The BEST Puerto Princesa Packages!

Puerto Princesa City is truly one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines. With the wide range of activities and tourist destinations available, there is always something fun and exciting to do. The city is sprawling with restaurants that serve great food, cultural destinations that would feed the mind and the soul, natural wonders that are famous all over the world, and white sand beaches that rival the best ones in the country!

A 3day-2night trip may seem tight, but is actually enough to see the best of the city. As long as you get an early flight in (around 7AM) and a late flight out of the city (there are evening flights), you should be able to fit the following tours: Underground River, Honda Bay, Firefly Watching, and City Tour. You can of course opt to extend your visit to have a more relaxing vacation. Villa Saturnina offers the BEST packages that will definitely give value for your money.

WHAT MAKES THE VILLA SATURNINA PACKAGE SPECIAL?

1. Check out the inclusions. Our 4,800 package already includes breakfast, airport transfers, Underground River Tour, Honda Bay Tour, City Tour and Firefly Watching. Most of the other packages available do not include as much. Even the so called "cheap" group bookings that offer "50% off" will actually result to more expenses. Most of the time, these bookings do not include transfers, or only include ONE TOUR.

2. Exclusivity. Our group tours (minimum of 4 pax) will be exclusive. This means you won't have other people joining your tour. This means that you get to do whatever you want to do and enjoy your vacation without worrying about strangers in your group.

3. Flexibility. You can make changes to your itinerary and decide to stay longer at certain places. You can opt not to go to certain tourist destinations, and move at your own pace. Extensions to the allotted time may be allowed, subject to minimal charges.

4. No hidden charges. Everything will be itemized in your itinerary, and you will be informed about all the inclusions and exclusions.

5. We find ways. At certain times, the tours may be fully booked and it will be almost impossible to get permits. This is particularly applicable to the Underground River Tour. We exhaust all means to ensure that every avenue is explored in an effort to make you experience this wonder.

6. Serenity. Villa Saturnina provides a unique Puerto Princesa experience. Unlike other inns and hotels, we are located where there is peace, quiet and tranquility. You can truly get a good night's sleep after a long day of touring.

7. Accessibility. Villa Saturnina is located approximately 12 kms away from the airport. It will only take you about 20-30 minutes to get there. The pl

WHAT DO OUR CUSTOMERS SAY ABOUT US?

We pride ourselves for providing excellent and personalized service to our guests. Communication is very important, and we always remind our guests to notify us in case they need any assistance. We make them feel at home and try to give them everything that they need.

BUT DON'T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT.  Check out our TripAdvisor page and read the customer reviews for yourself.

Firefly Watching: A Unique Experience

When I first heard about the firefly watching tour, I had mixed expectations. I wasn't sure I wanted to see a bunch of fireflies in the middle of the night, in the middle of nowhere. The mere thought of paddling through a dark river was intimidating enough. I was sure there were other (better) ways of spending my 1,300. Then my thoughts wandered to magical movies (The Little Mermaid being on top of the list), and that fireflies song. Indeed, I wanted to find out if what would happen if ten million fireflies lit up the world as I fell asleep. Out of sheer curiosity, I decided to go for it.

The drop off point is a sight to behold in itself. 

There are at least two Puerto Princesa Firefly watching tours available: the one in Iwahig and the one in Baywalk (jump off point). I initially went to the one in Iwahig. It is not easily accessible because of the distance from the city proper. The best way to get there is to hire a private van. The tours usually start at around 6pm, and runs up until the wee hours of the night (depending on the number of guests in queue).  You will also need to make prior reservations, otherwise you may have not choice but to wait until everyone else is done with their tours. This is the more intimate of the two tours, as each boat can only carry up to three guests. This is perfect for lovers who want a romantic escapade (just ignore the two guides), or for groups that are divisible by three. Villa Saturnina can arrange for this tour for groups of 6 persons or more. The package will also include a buffet dinner at one of the local establishments.

Discover how this tight space transforms into a comfortable dining area!

