Escape to Paradise: Ipil Suites Awaits in El Nido, Palawan!
Escape to Paradise? More Like, Find Paradise: My Messy, Honest Take on Ipil Suites, El Nido
Okay, let's be real. My idea of "paradise" is usually a fully charged phone, a cold beer, and maybe, maybe a quiet corner to read. I'm not exactly a 'beachy-keen' kind of person. But, after a recent trip to El Nido and a stay at Escape to Paradise: Ipil Suites Awaits, I'm rethinking things. Buckle up, because this isn't your polished travel brochure. It's the raw, unfiltered truth, punctuated by a whole lot of "oohs" and "umms."
First Impressions (and a Near-Screaming Incident):
Landing in El Nido is…well, it's an adventure of its own. Let's just say the airport is "quaint," and the airport transfer arranged by Ipil Suites? Thank heavens for that! They knew the insanity of the roads, the heat, and the sheer joy of finally arriving. Seriously, the free airport transfer is a lifesaver. (Looking at you, Accessibility – a definite YES for airport transfer. And Getting Around? They've got you covered, including car parking, which is a godsend in a place like El Nido.)
Check-in was, blessedly, Contactless. The world, and my nerves, are slowly adjusting to that. The lobby? Pleasant. Clean. And importantly, air-conditioned – vital for someone who melts faster than a popsicle in July. The staff wore masks, and everything felt…clean. (More on Cleanliness and safety later. I'm a germaphobe. Judge me.)
Then came the room. (Okay, maybe I had a slight…almost meltdown when I realized I'd booked the wrong type of room. My fault! The room itself: Stunning. It had a balcony, with a view, and a serious bed that made me want to never leave. Seriously, shoutout to the Available in all rooms section: Air conditioning? Check. Blackout curtains (essential for me)? Check. Wi-Fi? DOUBLE CHECK. Additional toilet? YES! (Because travel.)
Navigating the Paradise (and the Small Print):
Accessibility is a mixed bag, honestly. The main areas seemed okay, but I didn't see any explicit wheelchair ramps or super-clear accessibility features. Worth checking with the hotel directly if that’s a major concern. But everything was so new, I wouldn't be surprised if they're constantly improving that aspect.
Internet is a crucial topic for my work-obsessed self. Thankfully, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms is reality at Ipil Suites. Speeds were decent, though occasionally… spotty. (Okay, maybe I streamed a little too much Netflix.) They also offer Internet access – LAN and Internet services might be in the lobby, I wasn't brave enough to try.
Food, Glorious Food (and My Breakfast Mishaps):
Alright, Dining, drinking, and snacking. This is where things get interesting. The restaurants are top-notch. Delicious food, a great ambience, and I was totally hooked on the cocktails. Asian cuisine in restaurant and Western cuisine in restaurant are delicious. A la carte and buffet (especially for breakfast) were available. The Poolside bar is also a perfect spot to relax.
But Breakfast itself? Let's just say my attempts at a "healthy" start were…enthusiastic. The Breakfast [buffet] was a glorious spread, but I probably piled my plate a little too high on the first day. (And the Daily housekeeping staff must have loved me by the time I was done.)
And then there was the Coffee/tea in restaurant. I’m a caffeine fiend. The coffee was a godsend. Perfect way to start my day.
Relaxation and Indulgence (and a Near-Crying Incident):
*Things to do, *ways to relax*? Oh, my. *Massage* at the Spa was an absolute winner. I opted for the Body scrub and Body wrap combo. I almost fell asleep. I did almost cry from sheer bliss. The Pool with view is exactly as gorgeous as it should be, and the Swimming pool [outdoor] is a welcome distraction from the heat. There’s also a Fitness center, though I mostly admired it from a distance. The Sauna and Steamroom are also nice additions. Seriously, I think I spent more time in the spa than exploring the island. No regrets.
Cleanliness, Safety, and Germaphobe Me:
Cleanliness and safety? I’m relieved to say, Ipil Suites took this seriously, which made me feel safe. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays - it just helped me be able to relax. The staff's safety protocols are on point. Hand sanitizer stations everywhere, and Staff trained in safety protocol.
The Nitty Gritty (and the Stuff That Doesn't Matter):
- Services and conveniences: There's Daily housekeeping (thankfully!), Laundry service, Concierge, and all the usual suspects. Currency exchange is clutch, and I definitely appreciated the Cash withdrawal option because… I was terrible at bringing enough cash.
- For the kids: I have no kids, so I can't speak to the Babysitting service or the Kids facilities, but the hotel seemed family-friendly.
- Available in all rooms: Seriously, the Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Coffee/tea maker, and Free bottled water made my life easier and more luxurious.
