Stay & Play

El Nido Cove Resort and Spa Palawan Island, Philippines

by Daniel Smajovits

From the craziness of Manila to the serenity of Palawan Island, the Philippines is the hidden jewel of Southeast Asia. With over 7,500 islands, it is said that the country offers a perfect beach for everyone, but the country is so much more than white sand and crystal clear waters. World-class diving and snorkeling, millennia old man-made and natural wonders and a rich, albeit convoluted, history make this a premiere travel destination.

Tucked away on Palawan Island is the tiny village of El Nido, which consistently ranked as one of the world’s best beach destinations. When looking to relax for a few days, look no further than the El Nido Cove Resort and Spa. The property rests on the tip of El Nido Bay and far enough north of the town to truly provide an escape and serenity from day-to-day life.

Depending on your budget, you can choose between a Garden, Forest or Beachfront room, each of which is very spacious, modern and clean. With only 20 rooms in total, the property sells out quickly during peak season, which runs from December to February.

As they have only a limited number of guests, the staff is in-tune to your every need. Whether it’s booking one of El Nido’s famous island hopping tours, priced the same regardless of the operator, or a special dietary request, they are ready and willing to make your stay a memorable one.

Yet, the property’s greatest amenity is the natural beauty that surrounds it and guests can enjoy it either by the beach, the outdoor pool or for the adventurous, a kayaking trip to explore a nearby island or lagoon. If relaxation is squarely on your mind, one can opt for a massage by the beach or indoors, depending on the weather.

With a full service restaurant, open throughout the day and into the evening, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast and a moderately priced menu so guests can skip the 20-minute tricycle ride into town. As El Nido is still a fishing village today, visitors should at least make the trip in for one dinner, where beachfront restaurants offer a wide selection of local fish and seafood, grilled to your liking, for under $10 a person.

www.elnidocoveresort.com