By Nathan Allen

The hotel sits overlooking Liugongzhen Park, in Taipei’s hip (and historic) Da’an District. The hotel’s PR guru, Mr. Calvin Lai, picked me up and gave me a tour of the facilities. Impressive is an understatement…

The design of the hotel really has a rich, warm feel to it.

Interestingly, the hallway walls and room doors are adorned with copper plating.

You may notice hand and fingerprints from the guests on the walls, and the preservation of these is actually intentional. It’s a way for guests to leave their mark on the hotel, and kind of  give the place a broken in feel. This quirky idea is the brainchild of mastermind designer Ray Chen.

I was fortunate to experience his other designs in both HOTEL QUOTE and GLORIA RESIDENCE as well…each with their own unique feel.

When I reached my room, this was the greeting I found waiting for me. What a nice touch, to put my name up on the giant flats screen TV! I believe it is also programmed into the digital readout on the in-room phone. What a way to make feel guests feel welcomed and valued.

The rooms envelop you in a warm atmosphere of plush fabrics, carpets, and wood paneling. Leather is used as tasteful accenting on some of the furniture as well. As is the case with all Gloria Hotel properties I toured, there is a nice oversized safety deposit box provided (although Taipei feels quite safe to me).

Room Details

I loved the vintage lighting and control switches in the rooms, what a nice retro touch! Ray Chen is a big fan of chandeliers, too…and you’ll notice them throughout the hotel – even at the side of your bed. Quite a unique and dramatic touch.

Another “vintage” feature is the deliberate choice to include normal keyed locks. I can’t remember the last time I stayed at a hotel this nice that didn’t use electronic room cards. The locks are concealed behind classy copper (or brass?) covers. I’m a sucker for nostalgia, so I loved this.

Pictured here is the beautiful, spacious layout of the Deluxe Room. It comes complete with a desk and sleek leather chair. My “job” has provided many, many stays in hotels and resorts…but very few have bedding with this level of comfort. Honestly, the Gloria Hotel group (or Ray Chen…or both?) really hit the nail on the head with their heavenly comforter and mattress choices.

The Most Elegant Bathroom…All To Myself

Can you believe this? I took full advantage of this luxurious bathtub, and was quite amazed by the electronic toilet. Upon approach, the lid automatically lifts, and the inside of the bowl is illuminated with blue LED lighting. Of course it includes a bidet, and even has the option to adjust both water placement and pressure. I believe the seat is heated as well.

HOTEL PROVERBS spares no expense…even the faucets are classy works of art.

Depending on which way your room faces, you may get a nice view of the city and park below.

It was a beautiful day in Taipei.

I took the elevator down to check out the bar / lounge below. I’d say this elevator wins the award for best & most hip mood lighting…

EAST END Bar – One of the Hottest in Taipei

Sadly, I didn’t have time to experience the bar at night. I’ve heard plenty of stories about it, though…and even during the day, it looks like an incredible place to have a drink. The bar / lounge is owned by world famous Tokyo mixologist Hidetsugu Ueno. Apparently it’s one of the trendiest cocktail bars in Taipei’s Eastern District.

By the way, note the grey tiles on the right and above the bar. They can be found adorning the walls of the lobby and bar…each one is unique, and they were collected from vintage buildings in New York!

TK SEAFOOD & STEAK Restaurant

The EAST END Bar is not the only famous establishment housed in the hotel…this steakhouse is also quite known for it’s fresh and unique menu options. When you walk into the lobby, on the left you’ll notice a curing rack on display…complete with curing meats inside!

Apparently the chef owns a farm, and the restaurant’s ingredients are organic, and straight “from farm to table”. Be sure to check out the Jack Daniel’s infused steak as well!

Above, you’ll notice the dining hall, with an impressive display of the before mentioned chandeliers.

Here you can get an idea of how fresh the seafood options are…I believe the chef and dining staff were conducting a training in the background. 

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Rooftop Swimming Pool – Hotel Proverbs Review

I loved being up here….I swam just before closing, with sweeping views of downtown Taipei and the iconic Taipei 101 building on the skyline.

That’s about it for my first trip to Taiwan…though I doubt it will be my last. I loved this friendly country so much. I plan on coming back to explore much more (and even try to learn some Mandarin!) Big thanks to Calvin Lai, Spud Chang, and the rest of the helpful staff at the hotel. Your warm service and attention to detail did not go unnoticed….

Location & Booking

HOTEL PROVERBS Taipei is conveniently located about a 5 minute walk from the Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT station, and less than 1 km from the Liaoning Night Market.

You can browse more photos & reviews on Agoda HERE

For Booking. com, you can click HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share.

More Taiwan Blog Posts

A Surreal Experience Staying @ HOTEL QUOTE Taipei

My Own Sleek Apartment in the Heart OF Taipei – GLORIA RESIDENCE

Discovering My Love For Roast Peking Duck @ CHIOU HWA Restaurant

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The post HOTEL PROVERBS Taipei: Experiencing the City in Plush, Swanky Style appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

As for my room, it was just my style. I’m a huge fan of mid-century furniture, and I love how well Amorita made it work with a native twist.

Check Amorita Rates HERE.

The space planning is excellent. It’s essentially one giant room, but the layout makes it feel like a complete, well-sectioned unit. For a property to really win me over, my bed must be extremely difficult to get out of in the morning. Amorita scores in this department; the beds are heavenly.

A Personalized Touch

The staff at Amorita never miss an opportunity to greet you with a warm smile. They do a fantastic job catering to your needs, and you shouldn’t be surprised to find friendly notes and sweets left in your room when you return from lunch or dinner each day.

One of my favorite things about my room was the cozy “reading nook”. I love the way the sunlight lit up the green leaves of the tree outside the window….and how the light filters through the blinds in the morning.

I did not get to experience a massage at the spa, but I did take a look around, and it definitely looks like an option worth exploring. The atmosphere is super comfortable and relaxing.

I also enjoyed the little details, like returning to find my towels folded into a dog or an elephant…and using the creative “bamboo speaker” for my iphone. Nicely done!

One of my pet peeves is hotels that provide a safety deposit box that is almost large enough to fit a standard-sized laptop. A laptop-in-tow is quite common these days, and of course it is also one of the most valuable items a hotel guest has with them. So, properties should always keep this in mind, right?

Well, thankfully Amorita thinks like I do:) Laptop-sized, and they even went one step further…they put a little light in there so I won’t forget anything. Bravo!

Anyhow, let’s move on to the outside of the property…in front of the infinity pool, you can enjoy dinner or drinks with a spectacular sunset! I enjoyed this view each and every day I was there.

Lush Landscapes

Strolling around the property provides plenty of opportunities to connect with mother nature. The landscaping utilizes so much green space – not only does it help cool the area, but it also is quite pleasing to the eye. You’ll find tropical plants, flowers, and butterflies just about everywhere you look.

Amorita’s location is quite nice, because you can enjoy all the action on Alona Beach if you’re in the mood, but easily get back to your tranquil hideaway afterward.

*One thing I should mention was the spotty wifi in my room. You know what they say, though, it’s good to unplug when you’re on vacation! Haha. Don’t worry, it works in the restaurant area:)

I didn’t experience much the restaurant had to offer, but I can say that the breakfast buffet was the best I had anywhere on my Bohol travels! Special mention goes out to their Lugaw (loo-gow), which is a Filipino rice porridge. Congee, basically.

