Originally Posted by
Red259
Hmm being that Palawan is one of the destinations I wanted to see maybe I should be giving the Philippines a pass? I haven't heard anyone say anything good about Manilla, but are there other great locations in the Philippines that aren't under a current warning? I have heard the beaches in the Philippines can be amazing, although I would likely be there very end of june through the first week of July. I'm not sure how much the weather will impact the area especially when it comes to beaches and maybe scuba diving.
The German government has a travel advisory for south Palawan (south of Puerto Princessa). For them north Palawan is fine. YMMV.
I personally have been to Alaminos which is north of Manila. Via switching bus in Dagupan you can go from there to Baguio in one day.
Travel from Manila to Alaminos by bus will cost you one day due to traffic. No planes available.
South of Manila is Puerto Galera. Easy to reach. First take the bus to Batangas port / pier. this should take about 3 hours and then take a ferry to any place you like in Puerto Galera. Its 60-90 minutes ride. Porters will ask for 100 pesos to bring your suitcase on board of these smaller ferries.
I have stayed in San Antonio in a hotel called Coral Garden
http://www.coralgardenbeach.com/
AFAIK it is the only hotel on that small island. Beach is right outside of it. And the hotel staff will pick you up by boat once you arrive at Mhuelle by ferry from Batangas.
If you plan any trips talk to the cook "Marvin". He will give you much better prices and services then the "official tours" from the manager. Half of Marvin's family work in or around the hotel. His wife is a waitress. The other one is his sister in law. His father is the boat captain for the hotel but will drive you privately for your trips.
The first snorkeling spot is right outside of the hotel if you want to do a quick dive in the ocean.
The hotel is clean and quiet.
I love that place and will return in October this year.