Escape to Paradise: Uncover NoaNoa Island, Palawan's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: NoaNoa Island - My Unfiltered Palawan Romp (and Why You NEED it)
Okay, so Palawan. The name itself conjures up images of… well, paradise. But let's be real, finding actual paradise can be a lottery, right? I've been burned by so many Instagram-filtered "gems," I was starting to think my definition of "relaxation" was just staring at a flickering phone screen. Then, I stumbled upon NoaNoa Island, and it threw a wrench in my cynical little heart. It wasn't perfect – far from it! – but it was real. And that, my friends, is what makes it worth writing home about.
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Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, But With Heart
Let's rip off the band-aid first: accessibility isn't a slam dunk. They've got facilities for disabled guests, but the island vibe (beautiful, rugged) isn't always conducive to smooth wheelchair navigation. Car park [free of charge] is a huge plus, though – parking can be a nightmare in tourist zones. Airport transfer is offered, which I highly recommend. You'd be lost without it.
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Getting There (and What to Expect): A Bit Dicey, But Worth It
Getting to NoaNoa is part of the adventure, and, honestly, a bit of a trip. You're looking at a ferry, maybe a jeepney, and then the magic. But, my gosh, when you arrive, it's like a weight lifts off.
The Rooms: My Little Slice of Heaven (Mostly)
I had a room with a view that opened, and honestly, I spent way too much time just staring out that window. The air conditioning was a lifesaver (Palawan heat is no joke!), and the blackout curtains were perfect for sleeping in… or just hiding from the world. The bathrobes were plush, but the slippers were a bit… well, they weren't top-shelf slippers. Still, a small price to pay for such a gorgeous room. Free Wi-Fi in every room, baby! And it actually worked, which is a minor miracle in the Philippines. They also have non-smoking rooms, which, please, respect those rules!
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The Spa: Ah, Bliss (and Okay, Maybe Some Minor Gripes)
The Spa area… oh, the spa. I’m normally the type to roll my eyes at all things spa, but I signed up for a Body Scrub then a Massage. I emerged feeling like a reborn butterfly. The pool with a view was divine – I'd swear it soothed a deeper level of my soul. They have a sauna and a Steamroom, and they’ve got it all. Now, the decor? A little too "zen" for my taste. Not a big fan of the incense, but again - small price to pay for the sheer relaxation. And the masseuse? Pure magic.
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Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Foodie's Fairytale (Mostly)!
Let's talk food, because, let's be honest, that's half the reason we travel, isn't it? The restaurants offer a stellar a la carte menu with both international cuisine and local flavour. The Asian cuisine in the restaurant was absolutely delicious. I had a fish dish that was… well, let’s just say I licked the plate clean. The breakfast buffet was impressive, from Asian options to Western breakfast. And the coffee/tea in the restaurant was perfect. They also have a poolside bar, and a happy hour that was both reasonable and refreshing.
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Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Safe in Paradise
Okay, this is where NoaNoa really shines. They've gone above and beyond with their hygiene certification and anti-viral cleaning products. Rooms are sanitized between stays, and there is daily disinfection in common areas. They had hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. Staff are trained in safety protocol, and I felt genuinely safe. They also have a doctor/nurse on call, which is reassuring. Safe dining setup, too – loved it. Cashless payment service is another plus.
(SEO Tip: "Rest assured, NoaNoa Island prioritizes your safety with rigorous cleaning protocols, hygiene certifications, and trained staff".)
Things to Do (and Ways to Relax): More Than Just Beachside Bliss
Beyond the spa, there's plenty to keep you occupied. I'm a HUGE fan of doing nothing, and NoaNoa encourages that. But if you’re the adventurous type, there's a fitness center, and although I didn’t use it (hello, vacation!), I did see people enjoying it. They also have swimming pools which you can't go wrong with.
(SEO Tip: "Whether you crave adventure or blissful relaxation, NoaNoa Island offers a range of activities to suit every guest. From spa treatments to exploring the local area".)
Services and Conveniences: Little Touches That Matter
They offer pretty much everything you'd expect, like concierge services, laundry service, and daily housekeeping. They even have a convenience store for those forgotten essentials. There is also 24-hour front desk and security so you know you are safe. They have a gift/souvenir shop, and luggage storage. Plus, the staff were genuinely helpful and friendly.
