Bancuan

After the epic 3D/2N boat expedition, it was time to say goodbye to most of the group as we all headed into Coron with different timelines. I only had the next day there (the expedition was delayed by a day and I could not change my flights), so Andrea, Jonas and I booked another island hopping tour for the next day.

Coron is one of the places that you see a lot on Instagram when searching for the Philippines. To be fair, the drone shots look absolutely stunning as one drives, swims and kayaks on crystal clear water in blue lagoons surrounded by high limestone cliffs.

The reality on the ground is a bit different. We hopped on the boat and drove to a few of the famous lagoons. After having done a few island hopping tours in Palawan and the expedition, I have to say that the stops in Coron were a bit underwhelming. Not only was it packed with noticeably more people than El Nido, but the activities and first three stops were mostly the same - we put on a lifejacket, jumped in the water, swam or walked a little bit and then just chilled in the lagoons for 40 minutes. The first proper lagoon was quite cool, but it became repetitive. The group on the tour and the crew were really great, though, so that definitely made up for it!

The best part of the tour, in my opinion, was anchoring by a snorkeling spot. While the snorkel spot was okay-ish - again, I was v spoiled the days before - we did stop there during golden hour. We utlised the light for a little photoshoot, had an underwater shot (you snorkel while they pour rum in your snorkel - great fun 😂), before heading back onshore.

In the evening, we met up with a few 'old' friends from the expedition and 'new' ones made on today's boat tour, had dinner and then partied the night away.

While I had another great time on the boat and at night, Coron and I did not really click. It was a bit too touristy for me and the stops of the boat tour did not induce a WOW feeling in me. It is a place I probably will not return, as I have 'done' it now.

The people I was with and new people I met made me have a fantastic time there, though. People do make a place! So, all in all, great vibe, great atmosphere, great friendship but slightly overrated island for me.

The next day, I would explore a new island as I headed to Siargao.Read more