The Philippines is a symphony of over 7,000 islands, where emerald rice terraces cascade into misty valleys, and limestone cliffs rise dramatically from turquoise waters. Here, time stretches, life slows down a bit, inviting you to immerse yourself fully in each moment.
This archipelago, is a place where each island offers a unique tapestry of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. From the historic streets of Manila to the serene beaches of Siquijor, the Philippines has diverse landscapes and a rich heritage.
In the Philippines, the journey is as enriching as the destination. Embrace the philosophy of slow travel, choose fewer experiences and give them your full attention.
Let us guide you in crafting a bespoke itinerary that resonates with your personal travel desires.
Where to Stay
We’ve come to realise that the place you stay doesn’t just support the trip, it subtly shapes it. A truly great hotel sets the mood, carves out a rhythm, and invites you to slow down and notice what’s around you. In this section, we’re sharing the places that stayed with us long after we left. And because the next adventure is always calling, we’ve added a few hotels we’re drawn to for future stays.
Pièce Lio – El Nido – Our Personal recommendation
Where the jungle exhales and architecture listens.
Hidden among towering palms and bird calls, Pièce Lio isn’t just a stay it’s a setting. A modern villa nestled in nature, where minimalism meets tropical wildness, and every window frames something lush. You’ll find no sharp edges here, only soft curves and a palette borrowed from the forest floor.
REST
Pièce Lio offers 36 thoughtfully designed rooms, each a serene retreat that harmoniously blends minimalist Japanese aesthetics with the lush tropical surroundings of El Nido . The accommodations range from studios to expansive lofts, all featuring clean lines, natural materials, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the verdant gardens or the surrounding rainforest.
The rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, soundproof walls, and minibars. Select units include kitchenettes with stovetops, refrigerators, and tea and coffee makers, providing the convenience of home . Bathrooms are fitted with walk-in showers and premium toiletries, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience.
Each room opens onto a private balcony or terrace, inviting guests to relax and immerse themselves in the tranquil environment. The use of natural textures and a neutral color palette throughout the interiors creates a calming atmosphere, making Pièce Lio an ideal sanctuary for travelers seeking both comfort and a deep connection with nature.
TASTE
Breakfasts are fresh with an array of tropical fruits, eggs your way and strong barako coffee. Dinners are optionally delivered to your villa or enjoyed communally, with locally-sourced ingredients and rotating specials.
RESTORE
Outdoor hammocks, yoga decks in the trees, and plunge pool to cool off in after long days exploring. It’s less spa and more soulful recharge and it works.
Fasttracked note: Step onto the balcony in the early morning light you might just receive a curious visit from the jungle’s most agile residents, tails and all.
For the full story, including our room, the service, and why the monkeys made it unforgettable, read our in-depth hotel review.
If you’re curious, you can see the rooms and availability here.
Where we’d stay next – Seda Lio
For our next visit to El Nido, we’re setting our sights on Seda Lio. Tucked within the thoughtfully developed Lio Tourism Estate, the resort offers a more curated, resort-style experience without losing that island intimacy we love.
Why it’s on our list
Well, everything’s right there. You step outside your room and the beach is at your feet no tricycles, no winding climbs, just soft sand and the lull of the bay.
This is the kind of place where any request breakfast on your terrace, a sunset massage, a table for two on the sand is met with a quiet “of course.”
We’re craving a stay that blends barefoot luxury with gentle convenience, a larger pool to laze beside, all-day dining when we feel indulgent, a spa for slow afternoons, and a beach that starts where the gardens end. With Seda, we’re leaning into the art of doing very little and doing it beautifully, because next time, we want a resort that lets the island come to us.
If you’re curious, you can see the rooms and availability here.
Where to eat in El Nido
Every meal tells the story of the Philippines a narrative woven from indigenous roots, colonial influences, and regional flavors.
Angel Wish
Tucked along Serena Street, Angel Wish is a haven for seafood aficionados. Its unassuming façade conceals the culinary treasures within a testament to the Filipino ethos of humility paired with excellence.
Angel Wish champions the “paluto” tradition, where guests select fresh seafood from nearby markets, and the kitchen transforms them into personalized dishes. This approach ensures not only freshness but also a deep connection between diner and dish.
The ambiance is casual and inviting, with the gentle hum of the sea complementing the clatter of dishes and chatter.
Signature Moments
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Plump shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, offering a harmonious blend of savory and sweet.
Steamed Lapu-Lapu with Lemongrass: A delicate fish infused with the citrusy aroma of lemongrass, embodying simplicity and elegance.
Kinilaw: A Filipino ceviche, where fresh fish is cured in vinegar and calamansi, accented with chili and ginger a refreshing starter that awakens the palate.
