Pandan Island, Puerto Princessa, Philippines.
I recently visited Philippines for vacations, and more specifically Palawan island. Now, I always like to go for a run in a new place, even if it is just a short one around the hotel, however, this time a new opportunity was presented to me: I would be able to literally run around an island.
Pandan (or Makesi) Island is about 40 minutes away from Puerto Princesa City by boat. It is situated in Honda Bay and it is very famous for snorkelling and island hoping.
When approaching the island I saw that it looked to be completely surrounded by beach, so the idea was planted in my head. After we had a quick dive, I had to try it out!
Early on I was approached by a dog playfully barking at me. He (she?) was limping, but started following me.
The sandy beach keeps going on around the island, apart from a 100m or so stretch where you have to go through some bushes, grass and trees. It is still very accessible and suitable for barefoot running or walking.
Bravely enough, the small, limping dog ran by my side for the whole time. When we arrived back to the main beach, it looked exhausted and went straight for a dive in the crystal clear waters – and so did I. It wasn’t a long run (the island circumference is about 1.8km according to my GPS), but it was very enjoyable. And I did make a new friend!
Later on, I went for a leg massage by the beach, and I found out that the dog was born on the island, and has been limping since he was born.
If you want to find out more about Pandan Island, I refer you to this blog entry.
