The unexplored paradise of Taytay, Palawan: A ‘Biyahe ni Drew’ itinerary

 

We’re all familiar with Coron, Puerto Princesa, and El Nido in Palawan but we’ve proven in "Biyahe ni Drew" that the province has a lot more to offer. Would you believe that we’ve found another beautiful gem in Palawan?
 

The island of Taytay is located in the northern part of Palawan. Back in the 1600’s, the island wasn’t as quiet as it is now because it used to be the capital of the province.

How to get there

From Manila, you can take a one-hour plane ride going to the airport of Puerto Prinsesa. From Puerto Princesa terminal, you can take a van going to Taytay which will take around three hours.

There’s no need to worry about the long drive because there are places where you can stop over to grab a bite or to go to the comfort room.

Once you’re in Taytay and you want a side trip to El Nido, you can go there via bus for 150 pesos or van for P200. But if you want to go back to Puerto Princesa, you can ride the bus for P280 or the van for P350.

Where to stay

Casa Rosa

Poblacion, Taytay, Palawan

Aside from the amazing view that this place has, they also offer various accommodations. Their cheapest room costs P700 and that already comes with its own bathroom.

You may also choose from a small cottage which costs P1,100 or a big cottage for P1,400 that comes with a veranda and a free breakfast.

Their accommodations do not come with air conditioning since the province usually has a breezy weather.

Besides the accommodation that Casa Rosa offers, they also serve a wide range of sea foods like one of their specialties, talakitok.

Flower Island Resort
 

This island is a bit farther than the others but once you see its beautiful beach and experience the serenity of this place, the travel will all be worth it.

When you go to this island, you may choose to avail of their package with full board meals for P7,600 a night.

They also have cottages that cost P10,000 per night where each bathrooms has its own bathtub for you to unwind.

All the rooms in this resort are facing the beach or are near the beach.

To see the whole beauty of Flower Island, trek to the peak of its mountain which will take around only 15- 20 minutes. Just inform the hotel staff so they can provide a guide to the mountain.

After a day of swimming, trekking, and beach bumming, don't head on over yet to your rooms! A sunset session in Flower Island is a must!

Where to go and what to do

Island hopping!
 

You can’t go to Palawan and not want to explore its islands! In Taytay, you may go island hopping by renting a boat for P3-4,000 only from 8 AM to 4 PM, good for 4-6 persons already. Not bad at all!

Some of the virgin beaches that you can explore are:

Nabat island
 

Are you a fan of snorkeling? You’ll surely enjoy here because this island is known for its beautiful corals and colorful fishes. When snorkeling, Biyahero, always keep in mind: don't touch anything!

Malutamban island
 

Tourists love to relax in this island by having their picnics by the beach.

And if you love taking pictures then get your selfie sticks ready because this island is known for its scenic views.

Fort Sta. Isabel

The fort was named after Isabel II of Spain before. This used to be the lookout area and place of defense of the Spaniards whenever there were pirates who planned to attack the former capital of Palawan.

It took 71 years to build this fort. Corals and egg whites were used as the main materials to build it.

There is also a chapel at Fort Sta. Isabel where masses are often held here. If you're looking for a wedding destination, the tourism management opened the chapel to private weddings.

Diving in Coral Garden
 

Want to explore the beauty of Palawan underwater?

You may choose to dive in Taytay’s coral garden which has a rich marine life. The payment for the diving gear and dive master is 1,800 pesos.

Baras Farm Island
 

This is an agri-eco island where other islands get their food supply like vegetables and meat.

This is also where locals from neighboring islands get their supply.

People may choose to cultivate their own vegetables here instead of buying from the market.

Umbrella in mini-Island


 

Aside from the common area here, there is also a rock formation called Umbrella which is on top of this mini island where you can have candlelit dinner set up if you want a more romantic feel.

In the morning, you need to take a boat going to this spot because the tide is still high but in the late afternoon and evening, you can just walk going here from the common area.

Poblacion Taytay Market
 

Looking for pasalubong to give to your loved ones? Seafoods like danggit and daing are a lot cheaper here compared to its neighboring towns!

You can also ask the locals if they are selling island-inspired handicrafts in this market.

Elephant Island

Are you looking for a new kind of adventure? Then this island is the place for you!

Elephant Island is known for its cave pool where tourists can swim. The cave isn’t easy to find though and it’s dark inside so make sure that you have a tour guide or a local with you, mga Biyahero!

Where and what to eat

Flower Island Resort

This resort also offers a wide range of seafood choices. One of their famous dishes here is the Balmain bug or what the locals call as Pitik which is usually served with cheese to add flavor.

Chaolongan

This Vietnamese noodle soup is popular in Puerto Prinsesa but locals in Taytay also enjoy this dish for only P50 per bowl!

Isn’t it nice to know that there are still a lot of places in our country where you can reward yourself with a tranquil vacation? Sometimes, all you need to do is to take the road less traveled!---Via Gonzales/BMS, GMA Public Affairs

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