After a pretty amazing journey from Manila to Miniloc, saying that I was keen to check out my digs for the next few days would be an understatement!
After being welcomed to the resort with a traditional Filipino song and a cool refreshing drink, I was able to check in to my amazing overwater villa. Once I had checked in I discovered that the resort had decided to really treat me and I had somehow scored the number one most requested room in the entire resort – water cottage no. 1!
Inside the cottage was nothing short of wonderful, but the views outside are what really make this an incredible place to stay.
Miniloc is fondly referred to as the ‘discovery island’ in El Nido. It is a perfect base for the young, the young at heart, the adventurous and the curious. These stunning island dwellings give off amazingly tropical vibes and the accommodations are contemporary yet rustic, with all the modern amenities one could ask for.
There is a variety of accommodation options on the island, including garden cottages, beachview and seaview rooms and of course, water cottages.
Garden cottages start at approx PHP 18700 (AUD $530) per night and can sleep up to 3 occupants.
Beachside rooms start at approx PHP 22800 (AUD $646) per night and can sleep up to 2 occupants.
Seaview rooms start at approx PHP 23330 (AUD $660) per night and can sleep up to 3 occupants.
Deluxe seaview rooms start at approx PHP 25400 (AUD $720) per night and can sleep up to 2 occupants.
Water cottages start at approx PHP 28060 (AUD $795) per night and can sleep up to 2 occupants.
Please note that the quoted prices above are all subject to change, availability and seasonal influences.
These prices also include all meals, activities and airport transfers. Only thing that will cost you a smidge extra moolah will be drinks and even these are very well priced.
Anyway, back to my incredible water cottage!
The views off my little balcony out to the ocean were nothing short of glorious! I was able to spot the many fishies swimming around, watch the coral through the crystal clear waters, wave at the kayakers that went by and observe the most stunning sunrises I have ever seen.
After throwing my clothes onto coat hangers (a veritable luxury for a girl who usually spends her travelling life in 20 bed hostel dorms) it was time for me to don some bathers, see a bit more of Miniloc and soak up a bit of Vitamin D in the process.
After nearly drowning my camera (seriously guys, I need to get some underwater housing for my Olympus camera baby) I thought it might be safer to photograph a bit more of the resort from the safety of a kayak.
Now you may read that and think, “Ellen, weren’t you worried about capsizing?”, which is a very fair question.
I will be honest, any worries about capsizing were hidden by a Singapore Sling induced idiocy (ahem), however, I ended up being pretty nifty operating a camera and kayak simultaneously and no camera water damage was incurred.
After kayaking around the bay and out into the open ocean, it was time to reapply my sunscreen and get ready for an afternoon exploring some of the surrounding islands. Stay tuned!
T H E L O W D O W N
Getting There: From Manila, book a direct flight with Air Swift
El Nido Resorts: I’d like to say an enormous thank you to the wonderful team at El Nido Resorts for not only making this stay possible, but also for making it so wonderful
Miniloc: To explore more of this gorgeous resort and to book, visit the El Nido Resorts website here
Kayaking: No rentals required, kayaks and paddles sit on the beach just waiting to be used
Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M1 with 12-40mm M.Zuiko Pro Lens
Threads: I am wearing a gorgeous maxi by Aussie label Tigerlily
Remember: To not operate a kayak under the influence of alcohol, but if you choose to ignore this advice as I did, make sure you wear a life vest, and if you choose to also ignore this second piece of advice as I also did, fingers crossed you are a strong swimmer!