(SEO Tip: "Enjoy a host of convenient services at NoaNoa Island, including concierge assistance, laundry services, and a gift shop, ensuring a seamless and stress-free stay".)
The "Uh-Oh" Moments (Because Perfection Doesn't Exist)
Look, I’m not going to lie. Things weren’t always perfect. One morning, the hot water in my shower was… well, lukewarm, at best. (Minor inconvenience but still…!) And the Wi-Fi, while generally good, would hiccup occasionally. I also found that the coffee shop was slow at times. Tiny things, but worth mentioning.
(SEO Tip: "NoaNoa Island, while striving for perfection, may have minor instances of slightly slow service or the odd hiccup. But they are still worth it.)
For the Kids (and Those Who Love 'Em): Kid-Friendly Vibes
They are family/child friendly! I didn't have kids with me, but I saw plenty of happy families. They have babysitting service
(SEO Tip: "Looking for a family-friendly resort? NoaNoa Island welcomes families with open arms, offering babysitting and amenities to keep everyone happy".)
The Verdict: Book It. Seriously. (But Not If You're Needy)
NoaNoa Island isn’t perfect. But it is real. It's got charm, a stunning location, and a staff that genuinely cares. If you're looking for a polished, cookie-cutter resort experience, maybe this isn't for you. But if you're seeking an escape, a chance to reconnect with yourself (or your loved ones), and a taste of authentic Palawan beauty, then book it. Seriously. Right now. DO IT. You won't regret it. Just pack your patience, your sense of humor, and your swimsuit. And maybe an extra pair of slippers.
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Escape to Paradise: Goose Farm Stay & Cafe in Ubon Ratchathani!
NoaNoa Island Blues & Bliss: My Palawan Pilgrimage (A Messy Itinerary)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your polished "Travelogue of the Week." This is about to get REAL. I've just returned from NoaNoa Island (which, by the way, sounds vaguely like a Polynesian fertility ritual…) and I'm still picking sand out of everywhere. So, here's the raw, unfiltered, and probably slightly deranged account of my Palawan adventure.
Day 1: Arrival & Holy Shit, It's Tropical! (Plus, Jet Lag is a Bitch)
- Morning (6:00 AM Philippine Time… which is 6 PM to my internal clock): Landed in Puerto Princesa. First, a quick note: the airport is tiny. Like, "can you squeeze past the baggage carousel to get to the bathroom" tiny. But hey, it's part of the charm, right? Bleary-eyed, I navigated the chaos, feeling like I was in an actual, real-life episode of "Survivor." Found my pre-booked transfer – a beat-up van that smelled faintly of coconut and existential dread.
- Mid-Morning (7:30 AM): The drive to El Nido. HOLY MOTHER OF GOD, the scenery. Lush green mountains, turquoise water… I literally gasped. Loudly. Like a whale. My driver gave me a look like, "Yeah, kid, we see this every day." I, on the other hand, nearly wept with joy. This is what I’d come to see!
- Lunch (11:00 AM): Finally arrived at my hotel, after a solid hour of being jolted around in the van. Checked in, and oh boy. It's amazing. Not the hotel, but the views, seriously the view from my balcony is gorgeous. I promptly collapsed on my bed, and decided that I am not able to do anything but look at the scenery until it's dark again.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Jet lag finally caught up with me. Passed out for three glorious, uninterrupted hours. Woke up feeling like a slightly less-dead version of myself.
- Evening (5:00 PM): Went for a walk on the beach. It was magical. The sand felt like powdered sugar under my feet. The sunset… well, it was one of those sunsets that makes you question all your life choices, in a good way.
- Dinner (7:00 PM): Ate some street food. It was delicious. It was probably unwise to eat it from a cart that looked suspiciously unstable, but YOLO, right? No stomach problems yet, so, win!
Day 2: Island Hopping – My Soul Got a Sunburn (Best Day Ever, Almost Ruined by Sea Sickness)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Island hopping tour, here we go! I signed up for Tour A, which, according to everyone, is THE tour. Packed snacks, sunscreen, and my extremely optimistic spirit.
- Mid-Morning (9:00 AM): First stop: a lagoon. It was breathtaking. Emerald water, towering limestone cliffs… I swear, a dragon could have flown out of there and I wouldn't have blinked. Snorkeled. Saw fish. Fish, fish, EVERYWHERE! It was like a giant, underwater kaleidoscope. Life. Good.