- Getting around: Car park [free of charge] is a massive bonus. Airport transfer? Essential. Taxi service is available.
The "Paradise" Pitch (My Honest Attempt to Sell You This Place):
Look, El Nido is stunning. It's a photographer's dream, an adventure seeker's playground, and a place where even a grumpy cynic like me could find some peace. But choosing the right hotel makes or breaks your trip.
Here's the deal: Ipil Suites isn't perfect. But what is? It’s clean, comfortable, and luxurious enough that you find yourself comfortable but not fancy. It's the kind of place where you can actually relax. It gives you access to all of the beauty that El Nido has to offer. And if you’re anything like me, and need a little escape from the chaos, this is the place.
So, here's my pitch:
Want to Escape to Paradise? Ipil Suites Awaits! Book now and get:
- Guaranteed Relaxation: Indulge in a spa treatment, lounge by the pool, and finally, finally switch off.
- Adventure at Your Doorstep: El Nido's stunning beaches, lagoons, and islands are waiting to be explored.
- Peace of Mind: With top-notch cleanliness and safety protocols, you can focus on enjoying your vacation, not worrying.
- That Perfect Bed: Remember that feeling of ultimate comfort? Yep, you get that.
Don't wait! El Nido's beauty calls, and Ipil Suites is ready to welcome you. Book your escape today!
Cebu's Underwater Kingdom: Unbelievable Little Mermaid Dive Resort!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! We're going to El Nido, baby! Specifically, Ipil Suites. Disclaimer: My brain doesn’t always work in a beautiful, perfectly organized spreadsheet. Get ready for a glorious mess of a travel journal.
El Nido, Philippines: A Chaotic Love Letter (Ipil Suites Edition)
Day 1: Arrival - Jet Lagged Zombie and the Promise of Paradise
6:00 AM (Manila Airport): Ugh. The airport. So many screaming children. So many questionable coffee options. Already questioning all my life choices.
9:00 AM (Puerto Princesa Airport): Touching down in Puerto Princesa! The air…it actually smells good. Not like exhaust fumes mixed with desperation like Manila. That's a good sign, right?
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Van Transfer to El Nido): The dreaded van ride. Five hours, a million potholes, and a driver who keeps trying to sell us "extra legroom" with his eyes. (Spoiler: There is NO extra legroom). But the scenery… chef's kiss. Lush green mountains, the turquoise sea peeking out. Okay, maybe this El Nido thing is worth it.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (Arrival at Ipil Suites!): Boom. We're here! Ipil Suites looks… charming. It definitely has character. The lobby is open-air, which is great… and slightly terrifying when the geckos start dropping in. Welcoming drink! A fruit shake! I've never felt so revitalized, or so aware of the dust on my luggage.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Check-in, Room Inspection): The room… is tiny. Okay, not tiny, cozy. Let's be optimistic. Bed looks comfy. But the AC sounds like a dying walrus. Hopefully, I can sleep through it. Now to find my bags that've been chuckles at every corner.
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Explore the Town): First impressions - El Nido is bustling! A little too bustling for my liking, honestly. So many tourists, so many tuk-tuks whizzing by. The beach IS pretty, though. The water is the color of a thousand sapphires. Bought a ridiculously overpriced mango shake. Worth it. Regretted it, then bought another one. Definitely worth it.
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach): Ah, the sunset. The reason you come to El Nido. It's pure magic. I saw a guy propose! Cue: a full-blown emotional meltdown. I’m alone. I was happy for them and then sad for me. I’m a mess.
7:00 PM (Dinner at a random restaurant): I think I ate something. I honestly can't remember what it was. Everything is a blur of deliciousness and mosquito bites. The mosquito bites win.
Quirky Observation: The local dogs in El Nido are masters of the art of lounging. They are everywhere, and they look so content just basking in the sun. I aspire to be that level of chill.
Emotional Reaction: The sunset. Holy crap. It was… perfect. Absolutely, undeniably perfect. It made me want to cry and then run into the ocean and never come back.
Day 2: Island Hopping - My Sinking Ship of Disappointment to Pure Joy
8:00 AM (Breakfast at Ipil Suites): Breakfast is included! It's… decent. A small plate of eggs and toast. I realize how much I can’t operate on an empty stomach. Needs more coffee.
9:00 AM (Island Hopping Tour - Tour A): Ok, the island hopping is why we're here. My boat felt sketchy. Like, the kind of sketchy that makes you eye the life jackets with suspicion. I was so incredibly scared. And then the first stop… Secret Lagoon. Stunning. Breathtaking. Actually crying again.
10:00 AM (Small Lagoon): Small Lagoon - paddling thru it was the best.
