Isabelle's Seven Charms
 ISABELLE'S SEVEN CHARMS
- ISABELLE
- TAYTAY
- LAKE DANAO
- RIO VERDE
- NOA-NOA
- ISLA BLANCA
- PABELLON
OTHER ISLAND DESTINATIONS
- DINOT ROCKS
- SMALL SILANGA
- SILANGA
- CASIAN VILLAGE
- NABAT
ISABELLE (Apulit): Aside from the main cove where the resort is, Isabelle has other playgrounds around the island, specifically its west beach, Puesto del Sol, and the three caves on the east.
Puesto del Sol: During low tide, this long stretch of beach is accessible on the west side of the island. The waters are shallow and sandy giving the impression of a natural swimming pool, with corals scattered here and there. Great for snorkeling since there are a lot of fish, even in the sandy areas. Protective footwear should be worn though, as there are stingrays in the area.
The Caves: When the southwest winds (habagat) blow, one can tour the other side of the island on kayak and visit the caves. Caverna has a large open mouth where adventurers can climb up to a "stage". Great for serious cave explorers. The Cave of St Joseph is so called because a formation at its mouth resembles a statue of the saint. Its walls are nice and smooth and has some interesting formations. Bird's Hollow has a walk-in mouth that leads to a small pool.
TAYTAY (Estrella del Norte): Folklore has it that Taytay got its name from the word talaytayan or "bridge". According to the books, when the Spaniards first arrived in the area, they asked a native what the name of the place was. The native, misunderstanding, thought they were asking about a piece of wood that served as a bridge to the town, since the Spaniards seemed to be pointing at it. He therefore replied "talaytayan". Thus the place was called Talaytay which, in time, was shortened to Taytay.
It is more likely, however, that the name is of Chinese origin. It is believed that long before the Spaniards came, the place was frequented by oriental seafarers and traders. Rumor has it that the notorious Chinese pirate Limahong often sought refuge in Taytay's caves and islets. This would explain the Chinese names of many of the islands. The Chinese word taitai means "wife" and it is theorized that the place once housed the wife of one of the big Chinese traders.
Taytay is bounded on the north by El Nido's Barangay Bagong Bayan, on the south by San Vicente and Dumaran, on the east by Taytay Bay or the Sulu Sea, and on the west by the South China Sea.
With a total land area of 139,050 hectares, representing 9.33 % of the total land area of Palawan, Taytay is considered the biggest municipality of the province, and was once, in fact, the capital of Palawan. Taytay has 15 waterfalls, 17 navigable rivers and one lake. It has 31 barangays, 38 schools (elementary, primary and secondary), 2 postal offices, and a hospital.
Taytay has a population of about 50,000, most of whom are migrants from other provinces. 34.7% speak Tagalog. Other dialects spoken are Cuyunon, Ilonggo and Tausog.
Farming is the main source of livelihood, although only about 24% of the land is cultivated. During the southeastern monsoon, people fish to augment their income. Squid season is from February to May.
Since Taytay is rich in raw materials, many of the residents engage in cottage industries such as mat weaving, bamboo craft, and shellcraft among others.
Every May 4, Taytay celebrates its town fiesta in honor of the Miraculous Lady of Sta. Monica.
Tourist spots in Taytay arc Puerto de Sta. Isabel, the old Spanish fort built from 1667 to 1738, and Lake Danao.
LAKE DANAO (Manguao): From the town, you can go see Lake Danao, the only lake in mainland Palawan. The jeepney ride from town should take around 20-30 minutes. It will take you all the way down to the lake, or you may opt to be dropped off at the top of the forest and trek your way down. Experienced mountain bikers may take a bike downhill. Activities recommended are bird-watching, fresh-water fishing and kayaking. The lake has a lot of water lily pads, when the northeast winds (amihan) blow and wild ducks find their way to the lake. A whole day tour is recommended.
RIO VERDE (Tamisan River): Mangroves line this 1.2 kilometer river and an assortment of tropical wildlife (ranging from assorted birds and snakes to monitor lizards) can be found in the trees and the water. The river banks are littered with colorful crabs, the males displaying their large claws to attract a mate or to drive potential rivals away. A whole day tour is recommended to accommodate fishing (eel!) and kayaking.
NOA - NOA (Silanga): Great fun awaits you at Noa-Noa! Sun yourself while enjoying sumptuous barbecues. After a game of beach volleyball, cool off at the bar.
ISLA BLANCA (Quimbaludan): The island has a white sandbar that is perfect for sunbathing. When you finally decide to take a dip, you'll find its coral reefs intact and in full bloom. Great for snorkeling, especially at the drop-off.
PABELLON: Elephant Island and Castle Island are collectively known as Pabellon. The islands are guarded for their swallows' nests. But Pabellon's other lures are its caves, the most fascinating of which is one which hides a crystal pool with a natural skylight. Swimming is definitely recommended. This tour is best only when the southwest winds (habagat) do not blow too strong. A big banca should take 45 mins. to reach the islands. Its beach is only accessible during low tide. Good for picnic lunches.
OTHER ISLAND DESTINATIONS
DINOT ROCKS: Sea turtles glide above its wide reef which is home to multi-colored coral fish. Great for snorkeling and light diving. Picnic lunches can also be arranged here.
SMALL SILANGA: It has a small white sandbar which is only accessible during low tide. Also good for sunbathing and swimming.
SILANGA CHANNEL: This channel between mainland Silanga and the island of Maytiguid is lined with mangroves. The waters are very still. Good for kayaking. Eel fishing is recommended during low tide.
CASIAN VILLAGE: This charming fishing village also has a lot of fruit-bearing trees.
NABAT: The white sand beach is accessible only during low tide. Good for lunches. Water is good for snorkeling.
|
The following are available in your rooms: 
The 21st Gold Star Convention's International Selection Committee, organized by the Business Initiative Directions in Europe, presented the International Gold Star for Excellence in Corporate Image and Quality to the Club Noah Group of Companies on November 20, 1995 at ceremonies held at the Hotel Husa's Princesa Convention Hall in Madrid, Spain.