Things To Do

I believe the resort offers dolphin watching and island hopping tours to Pamilacan and Balicasag Islands…but you can also go snorkeling right at the bottom of the stairs going down to the beach!

Overall, I would not hesitate to return to this fantastic property, and I thank them for the opportunity to share my experience with all of you.

To me, Bohol is simply unforgettable – and in large part, I have Amorita to thank for that!

Check Amorita Resort rates.

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– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

I’m going to LOVE Taipei.

HOTEL QUOTE sits discreetly behind the wall of a bustling street in Taipei, very near the Nanjing Fuxing (Brown/Green) MRT line. The hotel is quite tasteful and artistic; A sleek, modern design with deep, warm hues. The staff was every bit professional and helpful, and saw me to my room right away.

I believe this unit is known as an “O Room”, and impressive is an understatement. Featuring a king sized Simmons mattress fitted with soft, heavenly bedding, this may well be the best night of sleep in my life.

I love the layout of this room. There is a divider between the bathroom and the bedroom – it can be pulled down to separate the space. As you can see, the bathroom is quite large, and provides everything a weary traveler’s heart may desire. Personally, I was set on a hot, relaxing soak in the bathtub.

I don’t know how I feel about hotels that place a television in the bathroom…I suppose I like to keep these two areas of my life separate. In any case, I loved the layout here because it’s not in the bathroom. However, if you want, you can still watch the bedroom TV from the bathtub! 

It’s All in the Details…

The “surreal” part I mentioned in the title comes from the design and feel of the place…the small touches here and there. I noticed a kind of “retro” vibe…evident by the “house phone” pictured below. Details like this kind of made me feel like I was in a Wes Anderson movie, and being one of my favorite directors, I didn’t mind that at all.

Also pictured are the controls for the room’s space-age toilet…which is quite an experience in and of itself. being fully automatic (and even heated), one need not touch any part of the toilet (with hands) during use. Yes, truly a germaphobe’s dream come true.

(I’ll admit, having a robotic toilet attend to the most intimate of your bathroom needs takes a bit of getting used to, but wow…how quickly you become spoiled by it.)

Also worth mentioning is the sleek and natural stone coaster on the sink. Along with the scent of the soap and toiletries (which I can be particular about), I thought these were very tastefully chosen.

Some other things to note about the room: A safety deposit box large enough for a laptop (yessss), thoughtful master lighting controls by the bed (which are are illuminated so you can access them in the dark), a gourmet coffee maker, and a Bose sound system. Wifi worked well throughout the hotel.  Yes, I felt right at home.

An Eclectic Theme in the Common Areas

There seems to be a “woodland animal” theme…and though this deer bust in the lobby looks quite real, I was assured it is indeed faux.

H.Q. Lounge & Meeting Room

The sleek and well equipped lounge also provides complimentary snacks to guests. There are more forest animals to be found here as well…in the form of ceramic rabbits decorating the tables.

The attached meeting room is intimate, and tastefully lit. Very sleek.

Aside from a wide variety of snacks and beverages, below is another quirky touch. One wall of the lounge is full of glass jars…each one containing its own unique complimentary items for guests. Everything from toiletries to souvenirs to candy (on the lower levels).

Offering all these items in the rooms would clutter things quite a bit, so this was a very creative solution. Of course, most hotels only offer a fraction of this many goodies…so you’re made to (quite literally) feel like a “kid in a candy store”.

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333 Restaurant and Bar

I enjoyed a nice complimentary breakfast buffet as well. With a wide variety of food options (and a swanky atmosphere in which to enjoy them), this was the perfect way to wrap up my visit before checking out.

HOTEL QUOTE Taipei was the perfect place to begin my Taiwan adventure, and I’m so very grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my readers. Many thanks to Calvin, Irene, and the rest of the wonderful staff for making my stay so memorable.

There is much more to come from Taipei…so stay tuned!

You can find more info about HOTEL QUOTE Taipei on Agoda HERE

For Booking. com, you can click HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share.

More Taiwan Blog Posts

My Own Sleek Apartment in the heart of Taipei: GLORIA RESIDENCE

Discovering a New Love For Peking Duck @ CHIOU HWA Cantonese Restaurant

My Plush, Swanky Stay @ HOTEL PROVERBS Taipei

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The post HOTEL QUOTE Taipei – Modern, Elegant…& Surreal appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

It is a hotel, but the rooms also function as full service apartments. This makes them perfect for long-stay arrangements…they have even housed Hollywood stars such as Scarlett Johansson and Jackie Chan during their previous movie shoots in Taipei. It would have been surreal to look up and see them sharing the elevator with me!

I do have photos of the other rooms, but I will start with the unit I stayed in. I believe it’s called  the “Abundance” room type, and it has all the comforts of home. As was the case with my previous stay at Hotel Quote nearby, the mini bar here is 100% complimentary. Nice!

However, this time there is also a full kitchen, complete with dishes and silverware. There is even patio with a washer and dryer for clothes – though I believe there is an option for a butler’s assistance, if preferred.

I felt right at home with the interior design in my room…I love the almost minimalist decor, and the oak wood paneling  on the walls and flooring.

Below you can see one of my favorite touches – a rotating flat screen television built right into the wall! Guests on the couch in the living room can enjoy it, then flip it around to the bedroom to enjoy a comfortable movie in bed. Ingenious.

Speaking of the bed, GLORIA RESIDENCE features the same heavenly Simmons mattresses that I experienced at Hotel Quote the night before. Together with a luxurious down comforter / pillow set, enjoying a night’s rest here is an experience in and of itself.

Below is a glimpse into the “Oasis” room type. The decor is consistent throughout the hotel…not over the top, not underdone…for me it’s just right. This is the perfect place for business travelers or families during a stay in Taiwan.

Oasis was my favorite room type. It includes a guest room with separate aircon controls. The master bedroom has its own bathroom as well.

I enjoyed the layout and the bright, airy feeling of this unit…the “feng shui”, if you will.

Bathroom Details

The OUD toiletries and soaps were tastefully chosen, and as you would expect, the bathroom provides all the other amenities you might need. Also like Hotel Quote, there is an incredibly sophisticated electronic toilet. Yes, that means a bidet. It’s quite convenient.

An impressive “walk in” closet can be found in the “Royal A” room type.

Room Amenities – My Gloria Residence Review

As mentioned before, there is a complimentary mini bar available in all rooms, and plenty of other conveniences, such as an ironing board, hair dryer, slippers, bathrobe…etc. The large safety deposit box is something I always appreciate, and I commend them for allowing enough space for a 13 inch laptop (it’s just for peace of mind..I certainly didn’t have any doubts about safety here).

No complaints about the wifi in the room, either.

The Lounge On Floor B1

This comfortable and sophisticated lounge is available 24 hours a day, and offers snacks, seating, TVs and computer access if needed.

As you can see, it’s quite tasteful and elegant, but what really struck me about the lounge was what was said to me upon exiting it. The attendant simply acknowledged me with a smile and said warmly “see you tomorrow, sir“.

Such a simple gesture, but it means so much…it shows that the staff cares enough to know exactly who I am, and how long I will be there for. I mean, it’s a big place, and it was just my first day. I had never even seen this staff member before. I was impressed by that.

Anyhow, the complimentary breakfast buffet provides a nice assortment of western and Asian options for guests. I did not experience lunch or dinner here, but I did get to experience a mouth-watering lunch next door at their sister restaurant “CHIOU HWA”. You can check that out HERE.

