Thinking about moving to Puerto Princesa City? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Puerto Princesa City.
Known as the city in a forest, Puerto Princesa City in the Philippines is a unique blend of urban development and natural beauty. It’s a place where you can enjoy the conveniences of city living while being surrounded by lush greenery and pristine beaches. But like any other place, living in Puerto Princesa City has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the details and see what it’s like to live in this tropical paradise.
Pros of Living in Puerto Princesa City
One of the biggest advantages of living in Puerto Princesa City is its natural beauty. The city is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park features a stunning limestone karst landscape with an underground river. Living in Puerto Princesa City means you have easy access to this natural wonder, as well as numerous other beautiful beaches and islands.
Another advantage of living in Puerto Princesa City is the cost of living. Compared to other cities in the Philippines, the cost of living in Puerto Princesa City is relatively low. You can rent a decent house for a fraction of what you would pay in Manila or Cebu. The cost of food, transportation, and other basic necessities are also lower. This makes Puerto Princesa City an attractive place for retirees and those looking to stretch their budget.
Puerto Princesa City also has a vibrant local culture. The city is home to a number of festivals and events that celebrate the unique culture and history of the Palawan people. One of these is the Baragatan Festival, a month-long celebration that features street dancing, agricultural fairs, and cultural shows. Living in Puerto Princesa City gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in these cultural experiences.
Finally, Puerto Princesa City is a great place for those who love outdoor activities. The city offers a wide range of activities, from island hopping and snorkeling to hiking and bird watching. There are also numerous volunteer opportunities available for those who want to give back to the community. For example, the Palawan Conservation Corps offers programs that allow volunteers to help with reforestation efforts and environmental education.
Cons of Living in Puerto Princesa City, Philippines
While there are many advantages to living in Puerto Princesa City, there are also some disadvantages. One of the biggest challenges is the city’s remote location. Puerto Princesa City is located on the island of Palawan, which is a bit isolated from the rest of the Philippines. This means that travel to and from the city can be time-consuming and expensive. It also means that certain goods and services may be more expensive or harder to find than in other parts of the country.
Another challenge of living in Puerto Princesa City is the lack of certain amenities. While the city has made significant strides in development, it still lacks some of the amenities found in larger cities. For example, there are limited shopping and dining options, and the city does not have a major hospital. This can be a drawback for those who are used to having a wide range of options at their fingertips.
The city’s rapid growth can also be a disadvantage. In recent years, Puerto Princesa City has seen a surge in tourism and development. While this has brought economic benefits, it has also led to increased traffic, pollution, and strain on the city’s infrastructure. This rapid growth has also led to concerns about the sustainability of the city’s development and its impact on the environment.
Finally, while Puerto Princesa City is generally safe, it is not immune to the crime and safety issues that affect other parts of the Philippines. While the city’s crime rate is lower than in larger cities like Manila, crime can still be a concern, especially for foreigners. It’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
