Known as the city in a forest, Puerto Princesa City lives up to its reputation as one of the most environmentally-conscious cities in the Philippines.
HONG KONG – Star Cruises, the leading cruise line in Asia Pacific, is pleased to announce that SuperStar Aquarius will return to the beautiful shores of Sabah (Malaysia) and homeport in the city of Kota Kinabalu from 8th November 2014 till 1st March 2015. In conjunction with this, the 13-storey SuperStar Aquarius will introduce an exciting new destination to Puerto Princesa City, located at Palawan Island province in the Philippines. Star Cruises will offer the all new and exotic 4D/3N Kota Kinabalu/Puerto Princesa City destination cruise, 2 Night high seas cruise (available alternate week) and the regular 1 Night high seas cruise onboard SuperStar Aquarius.
Known as the city in a forest, Puerto Princesa City lives up to its reputation as one of the most environmentally-conscious cities in the Philippines. Located at the mid-section of the long strip of the Palawan Island province, Puerto Princesa City is a top tourist destination, known mostly to locals and well-travelled foreigners. It is home to many beautiful sights and natural wonders – pristine beaches, coral reefs and lush greeneries that are unique to the place. The climate-friendly city offers some of Philippines’ best kept heritage, culture and natural attractions.
Among some of the must-see places include the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new 7 Wonders of Nature. As one of the most distinguished protected areas in the Philippines, the park features unspoiled natural beauties such as old reserved forests, clear white-sandy beaches, diverse endangered wildlife species and one of the world’s most impressive caves systems, with a series of spectacular limestone formations. The park also contains an 8.2 km underground river, which is said to be the longest navigable underground river in the world that flows directly to the South China Sea. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is truly a remarkable place like no other and is on many travellers’ bucket list.
The Palawan Island province is also home to various indigenous tribes including the shy and peaceful Batak tribe that lives in the foothills and mountains northeast of Palawan. The “Batak” which means mountain people in Cuyonon, is known for its rich traditions and heritage. Another highlight of the island is the Maoyon River Cruise that explores the rainforest jungle with a rare glimpse of the century old Dao tree, which is the tallest and oldest in Maoyon. An interesting tale and a piece of history awaits you in this enchanting place.
For adventurers that seek the ocean depth pleasure or simply relaxing by the beaches, Honda Bay is another premiere tourist destination located on Palawan Island. Consisting of several islets, Honda Bay’s clear sandy beaches and shallow reefs are well-known places for swimming, snorkeling and diving. Other surrounding islands at Honda Bay include Starfish Island that has various starfish, and hence its origin name. Another famous island is the Lu-li Island, which is only visible during low tide and completely submerges underwater when the tides change. The Pandan Island which is named after the fragrant “pandan” plant is also another low-key tropical paradise that is rich with natural flora and fauna. If you are lucky, you may even meet a sea turtle on the beach.
While at Puerto Princesa City, there are also many interesting sites within the city to explore and discover. The Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre, which was formerly known as the Crocodile Farm and Nature Park is also a popular attraction. Endangered species like the Philippine Crocodile, as well as other endemic wildlife to the island such as the bearcat, are also protected in the sanctuary. Another interesting highlight of the city is the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm.
Contrary to one imagining a penal establishment, Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is a unique correction establishment and is essentially a village that houses nearly 2,000 prisoners. There are no walls or barriers and yet prisoners do not attempt to escape. This is because families can stay with them and work together to earn a living at that area. It is really an amazing concept and you have to see it to believe it. Also, take a glimpse of unconventional religious structures by visiting the Immaculate Conception Church, which is famous for its angular structures. For those looking for a bargain of unique local gifts and souvenirs, be sure to visit the Flea market and you will find many interesting items such as cultured freshwater pearls and local crafts.
With plentiful of natural attractions, deep heritage and strong culture, Puerto Princesa City is indeed the perfect holiday get-away and ideal destination cruise for travellers of all ages. Make a date with Star Cruises to Puerto Princesa City as SuperStar Aquarius homeports in Kota Kinabalu from 8th November 2014 till 1st March 2015, offering new itineraries that include the much anticipated 4D/3N Kota Kinabalu/Puerto Princesa City destination cruise, 2 Night high seas cruise (available alternate week) and the regular 1 Night high seas cruise.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