(continued below, but I do hope you’ll consider following along with me…)

Heated Swimming Pool

On the ground floor, guests can enjoy the indoor swimming pool as well. It’s 18 meters long, and open during certain hours each day (there may be a change in hours depending on the season, so it’s best to inquire about this during your stay).

That wraps things up for GLORIA RESIDENCE, my next and final stop during my first tour of Taipei is swanky HOTEL PROVERBS…stay tuned for that! Special thanks to Calvin, Irene, and all the wonderful staff there at the hotel. It was nice to feel right at home.

Location & Booking

The hotel is conveniently located in Taipei’s Zhongshan district, just a short walk from the Shuanglian Station on the Danshui MRT Line.

You can find more info & reviews about GLORIA RESIDENCE Taipei on Agoda HERE

For Booking. com, you can click HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

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By Nathan Allen

This is a traditional Cantonese restaurant known for its dim sum and roast duck. In fact, the restaurant is famous for serving “Peking Duck” an impressive nine different ways.

My host Calvin Lai welcomed me to Taipei, and we began our “culinary tour”. First up was a sampling of some of Taiwan’s famous teas.

Starting from lightest to darkest, we sampled green tea, then oolong, then the heaviest roast – the black teas. My personal favorite was the first, known as “Biluochun Green Tea”. It is grown in Sanyi, Miaoli – Taiwan, and is quite accurately described as having an elegant taste.

This is when Chef Fong, a Hong Kong native, appeared on the scene. Along with a perfectly roasted duck, he began to put on quite a show for us.

With expert precision (and an incredibly sharp knife), he presented us with a plateful of sliced duck – crispy skin and all.

The chef was quite friendly, and kind to pose for a photo before returning to the kitchen.

After a brief explanation once more dishes were presented, we were ready to sample our sliced duck.

As mentioned earlier, the restaurant serves roast duck nine different ways…but we only had enough time (and appetite) to try three.  I have to admit I was a bit skeptical, because I swear I tried duck before, and did not care for it. This time, however, was completely different. I guess you could say it was love at first bite.

The first method used a thin wheat “pancake” (more like a crepe, I suppose) to wrap the duck meat, along with some spring onion and pickled ginger. A slight dip in the included sauce was the final touch before tasting. Wow. The meat was tender and succulent, expertly cooked and proportioned with the thin, crispy skin.

All methods have their appeal, but this was by far my favorite. Such a unique and delicious experience!

(continued below, but I do hope you’ll consider following along with me…)

The next method was Dried Tangerine Congee, or Chinese porridge. This recipe uses duck bones, along with traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients. The rich duck oil is well suited for for the taste and texture of the congee.

The third method uses a lettuce leaf to create a sauteed, minced duck wrap. You can see the minced duck meat on a small plate in the distance here.

Again, I preferred the “pancake” option, but everybody will have their own tastes and preferences, I suppose.

The next dish was quite special. Another one of the chef’s signatures, this is a goose liver soup made with precision sliced tofu.

Shaped like a flower, it’s quite obvious that a lot of work went into this detailed presentation. I didn’t even know it was possible to slice tofu this finely!

Our meal was topped off with some traditionally baked Cantonese apple pies. They were lightly sprinkled with cinnamon, and uniquely shaped liked small sandwiches. I don’t particularly like apple pie, but I must say – they were exquisite.

I took a look around the restaurant and snapped a photo of the dining hall before preparing to leave.

Overall, I was so impressed by this unique dining experience. It is clear that so much goes into the painstaking preparation of these dishes…and that passion and dedication shines through with each savory bite.

Big thanks to CHIOU HWA and chef Fong, as well as my host for this lunch, Mr. Calvin Lai. It is an honor to share this experience with all of you.

More info about CHIOU HWA Restaurant can be found HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share.

More Taiwan Blog Posts

My Own Sleek Apartment in the heart of Taipei: GLORIA RESIDENCE

A Surreal Experience Staying @ HOTEL QUOTE Taipei

My Hip, Swanky Stay @ HOTEL PROVERBS Taipei

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By Nathan Allen

This was different – a whole new ballgame. It was massive…and oh so swanky!

For the first time in my life, I felt a bit…presidential.

For the sake of promoting tourism in my beloved Philippines, I returned from the jungle and endured 3 days of pampering, just  so that I can share the experience with you! Yes, I make these sacrifices for you.

Now that I’ve got my daily dose of sarcasm out of the way, let’s get on with the show!

Of course, I have featured luxury hotels previously, but somehow, looking out the window at your own private plunge pool adds another dimension to things. So does watching HBO on your flat screen TV…while taking a hot bath.

Honestly, I thought to myself: “What did I do to deserve this?”

Sleek, Warm, & Refined

To say I was impressed with the design and decor of my villa would be a drastic understatement. Of course, it had everything you would expect from a high-end property…private entry, kitchen, dining, and living room areas, along with a separate bed and bathroom.

However, what really struck me was the level of quality and attention to detail – at every turn. The space planning, the fabrics, the furniture design – it all felt quite deliberate. It was so elegant, but thankfully, not at the expense of being warm and inviting. I felt comfortable – not like I was tiptoeing around a museum or something.

From my calculations, the bathroom could accommodate a moderately-sized elephant or two, and comes equipped with a luxurious tub, oversized glass shower, and 2 soft, cotton bathrobes. As mentioned before, there is a TV in the bathroom, but there is also a much larger one in both the living room and bedroom.

The Kind of Sleep You Dream of…

Speaking of the bedroom, this surely was the highlight of the villa for me. Just look at that heavenly 4 post bed! Getting up in the morning has never been more difficult.

Somehow, this room reminded me of the scenes from “Out Of Africa”, which I watched as a kid. I always dreamed of visiting an exotic location and sleeping in a room like this…though I never imagined it would be this fancy:)

The “plunge pool” is just outside this window, though the door to the patio is located in the living room, not the bedroom.

Personalized Service

The staff was very kind to drop by the villa from time to time and ask if there was anything I needed. That was a nice touch. They would also deliver a note with a bowl of fresh flowers to my doorstep each morning…that’s what you see at the top of the page.

The Resort IS the Destination

Crimson is just 20 minutes from Mactan International airport, but once you arrive, you quickly realize how isolated you are there. However, I realized that being isolated in a place like this is a good thing! You see, the resort has everything needed for a perfect couples or family getaway. Actually, if you want, they do have a daily shuttle going to the shopping mall in Cebu City:)

Activities & Amenities

While it may not have the largest beach, the resort more than makes up for it with amenities galore. Of course, there’s the usual spa, gym, restaurants and bars, but add to that a game room + badminton court, music rooms, and countless activities such as diving, banana boats, and jet skis. That’s just a start – each morning guests receive a schedule chock-full of activities for the day. Have a look at the “foam party” above – what a blast!

The best part is the resort also has a well-qualified child care facility, so mom and dad can get that coveted alone time if they need. Oh! Another nice touch is the mini bar – everything in it is free on the first day of your stay! Free child care AND a free mini bar? These are the kinds of perks that will resonate well with overworked and underappreciated parents. Haha.

Check Crimson Resort rates.

