Sound Quality

I spent years as an audio engineer, and I can confidently say that at this price range, you cannot get better sound than this model. Two 8-inch woofers produce punchy, balanced bass, while a 3-inch tweeter provides crisp, clean highs. This allows for larger than life sound – music you not only hear, but feel. For me, this is a crucial part of the karaoke experience.

This is actually a perfect little PA system as well. I imagine it would be well suited for contests, company retreats, and family gatherings.

500 Watts Peak Power, and Solid Battery Life

Impressively, the JYX Speaker retains excellent sound – even at the highest volume range. I set it up outdoors under the stars in Death Valley. We were a large group that had a blast singing at full volume…for hours. In fact, the 5200mAh rechargeable battery lasts up to 4 hours in such conditions.

The JYX Speaker Has Great Lighting Modes

I used to find rainbow “karaoke lighting” rather cheesy, but now I’ve come to embrace it as part of the whole festive experience. Haha. There are a few solid color options to choose from, and also no lighting at all (which is what I choose when I use the unit as a bluetooth speaker for Spotify.)

The light “dances” and pulses along with the music, which is a pretty cool effect.

An Assortment of Mic Inputs / Options

The included wireless microphones work flawlessly. There are even 2 more inputs for wired mics. The bluetooth range and functionality has always impressed me. This means it’s easy to connect the speaker to your phone, tablet, or computer. However, there is also the option of inserting a TF (SD) card, which I assume you can play audio files from.

I have not had any luck getting this to work, so I’m not sure if I’m using this as intended. Same goes with the USB input. To be fair, I misplaced my instructions, and the info is probably in there.

Supposedly you can even record yourself on the SD cards & usb sticks! I’m sure I’ll use this at some point.

USB Charging

Speaking of which, there’s also a USB output, which is super convenient for keeping your devices charged while you sing.

Stereo Pairing Capability

This is such a cool feature. I only have 1 unit at the moment, but apparently you can connect 2 of them in tandem for true stereo sound!

More JYX T9 Pros:

• Portable – pull out handle, with convenient wheels for easy transport
• Decent size + large sound, yet somehow minimal weight
• Great battery life
• Remote works with my Macbook (assuming I’m using a youtube playlist for vids)
• Quite affordable

Cons:

• Mic cutoff to save battery (soft voices may have to sing louder to let sound through)
• Mic levels cannot be adjusted separate from each other
• Mic volume / Echo strength buttons are labeled backward, confusing for U.S. users

My Conclusion

Honestly, this is one of the best purchases I have ever made. It is simply unheard of to find all of these options, with superb sound quality…and at a price point like this. I have used it every week for 16 months straight. It still works just as it did the day I bought it. Since it’s lightweight and easy to move around, I’ve taken it many places with me.

So. Much. Fun.

Where to Buy

The unit is available on Amazon HERE. As of this writing, I have had no communication with this company, and I purchased this model myself. Do keep in mind, though, using my Amazon links does help me provide this kind of content.

Sing on!

Nathan

(Follow me on FB:)

You can check more of my reviews HERE

The post JYX Karaoke Speaker Test – 16 Months of Singing + Joy appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

There’s no way around it…of all options, the E600LFP seemed to be the best value. The most bang for the buck.

Power Station Specs

In fact, it’s actually quite amazing how many features they managed to pack into such a reasonably priced model. While most competitors at this range feature 600W peak power, the Pecron boasts a whopping 1,200W, with an AC Pure Sine Wave Inverter. It even has a surge of up to 2,400W! This was the main selling point for me.

There’s a large capacity 614WH (watt hours). I don’t use it, but there is also a wireless charging surface on the top of the unit. Again, shocking at this price point.

Multiple Charging Options

The E600LFP can be topped up quite rapidly with an external charge pack (provided). You plug it into the wall, and it can finish charging in just a few hours. There is a special input for this, and amazingly, you can also use up to 400W of solar charging through this input as well! I tested up to about 300W and it worked great.