11:00 AM (Shimizu Island): Shimizu Island. Picturesque. I thought the snorkeling would be more colorful but it was ok.
12:00 PM (Lunch at a beach): Lunch. Delicious BBQ. So much rice. So much sun. So many people. Feeling claustrophobic until I think about how amazing the food is.
1:00 PM (7 Commando Beach): 7 Commando Beach. Ok, maybe I'm becoming a total convert. Okay, the place is good, the water is clear. Great.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Snorkeling, Relaxation, Mild Panic): Snorkeling. The coral is beautiful. The fish are… smaller than I expected. I almost ran into a jellyfish. PANIC! I was trying to think about my love for nature. The ocean is so beautiful. My glasses fogged. Great.
5:00 PM (Back at Ipil Suites): I am sunburnt. I smell of salt water and sunscreen. I am exhausted. But…damn. That was something.
Messy Structure Moment: I totally forgot to reapply sunscreen and now I feel like a lobster. Pay attention, people! Learn from my mistakes!
Strong Emotional Reaction: At one point, while snorkeling at a reef, I started to get overwhelmed. The beauty, the vastness of the ocean…it was almost too much. I felt a surge of pure awe…followed by a sudden, irrational fear of sharks. I’m kind of a drama queen.
Day 3: Las Cabanas Beach Again - The Redemption of a Sunset Addict
- 8:00 AM (Breakfast at Ipil Suites): Same breakfast. More coffee. Need more sleep.
- 9:00 AM (Lazy Morning): Finally! Some actual downtime. I got lost on the way back to the hotel from breakfast. My sense of direction is abysmal.
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Relaxation at the pool): The pool at Ipil suites is small. It’s kind of perfect. Actually, very perfect.
- 12:00 PM (Lunch at a restaurant): Ate at a place that made a phenomenal grilled mango fish. I never want to leave.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Explore the Town): Bought a ridiculously expensive tie-dye shirt. Regret. Love it. Regret. Love it.
- 4:00 PM (Pre-Sunset Ritual): Found a decent place to chill before the sunset.
- 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach): Back to Las Cabanas. I wasn't ready for this. It was even more stunning than the first time. The sky exploded with color. It was like nature was showing off just for me. Maybe it was. And I finally found my serenity.
Doubling Down on an Experience: Today, the sunset made me cry. Not because I was sad, but because I was so utterly, ridiculously happy. I think I'm officially addicted. I could watch that sunset every single day and never get tired of it.
Day 4: Departure - Goodbye El Nido, You Beautiful Bastard
- 8:00 AM (Breakfast at Ipil Suites): One last breakfast. The eggs and toast are starting to taste pretty good, actually. Maybe I’m adapting?
- 9:00 AM (Check out): Saying goodbye to my tiny, walrus-sound-effect room. I kind of miss it already.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Return Van Transfer): The dreaded van ride. But this time, I don't mind it as much. I'm looking out the window, soaking in the beauty. I'll miss those views.
- 1:00 PM (Lunch at a restaurant): Ate a delicious meal. I feel like I've been eating and drinking non-stop the whole time.
- 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Flight from Puerto Princesa): Back to reality. The airport feels even more chaotic than before.
- 6:00 PM (Final Thoughts): El Nido. Wow. It wasn’t perfect. It was hot, it was crowded, and I got a sunburn that will haunt me for weeks. But the sunsets, the beaches, the sea…it was worth every minor imperfection. Would I go back? In a heartbeat.
Ipil Suites: A decent place to rest my head.
Quirky Observation: I learned a valuable lesson on this trip: always bring extra sunscreen. And maybe a friend who knows how to navigate (or at least pretends to).
Emotional Reaction: Sad. So unbelievably sad to leave. But also, so grateful for the experience.
Final Thoughts: El Nido
Karastoyanovi's Apartment: Your Dream Sofia Stay Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Ipil Suites Awaits - FAQ (Because Let's Be Real, You Need Answers)
Okay, Spill. Is Ipil Suites Actually Worth the Hype in El Nido? My Budget is Crying!
Alright, deep breaths. Look, El Nido is... expensive. Let's just say my credit card took a serious beating. Ipil Suites? It's a mixed bag, truth be told. It *is* on the more affordable end for El Nido, which is a huge win. My wallet did a little happy dance. The rooms aren't exactly luxury, mind you. Think functional, clean (thank goodness!), and with air conditioning that actually *works* (bless you, AC!). Don't go expecting a marble-floored palace. I saw a couple of minor cracks in the bathroom tile and a slightly wonky door, but hey, you're in *paradise,* right? You're not there to inspect the grout! For the price, it's definitely a solid yes. Just temper your expectations and focus on the... well, everything *else* El Nido has to offer.