Interiors

Breakfast Buffet

Due to the fact that it was a holiday, it was a bit crowded when I stayed at Crimson. When I finally saw a break in the breakfast buffet crowd, I snapped the picture below. The offerings were varied and plenty…special mention goes out to the pancakes, though they were so good that I wish they were a bit larger! Haha.

Various Night Shots

The 3-tier infinity pool is quite impressive, as is the lighting around the property at night.  

Azure Beach Club (Dinner & Drinks)

I was quite fortunate, because the restaurant’s renown chef, Godfrey Laforteza, prepared a mouthwatering assortment of menu items for me. Not only that, but he took the time to personally present each beautiful dish.  It was certainly a feast fit for a king! Azure even serves craft beer from Cebu City – and it’s brewed especially for them!

A note to international guests: Tastes in the Philippines are generally on the flavorful side ( I hear this from a lot of visitors, and I agree). I find that everything is more sweet, salty, or creamy than we are used to back home. Of course, restaurants are just catering to local tastes, but If you would like to tone down the flavor, just let the server know when you place your order.

Contact Info

Overall, as you can see, I had an incredible experience at Crimson. I want to thank the property for hosting me, and providing the opportunity to share the experience with all of you. The Philippines is my adopted home, and this resort is truly representing Philippine tourism in a world-class fashion. For that, I am grateful, and happy to support it.

Enjoy your stay, and please say hello for me!

Check Crimson Resort rates.

Website

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– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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The post Crimson Resort – When Life Hands You a Private Island Villa… appeared first on I Dreamed Of This.

By Nathan Allen

About half way through my motorbike trip around Palawan Island in the Philippines, I stopped in El Nido, a stunning limestone cliff-studded island paradise. This was my first trip back since 4 years earlier, and I barely recognized the place. It’s amazing how much can change in 4 years. Entire neighborhoods have been built, along with countless new hotels and resorts.

Honestly, I felt a bit overwhelmed by all the changes. It seemed my little piece of paradise was gone forever. I navigated through swarms of people and tricycles crowding the narrow streets, slowly making my way to my new home for the next few nights–“The Nest El Nido”.

 
Here, with an absolutely stunning view looking out to iconic Cadlao Island, I was able to relax after a longggg ride in the sun. It was only then that my head cleared a bit, and the hotel manager informed me of something. He said that while the town has definitely grown, the crowds I experienced were probably just all the school kids getting out at the same time, temporarily choking up the streets. Whew!

Yes, there’s still paradise to be found…

Welcome To “The Nest El Nido Resort” in Palawan, Philippines

The Nest is a family-owned and operated resort situated in Caalan, on my favorite and more remote side of El Nido. This is the area I walked past each afternoon 4 years ago, when I would journey up the beach to photograph beautiful island sunsets.

The Nest Resort has a special place in my heart, and for several reasons. First of all, the design aesthetics are just my style. I love the tasteful blending of “modern” and “beachy”.  It’s truly a classy place, but with a nice, laid back feel to it. 

The garden landscape in the center of the resort is quite expansive, and beautifully designed. Gardening is a passion of the owner, and amazingly, she did all this landscaping herself!

Yes, this resort is a real family affair – a homecoming and a labor of love, all wrapped up in one. Keep reading and you’ll see why…

The outside villa windows are basically perfect mirrors, which not only insures complete privacy for guests inside, but also reflects the stunning beauty of the garden and views of Cadlao Island across the sea! It gives the cozy property quite a colorful and spacious feel. Nice touch!

I mentioned that the resort is family owned and operated, but I did not mention that it is Filipino owned and operated–something that is unfortunately rare for high-end properties in the Philippines, and even more rare because the land this property is on has belonged to this family for over 6 decades! Seriously, I loved hearing this story…

In the 1950s, a Man Stumbled Upon Paradise in the Philippines

He was a WWII soldier stationed in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. After the war, stories of a wild and scenic paradise pulled him north. He kept going further and further, eventually reaching this fabled Shangri-La at the top of the island.

Aside from a few Chinese fishermen, the village of El Nido was unknown to the world, just a spec on the edge of a remote Philippine island. Here, in this enchanting paradise, the man saw potential. He put down roots…eventually fell in love and married a local girl. They started a family.

He became the town postmaster, and owner of its largest store, which he ran out of his own home. The store, called “IBR”, is still there today!

He was one of the only residents earning any kind of decent salary. As you can imagine, there wasn’t a lot to spend the money on in a sleepy seaside village, so he just started buying land. It was so cheap…the family thinks he purchased the land the resort is on for just $20! Think about how much it must be worth all these years later, being situated in the most sought-after part of the #1 island in the world!

Smart man, and it’s incredible that the family held on to it all these years.

(Continued below)

When his daughter grew up, she got married and started a family in Alaska, of all places. After the kids were grown, they left the bitter cold to return home to the Philippines, and live her dream of having a resort in the paradise of her childhood. Pretty amazing to find original land owners in El Nido going all the way back 60+ years!

Returning to Their EL Nido Roots, & Living The Dream

As mentioned, she handles all the gardening. The design and construction was carried out by her husband and her son Michael, who also does an excellent job managing the place (along with his lovely wife Christine). You can see the 3 of us posing for a picture below (along with much of the resort staff:) The family is incredibly humble and down-to-earth. They made me feel right at home.

(Photos of food & staff)

I visited before The Nest was even finished being built, and before they were offering lunch and dinner meals. However, I did get to do a taste-test, and was also able to experience a mouth-watering breakfast, including fruit that was locally grown across the water on beautiful Cadlao island! Did I mention I also ate some of the best bacon I have ever tasted in my life? Imagine the best bacon you’ve ever had, and that you’re eating it here:

I experienced a massage on the upper level here as well. You can’t beat the relaxing sound of island waves crashing during a blissful massage. REAL waves, mind you. This is not an iPod playing:) I think they also plan on having yoga classes up there…all with an absolutely stunning view!

Villa Room @ The Nest El Nido

My villa felt warm and inviting. The little details made all the difference in the world…things like the fresh, aromatic smell of the soap, and even the soft, oversized bath towels! I never realized a towel could smell so good. Bedding feels luxurious and inviting as well.

(Photos of villa room & bathroom)

Another thing I loved is the craftsmanship of all the furniture in the rooms and around the property–it’s all locally sourced, or made directly on site!

Day & Night Views of Iconic Cadlao Island

 *If you’re wondering, I took these shots with my Sony Rx100III. <–Amazon, but in the PHL you can find it HERE.

These views are my favorite part about being in El Nido. The daytime shot was taken directly from the resort restaurant, I believe. The sunset shot was taken at a nice secluded spot about 10 minutes north up the beach. You just need to keep trekking along the beach until the sunset comes into view.

The Nest El Nido – Contact Info, Reviews & Rates

Sorry if I can’t stop gushing about The Nest El Nido. I guess I left a little piece of myself there. I love everything about it–the story, the people who run it, and the neighborhood it’s situated in. I’m not the only one, apparently they are already booked solid for months out, and at the time of this writing, it’s not even completely finished yet!

Yes, it goes without saying that you should book as far in advance as you can. Enjoy this little piece of paradise, and please send the family my best!

Check rates and read reviews HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share!

Like my page to follow along with me:)  – Nathan

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

When I finally explored the region, I realized it was kind of true! There are no dragons like in Game Of Thrones, but you can swim with friendly whale sharks – some as big as school buses! You can also glide down a river in the moonlight, mesmerized by the glowing lights of millions of fireflies…then wake up and stroll along the banks of a cool, misty lake – at the foot of a restless volcano!