(Note, the new units seem to mention a max of 300W solar charging, instead of the 400W that mine came with. Not sure what’s going on with that.)

There is also a normal DC style input, for use with provided 12v car charger, and smaller panels as well. I believe it goes up to 100W max. I tried this with a 120W Elecaenta portable solar panel.

LiFePo4 Technology

I don’t know much about it, but this unit has a “LiFePo4 Battery with 3,500+ Life Cycles to 80%”. This is said to increase the lifespan substantially.

11 Output Options

The Pecron has plenty of outputs to run / charge appliances & devices. There’s standard USB of course, as well as a super fast 100W USB-C option. 3 AC outputs, and 3 DC as well.

E600LFP Pros

• Folding handle, with flat top surface for storage / small spaces
• Rugged design, with protection on corners
• Feature-rich, at a great price point
• Customer service (in China, I assume) answered questions quickly

E600LFP Cons

• Less sleek, more utilitarian (some may prefer this, I guess)
• Fan kicks on for some reason when panels have no more sunlight (must unplug or battery slowly drains)
• Some users have reported inability to charge multiple USB devices at once, though I don’t think I’ve had this issue.

Real World Use – Pecron’s Portable Power

Honestly, I found this unit to be so useful that I bought a second one. I charge each of them with Vevor 200W portable panels, and believe it or not, I run them almost daily. I have used them extensively – at home and on the road.

Surprisingly, after many many months of continuous use, all features still work. I do notice a bit of a rough “cycle” sound with the fan when I turn one unit on. It hasn’t affected use so far, though.

These models can even run certain appliances that are over their max ratings. Somehow the technology is able to lower the current to a manageable level.

It can flawlessly run a 1200W microwave during power outages, and I sometimes even power my medium sized fridge with the Pecrons. I might only get 4-5 hours of power, but if it saves my food during summer, it’s worth it.

One thing I’ve noticed is recently one of the units will shut off while running the microwave, once it’s down to 20% battery. Before, it could go all the way down to 1% without shutting off.

Conclusion

For the money, I would not hesitate to recommend this product to friends and family. I think anything remotely comparable will cost 50%-100% more. As for reliability, it’s still going strong for me!

Where to Purchase

You can find it on Amazon HERE. (I was not provided anything for this review, and have no connection to the company. However, if you use these Amazon links, it will help me continue providing useful information like this. )

Cheers,

Nathan

(Follow me on FB!)

You can check my boondocking adventures HERE

The post Pecron E600LFP Review – After 18 months of Heavy Use appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

  Words & Photos By Nathan Allen

Tour Departs By Boat From Palompon Town

Due to the nature of my trip (weather…possible motorbike breakdowns…etc), unfortunately I couldn’t inform the tour company exactly when I would be there. I was impressed, because even at the last minute, they were able to throw an overnight camping trip together for me. What a dream come true!

I met my guide, Mrs. Warblitz at the Palompon port early the next morning. It was a bit cloudy, so I hoped the weather would clear for nice pictures.

It was only about a 45 minute boat trip, and before I knew it, I was already exploring the tiny island! I came across the rocky beach pictured above, and also a small island chapel...as well as a tree house on the far end. I heard that it’s private property, unfortunately.

I took a few photos and made some new friends…there were some tourist groups from the Philippines, and quite a large one from China. Soon, the clouds began to part, and I was thrilled to see the sun shine down on our little island paradise…

A Picture-Perfect White Sandbar

The tide was starting to come in by the time the sun came out…so the sandbar was slowly submerged by the sea. As you can see here, there is a native-style lifeguard tower, and the lifeguard is constantly kept busy chasing after tourists who try to cross the sandbar at high tide (you’re only allowed to cross when the sandbar is exposed).

There is a small mound of sand at the end of the sandbar…it becomes its own little island at high tide, too. It’s incredibly beautiful.

Blessed by powdery white sand and the shade of plenty of coconut trees, Kalanggaman island truly is a gem in the pacific. “Langgam” means “bird” in the local dialect, and the island gets that name from its shape, when viewed from above.

