A little bit about me:

• Like: Nature, history, culture; authenticity, serenity, freedom to explore, walkable, leisure pace, low prices, friendly people, interesting food, snorkeling (if good marine life), kayaking.
  • Examples: East Bali; less developed local islands in Maldives; Intercontinental Danang (secluded luxury); Road to Hana; Hanalei; multi-day Halong Bay cruise.
• Don't like: Crowds, parties, fast pace, resorts (except very secluded ones), tourist traps, scams.
  • Examples: Phuket; Overdeveloped parts of Bali (Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud); Los Cabos; West Maui; Waikiki, Danang coast (other than Son Tra peninsula).
• Neutral: Oslob whale shark (artificial but breathtaking), Badian canyoneering (rushed but thrilling), Panglao (resorty but abundant local life next door)
• Snorkeler, not a diver.

That said, Coron looks like the most beautiful and (relatively) secluded of the major Palawan destinations. Is it more like the places I like or those I don't like? How about El Nido? We're thinking mid December.

Appreciate input.

Depends where you want to go in Palawan. El Nido, the private resorts like Seda Lio are quiet and peaceful. If you go into town centre of El Nido, it is more lively but it is very small too. If you go to Puerto Princessa and go south then it is a lot more peaceful. The Tabon Caves maybe something you would like if you like exploring. The south has nice beaches too but has one road to get there.

You would love Coron, it�s a paradise for nature lovers. The only downside is that it�s not very walkable. El Nido is another option, but it�s generally not as budget-friendly. Palawan is a big province, and getting around is not as easy.

It depends if you want to hire a vehicle with a driver or not? El Nido not budget friendly? It is budget friendly depending on where you want to stay. The top end resorts are surely expensive and at least over 100 dollars inducing breakfast and depending on the season maybe more.

Based on what you said you like, I think Coron would be a great fit for you. The nature and serenity sound just up your alley. Some nice private resorts in El Nido too if you want a mix of relaxation and activities. With your interests, I doubt you'd find Palawan touristy or rushed. Hope you have an amazing trip exploring all its natural beauty!

Certainly! Palawan in the Philippines is a great destination if you love nature and adventure. With its stunning landscapes, clear waters, and rich biodiversity, it's perfect for activities like snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. The tranquil beaches are ideal for relaxation. Palawan also offers a glimpse into Filipino culture and cuisine. Accommodations range from budget-friendly to luxury, and the best time to visit is between October and May to avoid the rainy season. If these features appeal to you, Palawan might be an excellent choice for your next vacation.

It seems that Palawan, especially Coron, would be a perfect fit for you based on your tastes. Offering a blend of nature, genuineness, and tranquility, Coron is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The underwater life is amazing if you like snorkeling, and the sceneries are breathtaking. Compared to some other popular tourist spots, it's comparatively less congested, giving you more opportunity to explore at your own pace. Conversely, El Nido is equally stunning but tends to be more developed and well-liked, which may draw more visitors. Based on your preferences, Coron seems to be more in line with the locations you appreciate, providing a private but stimulating encounter. Although there may be some crowding over the holidays, mid-December is a wonderful time to visit. Have fun and travel safely when visiting Palawan!