By JULIUS P. VICENTE
The author having Diving 101 lesson (Photo by RUDY LIWANAG )
When it comes to scuba diving and snorkeling, the waters of Coron must be one of the best places to explore in the Philippines.
With a magnificent vista and share of the Sulu Sea, Coron has marvelous collections of shipwreck formations and coral reefs teeming with myriads of colorful fishes. No wonder, the waters of Coron is one of the best dive sites in the country today.
Located at the southeast island of Busuanga in Palawan, the municipality of Coron is a quaint fishing town with limited infrastructure and is home to Tagbanua natives.
However, its rural backdrop adds to the appeal as it plays an important role in tourism growth.
The quiet little town of Coron is replete with history. Because it was once a zone of conflict during World War II, natives succinctly remember how the whole stretch of Coron sea was engulfed in flames when a fleet of Japanese ships began to sink during a raid by US navy ships in 1944.
Dive master Arni Pabelonio said the sunken ships are still intact and visible until today. They are located within the depths of 10-30 feet and only hours away from the town proper via a boat ride.
“The shipwrecks became home to hundreds of marine species through the years and these have added to the charm and allure of Coron. That’s why many tourists and even honeymooners are captivated after snorkeling or diving in the site,” he said.
Aside from the shipwreck, Coron is also famous for its underwater rock formations. Arni suggests the Siyete Picados, the lakes of Barracuda and Kayangan, beaches of Banol and Malcapuya, and Twin lagoon while island hopping.
A trip to Coron, Palawan will never be complete without going to the Maquinit hot spring. Just a tricycle ride from the town proper, the natural hot spring provides natural healing and relaxation after long hours on the sand and sea.
Coron also offers a myriad of resorts and accommodations, one of which is the Coron Hilltop View Resort. Only 40 minutes away from the Busuanga Airport, the resort offers all the amenities needed for a relaxing vacation.
HOW TO GET THERE: Fly to Busuanga from Manila via Cebu Pacific, Zest Air and Seair and rent a van to the town proper or to any lodge for R150 per person.
WHERE TO STAY: Coron Hilltop View Resort - Manila office: (+632) 682-48-76/ 645-28-18; +63917-5229873/ 0921-9836023.
Website:www.coronhilltopview.com
Published in Manila Bulletin August 7, 2010
No comments:
Post a Comment