I climbed up in the nipa hut lifeguard tower for a better view of the sandbar.

The lifeguards were friendly, and I interviewed them a bit as they kept watch on the beach. Below is Nick, who came to Palompon because he has family here. With all the discipline of a military man, I had no doubt that Nick and the guys would keep the island safe throughout the night.

Some tourists recognized me on the beach, and requested a photo. Thanks for sending me the picture, Mrs. Suzette!

Overnight Camping on the Island

Here I am in my own little “bahay kubo”, or native hut. Made from bamboo and nipa, these are iconic in the Philippines. I just relaxed and got some reading done in my hammock. Not a bad life!

As you can see below, the tour company took good care of me. My trip was so last minute that they were not able to include an overnight tour guide. For me this was actually ideal…I love being on my own to take photos and explore. They introduced me to the island guards and the caretaker, and left me with all the supplies I could ever need…

I had a tent, a hammock, rain gear, coffee, tea, fresh vegetables, and an assortment of Filipino foods to last many meals. I even had nachos and beer…and there was enough food to share with new friends, which is the Filipino way. The team set up a beautiful campsite before departing the island. The boat would return to pick me up in the morning.

Being left on my own beautiful tropical island…this really is the kind of adventure I’ve always dreamed of. Guess what?  It gets better…

Snorkeling Off The Beach

A local told me where I might find some corals near the beach. You’ll have to ask for specifics once you’re there. In the fading afternoon light, I managed to get some underwater photography done. Here is a small school of colorful fish above the corals.

I took the these photos with my Olympus TG-5, The Amazon link is HERE. 

There were some beautiful flower-type coral gardens, with both hard and soft corals.

I also spotted a puffer fish, a large lionfish, and a beautiful giant clam. Not bad for an island which isn’t even known for its snorkeling! Something I’ll never forget is one of the young guards who wanted to go snorkeling with me, to make sure I was safe out there.

It was actually his first time using a snorkel & mask to see underwater! He was totally blown away, and I loved watching him experience it for the first time.

TIPS: Always wear a life vest, and do not swim or snorkel near the actual sandbar. The lifeguards told me the current is incredibly strong there. Also, please apply “reef safe” sunblock if you use it, as the chemical “oxybenzone” can kill or damage the coral reefs. I think Banana Boat for kids may be OK.

(continued below, but I do hope you’ll consider following along with me…)

Sunset on the Sandbar

By sunset, the tide had gone back down, and it was safe for us to walk along the sandbar and take photos. I can imagine the sunsets get even better than this on less cloudy days, too. Just magical.

The local guys and I listened to reggae music (I brought a tiny speaker) as we enjoyed the prepared food. Around 9pm they retired to the other end of the island, and I had the whole sandbar and coconut grove to myself. Perfect weather to sleep outside…so peaceful. I’ll never forget it.

How To Get To Kalanggaman

The most convenient way might be to take a cheap promo flight to Tacloban from Manila or Cebu, then join Leyte Gulf Travel and Tours. They provide vans for the 2-3 hour trip, and of course the boat and all your supplies.

Where to Stay

Overnight camping was pretty epic, but you can also stay in Palompon Town. I stayed at Asayas Pension Plaza…it was OK, but they don’t have online reservations.  Mrs. Warblitz or Mrs Ludette @ Leyte Gulf can make some good hotel recommendations for you if you need.

Again, many thanks to the team for providing this incredible experience! I’m not usually a “tours” kind of guy, but after experiencing everything they have to offer, I can see why it’s worth the extra money.  You can just enjoy your vacation…without the stress of planning so many things. They were super nice, and most importantly – professional.

For me, Kalanggaman Island is just incredible – not too developed or crowded…with a nice white-sand beach and plenty of shady coconut trees. Add to that friendly locals, and you’ve got a perfect recipe for paradise.

Really, this island is pure eye candy.

Enjoy, and be sure to check out my other Leyte posts!