Fasttracked tip: For an optimal experience, visit during the early afternoon when the crowd thins, ensuring prompt service and a more intimate setting.
Piece of Sky
Perched atop the H Hotel, Piece of Sky offers a dining experience that elevates both palate and perspective. As the sun dips below Bacuit Bay, the sky transforms into a canvas of hues, mirrored by the vibrant dishes served.
Embracing the Filipino tradition of “Salu-Salo” (shared meals), the menu is designed for communal enjoyment. It marries local ingredients with global techniques, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and novel.
The setting is both chic and relaxed, with live saxophone melodies often serenading diners. The open-air design allows the sea breeze to mingle with the aromas, creating a multisensory experience.
Signature Moments
Blue Marlin Steak: A succulent cut, grilled to perfection, showcasing the fish’s natural richness.
Tapas Selection: An array of small plates, from spicy chorizo to tangy calamansi-glazed chicken wings, encouraging exploration and sharing.
Ube Cheesecake: A fusion dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of purple yam with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake.
Fasttracked tip: Reserve a table during sunset hours to witness the bay bathed in golden light a spectacle that enhances every bite and sip.
Where to drink in El Nido
Ascend to its open rooftop and the transformation is palpable warm light pooling across terrazzo tables, soft jazz tumbling through the air, the coastline glittering like a distant constellation. This is where El Nido’s slow magic meets its sensual side.
The bar program leans into tropical elegance familiar favorites infused with local nuance. A classic with a spin, the Palawan Negroni. Made with locally distilled gin and house-blended vermouth, finished with a sampaguita peta.
The energy builds softly after 7PM. You’ll spot couples tracing the outline of Cadlao Island from the balcony, groups swapping tales from their island-hopping days, and solo travelers journal-writing between sips. Occasionally, a live guitarist appears like a breeze never on a schedule, always welcome.
Signature Moments
The Basil & Calamansi Smash herbal and bright, with just enough zing to wake the tongue.
Smoky Mango Old Fashioned, a sultry rendition using mango-infused bourbon and burnt orange peel.
Freshness is non-negotiable. The bar staff crafts syrups in-house, presses fruit daily, and offers non-alcoholic versions that are every bit as layered.
Where to enjoy a coffee and a patisserie
In El Nido, mornings unfold with a gentle rhythm, the sun casting a golden hue over limestone cliffs, the scent of sea salt mingling with freshly brewed coffee. Each spot offers a unique blend of ambiance, flavor, and local charm.
Grounded Café
Grounded Café stands out with its commitment to plant-based offerings and eco-friendly practices. The minimalist design, inspired by El Nido’s natural beauty, provides a calming backdrop for your coffee rituals.
Their signature Oak Milk Latte, crafted with Australian oat milk and 100% Arabica beans, offers a creamy, rich experience. Complement it with their vegan pastries or smoothie bowls for a wholesome start.
The café often hosts local artists and musicians, turning your coffee break into a cultural immersion. Beyond its menu, Grounded serves as a hub for conscious travelers, fostering a community centered around sustainability and wellness.
Fasttracked tip: Their Oak Milk Latte is a favorite arrive early to ensure you don’t miss out!
Hama Coffee
Perched just above Rosanna’s Pension, Hama Coffee offers a serene escape with panoramic views of Bacuit Bay. The interior, adorned with repurposed wood and lush greenery, creates a cozy yet modern atmosphere.
Their menu boasts a range of brews, from robust barako to delicate pour-overs. Pair your drink with their renowned brownies or a slice of banana bread for a delightful treat.
Hama seamlessly blends the tranquility of the sea with the invigorating aroma of coffee, making it a must-visit for both early risers and sunset seekers. As you sip, watch fishermen return with their morning catch, or catch glimpses of island-hopping boats setting sail.
Fasttracked tip: Arrive early to secure a window seat and bask in the morning light as you plan your day’s adventures.
La Moro Hill Bakery
Nestled near Lio Beach, La Moro Hill Bakery is a haven for those seeking artisanal breads and pastries. The rustic setting, surrounded by greenery, adds to its charm.
Specializing in naturally leavened bread and laminated pastries, their offerings range from crusty sourdough loaves to buttery croissants. Watch as bakers skillfully craft each item, combining traditional techniques with local ingredients, creating a fusion that’s both familiar and novel.
Pair your drink with one of their rotating pastries or a perfectly simple tartine, and you’ve got the kind of morning that elevates your day.
Fasttracked tip: Their almond croissants are a must-try with a cup of their freshly brewed coffee for a delightful breakfast.
Let the front desk know you’re coming
If Piece Lio sounds like your kind of base, you can explore rooms, availability, and seasonal offers here.
Or let us know, we’ll take care of the rest.