Puerto Princesa is just an hour away by plane from Manila, and the small airport adds to its charm. Once I arrived, I hopped on a tricycle to my Airbnb, and after a quick hour of rest, I was ready to dive into adventure mode. My first stop was the renowned Underground River, where a boat tour revealed the beauty of nature with wildlife roaming freely. I spotted crocodiles in the wild and playful macaques in the underground caves. The day was filled with a bit of shore excursion, lounging on white sand beaches, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at City Baywalk Park, all while savoring some delicious Vietnamese pho. So many activities awaited me, but the clock was ticking!

Puerto Princesa’s appeal goes far beyond its swanky beach resorts and dolphin-watching cruises. The UNESCO-listed Underground River left me in awe with its low-hanging stalagmites and stalactites, along with a massive cave that resembles a grand cathedral due to its impressive rock formations. It’s a place that truly captivates the senses, making every moment feel special and every photo worth capturing.