All these reasons are why I went with this “enchanting” blog theme. However, as you can see below, Sorsogon’s beaches may also put a spell on you…

An expert in this region told me that locals are not so open to outsiders, and considering the Philippines’ history with colonizers, I don’t blame them. Anyway, I may have gotten a taste of this when I pointed out areas for tourism improvement – and a sensitive official threw himself (and Sorsogon) into the national news by declaring me “persona non grata”.

Still, I came to promote the region….and I intend on doing just that. It is a beautiful place, and for what  it’s worth, I found plenty of friendly people there as well.

Island-Hopping To Juag Lagoon, Matnog

I absolutely loved this place…you have to see it to believe it! Juag Lagoon is a marine sanctuary where you can snorkel and swim with hundreds of colorful fish – some quite large! The area is fenced off, and the fish are fed…but they are still very much in a natural environment.

I like this because it gives tourists one of the best snorkeling experiences of their lives – with minimal damage to the environment. You jump in the water from the floating cottage, so you always have something to hold on to if you need a rest. Also, since the water is deep, you never risk stepping on and damaging the coral. Note: Wearing sunblock can harm the fish, so they do not allow it.

The “Pink Sand” of Subic Beach, Matnog

This beach quickly moved up my list of favorites anywhere in the Philippines! It’s easy to see why, right? The sand is known for being pink…if you look closely, there are tiny bits of red coral mixed in with the white sand. However, it takes certain light to really notice it.

My guides Glenn, Jesz, and Mel were smart to buy fresh fish from the market in Matnog, and they also brought tents so we could try camping on the beach. I set my hammock up in the shade of the coconut trees…what a life! Subic Beach doesn’t have any hotels or facilities that I know of…only nipa huts and the homes of the villagers.

Such a stunning place…I’ll never forget taking a midnight swim here. The water was so clear that I could see the bottom – even just in the moonlight! One thing: Watch out for sand fleas. I got some bites near the water’s edge early in the morning. Aside from that minor drawback, this beach is absolutely perfect.

Floating Cottages of Panumbagan Sandbar – Pilar

From the town of Pilar, my host BM and I took a 30 minute boat ride to these picturesque floating cottages. On the way, we stopped to snorkel and harvest some “lato“, or sea grapes. It taste more like seaweed, and this was the best variety I’ve had in the Philippines so far. You can relax in the cottages and eat as much as lato as you would like!

Panumbagan Sandbar is a nice place to take photos nearby. Bicolanos may have seen the interview I did with ABS-CBN on this beach.

Parola Beach & Bulusan Bell Tower

From Magallanes, I was invited on a boat trip to Sta. Lourdes Grotto, then to see the Parola (Lighthouse) on Bagatao Beach. Both have beautiful views if you make the effort to climb up. Afterward, there was a “mud surfing” event nearby in Juban. Like me, you are probably wondering what mud surfing is…

Well, it turns out that this coastal community doesn’t have normal sandy beaches…instead, they have shallow, muddy beaches that make trips to and from the fisherman’s boats difficult. They started using planks of wood to “skim” over the mud and get back to shore. Now, the local kids have started using these “surfboards” to race. What a way to make lemonade with those lemons!

Later, Glenn toured me around Bulusan, and I had the chance to climb up the centuries-old bell tower. I believe this was built to watch out for moro pirates. This is a great place to take photos!

“Like” my page to follow along with me! – Nathan

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park

Finally, Sorsogon lives up to its enchanting name! Haha. Mt. Bulusan is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, and at its foot are the emerald green waters of Bulusan Lake. Hiking around this lake really is like strolling through a fairytale…

One of the best things about being here is how nice and cool it is! It’s a great refuge from the heat of the lowlands. Actually, I noticed Sorsogon City seemed cooler than surrounding areas as well.

I was surrounded by a lush, green canopy with butterflies, frogs, birds, and flowers everywhere I looked! I have never seen so much life in one place before. The stick insect (or walking stick) you see above was something I’ve only seen on TV! We arrived during late afternoon, and I loved seeing the locals fishing peacefully by the lake.

Swimming With The Whale Sharks in Donsol

Something I noticed about Donsol was that its wonders are not easily captured in pictures. Swimming (snorkeling) with the “gentle giants”, the whale sharks, is an incredible feeling unlike anything I have ever experienced, and yet it was almost impossible to capture on camera. Perhaps the water was unusually cloudy that day. You really have to move to keep up with them, too!

There are other places to experience whale sharks, but Donsol provides the most environmentally-responsible option. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Firefly Tours in Donsol

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this tour! We have fireflies back home, but I have never seen anything like I did along the banks of the river that night. It was as if the stars came down from the sky and blanketed the trees in a pulsating frenzy! Pure magic, and again, almost impossible to photograph. Ate Cel was our tour guide, and she was quite good.

Stay Honest, Stay in Business

It’s definitely worth it, but I hope the local tour operators are honest about helping to fill the boats and keep the cost for tourists down. I mention this because my group was just 2, and we waited and waited for people to join. We were told there was nobody, and that we’d have to pay for the whole boat. Then during the tour, we noticed another boat with only 2 people in it.

They had arranged their tour long before ours, and we could have easily joined them and shared the costs. It could be that they wanted to be alone, but I did notice at least one review mentioning that the same thing might be happening with the whale shark interactions.

A tourist wrote that he had to pay a lot for his own boat, then noticed others in their own boats. On top of feeling like he was taken advantage of, he also worried that there might be too many boats on the water, potentially frightening the whale sharks. Happy tourists will bring more happy tourists, so I hope the officials will keep this in mind and do the right thing.

Discovering Barcelona’s Snorkeling Treasure

I heard rumors of some good “undiscovered” snorkeling in a town called Barcelona…you will have to ask the locals were the Mayor’s house is, because I believe the snorkeling is near there. We asked a local fisherman to take us out about 100 meters into the water, where the reef was creating waves.

You must bring your own snorkeling gear, because there is hardly any tourism infrastructure in Barcelona yet. The snorkeling here is quite unique, because it’s a reef in about 1-2 meters of water…but suddenly the reef wall drops down 20 or 30 meters! It feels like you are “flying” right off the edge of a cliff! Surreal.

I took the picture above with my Olympus TG-4 underwater camera. Please remember to not step on or touch any coral / sea life, because the ecosystem is fragile. You should exit the boat in deep water, and wear a life vest, because the current from the waves can be strong.

Snorkeling is not all Barcelona has to offer though, I was pleasantly surprised to find a beautiful old church, and this colorful town marker as well! Whoever had the idea to create this is a genius, because everybody will want to come take a selfie here!

There is something about this church that I love as well…there are beautiful paintings and stained glass on the walls, but there is also a sense of history here that overwhelmed and humbled me. I would like to thank Mayor “Wowo” for his hospitality during my visit.

Surfing in Gubat

Gubat has started becoming famous for surfing in recent years. I really hoped to finally learn to surf when I came here, but the timing wasn’t quite right. I guess I will have to save it for Siargao! Pictured below is Lola Sayong Eco-Surf Camp, where you can stay and take surfing lessons.

Hotels in Sorsogon

Siama Hotel, Sorsogon City

After college, famous designer Milo Naval married a girl from Sorsogon…and eventually created what is probably my favorite hotel in the world (so far:)

Tucked away in the lush jungle, Siama Hotel is a MUST SEE – whether you stay as a guest or not. This place should make Filipinos very, very proud.  You can book a room HERE.