Location, Location, Location! How Close is Everything to Ipil Suites? Can I Walk to the Beach? (My Legs are Questionable)
Okay, listen up, location is KEY in El Nido. And Ipil Suites nails it. You *can* walk to the beach, guys! (And yes, my legs are also questionable after a full day of island hopping. Pizza and beer were my reward!) It's a short walk to the main stretch of El Nido beach – the one with all the restaurants and bars. About 5-10 minutes, depending on how many gelato shops you stop at on the way (guilty!). It’s also near the town center, so you're within walking distance of shops, tour operators, and those amazing little *carinderias* (local eateries) where you can get a feast for next to nothing. Seriously, avoid the tourist traps for dinner and find a *carinderia*. Your stomach (and your wallet) will thank you.
The Rooms. Tell Me *Everything*. What Are They Like? Is There a View? (I'm a Snooty Traveler, Sorry Not Sorry.)
Alright, Snooty McGee, here’s the tea. The rooms are… comfy. That’s the best word. They're not going to win any interior design awards, but again, you're in paradise. The beds are perfectly fine – I slept like a rock after a day of snorkeling. The bathroom was clean, as I mentioned, and the hot water worked consistently (which is a win in the Philippines, trust me). Don't expect sprawling views. Some rooms face the interior, some might have a glimpse of the sky. My advice? Don't spend much time in your room! You're there to explore, not stare at the walls. Honestly, it's a comfortable place to crash after a long day. They *do* have a small balcony or patio area in some rooms - bring some beers and enjoy the sea breeze (if you can find a room with one). Honestly, it's a comfy place to crash after a long day.
Breakfast Included? (Because, You Know, Fueling Up for Paradise!)
Yes! Breakfast *is* included, bless their hearts. It's not a Michelin-star spread, but it's a decent enough start to the day. Think eggs (scrambled, fried, your choice), some toast, maybe some fruit, coffee, and juice. Nothing fancy, but it does the trick and, crucially, it's *free*. They often have pancake! The staff are super friendly and can rustle up something else if you ask nicely. (I may have requested extra bacon. Don’t judge.) It's enough to get you going before you hit the beach or go island hopping. Honestly, the morning fuel is essential to have energy to explore around.
Island Hopping Tours! How Easy is it to Organize From Ipil Suites? Are they Any Good? (I Heard the Beaches are Insane.)
Okay, island hopping is the *reason* you go to El Nido. And it's ridiculously easy to organize from Ipil Suites. They can help you book tours right at the front desk, or, like I said, you’re walking distance from tons of tour operators along the beach. There are different tour packages (A, B, C, D) that take you to various islands, lagoons, hidden beaches. **GO.** Seriously, don't even question it. Just book a tour. I did Tour A, and it was... well, it was transformative. I'm still dreaming of the Secret Lagoon. The beaches are beyond insane. Picture turquoise water, powdery white sand, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Just… breathtaking. They're crowded, yes, but it’s worth it. My favorite part was actually the lunch – fresh grilled seafood on a deserted beach. Absolute heaven. Pro-tip though: bring your own reef-safe sunscreen (they'll yell at you if you don't use it), and a waterproof bag for your phone! Don't be that person who ruins a perfectly good photo op!
Is the Staff Friendly? (Because I Need Good Vibes!)
Yes! Honestly, the staff at Ipil Suites were lovely. They were super friendly, helpful, and always smiling. They greeted me every morning with a smile and were always trying to accommodate any request. They helped me arrange a transfer to the airport, gave me tips on where to eat, and even helped me when I locked myself out of my room (oops!). Their genuine warmth really made a difference. It made the whole stay feel much more welcoming. They genuinely want you to have a good time. It's a small detail, but it makes a difference in the overall experience. I’d give them a bonus point for patience – I’m pretty sure I asked a million questions.
Any Hidden Costs? (I Hate Surprises!)
Okay, budget traveler here. There aren't any *major* hidden costs that I recall. Obviously, you'll have to pay for extra food and drinks if you want them. The hotel might be able to arrange airport transfers, but you can actually hire a tricycle or van to get there much cheaper. Tipping is customary in the Philippines, so factor that in. And be prepared for the usual tourist prices in El Nido - everything is a little bit more expensive than other parts of the Philippines. Factor in the tour costs and any souvenirs you might want to gather. Besides that, it's pretty straightforward. Always ask upfront about any fees, though, just to be safe. And try to haggle a bit! I once had to pay a ridiculous price for a t-shirt and that still haunts me.
Mosquitoes! Should I be Worried? (I'm a Mosquito Magnet.)
Oh, the mosquitoes. Yes, you should be worried. (Sorry!) El Nido is a tropical paradise, which means… mosquitoesSmart Traveller Inns
