El Nido is in the north of Palawan. It is an easy going place with a beachside vibe. Much of the town is automobile-free, so it’s very walking friendly. Its waters are beautifully blue, its restaurants offer cuisines from all over the world, and its coastline has some of the most beautiful islands you’ll see anywhere to explore, many with gorgeous snorkeling amongst the Bacuit Archipelago. The beach is most busy early in the morning when the outriggers head out on their “island hopping” tours. It can be hot. But once under a shady roof, by the water, it’s pretty comfortable. Walking and checking out the shops is a pastime. There are many services available to travelers. Currency exchange, airline tickets, ferries to other islands, pharmacies, motorbike rentals, snorkeling gear, and more. As I strolled around, I wasn’t subjected to audible offers of merchandise or tours. That was nice.
The town has plenty to offer travelers. I saw cuisine from Thailand, local, Greece, Italy, Mexico, France, Japan, China, Ukraine, and more. The beach is pleasant enough. But much more pristine beaches lay further out on the island and especially on the islands in the nearby archipelago.
One of my favorite meals was at a beachside restaurant in El Nido. I ordered a simple chicken pasta and a bowl of green-lipped mussel with peppers and ginger soup. It took a while as usual but OMG so divine! The soup was SO delicious. That combination of spicy and sweet. The pasta was home made! SO delicious. I’d forgotten how wonderful pasta can be!
Later that day I walked to the far north end of the beach and picked out a small shady table to get a beer. It was just so pleasant people watching. It made my day!
In the next blog post I will share from my El Nido Island Hopping Tour. I experienced the most beautiful beach I have ever seen.
Cabin Fever Chronicles - Getting Outdoors with Rod 
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