03 May 2024

Nestled in the western part of the Philippines lies an island paradise that seems like it's been plucked straight from a dream—Palawan. Among its many jewels, Puerto Princesa stands out as a vibrant city and a gateway to the wonders of this tropical haven. Join me on a journey as we delve into the enchanting beauty of Palawan and uncover the hidden gems of Puerto Princesa. We flew to Palawan on an AirAsia flight from Manila with was only 1 hour flight but we were delayed. Our original flight was supposed to leave at 07:00 but ended up leaving at 15:30! We were a big group with 13 excited family members just wanting to get to the crystal clear beaches. As the plane descends, the beautiful landscape of Palawan unfolds beneath, promising a few days of adventure and relaxation. Stepping off the plane, the warm embrace of the tropical air instantly envelops me. After a quick transfer to the lovely Citystate Astorias Hotel Palawan we were met with refreshments and complementary room upgrades. Thank you Citystate Astoria! Our first adventure awaits, we was supposed to all be ready in reception by 7:30am but the hotel breakfast was too delicious, a buffet of Filipino delights, my favourite as always was the sweet longanisa and garlic rice. There was also an egg and pancake station where had to stop the kids from eating as our driver was already in reception, it was only 7:15am which was an absolute surprise as Filipinos are usually always late!! We were off to our first excursion and embarking on an island-hopping adventure in the pristine waters of Honda Bay. Each island we visit seems to be plucked from a postcard—powdery white sands, swaying palm trees, and crystalline waters teeming with marine life. Our first stop was on a floating barge in deep waters surrounded by tropical fish. We arrived early so not too many people in the water. Armed with our fish food aka pandesal, a sweet breakfast bun and in we jumped! I have a confession to make at this stage….. I was soo excited that I didn’t’ think twice about the kids safety and forgot this was their first time to dive in deep waters, a quick check their life jackets were on correctly and in you get!! They were fine and definitely enjoyed themselves, school swimming lessons thank you! We then travelled to Luli island for a quick visit and a couple of hundred or so jumps from the jumping shack about 5 metres above the water. Kids… life jacket check… your good off you go, jump away! Next, we make our way to Cowrie Island, named for its resemblance to the shell of a cowrie. This place was absolutely beautiful. Family photo opportunity! Here, we indulge in a feast of fresh seafood and tropical fruits, savouring the flavours of the ocean while lounging beneath the shade of coconut trees. I'm reminded of the simple joys of island life. Our final stop is Starfish Island, where the shallow waters were supposed to be home to a myriad of colourful starfish… we found 1! That was ok, had a touch and feel and more photos and then put it back in the water. Someone shouted… ‘put it on your face’… probably me but no one did… good kids! Me not to clever! As the day draws to a close, we reluctantly bid farewell to the pristine shores of Honda Bay, our hearts full of memories and our spirits rejuvenated by the beauty of nature. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a moment of tranquillity, Honda Bay offers an unforgettable escape into paradise. A fantastic day. Our tour was booked with a local agent Corazon Travel and Tours, great service and very flexible.

27 October 2023

English Heritage Site Whitby Abbey Whitby, a seaside town in Yorkshire, split by the River Esk and home to the ruined Gothic Whitby Abby where Bram Stoker’s inspiration for “Dracula” was created, was where we called home for the last few days. It was a 4.5 hour journey from Rothwell, Northamptonshire with three kids and my sister in tow. It should have taken shorter time and I was questioned why I was driving below the speed limit! To which I simply answered old age!! We stayed at the Captain Cook’s Haven, Larpool, Whitby through Hoseasons. This was beautifully calm and peaceful location. Overlooking the chocolate coloured River Esk, a perfect place for steam train spotting and a BBQ weather permitting and a great view of the viaduct which leads into the town centre. The lodge was clean and spacious and had all the amenities we needed for a few nights stay, the beds were comfortable, lovely bedding and added treat black out blinds! The only fault we had was the lack of internet signal, which we were aware of so came prepared with our own portable wifi device however we still couldn’t get signal – the kids were not happy! So we made use of the sky tv channels and watched Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone with the commercials, some MTV videos and QVC shopping channels! We spent the following day sightseeing around Whitby and signed up for an English Heritage Membership, with over 400 Historic sites and free entry for up to six children how could we say no! Why is Whitby Abbey so famous? In AD 657 Abbess Hild founded a monastery for men and women at Whitby, on land given by King Oswiu. It was Whitby's first monastic site and became one of the most important religious centres in the Anglo-Saxon world. With absolutely amazing views over the coast and open grounds to roam and seasonal events made this a great day out. Unfortunately we didn’t walk up the 199 steps to the Abbey, coincidentally we were unaware of that route and paid for parking up top instead! The visitor centre and museum were interesting and informative and great selection of gifts and coffee shop. Lunch was of course the famous Whitby Fish and Chips which was good, the kids enjoyed their meal with a pot of gravy with no complaints followed by a walk around the many shops around the marina, arcade games and to finish off some luxury ice cream in a cold October day.