El Nido from Puerto Prinsesa

Today was another long journey by land. This morning, the staff kindly shared their paksiw with me in addition to my regular breakfast. They also offered me a motorcycle ride to the bus station through Backride Pinas. I was so excited because it had been a long time since I had ridden on a motorcycle. At the bus station, I found myself looking for vegetables at the local carinderias—my body has become so used to having vegetables with every meal. From there, I boarded the Cherry Bus bound for El Nido. It was much more comfortable than taking a van, and I enjoyed watching the tropical scenery along the way. After more than 10 years, it was wonderful to see the Philippine countryside again—countless sari-sari stores, local schools, traditional nipa houses, and local dogs roaming freely along the roads, completely unfazed by the passing buses. I also enjoyed watching carabaos relaxing in ponds. It brought back so many childhood memories that I had almost forgotten what they looked and felt like. The simplicity of the countryside filled my heart with so much joy, and I humbly thank God for allowing me to relive the beautiful memories I cherished when I was younger. Once I arrived in El Nido, I took a tricycle to my hotel and enjoyed my first views of this beautiful coastal town. I’m excited to explore more of El Nido over the next few days.