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

More Adventures in Leyte, Philippines

My motorbike tour of Leyte Province

Tacloban City & Restaurant Tour

Snorkeling & Diving in Padre Burgos

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The post KALANGGAMAN ISLAND: The Best Beach in the Philippines? appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

“Leaf Peeping” on The Drive Into The Park

You don’t even have to get out of the car for this dazzling display! Still, you might want to.

I hiked down the small canyon to find a small creek that was literally covered in brilliant reds, greens & yellows. Also came across a deer with a fawn! No good picture, sadly.

Merced River Scenes (Rapids Near The Junction)

The eye popping yellows of the Bigleaf Maple trees are on full display along the riverbank here.

I climbed some rocks and boulders to take close up pictures. I’ve been living in the tropics for the last few years, so this cool change of pace is much appreciated!

Autumn Waterfall (Long Exposure)

Over the course of 3 days in this area, there was hardly ever a breeze. This makes it great for still long exposure shots along the river. Anytime after 1pm is good, though lighting is even better after 3.

Calm Merced River Landscapes (Yosemite Valley)

This is a beautiful area to park the car and take a quick afternoon hike along the riverbank. As the sun gets lower and lower, the golden light filters through the yellow maple trees – casting serene reflections on the natural pools.

You’ll need to pull over on the left side of the road soon after leaving El Capitan Meadow. If you reach iconic “Valley View”, you’ve gone too far.

Pohono Bridge Area

Sometimes you’ll find this iconic location empty, and you get it all to yourself. However, as soon as somebody sees you parked there, they will follow in your footsteps.

Better enjoy that solitude while you can!

Hiking Near Pohono Bridge

There is a scenic trail that takes you right along the river. Super easy hike, and plenty of great photo opportunities with many mossy rocks and leaves on the ground. Don’t miss it!

El Capitan Meadow

The stately trees along the road have turned a dark reddish brown, and they tower over the grazing deer below. Here I tried to capture the scale of Yosemite Valley, it’s truly breathtaking…

(Continued below, but I do hope you’ll follow along with me)

When (& Where) to Find The Best Yosemite Fall Colors

The 3rd or 4th week of October really is the best time to visit. Not only can you find stunning autumn scenes all around you, but there’s also a healthy LACK of tourists (& mosquitoes)!

The only thing missing during this time of the year is the strong flow of valley waterfalls. Well, they say you can’t have everything.

List of locations:

• Crane Creek – A few miles after Crane Flat on Highway 120 (coming INTO the park). The road passes right through some beautiful fall colors.
• Merced River @ Junction (Big Oak Flat Rd & El Portal Rd) – Again, you can see the bright yellows from the Bigleaf Maple Trees directly from the road. Some river rock hopping may be required to get some nice long exposure or waterfall shots. I have seen multiple bears in this area, so keep an eye out! (Don’t worry if you see one, just consider yourself lucky)
• Pohono Bridge – This is quite the scenic spot for photos! The bridge is located right where El Portal Road splits to start the Yosemite Valley Loop. If you want to take long exposure photos, I recommend waiting until late afternoon for best lighting. At least 4pm.
• Swinging Bridge – Even though I didn’t post any photos from here, you can take some nice reflection shots in the still water of the Merced river. You just need to “follow your eye” and hike along the river a bit to find the perfect location.
• El Capitan Meadow – You won’t find the most striking colors here. However, the large trees, families of deer, and breathtaking valley backdrop make a visit well worth it. Late afternoon lighting is most dramatic, and chances of deer sightings are better then, too.
• Tioga Pass Aspens – I did not make it up to the Yosemite high country this autumn, but I hear there are some nice aspen trees along the drive. Note, due to the higher elevation, these yellow colors tend to peak weeks earlier than down in Yosemite Valley. I suspect you would want to visit Tioga Pass around the first week of October for best fall colors.

Yosemite Valley (& Nearby) Hotels

Weather was perfect when I was there, about 70 degrees (f) during the day, though down to 44 at night. You can try your luck with a walk in campsite, though they tend to fill up pretty quickly.

Those looking for a bit more comfort can check out hotel options with Booking.com HERE, or Agoda HERE.