The second Firefly Watching Tour has a drop off point at Baywalk. In my opinion, this is the more organized tour. It also accommodates a bigger number of tourists on it's two daily runs. There are two big boats that leave at exactly 6PM. They cruise the bay for approximately 20 minutes right up to the entrance of the mangrove area. At this point, the big group is divided into two. One group will transfer to a smaller boat for the tour, while the remaining half will be served a sumptuous seafood dinner onboard. After about an hour, the groups will swap. Villa Saturnina can make reservations for this tour for individuals, small groups or large groups.

Relax at the BayWalk while waiting for your ride.

A word to the wise. If you are expecting ten million fireflies to hover around your boat while a mysterious voice crab sings "Kiss the Girl," then you are in for a huge disappointment. Expect, instead, to see mangroves that are illuminated by what seems like glowing christmas light after certain "triggers" are pushed. Learn more about these triggers as well as other interesting tidbits at the tour itself. Most of the fireflies stay on their trees, save the occasional renegade that ventures into the boat. Yes, I was lucky enough to catch one (with the help of the guide). Obviously, I had to let it go.

Yes, We Can Book Your Tours For You

Villa Saturnina has also been getting requests for tour arrangements from guests who have booked with other hotels. Either they got the recommendation too late, or they just recently stumbled upon our Facebook fan page. And why wouldn't they? There are several reasons why a Villa Saturnina-arranged tour is preferable, especially for groups of 4 or more.

1. The tours are private. We can arrange for private vans for our city tour (minimum of 4 pax), underground river tour (minimum of 6 pax) and firefly watching tour (minimum of 6 pax). Our Honda Bay tour is also exclusive to your group (minimum of 4 pax). 

2. The tours are flexible. Because you won't have to adjust to the schedules of other groups, you can do pretty much anything that you want within your allotted time. For the city tour, you can skip certain destinations and make a quick side trip at a nice restaurant. For the Honda Bay tour, you can stay at any island until you are fully satisfied, or head home early to catch your afternoon flight. For the Underground River tour, you can ask the driver/tour guide to bring you to popular destinations such as Ugong Rock, Sabang Zipline, and the Mangrove Paddle Boat tour. This is hassle-free and stress-free!

3. The tours are cheaper. Getting the tour packages will make you save money. Compared to regular rates, we provide additional discounts for group packages.

4. We find ways. Some of the tours get fully booked early on. Most of the time, a lead time of one month is needed to guarantee slots. We find ways to book these tours no matter what the odds are. 

5. We communicate. We are in constant correspondence/contact with our guests to inform them of the status of their requests. Text or email messages are sent out regularly to remind our guests of their schedules and activities. 

We also book tours for smaller groups. We have partnered with one of the most reliable local travel agencies to assist us with our group tour needs. The best packages, of course, would be the ones that include accommodations at Villa Saturnina. If you want a stress-free vacation (like visiting a friend's hometown), look no further.

Check out Villa Saturnina's Facebook fan page, Twitter account, and TripAdvisor page. You may also contact 0917 2001222 or 0999 9928276.

The Hidden Valley Spring

A couple of minutes away from Villa Saturnina lies a secret location that not a lot of tourists (and even locals) know about. True to its name, the Hidden Valley Spring has remained a secret to me until very recently. My brother and I were just driving around, looking for a place to relax, when we stumbled upon this gem. It doesn't look like much from the highway, and we wouldn't have bothered to go down if the sun was a bit hotter or we were on the way to doing something important.

It's not much to look at, but a wonderful surprise awaits you.

Upon entry, the friendly "manong" will ask for a minimal entrance fee and ask if you would want to rent a cottage. He will then direct you a downhill trail that will lead to the spring. The short walk will only take a few minutes, and you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery while anticipating the cool waters that await you.

The stream itself is nothing fancy, and it looks a bit small from above. I remember looking at it and debating with myself if it's worth the bother. I can imagine dozens of "manangs" doing their laundry while chatting endlessly at the river bank. I was glad that I took the dip because it truly was an amazing experience.

The water is really cool and clean. You can actually see the bottom of the riverbed from above. The place is never crowded (we were the only ones there), and the dip can truly relax and rejuvinate you. There is a small "waterfalls" that adds novelty to the experience. The place is perfect for kids and grown ups alike. The kids can stay at the shallow portion at the top area, while the adults can take a swim at the deeper end.

