I recently had the privilege of traveling to El Nido, and while I was there I discovered some important tips that I wish I had known before going. Since it’s becoming more and more popular I thought that I would share those tips with you!
1. Get to know your guide
Chances are that you’ll go on at least one of the island tours El Nido offers (I recommend tours A and C) and if you do you’ll be on a boat for a whole day with at least 3 locals who will show you around for the day. GET TO KNOW THEM. I was lucky enough to have the same tour guides for both tours A and C and they were awesome. We grabbed drinks with them after the tours and had some of the best nights on the island with them. Plus, it will give you a bit of insight into the local way of life and a more authentic experience.
2. Carry cash
El Nido is a really small town. There is only one ATM and is it consistently running out of money. The town is not known for taking cards so you will need to have cash on you at all times.
3. Keep your small bills
Keeping along the money line, keep as many small bills as possible. Many establishments find it hard to break bigger bills. This sometimes can make it really had to purchase things and pay for meals. That being said, there are definitely places that will break those big bills, but just know that you may run into trouble.
4. There is an airport tax at the Palawan Airport
Most people will be traveling to El Nido to and from the Palawan airport. However, most people don’t know that there is a tax on most of the airports in the Philippines, including the Palawan airport. This means that as you enter the gate area, you will be required to pay a tax before being allowed to enter into the boarding area. Now this may seem like a small thing, but it can be a major annoyance for those who are not expecting it. Usually the tax is no more than 200-500 pesos. This is another reason for keeping some small bills on you at all times.
5. Use sunscreen
The sun is strong. Like, really really really strong. If you come from somewhere on the northern hemisphere like I did, sunscreen is just some weird thing that I never used or understood. But after three hours on a beach in El Nido I was tooting a new tune. Do NOT underestimate the strength of the sun and protect yourself.
6. Bring shoes to walk in the water with
If you go on any of the tours they are going to have you walk on the floor bed and sometimes flip flops just aren’t enough. Luckily, I had brought chacos and it made it a little bit easier to get around. Some of the other people on the boat had these which are much better than my chacos. The tour had a few pairs for some of us to share, but it would be better to just have some of your own.
7. Take a tricycle
Being in a tricycle is a one in a life time experience. You feel like you’re on the roller coaster of your life and it is the best.
8. Take lots of pictures
Seriously. The things that you will see will be unlike any other. Even though the pictures you take will certainly not do any justice but they wonderful memories. You’re not going to want to forget anything you see. Plus, pictures are the things that make people want to travel to the places you’ve been!
