Southeast Asia, a land of stunning beaches, delicious food, and affordable luxury. But with so many islands to choose from, where should you go? Having just returned from an incredible trip, I'm here to share my experiences and help you decide between two top contenders: Palawan, Philippines, and Phuket, Thailand.
Round 1: Must-See Attractions
Both islands boast incredible natural beauty and unique experiences, but let's break down what makes each one special.
Palawan: Subterranean Wonders and Thrilling Ziplines
Palawan, often called the "Last Ecological Frontier," offers a unique blend of natural wonders. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, is an absolute must-see. This 8.2-kilometer underground river, the longest navigable subterranean river in the world, is a breathtaking journey through stunning cave formations.
Getting there is easy! A short boat ride from Sabang Wharf, followed by a quick walk through a shaded rainforest path, brings you to the entrance. Inside, you'll glide through a magical world of stalactites and stalagmites, each uniquely formed with eleven different minerals, creating crystal and egg-shaped formations unlike any other cave I’ve seen.
But the adventure doesn't stop there. For the thrill-seekers, Palawan offers exhilarating zipline experiences. The 800-meter zipline at the Subterranean River National Park offers stunning ocean views. If you crave more adrenaline, head to Ugong Rock, a 23-million-year-old geological formation. Explore limestone caves, try some light rock climbing, and then zipline 420 meters across a breathtaking landscape. The best part? These experiences are incredibly affordable, costing just a few dollars each!
Phuket: Panoramic Views and Island Adventures
Phuket, a vibrant island in Thailand, offers a diverse range of experiences from bustling markets to tranquil beaches. The newly constructed Skywalk at Phang Nga Bay National Park provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the iconic limestone karsts. At 80 meters high and 180 meters long, this skywalk offers a unique perspective of the bay, surpassing the microcosmic views of similar karst formations in Palawan with its grand, sweeping vistas. A convenient shuttle takes you to the top, making it accessible for all ages. With a cafe offering Thai delicacies and refreshing drinks, it's the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of Phang Nga Bay. The 500 THB entrance fee includes a 300 THB voucher for the cafe, making it an even sweeter deal.
| Feature | Palawan | Phuket |
|---|---|---|
| Main Attraction | Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park | Phang Nga Bay Skywalk |
| Accessibility | Short boat ride and walk | Shuttle to the top |
| Additional Activities | Ziplines, cave exploration | Cafe with Thai food and drinks |
| Cost | Very affordable | Affordable (500 THB with 300 THB cafe voucher) |
Round 2: Luxury Accommodations
After a day of exploring, you'll want to relax and unwind in style. Let's compare the luxury accommodations on offer.
Palawan: Beachfront Bliss
In Palawan, I stayed at a brand new, five-star resort that offered unparalleled beachfront luxury. Its prime location near the Subterranean River National Park allows guests to skip the early morning commute and easily access the park with the hotel's shuttle service. The resort boasts a wide variety of room types, from villas and honeymoon suites to oceanfront and poolside rooms. The massive pool features a swim-up bar, perfect for enjoying evening cocktails under the stars while listening to the gentle waves. The diverse dining options cater to all tastes, offering both Western and Filipino cuisine, including the must-try roasted lechon. And the best part? This luxurious experience is surprisingly affordable, with rooms starting at around $200 per night, including breakfast.
Phuket: Poolside Paradise
Phuket's five-star hotel boasts a unique star-shaped pool, one of three on the property. With eight room types, including double, family, and honeymoon suites, there's something for everyone. Thoughtful touches like complimentary rattan baskets and elephant print pants add to the resort experience. Some rooms even offer direct access to the pool – just open your patio door and jump in! In the evenings, indulge in a poolside feast of freshly caught lobster, oysters, and prawns, all while enjoying a captivating fire dance performance.
| Feature | Palawan | Phuket |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Type | Five-star beachfront resort | Five-star resort with multiple pools |
| Unique Feature | Proximity to Subterranean River National Park | Star-shaped pool, direct pool access rooms |
| Dining | Diverse options, including Filipino cuisine | Lobster buffet, fresh seafood |
| Cost | Around $200/night including breakfast | Varies depending on room type and season |
The Verdict
Both Palawan and Phuket offer incredible experiences, but for me, Palawan edges out Phuket in the first round. The unique combination of subterranean exploration and thrilling ziplines, coupled with affordable luxury and easy access to natural wonders, makes it a truly unforgettable destination. While Phuket’s Skywalk and luxurious resorts are enticing, Palawan's adventurous spirit and untouched beauty truly captivated me.
