Palawan, beyond the beaches:
Excursions that bring people closer

El Nido, located on the island of Palawan in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise famous for its limestone cliffs, pristine white sand beaches, and crystal-clear blue lagoons.

El Nido offers a multitude of expeditions and adventures: boat tours for island hopping and discovering secret beaches , secluded coves, sea caves, and snorkeling spots among coral reefs rich in marine life .

Jungle hikes and climbs also offer breathtaking panoramic views of the archipelago.

For my first excursion, I opted for tour C, with eight solo travelers. Right from the start, the atmosphere was electric: tequila rounds and music on the boat. We began to get to know each other slowly. The beautiful scenery, the snorkeling, the sun, the music, and a few drinks created a spontaneous connection between us.

The water was incredibly pure, the beaches were among the most beautiful I have ever seen , and the group quickly formed a great chemistry.

At the end of the tour, we continued laughing and chatting in the communal showers. Then, we rushed to admire one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island, a beer in hand, sharing our stories.

That evening, around a barbecue on the beach, the whole hostel gathered around a campfire. Two people were leaving that night, including me. The goodbyes were filled with emotion, and without a word being spoken, we knew that what we had shared was unique.

It was one of the most intense moments of my trip . Since then, I've kept in touch with some of them, nurturing the hope of meeting up again somewhere else someday.

This experience made me reflect: is it better to fully invest in these fleeting connections, despite the pain of separation, or to protect oneself? On this secluded beach, in this dreamlike setting, everything becomes more intense, every emotion amplified tenfold . I learned not to limit myself, to let these emotions wash over me, and to savor every moment, whether joyful or sad.

• Stay at the Outpost for a friendly atmosphere and amazing sunsets.

• Stay at Happiness or Frendz Hostel, they're really great - book in advance.

• Choose towers A and C to discover the best spots.

• Don't miss the beaches of Lio and Nacpan , true wonders for relaxing.

• Get ready to be carried away by spontaneous encounters and the festive atmosphere during the boat tours.

• Enjoy the hikes to admire the unforgettable panoramic views .

• Take the 3D2N Trip between El Nido and Coron