In closing, I hope you enjoyed my Yosemite Fall Colors series. Stay tuned for more Yosemite landscapes…hint…WINTER’S COMING!

(By the way, contact me if you’d like a framed print for the California / Yosemite lovers in your life…)

Cheers,

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share.

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The post Yosemite Fall Colors: California’s Autumn in Full Effect (PHOTOS) appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

Dear Mr. Branson, we all know you are addicted to good times and tropical islands. I’m surprised I haven’t heard you talk about the Philippines much. There is a reason that “it’s more fun in the Philippines”…actually there are 7,107!  

One of those reasons is Calaguas Island. A remote paradise in the province of Camarines Norte, it has become known for its powdery white-sand beach, and its turquoise-blue waters.

Mr. Branson, Calaguas needs your help.

I was told about the wonders of this place…that unlike its beautiful but overdeveloped counterpart (Boracay Island), Calaguas doesn’t even have a structure on it yet.

I decided to see it for myself. Near the end of the 2 hour boat trip to the island, things started to look promising.  We could clearly see long stretches of undisturbed, white sand beaches as we approached…but something became obvious as we got closer and closer. 

Calaguas DOES have structures on it – quite a few, actually.

I visited during the busy Labor day weekend, and was able to get a glimpse of Calaguas’s possible future. This peaceful island paradise was already one large beach-party…complete with crowds, dance music, and stage lighting.  The possibility of unregulated tourism in the future worries me. 

Not Another Boracay…

Below is a picture of Boracay’s “White Beach” on a weekend during the LOW season.  You don’t even want to see what it looked in the high season during “Laboracay”, or Labor Day!  Boracay island is in the process of losing its last bit of undeveloped green space. Despite the protest of thousands, reportedly, the development will continue. 

Well, in recent years people have loved Calaguas because it’s the anti-Boracay…undeveloped and pure. 

As you can see below, the island is beautiful.  There is a tiny bit of development on it right now, but nothing large-scale or irreversible (yet).  It would be heartbreaking to see Calaguas suffer the same fate as Boracay. While there are people working hard to preserve what’s left of Boracay, some Filipinos have given up. They say:

“Boracay is already ruined…at least we can keep people going there instead of ruining other paradises.”

Guess what?  There are clear signs that it could happen to Calaguas Island.  If we are not careful, another one of the world’s natural treasures could succumb to the almighty dollar.

(More Calaguas Photos)

So, Sir Richard Branson, what do you say?  Are you willing to purchase the island, and keep it open for limited, responsible tourism?  it could be protected, preserved, and enjoyed by domestic and foreign tourists for many years to come!

Now that I think about it, you will fit right in here in the Philippines.  You’re always smiling and enjoying your life…as my Filipino friends keep telling me, you already have pusong pinoy (a Filipino heart)!

Don’t Let the Sun Set on Calaguas Forever…

Sir Richard Branson, judging by the rapid development of other award-winning islands like Palawan and Boracay, if you don’t buy Calaguas Island, somebody will probably put a shopping mall on it by the end of next year.  Sad, because it is one of the best examples of an unspoiled white-sand paradise left in this country.

As for the rest of you, if you want to visit Calaguas (responsibly!), contact Naga Excursions or Northlink Tours.  They seem to have a strong commitment to the environment. (If eco-camping isn’t your thing, check Bagasbas Hotel, or other options in nearby Daet.) 

If carried out responsibly, I believe tourism can provide for both the environment, and local communities.  Everywhere we go, we can set a good example for others by cleaning up after ourselves, and “leaving only footprints.”

10 years from now, we don’t want to be saying “Oh, so and so island is amazing…it’s just like Calaguas was 10 years ago…”

Soon there will be no more beautiful islands left.

– Nathan Allen

What am I doing in the Philippines?  “Like” my page below and find out!

Related: Tourist in the Philippines: “Albay Stole My Heart!”

