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A glimpse into what to expect from the magical Philippine destination
 
A lot has been said and written about the natural tropical treasure that is Palawan – its ethereal limestone cliffs that open like pathways to a world of emerald and turquoise one only dreams about.
And Coron, just one of the myriad of destinations in the peninsula, has always had a special place in the hearts of tourists who’ve been blessed enough to breathe in its majestic panoramas.
I’ve seen the Instagram posts, read the blogs, and readily bought the hype. So it says a lot about Coron that when I was finally able to witness the island and sample its splendor, I found it to be all that, and more.
The surreal blend of its seascapes, vistas, crystalline waters, and chalk-white sands afforded me a soothing respite from a life often bounded by a ticking clock.
And now with Skyjet Airlines taking only 30 minutes to take you from the madding bustle of Manila to Busuanga – there’s little excuse left not too experience all that Coron has to offer.
Sunset peak
For first-timers like I was, a climb up 721 steps to the peak of Mount Tapyas is a must – if only to be able to survey the panorama that holds the beauty you’re about to experience.
I suggest making the trek right before sunset for one of the most incredible views you’ll ever get of Coron without a drone.

After the leg day brought by climbing Mount Tapyas, Maquinit Hot Springs is a great way to cap your first day in paradise. Its natural hot springs (which is around 40 C) sits near a mangrove forest with a view of the sea – all coming together for a relaxing dip that rejuvenates you for the excitement that lies ahead.
Requisite hopping
Of course, a visit to Coron would be remiss without the requisite island hopping tour to Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Atuayan Beach, and Malwawey Reef.
One of the cleanest lakes in the country, Kayangan Lake’s surrounding karst topography complements the pristine state of its waters for a perfect morning dip with an amazing backdrop.

Just a short boat ride away is Twin Lagoon, where you can soak in more of the aquatic delights of Coron by kayaking, or diving through a small hole underwater to make your way to the Big Lagoon.

The waters of Coron are so incredibly clear that you’ll often find yourself hypnotized by the schools of fish going about their daily existence right below you. And because of this ubiquitous trait of its waters, Coron plays host to a number of pearl farms, whiledwivers have also long enjoyed exploring the number of Japanese WWII ships around Coron.
A gem in paradise
Tucked away, in a rich green patch of Coron, Sophia’s Garden Resort is a an alluring
choice for accommodations when visitng the island.
Sophia’s Garden features the marriage of distinct Filipino elements to the romantic embellishments of an old Spanish home.

As suggested by its name, the resort has a garden teeming with a variety of flora, which surrounds and an outdoor pool with Jacuzzi – perfect for lazing around after a whole day’s adventure in Busuanga.
From its elegant, yet cozy rooms to a stand out menu of classic local fare, Sophia’s Garden Resort stood as the perfect base for all our Coron adventures.
Sophia’s Garden Resort is located at Sitio Jolo, Brgy. Poblacion 5, Coron Palawan; for more information, call (0917) 543-5775 or (0939) 915-2074; email sophiasgardenresort@gmail.com or visit www.sophiasgardenresort.com
Amika Travel and Tours is located at Unit 707 Tower C, SM Jazz Condominium, Brgy. Bel-Air, Makati City; for more information, call (02) 434-1872 or email amikatravels@yahoo.com or visit www.amikatravels.com
 
By VIA BAROMA
Photo courtesy of LOUISE SANTIANO
Additional photos by VIA BAROMA