The capitol of Palawan is a fast growing bustling city. I was there last about 10 years ago and was amazed at all the growth that had taken place since that time.
The airport is undergoing a major expansion and the small town atmosphere is sure to fade away over the next few years.
NCC mall is next to the Jolibees and the Dunkin Donuts. The main street is crowded with traffic.
Internet cafes are spaced every 50 to 100 meters but they are usually packed with schoolchildren. The girls are all on friendster and the boys are fascinated with the gaming.
In the Philippines, entire internet cafes are dedicated to gaming. These kids are technically savy which is handy if you are having problems because a 5 or 6 year old can be recruited to sort things out for you.
The shoreline has been cleared of squatters and there is a bay walk promenade being built. It is an ambitious project by the mayor and is nearing completion.
Green garbage cans are every 10 to 20 meters along the walkways and streets so there is very little if any trash on the streets. There is a stiff penalty for littering and no reason for it because of all the trash cans everywhere.
A big blue Catholic cathedral towers near a memorial to 143 American POW's that were killed in 1944.
Western Union and Equitable Bank among others are on the main road. There are a few budget pension houses around 500 meters from the NCC mall but i prefer to stay on the airport road.
I have been particularly pleased with the Amelia Pensionne and Moana Hotel.
There are numerous Vietnamese restaurants including Saigon Restaurant past the airport. Rene Sabio became quite a good chef cooking at one of the refugee camps in the 1970's and took his skills with him when relocating to Palawan along with many other refugees.
French bread has become common place in Puerto Princesa. Other Vietnamese style cusine is fairly common as well.
There are 2 merchants in the city that will change dollars at the prevailing rate after hours.
I got help with the poster, Jen, when I arrived in town late at night short on pesos. She is a helpful gal and knows Palawan quite well.
The Moana Hotel has a dive shop and takes groups of divers to Tubataha during the diving season. The staff there is quite friendly and helpful.
I think the best value in Puerto Princesa is the Amelia Pensionne near the airport.
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