- Late Morning (10:30 AM): Second stop: a secret beach. Okay, this is where things got REAL. The water was clear, the sand was white, and I felt like I'd stumbled into a movie set. I almost didn't want to leave.
- Lunch (12:00 PM): Lunch on a secluded beach during the tour. Grilled fish, rice, the works! The food was good, but the view? Unbeatable. Sat there, ate, and soaked it all in.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Sea Sickness. The boat ride to our next stop was a little… rough. I'm not gonna lie, I spent a good portion of it hugging the side of the boat, silently praying to Poseidon. Let's just say that the highlight of that portion of the trip was not the view. A solid four out of ten.
- Late Afternoon (3:00 PM): The final stop, a snorkeling spot. The sea sickness had mostly subsided, but I was still a little green around the gills. Despite that, I managed to drag myself into the water.. and WOW. I saw coral, of course, and more fish, but I also saw a sea turtle. Legit cried.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Back at the hotel, exhausted but exhilarated. Took a shower. Fell into a deep, satisfied slumber.
Day 3: Kayaking & Coconut Dreams (And Questionable Choices)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Rented a kayak and paddled around. It was peaceful. The water was calm, the sun was shining, and I felt like I was in a postcard. Well, except for the fact that I almost capsized when I tried to take a selfie.
- Mid-Morning (10:30 AM): Landed on a beach. Found a coconut. Drank the coconut water (amazing!). Ate the coconut meat (less amazing, more like chewing on a wet sponge). Sat on the beach for a solid chunk of time, just staring. Nothing else. Just. Staring.
- Lunch (12:00 PM): Went back to the town and bought some food. The food was great. The place? A little bit… sketchy. I ordered this really great spicy noodles, and it was only after I'd finished it that I realized they didn't have the same kind of hygienic practices as back home.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Back to the beach. Read a book. Napped under a tree. Got a little too much sun. Oops.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Found a restaurant with live music. Ate seafood. Had a few too many cocktails. Danced under the stars. Sang karaoke and horribly butchered some songs.
- Late Evening (10:00 PM): Walked back to my hotel. Tripped on a coconut. Almost broke an ankle. Good times.
Day 4: The Trek from Hell & Farewell (Also, the Mango Shake Incident)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Decided, for some insane reason, to hike up a mountain trail for the views. I should have known there was an unpleasantly long journey to get there… The trail was steep, the heat was intense, and I questioned all my life choices, specifically why I thought this was a good idea.
- Mid-Morning (10:00 AM): FINALLY reached the top. The view was SPECTACULAR. Totally worth the sweat, the near-death experience, and the existential crisis.
- Lunch (11:00 AM): A mango shake. The best mango shake I've ever had. It was pure, unadulterated joy in a glass. I ordered a second one. And a third. By the time the sun was going under, I would've downed the entire place if I could.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Began my long trek back to my hotel.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Dinner at a place by the beach. The food was good. The sunset…. well, it was a sunset.
- Late Evening (8:00 PM): Packing. Sigh.
- Night (10:00 PM): Headed back to the airport.
- Night (12:00 AM): Left for the airport.
- Morning Next Day (6:00 AM): Arrived back home.
Final Thoughts:
NoaNoa Island was a rollercoaster. Beautiful, challenging, life-affirming, and occasionally a little bit terrifying. The sea sickness incident? A definite low point. The mango shakes? A definite highlight. Would I go back? Absolutely. In a heartbeat. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go book another flight and dream up a more perfect version of this trip, which will undoubtedly be just as hilariously messy.
Mumbai's Hidden Gem: Atlas Plaza Hotel - Unbelievable Luxury Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: NoaNoa Island - The FAQs (Messy Edition)
Okay, NoaNoa Island. Is it REALLY paradise, or is this just marketing fluff? Because I've seen some "paradise" that resembled a parking lot with sand.
Ugh, the marketing, right? Paradise plastered on everything. Look, I'm going to be brutally honest. I've been to places… let's just say the "paradise" was more like "barely habitable." NoaNoa is… well, it *leans* towards paradise. Let's put it that way. The sand IS ridiculously white, the water IS that unbelievable turquoise you see in the brochures. But here's the thing: it's not perfection. It’s *real*.