Enjoy the cold water, or take a swim at the deeper end of the river.

If you have the luxury of spending the entire day at this place, you can bring food with you and use the grilling area near the cottages. This is a great picnic site, especially for those who enjoy the simplicity of nature. Night swimming is also allowed, but not recommended.

The Hidden Valley Spring is a few minutes away from Villa Saturnina.

The PP Chinese Temple

Not a lot of people know about the existence of a serene Chinese temple in Puerto Princesa City. Located in barangay Sta. Lourdes, tourists who go on the Honda Bay Island Hopping Adventure can see this place from outside the walls. It is not, however, part of the standard tour. I doubt that the van operators even bother to acknowledge its existence to the guests.

Not a lot of people know that this temple exists, and that it's open to the public.

The temple is located right in front of Villa Saturnina. Guests can simply walk in, sign up with the guard, and take a quick tour. It is best to visit at around 7-9 in the morning or 3-5 in the afternoon. You may not feel comfortable walking around and taking pictures when there's an ongoing activity or ceremony.

Literally across the street from Villa Saturnina.

On a good day, visitors will get to talk to Chinese monks who will try to explain certain aspects about their faith. It will be a challenging and interesting conversation due to the language barrier, but you will get to learn a thing or two about how things work. For instance, I was told that if I light three candles, kneel in front of the huge Buddha, and bow a couple of times, I will be blessed with good health, good finances or a good love life. Or at least I think that was what he said. 

Light your chinese candles and stick them here.

The origin of the temple remains a mystery to me, but the people who stay there told me that most of the materials used to build it came straight from China. As you enter the temple, you will be overwhelmed by the huge statue in the middle (from floor to ceiling!). There are also several smaller statues of idols with different facial expressions and dispositions. The place also looks new enough to surmise that it was built within the last 3 to 5 years.

Intricate Designs, imported straight from China.

At the back of the main temple is a Filipino-inspired temple made from indigenous materials. It is an interesting building to look at because it stands out from the regular temples built with cement and stone. It also feels more relatable to locals.

This Filipino inspired temple is a sight to behold.

While a visit to the temple is free, there are certain rules to abide by. First, you need to behave inside the facility. You can't be too rowdy or too vulgar. This is a religious place, and you need to respect the area regardless of your personal beliefs. Second, cameras are not allowed inside the temple. You can take photos outside the temple, but please refrain from taking photos of the idols and statues. I don't know why this is so, but I imagine facing a string of bad luck should I decide to violate this rule. Finally, shoes/slippers off when you enter the temple.

Photos are allowed outside, but not inside the temple.

Thanks for your Feedback, Dear Guests

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The Honda Bay Island Hopping Experience

Your visit to Puerto Princesa, Palawan is not complete without spending a full day island hopping at Honda Bay. Located approximately 12 kilometers away from the airport (a short walk from Villa Saturnina), it is easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. Good beaches are hard to get by at the mainland, and the best ones (within close proximity) are all located in this group of islands. As the billboard boasts: "Honda Bay is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines. Honda bay is comprised of several islets with shallow reefs bordering wonderful beaches which have known to become the much loved swimming, snorkeling, island hopping and diving destinations of local residents and tourists." Quite a mouthful, but you get the gist.

This billboard is one of the first things you will notice upon nearing the wharf.

There are a couple of ways to get to the islands. The first one is to book a group tour with one of the local travel agencies. These usually cost 1,300 per head, and include van transfers, boat transfers, island entrance fees, and a picnic lunch at Pandan Island. The environmental fee of 40 pesos is an additional cost that needs to be settled at the wharf. These tours are stress-free, organized, and involve tour guides who know their stuff. You will also have the opportunity to meet new friends.

You can also go directly to the wharf and hire your own boat. This is a more complicated process, and you may end up getting confused with the various counters and lines. You have to bring your own food, or purchase lunch from one of the islands. You will also need to worry about the vehicle that will take you to Bgy Sta Lourdes.

