Falls is composed of fourteen levels but so far, only two of them are open to the public. The cold water coming from the falls will surely wash away all of your stress and muscle aches.

The good news is the entrance here is free but there are no stores around so you better bring your own food and drinks. Just don’t forget to throw your garbage properly so as not to dirty the area.

Long beach

The long beach in San Vicente is 14.7 kilometers in length and is considered the longest white sand beach in the country. It is three times longer than the white sand beach of Boracay. This beach is definitely perfect for a long walk on the shoreline while holding hands with your loved one. San Vicente for romantics, eh?

What to eat?

Tamilok



Tamilok is an exotic delicacy in Palawan. It is a translucent worm-like mollusk found inside a dead wood. It is usually eaten raw but others prefer to eat it after soaking it in vinegar with chili.

Coconut Island Resort

Do you love potatoes? Then, Coconut Island Resort is a food haven for you. They offer a combination of Filipino and European dishes that come with huge serving of potatoes- either mashed or pan fried. One of their best-sellers is their pork cutlet fritata- a pork dish with hash brown and served with pasta.

Unlimited breakfast

To save up energy for a jampacked day, you will need to eat a heavy breakfast. In San Vicente, you can have an unlimited buffet-style breakfast in Ausan Beachfront Restaurant. From fried eggs to bacon, you can eat as many breakfast classics as you want.

Tired of the usual travel spot? Don’t worry because Drew and the crew will always be in search of new and untouched destinations that every Biyahero will surely love and enjoy! —Gerald Vista/BMS, GMA Public Affairs

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