Some say that Puerto Galera have been spoiled and too boring to visit because there are already other beaches that are way better than this place, I’d say it’s true and it’s not at the same time. Last month, we were able to take a dip and visited the place – totally got stunned by the beauty of the Philippines.
1.It is not true that a place or a person has no chance of renewing/changing. Just like PG, a lot of people say that this is an overrated place. This is truly over rated in a sense that the locals are well equipped with tourists already, especially in major spots like the White Beach where most of the tourists go here.
But there’s more in PG. Adventure doesn’t finish in the shores, there are other options you can check out in PG to enjoy the place, like I]island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, underwater cave adventures and on land activities like waterfalls hopping, mangrove, trekking and site seeing via overlooking decks.
2. Philippines is truly a wonder. PG might be a common thing for tourists but the beauty of the place especially underwater world is priceless! This what makes PG a cool thing to visit because nature still tops the list aside from nightlife and clubbing thing.
I also like that the locals are educated, equipped and caring with tourists and their tourist spots. When you pay for services, everything is connected, from tour packages, transportation and accommodation. The locals would advise you things that you can do and can refer people that can help you achieve what you want. You’ll have to pay of course but you are confident that this is for their living so you’d be happy paying at the same time, you’re surely enjoy your trip.'
I’ve also noticed that the boatmen are very cautious about corals, warning tourists about their safety and the marine conservation efforts of their local government. The PG local and government deserves a thumbs up for this. They won’t take advantage of your money just to settle your desire to be over, locals know their limitation and your limitation as a tourist. So no, is no for them especially if it affects their tourist spots and your safety.
About the trip:
Sunday.
We wake up by 6am and had our breakfast. Due to some of my friend's activities from the previous day, we started our land tour by 9am, when it's supposed to have started by 7am.
Tamaraw Falls
40 min tricycle ride from White beach. I suggest you bring your camera with you and music plugs. It's kind of a while and uphill travel so you'd be seeing more views prior to arriving Tamaraw falls.
Tip: If you're up for Bulalo or picnic, there's a place inside the falls. The place is more of a family and friends kind because you can have karaoke, foods and swim at the same time.
What i like? This is when i thought that Galera is more than just a swimming paradise, via land or sea, they have attractions. Also, whether again land or sea, the locals are keen about the tourists what and where abouts esp their safety.
You'd see people wearing ID indicating that they are the safety personnel in the area and would instruct you the Do's and Dont's while inside. Well done local government!
Virgin Island.
10:00 am. We headed to Virgin Island as i insisted because i didn't like the coldness of the water in the falls, im more of heat and sun thing.
There's Nipa huts inside, if you wanna pay for it though but the sand and the trees can give you shade, if shade is your concern.
There's less stores here, so i suggest to bring your own food and stuffs. The place is ideal for a picnik by the beach, ideal as well for a whole day trip.
Puerto Galera Mangrove Conservation and Ecotourism Area
11:00 am. Im again impressed as parts of the entrance fee of the mangrove will be divided into the local barangay's fund, the protection of the mangrove and the caretakers of the area.
To Manila
By 12 nn we were already in our hotel room and prepared for our 3pm trip to manila. Since we're all ready by 1:00 pm, we decided to spend the remaining time to roam in the white beach and buy or Pasalubong.
All expense were not mentioned in the post as it is included in the travel guide and Itinerary.
Click the below for:
Travel guide: Puerto Galera in a budget Part 1
Travel video: Youtube