Villa Saturnina's packages provide an interesting bridge between these two processes. For groups of 4 or more, some of the costs are eliminated (particularly the cost for the van transfers) and we are able to provide a cheaper alternative. Our premium package includes a Honda Bay tour that only costs around 1,000 per head, with more inclusions. You get to enjoy not three but up to five islands. You will also enjoy a buffet meal at Cowrie Island. The best part is that you will end up having your private boat and control the time you want to spend on each of the islands. This truly provides great value for the money you are paying!

These tourists are not lost. 

The typical Honda Bay adventure starts at 7 in the morning. It is best to arrive at the wharf early to avoid the tourist rush, and to ensure boat availability. Our guide will assist you with the registration process and point you to your private boat. Most of the costs will have already been paid, but you will be refunded with cash that will be used to pay the entrance fees to a couple of islands that do not have a booth at the wharf.

Pambato Reef is typically the first stop. This is a manmade barge built on top of a coral reef. You will need to hire snorkeling gear for this stop (there are a couple of shops near Villa Saturnina that rent out CLEAN gear for only 150). This is a safe activity even for non-swimmers because everyone is required to wear their life vests at all times. The guides are also friendly enough to take care of you, and even pull you around on a floater.

Pambato reef. Life vests need to be worn at all times!

Luli Island is also an interesting place. The term "Luli" is coined from the words "lulubog" (submerge) and "lilitaw" (emerge) because the island submerges during high tide. The island is perfect for swimming, as it has shallow and deep areas alike. One of the highlights of Luli is the diving board. Tourists muster enough courage to climb up the tower, walk the plank, and take the plunge. It doesn't look like much from below, but it is intimidating enough to become a good challenge. Once you take the first jump, you will not want to stop.

Take the plunge at Luli Island! 

Most of the Villa Saturnina tours stop over at Cowrie Island for lunch. For more information, check out this link. It is a good place to wait out the burning noontime heat while enjoying cold drinks or having a nice massage. This place is best experienced at high tide. The sand is soft and the water is clear and cool. It is also not very crowded because most people have their lunch at another island.

I just know you want your own "Cowrie Island" group shot!

Starfish Island, the next stop, is known for having hordes of starfish. This is more of a photo ops island, in my opinion. The owners have set up several photo areas that are great for group shots. The best part is a few minutes walk towards the edge of the island. If you take the time to take the hike, you will reach a portion where starfish are found in multitudes. It is an amazing sight to behold. These creatures are harmless, so you need to do your part in ensuring that they are not hurt. I was told that they can only withstand approximately 10 minutes without water. 

Be kind to animals! These creatures are harmless, and they need our protection!

Of course, there's Pandan Island. Arguably one of best islands in Honda Bay. The beaches are fit for swimming, the sand is white and fine, and food/drinks are readily available for everyone. The fishes here are friendly to a fault. I have personally experienced being nibbled on! It is not painful at all, but the first nip will take you by surprise. The "market" area sells fresh seafoods that you can have cooked "dampa" style. The Alupihang Dagat is a must try! 

Clear waters fit for swimming. Watch out for the fishes!

The other islands are off limits at this point, with the exception of Dos Palmas (which is a private resort). Snake Island is actually one of my old favorites, back when it wasn't closed to the public yet. I am hoping that this area becomes part of the island hopping experience once again. 

The Islands close at 5PM, so the last boat usually leaves the area at around 4:30 PM.

Island Review: Cowrie Island

Among the many islands of Honda Bay, Cowrie Island happens to be one of my personal favorites. The relaxing ambiance, the availability of food and drinks, the powdery white sand, and the clear waters make this destination the perfect hideaway for rest and relaxation.

Upon arrival on the island, guests will be welcomed by a huge "Cowrie Palawan" sign that is reminiscent of the famous "Hollywood" sign. Ok, that is an overstatement, but it's big enough to make an interesting group photo ops background. It will be irresistible even for the introvert or shy person.