AGM Beachfront Resort, Donsol – Probably the best you’re going to find in Donsol. Excellent service and hospitality. Try the pancakes! Book your stay HERE

Aguluz Homestay, Donsol – This is the highest-reviewed budget stay in Donsol. About $18USD for 2 people if you book online HERE

Lola Erna’s Homestay is near the bridge and firefly-watching dock. Ask the locals about it. It’s the cheapest I found! Lola Erna is very nice, and the price is just right if you’re not too picky.

Lola Sayong Eco-Surf CAMP (Gubat) is recommended, but if you’re on a tight budget, you might try the place next door on the beach. It was much cheaper. They seemed nice, but I didn’t stay there, so you’ll have to let me know how it is!

More options HERE

Getting To Sorsogon / General Info

You can reach Sorsogon by flying to Legazpi from Manila (1 hour trip, with stunning views of Mt. Mayon on the way), then taking a bus and/or jeepney for 1-3 hours, depending on where you need to go. Note, I believe you can also take an overnight bus direct to Donsol or Sorsogon City from Manila.

Whale shark season in Donsol is generally December to May…I went in April, and I saw quite a few. Please contact sir Milo Naval at Siama Hotel for information about Sorsogon tours. You can hire a boat to take you to Panumbagan Sandbar from the Pilar port, and one to take you to Subic Beach in the Matnog Tourism Office. Jeepneys to Gubat, Bulusan, and Barcelona can be taken from Sorsogon City.

Thanks so much to Glenn, Jesz, Jobeth, BM, Milo, and “Gov” for all the help exploring this fascinating region. I would love to come back someday, but since I am “officially unwelcome”, “someday” could be a long, long time:)

– Nathan Allen

Like my page to follow along with me:)  – Nathan

Related:  Masbate: The Best Tourist-Free Beaches in the Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

Antique Province – “Where The Mountains Meet The Sea”

(Scroll down if you want to go directly to Antique hotels and attractions)

About a year ago I was researching new places to explore in the Philippines.  I came across a photo of Filipino blogger Melo Villareal “cooking” in giant pot. It was in a little-known province called Antique, and from then on, I knew I had to see this place for myself!

Found south of Boracay on the western side of Panay Island, the sleepy province of Antique provides many opportunities for adventure and relaxation – and all off the beaten path. 

While the province has some pretty good beaches, that’s not where Antique really shines – it’s more about the lush mountains, rice fields, cascading waterfalls, and warm smiles from the people that call it home. 

Oh yeah, that, and the unique experience of being “cooked” in a hot KAWA bath!  In truth, it’s very relaxing after a good hike and chilly swim in Bugtong Bato Falls:)

 (Some of my favorite photos from Antique)

One of my favorite things about Antique is that it spans the the whole west coast of Panay island, so there are so many opportunities to photograph beautiful sunsets.  Walking barefoot in the mud with a stunning sunset over the rice paddies – that was was something I’ll never forget!  I also loved how affordable food and accommodations were, and the fact that for some reason, mosquitoes in Antique don’t find me very delicious!  Ohh how I loved that…anyhow, here is the story of Antique and I…

“Kkkruhayyyy!!!” my local guide Flord enthusiastically yells out upon my arrival.  The language here is called “Kinaray-a”, and kruhay means welcome. 

Then he handed me a packed schedule of activities for the next three days of filming.  Wait…filming? 

It turns out ABS CBN’s “Rated K” crew was covering Antique   on the same weekend, and they wanted to use footage of me exploring as well.  I was hesitant at first, but life is like a river, I say…so you just go with the flow. 

The next morning we began touring the province to meet and dine with many of the provincial mayors.  I want to thank all of them for their warmth and hospitality!  We were even treated to a musical performance in one of their homes.

Later we attended a lively singing performance called “Istorya-Kanta Kinaray-a”.  I was so happy that these two talented singers are working hard to promote and preserve the local Karay-a culture.  The colorful young dancers added a nice dimension to the experience as well. 

Kinaray-a is a fascinating language – and it’s quite descriptive!  One very interesting example is how they have 3 different names for male and female genitalia – depending on the age and development stage of the person in question!  Kinaray-a is also one of the only Filipino languages I know of that has uses a “schwa” vowel sound.  An example is the Cebuano word ‘hubog’, which in Kinaray-a would be pronounced “hubug” – except the “u” is pronounced like the English words “hug” or “bug”. 

Kayaking and Hiking To Bugtong Bato Falls

Tibiao is known for its exciting eco-adventure park.  The Tibiao River offers kayaking at all skill levels.  After a brief kayaking session, I took a swim in the river to cool off.  Then I explored the surrounding area a bit and met some very friendly locals.

After all the kayaking footage was finished, we began the beautiful, brief trek to Bugtong Bato Falls. 

The trail starts in the village of Tuno, where our presence cause many curious smiles.  The scenery on the way to the falls was just stunning. Shown here are some rice terraces we passed along the way. Note: There are some other beautiful rice terraces that I didn’t have a chance to explore. Ask the locals!

We arrived at the falls, but had lunch  waiting for us at Bugtong Bato Falls Inn (formerly Peter’s Lodge).  I was so happy to finally have good Filipino food after being away in the States for so long! 

Afterward, they filmed members of our group repelling down the falls, and I took a swim in the chilly water.  Then I was finally ready for a soak in the hot kawa!  What a day – and what a beautiful place!

Boat Trip To Malalison Island

Malalison (also known as Mararison) island is part of Culasi, and is just a short boat ride away. 

We boarded the boat before sunrise, and first made our way toward far away Seco Island (in the process of being rehabilitated). 

We hit some rain and rough water on the way.  I fell asleep, but when I woke up, the skies had cleared up and the perfectly calm water looked like glass! 

To add to the magic of the moment, flying fish began to shoot out of the water and soar through the sky – I’ve never seen them before!

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There are a few pretty good snorkeling sections with corals and fish.  I saw a very large puffer fish, some clownfish, and a few lionfish, which was a first for me.   Ask the locals where the best places to snorkel are.  You will need to bring your own snorkel, mask, and fins.

The children of Malalison island (Culasi) are just adorable.  They love to sing – and in fact prepared a special Karay-a (local language)  version of the Frozen song “Let It Go” for us!  A few of them took me on a hike over the of of the island. If you are familiar with Batanes island, Malalison has dry, grassy hills that are a bit similar.  It seems quite uncharacteristic for this region of the Philippines. 

On the hike, I also noticed “pitcher plants“, which are fascinating insect-eating plants!  Since I was a kid, I always wanted to see one in real life.  I really loved the experience of being on this humble little island.

Again, Malalison Island can be reached via a brief boat trip from Culasi.  Ask the boat men on the beach, or use the contact info mentioned later.

Lambaklad Fishing in Tibiao

I almost skipped Lambaklad fishing, but I’m so glad I didn’t…just look at what an incredible experience this was! 

The name Lambaklad come from the word for “net” (lambat) and “fish corral” (baklad). 

You can join the fisherman very early in the morning, or at 3pm in the afternoon. 

The tradition is to leave your tsinelas (flip flops) on the beach, wash your feet in the water, then board the giant bamboo raft.  e words lambat (net) and baklad (fish corral).

