Precious Memories: Puerto Princesa, Philippines

2023 Spring Asia Cruises I - Holland America Westerdam Singapore to Yokohama

March 2, 2023 (Thursday) - Puerto Princesa, Philippines

After two days at sea, we arrived at Puerto Princesa, in Central Palawan, an island on the western most side of the Philippines. We have never been to the Philippines before and that was the main reason we are taking this cruise. Obviously, we were filled with anticipation and excitement.

Our day started early when I got up at 4:00 this morning. Ship was going to arrive at port around 8:00 and we want to get off ASAP so the weather would not be too hot. Breakfast was at 6:00 at the Lido. When we got there, there was not that many people yet so it was a nicer than the always-crowded space. After breakfast we got ready to get off the ship.

There were many people at the pier, singing , answering questions, and passing out beautiful bead necklaces to all the passengers. We were definitely touched by this energetic group that greeted us with the warmest welcome.

Ship slowly docked at the port terminal where huge groups of locals welcoming us.

We walked straight out to the gate where there were many taxis, and other means of transportation. We kind of knew our way to the Cathedral so that was the direction where we headed. About a 10-minute walk. The Cathedral and the massacre memorial are just right next to each other, making it convenient to get to.

Arrived at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral ...

at Rizal Park.

With Plaza Cuartel across the street.

This plaque explains what this is about.

Sign inside Plaza Cuartel.

A memorial

Exterior of Immaculate Conception Cathedral.

Interior of the cathedral.

After visiting both places, we continued our walk on the main road to find the Western Union, where we were told is the best place to have money exchange. We had no local currency on us so we got $100 USD of Philippines pesos, at least now we can buy somethings if we want to. It was 54.45 pesos for $1.00. Now we have some money in hand.

Walking along Rizal Avenue toward the Western Union.

Outside the Western Union.

After the money exchange, we walked another block up and then made a left turn to Chinatown. There weren’t that much to see there other than a big building selling electronics and a food court. Then we walked over to the old market next door and found a pair of slippers for myself, 150 pesos ($3.00). And the auntie got a hat for the same price. Good finds.

The Chinatown building.

Inside Chinatown building.

Then we walked from Chinatown up to the Bay Walk area. It was quite desolated in the day time with few visitors. Most people we bumped into were passengers from the ships. Most vendors were not opened yet so we couldn’t even find any local food to try. I imagine this place would be

A typical fishing village near Bay Walk.

Me with my slippers in hand.

Sign at Baywalk Park.

Following the Baywalk Park, we came back to the cruise port and it was only 11:00AM. We just spent about three hours and we were done with the city. It was getting hot and it was nice getting back on the ship.

Goodbye, Puerto Princesa!

Our day may be short here, but I was really impressed. People seems to be very friendly at this port, even the kids and women we bumped into as we were walking, they would say hi and greeted us with friendly smiles. Everything here is basic and simple but I suppose if people are happy, that’s what matters the most.

What an impressive group!

And this vocal group sang wonderfully as our ship sailed away.

I was touched!

The afternoon was spent relaxing and napping in our cabins. As the ship got ready to leave, it was kind of fun watching people getting back on the ship--late. The captain was kind enough to wait. Maybe they were on ship excursions?