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By Nathan Allen

El Nido, Palawan. My Favorite Place in the World…

El Nido means “the nest” in Spanish, and once you set foot here you understand where the name comes from – it’s a circular cove protected by rocky cliffs.  In all, I stayed here for two months.  Spotty wifi and routine daily power outages weren’t enough to keep me from this little slice of heaven-on-earth (my place didn’t have a generator, but most places midrange and up do). 

On the island of Palawan, Bacuit Bay is accesible by a 5 hour bus from Puerto Princessa, where there are many flights coming from Manila.  I believe you can also take a more pricey charter flight directly.  Soon Puerto Princessa will have its own international airport, so when you factor in the national airport coming to El Nido as well, it becomes clear that the island of Palawan will be overrun with tourists in the next few years.  Now is the time to see this tropical hideaway! 

Palawan is a wild and scenic place – the stuff dreams are made of!  El Nido has it all – you can go kayaking, island hopping, snorkeling, camping, or you can just simply RELAX in paradise.  Short on time?  Check out “tour A” for island hopping.  Hopefully the weather will cooperate, because this tour has some beautiful scenery. If you have more time, I recommend getting away from the crowds and finding some peace and quiet of your own.  If you rent a kayak you can easily head out to your own scenic island for a day – or even an overnight trip.  Hammocks can be purchased in the town proper. 

To date, there is no international ATM (how this is possible, I have NO idea), so bring plenty of CASH.  The more expensive restaurants do take credit cards, but I believe they charge a fee.  *It IS possible to get cash from the gas station at the pier-side of El Nido town.  They will charge your credit or debit card and then give you your cash.  I believe there is a 7% fee for this, but that is a small price to pay if you ask me.  Just go early, because they can run out of cash!

My First Real Snorkeling Experience

In this poscard-perfect paradise you’ll find crystal clear water which is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.  As mentioned before, island hopping via “tour A” is your best bet on limited time, but if snorkeling is your focus, you might check out some other tours as well. Ask the guides and tour operators which one they recommend.  I had actually never tried snorkeling before, and I was quite blown away when I tried it here!  I found myself swimming next to sea turtles on a few different occasions – right in front of the place I was staying!  The photo on the bottom right was taken during a kayaking trip to “Helicopter Island”.  From El Nido beach this is quite a journey, especially on a hot day like this one.  The advantage of doing it on your own is that you can go in the late afternoon when all the island hoppers have left.  It’s cooler then of course, and you can have the beaches and snorkeling all to yourself! 

I Had to Pinch Myself to Make Sure I Wasn’t Dreaming.

Where is the Best Sunset in El Nido?

Photography enthusiasts won’t be disappointed – some of the most dazzling sunsets in the world can be found here in El Nido (though I had to be very patient while waiting for them).  Look for a slightly cloudy day, because no clouds = boring sunset photos. However, also make sure it’s not too cloudy.   Basically, good luck!!  Haha.  I found the best spots for sunset were Corong Corong beach (near Roro bus terminal) and Las Cabanas beaches, the former which is about a 1.5km walk from the city center.

Corong Corong beach is much more of a locals area, and cheaper accomodations can be found here.  Las Cabanas is further, so you can take an overpriced trike, or do what I did and rent your own motorbike for 100 pesos per hour.  I found a place on the left just on the outskirts of town when walking to Corong Corong beach.  Ask for Moses. The sunset in the main part of El Nido (“the nest”) is actually blocked by rocky cliffs, but those cliffs are beautiful in their own right, so don’t be too disappointed.  You can also walk the beach all the way down past El Nido Corner restaurant and enjoy a peaceful sunset at Caalan as well.  Great place to take photos!

Overnight Camping in Bacuit Bay

I was fortunate enough to meet some travelers in El Nido who wanted to head out to our very own island for overnight camping.  All of us pitched in to pay some local fishermen to take us out and drop us off on the beach.  Of course you will want to negotiate the price, as well as make sure they will come and get you the next day!  You may not have cell service out there, and don’t count on electricity. 