Okay, I'll give you an anecdote: I was trying to take a picture of this perfect sunset, the one Instagram dreams are made of, right? Beautiful, right? And BAM! This rogue wave soaked my phone. Cue the internal meltdown. It wasn't just a soggy phone; it was the symbolic end of my Insta-perfect dream. And guess what? As I stood there, drenched and slightly humiliated, this local kid, maybe 8 years old, just *laughed*. Genuinely belly-laughed! And you know what? It was hilarious. Made me realize, yeah, paradise might be messy sometimes. But that's part of the charm. It's *real*.
So, getting there. Is it a brutal trek, or is it relatively simple? Because I'm not exactly Bear Grylls.
Right, the journey. Okay, it's not *easy*. You're in Palawan, which means a bit of flying, a bit of driving, and a boat ride. The boat ride is BEAUTIFUL though, no sugarcoating it! But, and this is a huge BUT, I'm a terrible sailor. I get seasick at the sight of a bathtub full of water. The boat was a smallish boat, the kind that could tip over with a strong wind. I spent most of the ride clutching onto this flimsy railing, face green, praying to the porcelain gods. The captain, bless his heart, kept giving me this knowing look, like "Yeah, it happens."
But here's a pro-tip: bring ginger candies. Seriously saved my life. So yeah, relatively speaking... it's probably not for the faint of heart, or those with weak stomachs.
What can you *actually do* on NoaNoa? Besides, you know, be photographed?
Okay, so here's the thing. It's not a theme park. This isn't Disney World with turquoise water. It's more like... nature, pure and simple. I'm a city person. I need "things to do." And I was honestly a little worried at first. But then... wow.
You can SCUBA dive (I don't, not my thing), snorkel (yes!), swim (duh!), and kayak. They have kayaks, which are great until you realize you've paddled WAY too far and now you're sunburnt and tired. You can also just... *be*. Read a book, gaze at the stars (the stars are INSANE), or nap in a hammock. The last one, I highly recommend.
Now about food... The restaurant is simple, but the food? Actually, it's a bit hit-or-miss, but when it hits, it HITS! I had this grilled fish. It was the freshest, flakiest, most delicious thing I've ever tasted. It’s almost worth all the potential seasickness just for that fish. Almost.
The accommodations... Are we talking luxury, rustic, or something in between? I'm okay with rustic as long as it's clean.
Rustic. With a capital R. Think charming, but *definitely* not the Ritz. The bungalows are lovely, right on the beach, but don’t expect marble bathrooms (which, frankly, the world needs less of). It’s more about the view from your porch, which is worth a million dollars. Literally. Because it makes you feel like you have a million dollars.
And the sound of the waves at night? Seriously, best sleep *ever*. Except for one night, the storm came up. And wow, the power went out. And I was petrified of spiders. But it makes for one heck of a story, and it makes you feel alive, right?
What if I get bored? I need constant stimulation, or things will go south fast.
Okay, if you NEED constant stimulation, NoaNoa might be a problem. Look, there's no Netflix and chill. There is not fast internet. I ended up reading so much that I felt like I aged a year in a few days.
You might get bored sometimes, I won't lie. But here's a counterpoint: Boredom sometimes is good! It forces you to look around, disconnect from the madness of everyday life, and actually *experience* things. I got to just be. And I don’t get to just be. I’m the queen of multi-tasking. In a good way? Maybe. But there’s a reason why a lot of people head to places like NoaNoa.
Is it worth the trip? REALLY?
Look, I'm a very judgy traveler. I'm picky. I have high standards. And yeah, I'd go back to NoaNoa in a heartbeat. In fact, I'm trying to figure out how soon I can escape again.
It's not perfect. It's not the most luxurious. It's a bit of an adventure. But it's real, it's beautiful, and it's the kind of place that sticks with you long after you've left. And THAT, my friend, is paradise. Get some ginger candies and book that ticket.
What about the bugs? I see photos and the thought of insects makes me lose it.
Okay, let's get this out of the way. Bugs. You're by the ocean. Bugs are inevitable. Mosquitos? Yes. Ants? Yes. The occasional other creepy crawly? Maybe.
So, bring bug spray! And maybe those citronella candles. And try not to shriek too loudly when you see a particularly impressive spider. I, uh, may or may not have done that a few times. But hey, they're just trying to live their best lives. They're just as scared of you as you are of them. Probably.
