**Through The Local Lens is a blog series where we share our favourite places to visit in some of the most beautiful parts of the world! From food, bars and nightlife, we got it all here for you! We’ve covered Sydney, Amsterdam and Edinburgh so far.**
Where Is El Nido, Palawan?
El Nido is a beautiful city located on the island of Palawan. Palawan is an archipelagic province of the Philippines, famous for its diverse flora and fauna, stunning white beaches and clear water. Because I had only eight days to visit the country in total, I decided to spend all of them on the beautiful island of Palawan.
Where To Stay:
1. El Nido Coco Resort
I went with my best friend and college roommate, so it was a girls trip altogether. The first two nights, we stayed at a beautiful resort on Corong Corong beach. We had a cosy cottage which was situated right next to the beach, our morning views were to die for! It was equipped with a spa and pool (honestly, all that really matters, amirite?)
2. Frendz Hostel
I know when you hear the word ‘hostel’, you picture unclean bathrooms, stinky beds and old men sleeping in the dorms. While this might be true for a few, Frendz hostel was hands down the most fun, clean and backpackers friendly place! We got to meet so many new people in the five days that we were there and made some friendships that we still treasure. The hostel had a rooftop bar with a pool, where I saw some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. Also, they had an excellent in-house restaurant that served tasty vegetarian food!
What To See:
Beaches
1. Corong Corong Beach
A dreamy beach recommended for couples and honeymooners. It is pretty quiet as well, and perfect for star gazing.
2. Las Cabanas
This happening beach has the most beautiful sunset I have ever witnessed! It also has zip-lining, too, in case you’re in for the thrills.
3. Tapiutan Island
The clearest and most aquamarine of waters can be found here. A perfect spot to snorkel while you tour the different islands.
4. Seven Commandos Beach
This beach has a swing positioned against the most beautiful scenery. You can also snorkel here while your tour boat takes a quick pit stop.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4Sib7XAe5A/
5. Nacpan Beach
Nacpan beach is known for its parties and dramatic scenery. Peppered with palm trees and mountains, this beach is my second best pic after Las Cabanas.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B8M2mOnhfhc/
Bars & Nightlife
1. Coco Bar
A beach bar with live music— what more do you need? While I wouldn’t recommend eating here, I definitely loved a good cold beer in the evenings. It’s also close to the shops and other fun places.
2. Happiness Beach Bar
Swings for chairs? Yes, please! This funky beach bar serves great cocktails and has an amazing atmosphere.
Food
1. Trattoria Altrove
A few days into the trip, I was craving something more European, and here’s where Trattoria Altrove came into the picture. Touted as one of the best pizza places in the city, I thoroughly enjoyed eating their Margherita pizza and pesto pasta.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5ZMgEKH_Na/
2. Gusto Gelato
TBH, this was the place to go whilst intoxicated. Right before crashing into bed, who wouldn’t want some delicious gelato ice cream?
I wish I could go back in time and relive this experience all over again. Send us your pictures if you visit the Philippines.
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