We had a great Filipino host who helped us cook fresh fish right on the beach.  We were lucky enough to have a “paddle board” with us as well.  I took the board out late that night under the full moon.  The water was so calm and clear, I could see the corals beneath me in the moonlight as I slipped silently through the water.  It was a very surreal and peaceful experience.  The board rental is a bit pricey for the budget-minded traveler, but well worth the experience if you ask me.  Just be careful when paddling over the sharp coral.  Boards can be rented from “Artcafe” in El Nido town. 

This was my “bed” for the night, and my view in the morning.  I recommend a large, quality hammcok, and a at the very least, a sheet to guard against mosquitoes!  Something light will do just fine.  

Making Friends With Jellyfish On My Solo Kayaking Trip

I also wanted to explore El Nido on my own, so I went out on a solo kayaking / snorkeling trip a few days later.  I decided to try and lay flat on my stomach on the kayak and keep my shoulders and face over the water, so that I could float effortlessly over the amazing reefs + and still have my face (and mask) in the water. I dubbed this “snorkelacking”.  It  enabled me to see more of the deep-down reefs, while having the added bonus of not drowning (win!).

It worked amazingly well until I accidentally floated into a HUGE patch of jellyfish. I panicked and tried to push myself up on the kayak, which ended up flipping me into the water (with my backpack and flip flops on). No big deal, luckily I kept everything in tight ziplocks, and somehow managed to avoid the jellyfish (this time).  Just so you know, the jellyfish are quite tiny and are hard to see.  After coming out of the water tingling the first few times, I realized that I was swimming through them.  It’s not really painful at all, but if you just look for them near the surface as you snorkle, you can avoid being stung.  

Later I came across some local squid fishermen, and proceeded to impress the living daylights out of them with exactly 2.5 words of Tagalog. Haha.  They invited me to have an early dinner with them, and after so generously repairing my flip-flop which has just broken, they cooked us fresh-caught squid and rice right there on the beach. It was the best meal I’d had in the Philippines so far.  See the photos below.

After that I did some more snorkeling and came across a massive cuttlefish, and some giant sea turtles. Finished up by paddling out to sea to relax and watch the sunset over the islands, where eventually a couple in another kayak came out and did the same.  We sat there, bobbing gently on the South China Sea…with an increasingly incredible fiery-orange and red sky before us. Soon the moonless night invited all the stars to come out and play, and with each stroke of the paddle home, a frenzy of glittering phosphorescent plankton said “hello”. I tell you, El Nido is pure magic.

El Nido Is Here To Remind You That Life Is Good. VERY Good.

Another nearby paradise is “Nat-Nat beach”, across the water from El Nido. I got my Filipino nickname here.  I am a big fan of Nat King Cole, as well as being named Nathan, of course.  My local friends took me out fishing for the day, and we stopped here to eat lunch and relax.  There were no people here but us and a local caretaker who lives nearby.  Sunset on the way home was incredible, and we (they) caught dinner, so that was nice.  Haha.  By the way, if you rent a kayak, make sure you inspect the paddle very carefully.  On my solo trip, one end of the paddle broke off in the water!

Las Cabanas & Nacpan Beaches

Recommendations

I found a traditional Filipino house called a “bahay kubo” right on El Nido beach.  It’s called “Jov’s Inn”, and can be found joining walls with Balikaw restaurant right on the main road at El Nido beach.  Before you read too far though, just know that this place is much more of an “authentic” traditional experience.  That means by western standards it is PRIMITIVE.  No AC, and no flush toilets.  The smaller room facing the water has an attached bathroom, but the other two rooms do not (there is a common C.R.).  If you are looking for a more traditional hotel or resort, read further down the page. 

The simplicity of Jov’s was very appealing to me for part of my stay, and the family running it were very nice and accommodating.  They will invite you to eat with them, which is customary, but if you accept and are there for many days, try and contribute and/or cook something yourself as well.  It’s a great experience.   People tend to come here and stay a LONG time, so keep checking in with them on availability. 