As the name suggests, there is a large corral and net under the water.  As far as I know, the fisherman slowly pull the net in, which brings the raft toward the fish, and pushes them into net. 

Afterward, the fisherman take their share, and the rest is bought after a negotiation.  I loved witnessing this!

Tibiao Fish Spa – Don’t forget to “feed” the fish at Tibiao Fish Spa afterward!  It is directly across the street from the beach entrance for Lambaklad fishing.  I have tried a few different fish spas now, but the experience here is much better.  The fish are not so timid, and they will really nibble away at your feet!  It tickles at first, but I got used to it very quickly.  If you are brave enough to dip your feet into the pool with the bigger fish, my advice is to not keep them in too long:) 

Trekking to Igpasungaw Falls in Sebaste

I am very independent, and when I was told that I would have guides accompanying me to Igpasungaw Falls in Sebaste, I was a bit frustrated.  

However, this hike was MUCH more challenging and confusing than I thought, so the guides were actually very much appreciated!  Go to the municipal hall in Sebaste to inquire about guides to this incredible place. 

I learned that Antique got its name from “hantik“, which is the word for the black ants which can be found on Panay. Island  Here at the falls, I put my hand down and was bitten by one! I always knew red ants bite, but I’ve never heard of black ants that do as well!  You learn something every day, they say:)

Brick & Pottery Making in Barangay Bandoja

Later I was fortunate to visit a brick making facility, and not only did I see where the clay was excavated from, but also the giant kiln which bakes the handmade bricks.   Nearby I attended a pottery demonstration as well.  You could see the fascination in her grandson’s eyes as she showed us the age-old tradition of this barangay. 

The Colorful Binirayan Festival – Dec 28th through the 30th

On a last-minute trip to Nogas island in southern Antique, I was sidetracked by bad weather and instead ended up at the colorful Binirayan Festival.  What an experience!  This was a perfect reminder that “when one door closes, another opens”.

All the cities in the province came together to compete in the capital, San Jose.  While I was quite impressed with all of the performances (I only witnessed 6, to be fair), two really caught my attention.  Caluya and Sibalom. 

Wow, they really went all out!  I was thankful to have a great view to take photos from the stage.  I was seated next to the governor, and they announced that “I Dreamed Of This” was visiting.  What an honor to be there.  This festival is technically 29 days long, because you know, it really is more fun in the Philippines!

Exploring and Snorkeling Nogas Island – Anini-y, Antique

After the festival, I finally had a chance to visit Nogas island in southern Antique.  Thanks to the local tourism officer, Mrs. Karen, I explored the famous “Kalachuchi”  flower walkway and lighthouse at the end.  The island has kubos (beach huts) you can rent, but no place to eat, sleep, or buy snacks. 

We hiked to the opposite end of the island, and on the way, experienced a fascinating rubber tree, along with unique mangrove forests along the shore. 

The snorkeling and diving here is quite underrated if you ask me!  I recommend taking a trip with The Divehouse – you can depart from the mainland in Anini-y.  There is more info about this below in the “Where To Stay” section. 

San Jose’s “Purple House” & Hanging With The Locals

What a unique “I Dreamed Of This” experience!  To say that Mrs. Violetta loves the color purple is an understatement.   She has decorated her entire house (and family) in the color purple! 

She is a very sweet lady, and once filming was finished, we were again treated to a nice meal (with purple snacks!)  Even the bedrooms, furniture, and kitchen utensils were purple! I felt like I was Alice In Wonderland. 

While here, I also had a chance to explore the surrounding barangay (neighborhood)  People were so curious to see me taking photos on the side of the road!  It was truly an unforgettable experience  to be immersed in the day-to-day life of Antiqueños! 

Where To Stay – Antique Hotels and Inns

Phaidon Beach Resort

If you are looking for a beach resort in Antique, Phaidon in Pandan is the #1 recommendation online.  Great for couples, divers, or just those looking for a peaceful alternative to the crowds of Boracay.  Staff is gracious, wifi is good, and breakfast is included.  Your money goes further in Antique. 

Book Phaidon Beach Resort HERE (Agoda) or for Booking.com, click HERE

Kayak Inn

This cheaper and more “native” alternative is located directly on the Tibiao River, and has a view of the rice fields as well.  It is the original location of the “kawa” bath, and is great for a photo op. 

Book Kayak Inn HERE

Kasa Raya Traveller’s Inn & Resto

Kasa Raya is a great budget option in Tibiao, and they recently even added aircon rooms.  Conveniently located on the main road where the junction to Tuno and Bugtong Bato Falls is.  There is a Petron station attached to the inn.  The falls are just 5km away from here.

I have to be honest, I am friends with the nice little family that runs it, but you can feel better knowing that I became friends with them by staying here:)

I like the feel that the bamboo construction gives the place.  The restaurant has a modest but solid menu with some great value options, and the budget rooms even come with breakfast! 

I was particularly impressed by the lechon manok and fried chicken.  They also serve a good brewed coffee.  The best part is that you can enjoy your meal overlooking the rice fields out back.

You can contact the owner Alex by phone here: 09175247875  I believe Kasa Raya is also listed on airbnb.com. Please say hi for me, and tell him I sent you…Alex also gives incredible personalized tours around Antique & Panay!

Zipline Inn and Bugtong Bato Falls Inn

The first photo is from Zipline Inn, which offers native-style rooms in a beautiful setting.  Zipline Inn is located on the road before you get to Tuno.  Yes, there is an actual zipline, but I’m not sure if it’s currently operating.  The rest of the photos are from Bugtong Bato Falls Inn – which is a bit more adventurous, as you have to hike in a bit to get there.  Don’t worry, it’s a mild 20 minute trek:)  Nearby the falls, they have a beautiful setting for a meal or hot kawa bath – and they have budget options as well!

The rest of the photos are from Bugtong Bato Falls Inn – which is a bit more adventurous, as you have to hike in a bit to get there.  Don’t worry, it’s a mild 20 minute trek:)  Nearby the falls, they have a beautiful setting for a meal or hot kawa bath – and they have budget options as well!

Dalaag Resort and Campsite, Dao

Dalaag Resort and Campsite is a complex under development, but the 800 square meter pool (yes, you read that correctly) and 3-story water slide is open now.  You can also rent the kubos (huts) for the day or evening.  There are many more exciting plans for this property, including the possibility of an obstacle course, zip line, and even fishing facilities!

The Divehouse – Anini-y

The Divehouse is rustic resort on the beach has been constructed in large part from reclaimed wood from old ships and sailing vessels.  I really got a sense of history from all the bits and pieces that comprise the beams and railings of the property.  I quite enjoyed taking photos of everything. 

The owner “Boy” and his cast of characters here are entertaining as well.  They are very welcoming, and a lot of fun.  The place is definitely more on the rustic side, and if you ask me, that’s what’s so charming about it – don’t come expecting an updated resort with a modern design.  You can stay overnight with all meals and 3-4 dives included.  In my opinion, Anini-y is an underrated snorkeling and diving destination!  Ask the staff where the most beautiful corals are.

There is a nice veranda with a hammock and reliable wifi if you want to stay in and relax.  Great company and freshly prepared meals cooked over an open flame – this is what it’s all about.  Also make sure to witness the locals pulling the giant nets in right from the shore – it’s called “sahid” fishing!

