The Colors of El Nido

(I wrote this during the boredom clinic hours in El Nido)


It is like you won a lottery and definitely worth more than a million peso. For a little dreamer like me it is one of a kind experience. After seven grueling years in medical school, working in the confines of the sickly environment of the hospital, I finally decided that after getting my license as a physician I will definitely give myself a well-deserved break. And it all came like everything was planned. I applied in this Resort down south Philippines noted for its beautiful limestone formation and the swiftlets.

El Nido, Palawan. A dream paradise. An ultimate sanctuary. I’m now a part of this majestic reality. It is a simple town on the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan. Facing Bacuit bay, this fishing town has so much to boast not only to the county but to the whole world. Six hours from Puerto Princesa by bus ride, its town beach homes to a number of cottages which cater to travelers from different countries. The clear water of the bay is good for swimming and other water recreation including snorkeling and kayaking.

What is hidden off-shore are groups of islands which the company I’m working with protects and manages. El Nido Resorts has high-class resort accommodation in 2 islands, Lagen and Miniloc and beach clubs in other islands in which guests can have their sumptuous meals and have their enjoyable activities. Thirty minute boat-ride from the private airport in El Nido Town, the cruise will cut through the majestic blue waters of the Bay.

Miniloc Island Resort is known for the big and small lagoons. And some are saying that your stay in El Nido is not complete if you were not able to dip your feet in the good waters of the lagoons. What is also good in Miniloc is the good site for intro diving just near the port area. Schools of fishes which include the ferocious Jack fishes swim around the beach which you can appreciate through snorkeling.

The serenity of the atmosphere in Lagen Island Resort is definitely a much better place for honeymooners. As a worker in this island I get to see and interact with some guests who are really enjoying the peacefulness of the area. Sunset is definitely a mainstay program from the panoramic view of the bay.

What keeps El Nido in preserving its beauty is the eco-consciousness of the townspeople. The great appreciation of the environment is one of the highlights the town has been promoting. With its rich biodiversity, El Nido has attracted more and more guests every season.

This until now I cannot believe that I’m living in a paradise away from the dusty air of the city. I’m eating mouthwatering seafoods which in Manila cost a lot but here I’m getting them for free. This is a hideaway where pressure is not a word and time is plenty for thinking about life and oneself. The people around are welcoming and painted on their faces are the sincerest smiles which capture the hearts of visitors and have them come back. This is a healing place that no doctor like me can cure the problems of one’s troubled life. I’m the doctor who heals but in this place I am the one being cured. I’m really thankful to the Almighty for creating such a wonderful place on earth and thanking Him more for bringing me here.

After the medical boards, I decided not to go straight to residency. And I got this offer to work for a company in El Nido, Palawan. I stayed there for 1 year and had the privilege of capturing the Colors of El Nido.