Peak season in El Nido should be late December – March, and prices and availability will reflect that.  Below you can see the family and some new friends as well.  As you’ll notice, the view from my balcony could not be beat.  What a place to work!  Speaking of which, I recommend using a Globe Tattoo USB if you want decent wifi here.  It gets a much better signal than any wifi I tried to use at various restaurants.  Smart Bro doesn’t work there, or at least not well.  That’s what I was told. 

“The Alternative” Inn, El Nido

What a great view of paradise! As you can see in the photos, people come the bar / restaurant and enjoy the views for hours!  The family who runs it are very nice. On recommendation, I tried both the teppanyaki chicken and the banana heart curry. Excellent!  I loved having a cold fruit shake and working there on my computer during hot days (they have wifi). Tell Boyet at the bar that Natnat says hi!!  Well, I will be back eventually anyhow.  El Nido really puts a spell on you. Did I mention they have decent priced accommodations here as well? Book on Agoda HERE to reserve a room!

Treetops Guesthouse

This peaceful oasis is away from El Nido, and near Corong Corong Beach.  Travelers RAVE about it.  They offer two private bungalows made of traditional materials, and at a medium price range.  Included is a small TV and private bathroom. You can dine here with a stunning ocean view.

Mobile: +63 918 355 2836
E-mail: treetopelnido@yahoo.com

Cadlao Resort

If luxury is what you’re after, you’ll find it here.  A stunning property with lush gardens and an infinity pool overlooking the sea.  High-end dining does not disappoint. You can book through Agoda HERE

Due to demand, I recommend booking rooms in El Nido online…check out Agoda!  It’s always worked out great for me.  Click below!

Balay Tubay Bar & Grill

(*Update!* Sadly, I just received news that Balay Tubay is now closed.)  This is a true hidden gem in tourist-ridden El Nido. Locals love this place, and the cover bands NEVER disappoint. They highlight the true versatility of Filipino musicians, with vocalists belting out everything from Queen to ACDC (and all VERY impressively, I might add). A great place for beers with friends and locals. Note all the colorful local handicrafts adorning the walls.  Also check out Pukka Bar.  Great spot for live music also, but with a lot more tourists. 

Midtown Bakery

Mainit na PandeSol po!!  In my opinion this is the best bakery on the island of Palawan!  Go in the morning for fresh hot bread (that’e the translation).  Very cheap, and VERY delicious.  If you happen to be celbrating a birthday party you can order a decent cake here as well.  If you are a foreginer they will love it if you speak some Tagalog.  Mah EEnut nah pahn-DEE-Sall (From an American’s perspective).

Coco Bar, Las Cabanas

I love this place. It’s great to come here to escape the crowds in El Nido.  It’s nothing but a tiny shack by the water, but they serve the best (and cheapest) calamari, rice, and iced tea meal combo!  I don’t even LIKE iced tea, and it was GOOD.  Seriously, can’t be beat.  The people working there were very nice, and again, the prices are almost too good to believe.  If you think conditions are right for a great sunset, head to Las Cabanas IMMEDIATELY, as this place had the best sunset I saw during my 2 months stay (check one of the photos below). 

I sat in amazement on the beach as a very adventurous old Italian woman popped out of the water with her snorkeling mask on and sat next to me.  She told me this was by far the best sunset she’d ever seen.  The two of us just sat gazing out over the water in appreciation.  It was quite an experience.   Next time I visit I think I’ll stay here.  It’s not as cheap as Corong Corong or a lot of places in El Nido town, but it is more clean, secluded, and the extra money seems to be worth it.

Help Protect El Nido.

In closing, I do hope you enjoy this rugged paradise as much as I did!  I am concerned about the strain put on the environment by the recent influx of tourists.  Please be mindful to not step on any corals or leave any trash – do try to enjoy these islands responsibly!  The city collects an “environmental fee” from all island hopping tourists, but there is concern about where that money actually goes.  If you notice something “fishy”, please speak up and report it!  I hope the government realizes the importance of preserving El Nido’s natural treasures.  That way they will continue to draw tourists and be enjoyed for many years into the future. 

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