How To Get To Antique – Contact Info & Tours

Antique province can be reached by bus or van from Kalibo or Caticlan airports, and also by bus or van from Iloilo city.  Depending on where you are going, it can be anywhere from a 2 hour to 5 hour trip.

If you have time and are very adventurous, the region can be explored independently, and you can contact Karmila Dimamay if you need any assistance.  I recommend connecting with Alex @ Kasa Raya Traveller’s Inn for tours. He is focused on providing excellent environmentally conscious tours, and he is a great guy. Alex can be reached at phone # 09175247875

Where To Eat in Antique

• Kasa Raya Traveller’s Inn and Resto (Tibiao) – Please see the listing above.  They have some delicious and affordable options here.

• The Green Mug Coffee shop (Tibiao) – I love this place, because they have great coffee – and it’s very reasonably priced!   I never understood why “real” coffee is so expensive in the Philippines – a coffee growing country!  Haha.  Anyhow, they have Americanos for 30 pesos, and lattes for just 50.  Some very affordable food options as well!  Hidden away location, so you may have to ask the local trike drivers. 

• Tibiao Bakery – I’ve seen these around the island of Panay, but of course, the first one can be found here in Tibiao.  Worth stopping by for pastries and snacks!

• Mamma Mia Pizzeria (Tibiao) – One of the owners is Italian I hear, so the ingredients are legit.  The pizza is pretty good, but it’s a bit pricey for the region.  The pasta was very good!

• Island Choice (Culasi) – I had a very affordable pizza here, and for the money, I was quite impressed!  Also tried a buko shake, and that was good as well.  Great prices and friendly service.  Located in the city center. 

(Tip:  I think there is an international ATM in San Jose (BPI, I believe), but as far as I know, there are no others around Antique. You might want to get cash in Iloilo, Caticlan, or Boracay if you are a foreigner)

Goodbye, Antique – My Home Away From Home

I felt so comfortable there, and I have a feeling I’ll be returning over the years.  I’d like to thank Flord + Katahum, Karmila Dimamay, and Alex de Moscoso+family for all the hospitality and help during my stay.  Like I mentioned at the start, while there are a few decent resorts here, this province is really great for the off-the-beaten-path adventures – the ones who want to roll up their sleeves and get dirty trekking to a stunning waterfall, or be invited to an impromptu dinner with a rice farmer and his family.  

Antique may have been over-hyped a bit in the past, but as long you’re realistic about what to expect, I think you’ll love it.  If you go and experience some of my recommendations, please give me your feedback! I will update info in my listing if needed. 

Thank you for an incredible, unforgettable experience, Antique.

Hope to see you again soon!

 Like the “I Dreamed Of This” page below to follow along.

– Nathan Allen

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By Nathan Allen

There is much to love about this property. Tucked away on the edge of Sabang Beach, it has a very rustic and “beachy” vibe. I love the dark hardwood flooring and accents, and the native-style nipa roofs. It was so nice to relax on my own private veranda overlooking the beach. I even had my own rocking chair!

My room was quite spacious, and the bed–well that was something to dream about! Super soft down pillows complimenting a luxurious memory foam mattress. Not sure if it was tempurpedic, but it certainly felt like it. This was just what I needed after a long day of travel.

An Award Winning Filipino-Owned “Eco Resort”

Daluyon has been consistently listed as one of the top “green” eco resorts in the Philippines. Their commitment to the environment is admirable, and was on full display throughout my stay. Another huge plus for me is the fact that the resort has always been Filipino owned. Foreigners have bought up much of the beach property in the Philippines, especially when it comes to luxury resorts. I’m so happy to see Daluyon, (along with Amorita in Bohol) leading the way in upscale Filipino-owned hospitality.

Check Daluyon Rates HERE

Food & Hospitality @ Pawikan Restaurant

Speaking of which, the staff and service at Daluyon features the warm hospitality that Filipinos are known for.  The front desk, dinner, and management staff all seem to be doing a great job there. Breakfast was pretty good, and I believe is included with the rooms. As for dinner, I have a confession to make. I’m generally not fond of the Filipino favorite called “Crispy Pata”. It consists of fried pork knuckles (fried meats are quite popular in the Philippines). Another dish that isn’t my favorite is “Kare-Kare”. It’s a sweet meat and vegetable dish in a peanut butter sauce.

Now, when I sat down for dinner, I asked for a recommendation, and they actually strongly recommended  their own creation, Crispy Pata Kare-Kare…which is a mixture of both of the above dishes! Haha. So, even though I generally don’t like either one, I decided to be brave and take a chance on their recommendation. I’m glad I did! Either it was the masterful way in which the chef prepared it, or just the mixture of the two that made it so much better…but I simply loved it. I was shocked. Well done, Daluyon.
 

Also worth a good mention is the “Kinilaw Na Tangigue”, which is kind of a Filipino version of ceviche, or raw fish salad. I really love Kinilaw, and this was definitely up there on the list of my favorite versions. Don’t be afraid to try it, it’s quite good! The dinner staff and chef were also kind enough to prepare a special “Fear Factor” version of Kinilaw made with “tamilok”, or giant worms harvested from the mangrove trees.

These “worms” are actually a member of the oyster family, and eating them is said to be an aphrodisiac. It’s much easier to stomach once it’s mixed in with the flavors and ingredients of Kinilaw…you might even find that you like it! If you’ve always wanted to try it, this is definitely a “safe” way to do so. You just need to inform the staff 24 hours in advance, so they will have time to source and prepare the tamilok.

For dessert, I most definitely recommend (as they did) the chocolate lava cake. Just one bite and you’ll know why. FYI, if you’re a beer lover, the resort offers one of-a-kind brews from Palaweño Brewery. Enjoy an Ambog Ale in the tiki bar at the front of the property, or at the pool bar near the back. Very unique!

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Convenient Location for Underground River

Sabang is the jumping off point for the famous Underground River tour, so Daluyon was the perfect location for this. It was nice to not have to wake up super early in the morning and head to Sabang from Puerto Princessa. I had an excellent tour of the Underground River with 8 Dragons Travel and Tours, but I’m sure Daluyon also offers tours for your convenience. Be sure to check out the fascinating mangrove forest tour nearby…you can slip quietly through the mangroves with a guide in a paddle boat. If you’re lucky, you might see the beautiful (but highly venomous) mangrove snakes high in the trees. Don’t worry, they are nocturnal…they sleep during the day:)

Speaking of which, the wild, rugged terrain of Palawan is a big part of why I love it so much. Sabang is a perfect example of this. On top of a highly underrated beach (in my opinion), you can also find an abundance of wildlife if you want to…everything from exotic birds, to giant monitor lizards and curious monkeys.

The Scenic Beauty of Sabang Beach

Perhaps you don’t hear much about Sabang Beach because it’s not the best for swimming. I think it has a steep drop off with a strong current. However, scenically, it has everything I love –plenty of coconut trees for shade, and mountains lining the edges, similar to El Nido. For these reasons, along with the wildlife, it is picture-perfect, and one of my favorite parts of the Philippines.

Besides all that, you know how some places just give you a special feeling the minute you arrive? Sabang has always been that way for me. To me, it’s an enchanting jungle wonderland, and I just love it.

Contact Info, Reviews & Rates

I would like to thank Daluyon Resort for the opportunity to share this experience with you. It is an excellent location for a family or couples getaway. Come see for yourself, I think you’ll be happy you did!

Check Daluyon Rates HERE

– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

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