•Introduction
Palawan is an island province and often referred to as the "Last Frontier" of the Philippines, and with its astounding natural beauty and various wildlife, unblemished beaches are sure to surprise. This island is consistently rated among the best in the world, famous for its pure-water lakes, limestone cliffs, and biodiversity underwater. With aUNESCO World Heritage Site, thick forests and hidden lagoons, Palawan emerges as the epitome of nature lovers and adventure seekers' desires.
Geography and Climate
Palawan is an island province located in the west of the Philippines, bordered by Borneo to the southwest and Mindoro to the north-northeast. It is the largest province in the Philippines in terms of land area, 13,580 km², and consists of the main Palawan Island and more than 1,700 smaller underwater rocks. Northward lies the Sulu Sea to the southeast.
The climate in Palawan is tropical. The province has two main seasons:
• The dry season (from November to May) looks favorable for travel and outdoor activities.
• The rainy season (from June to October) knocks torrential rains, yet it rarely hinders escapades.
• Many features in Palawan, ranging from existence-crowned natural wonders to placid coastal hamlets, constitute attractions one cannot help visiting:
1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park-A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The longest navigable underground river in the world is open to visitors.
2. El Nido-This place is known to be an island-hopping and snorkeling haven over charming limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and white sand beaches.
3. Coron-It is among the best for wreck diving as shipwrecks from World War II can be visited among other beautiful attractions including Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake.
4. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park-A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a world-class diving location is home to colorful coral reefs and diverse marine creatures.
5. Port Barton-An introspective coastal town best suited for those in search of a refuge from the fray.
Wildlife and Biodiversity: Palawan
Palawan, the biodiversity hotspot, is home to several species of plants and animals endemic to the region. The waters support numerous marine creatures, including sea turtles, dugongs, and whale sharks. Palawan's forests provide habitat to such rare species as the Palawan bearcat, pangolin, and hornbill.
There has been a constant struggle on the part of the island to maintain the fragile ecosystem with protected areas and marine reservations.
Culture and People
Palawan is the site of both the Tagbanua, Palaw'an, and Batak indigenous groups protecting their heritage and way of life in the face of modernization. This culture reflects a mixture of indigenous traditions, Filipino heritage, and Spanish influence.
The local foods manifest the abundant seafood of the island. Following dishes are popular: Tamilok: A delicacy of the woodworm, often consumed raw with vinegar; Nido Soup, an extravagant soup made with bird's nest; Lato: A type of salad made with fresh seaweed, served with vinegar.
Tourism and Sustainable Development
Though tourism forms a major part of Palawan's earning, the province is committed to sustainable tourism in the dedication to protect its grandeur. Numerous resorts and tour operators practice an eco-friendly policy, such as banning single-use plastics and backing local conservation projects.
Conclusion
Truly the pearl of the Philippines, it offers captivating landscapes, exotic wildlife, and leisure times one shall mark in memory for all times to come. For the adventurer, the beach lover, or the nature fanatic, there is a unique treat for everyone that awes! While through the preservation of its natural resources, Palawan has since become the hub for travelers in search of paradise on earth.
Would you like to spend a lot of time there Palawan island ?
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