Within the first few minutes upon arrival, you will be immediately drawn to the clear waters that cover the powdery white sands of the island. It will be hypnotic, and you will simply find yourself drenched in the cool ocean without your sunblock on. The sand will remind you of Boracay, without the crowd and the endless establishments. Random trunks, rock formations, and beach trees also add to the virginal appeal of the place. This is also a great place to read a book, to play with your favorite gadgets, or to simply lose yourself to nature.

If the sun gets too hot for swimming, you can stay on shore line and rest under the shade of the trees. You can order a soda, a can of beer, or your favorite fruit shake from the bar and just enjoy the view. You may also opt for further relaxation by getting a massage from one of the onsite masahistas. An hour's worth of massage will only cost you around 350-400 pesos. These ladies have been doing this task for years, and can adjust the intensity level based on your personal preference. 

Lunch time is always something to look forward to, but I do advise you not to set your expectations too high. The buffet is relatively cheap - 250 per head including the island entrance fee (approximately 180). At this rate, you should NOT expect a hotel-type feast. Get real people. Instead, you will get the typical home-made dishes that include adobo, sisig, vegetables, and similar dishes. I have gotten some feedback from guests that the food is not that tasty (I can attest to this, the food is a bit bland for my taste), but it is filling. If you would rather opt out of the buffet, you can instead check out the ala carte menu or ask them to cook fresh seafoods dampa style. Or you can bring your own food.

The best part about having lunch at Cowrie is the availability of cabanas, tables and chairs. Most of the tourists go to Pandan island for their lunch, and the crowd there is truly overwhelming at around 11am onwards. I have personally experienced eating on the beach because there are no available tables and chairs (which, by the way, are for rent). At Cowrie, you can get a cabana for free or move your tables/chairs near the beach. 

The Villa Saturnina Premium package includes entrance to up to 5 islands including Cowrie Island. Lunch buffet is also included. Overall, having lunch at Cowrie is a less stressful option for the guests because it is cheaper, more relaxing, and less crowded. While the food may not be excellent, it is palatable and filling. Guests can always choose not to have lunch included in the package. They can opt to have lunch at Pandan island, get an ala carte meal at Cowrie, or bring their own food. 

Some guests prefer the other islands over Cowrie. I suppose it is a matter of taste and personal preference. There are better beaches, that is true. But I wouldn't mind skipping them all and staying at this one island all day long.

Check out Villa Saturnina's Facebook fan page, Twitter account, and TripAdvisor page. You may also contact 0917 2001222 or 0999 9928276.

The Best Puerto Princesa Packages!

Puerto Princesa is a beautiful city with quite a number of tourist spots. In recent years, it has grown to be one of the top travel destinations in the Philippines, rivaling Boracay and Bohol. The inclusion of the Underground River as one of the 7 Wonders of Nature, in particular, has catapulted the city's popularity across the globe. This is evidenced by the increasing number of local flights and the emergence of more hotels and resorts.

A common tourist concern, however, is the overall cost of having a great stay in the city. A 3day-2night stay could average about 7,600 per person. Unlike locations like Boracay and CamSur, tourists need to book tours and leave their hotels in order to have the full Puerto Princesa experience. Here is a sample breakdown of a typical package:

Room - 3000 (2 nights)
Underground River Tour - 1,500
Honda Bay Tour - 1,300
City Tour - 600
Firefly Watching - 1,200
TOTAL - 7,600 per head

This amount is enough to discourage the average tourist. I have personally spoken with a lot of would-be guests, and they told me that they would rather spend this amount on a good Boracay hotel. Palawan has always been on top of their bucket lists but they end up having second thoughts upon seeing the bill. While it is well worth the experience, the tendency is to find a cheaper package that will provide excellent value for their hard earned money.

This is where the Villa Saturnina Barkada Package comes in. With a minimum of 4 persons in your group, you get to save up to 40% off the regular costs. Choose between the 4,800 and 3,500 packages, or request for a customized package depending on your needs and preferences. No hidden charges, all details are disclosed. Get your money's worth and have a great experience at Puerto Princesa's top Inns/Bed and Breakfasts.

Check out Villa Saturnina's Facebook fan page, Twitter account, and TripAdvisor page. You may also contact 0917 2001222 or 0999 9928276.