Being a firefighter means living a life of constant urgency. So, when the rare opportunity for a break came along, I decided to do something I hadn’t done in a while—slow down and reconnect with nature. Palawan, often called the Philippines’ last frontier, seemed like the perfect place to do just that.
Day 1: From the City to the Islands
I arrived in Puerto Princesa with little more than a backpack and a sense of curiosity. The journey to El Nido was long but surprisingly calming. Watching the lush landscapes unfold outside the window was like flipping through the pages of a travel magazine.
El Nido itself? Breathtaking. The limestone cliffs, impossibly blue waters, and the quiet hum of island life made it feel like I had stepped into another world. That first evening, as I sat on the shore watching the sunset, I felt the weight of my day-to-day life start to lift.
Day 2: Lost in the Lagoons
The next morning, I set out for an island-hopping adventure, not quite knowing what to expect. Each stop was its own little paradise.
The Big Lagoon was a serene expanse of turquoise water surrounded by towering cliffs, while the Small Lagoon felt like a hidden sanctuary. At Secret Lagoon, I had to squeeze through a small opening in the rocks to discover a secluded, almost mystical cove.
My favorite, though, was the time spent snorkeling off Simizu Island, surrounded by vibrant coral and curious fish. It reminded me of how vast and beautiful the world can be when you take the time to really look.
By the end of the day, lounging on 7 Commando Beach, I realized I couldn’t remember the last time I had felt so relaxed.
Day 3: Slow Roads Back
Leaving El Nido for Puerto Princesa was bittersweet. The drive was long but gave me more time to take in Palawan’s countryside—rolling hills, dense forests, and glimpses of the sea. It was a quiet day, and I needed that.
Day 4: Mysteries of the Underground River
The highlight of my trip was the Underground River. Boarding a small boat, I entered the cave system, where the air was cool, and the only sounds were the paddle cutting through the water and the occasional flutter of bat wings.
The formations inside were mesmerizing—nature’s artwork sculpted over thousands of years. It was humbling to sit in the stillness of that cavern, surrounded by such ancient beauty.
Day 5: A Quiet Goodbye
On my last morning in Puerto Princesa, I found myself walking along the shore, listening to the waves and reflecting on the past few days. Palawan had given me something I didn’t even realize I needed: a chance to breathe.
Final Word
This trip wasn’t about ticking off a list of activities or chasing thrills—it was about slowing down and being present. As someone whose job revolves around urgency and chaos, I found solace in Palawan’s unhurried pace and natural beauty.
From the quiet moments watching sunsets to the awe of exploring hidden lagoons and caves, Palawan reminded me of the importance of balance. It’s a lesson I’m taking home with me, along with the memories of crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, and the kindness of the people I met along the way.
I didn’t need Palawan to change me. But in its quiet, unassuming way, it gave me the space to remember who I am beyond the uniform. For that, I’ll always be grateful.
Guest post written by Charles Gross
Whether he’s hiking rugged trails, navigating new cities, or tasting local cuisine, Charles believes that travel deepens his understanding of the world and makes him a stronger, more compassionate firefighter.
