We’ve wanted to go to El Nido- Lagen Island Resort for many years, so when we spotted a deal pop up on Deal Grocer, we immediately grabbed the chance. The deal was for a 3 days- 2 nights stay at their Water cottage for 2 people, inclusive of massages at a cost of P29,995. Lauren being under 11 could stay in our room for free.
The deal did not include airfare and the only carrier that flew to El Nido was Island Transvoyager Inc (ITI), which flew a couple of times a day to El Nido but their planes are 19 seaters only. Total cost of our airfare was around P30,000, quite expensive but there was really no alternative as of yet. ITI planes also have no stewardesses and from what I remember, bathrooms either.To illustrate how close I was, I could literally touch the pilots from my seat in the first row.
We landed at El Nido Airport after a one hour flight, greeted by the folksy serenade by the locals. We had some refreshment and answered nature’s call. Off we where carried by our special jeepney to the dock, a ride that took less than 5 min, for our boat transfer.
After a 50 minute boat ride accompanied by resort staff who made sure we were comfortable every step of the way, we reached Lagen Island. We were served some welcome refreshment to cool off from the journey and briefed on what optional tours we wanted to join. Each tour was priced at P1,000 per head, whether child or adult.
A short welcome message by the resort manager and then we were escorted to our rooms. The rooms were set above the water and was quite nicely decorated. Each room had a nice veranda that afforded a beautiful view of the resort and the ocean. We were expecting to share our bed with Lauren but the resort had put in an extra bed just for her on the side.
We quickly unpacked and set about exploring the resort. As you can see, Lauren is already enjoying herself already.
The place had a nice pool beside the main dining area where daily breakfast is served. The pool is just right to frolic in with ample foliage on the sides to shade some parts of the pool during the hotter parts of the day.
I was actually not too impressed with the food, we had to either order ala carté or get the buffet since our package did not include meals except for breakfast. Their buffet spread is not that generous and was quite pricey for P1,000, so we mostly ordered ala carté. The problem with that was the dearth of choices on their menu. Good thing I found something I liked, the Tamarind Beef (P325, above), served with rice which I ordered twice. We succumbed to picking the buffet when they laid they spread out by the pool.
Kayaks and paddle boats are laid out on the beach for all guests to use free of charge. We certainly took advantage of this during our stay.
The only optional tour we signed up for was the one going to the Big and Small Lagoon, that included snorkeling, our main goal. The three of us were disappointed with the snorkeling as the marine life was sparse. The big and small lagoon was nice but could not live up to the hype we had heard about how beautiful it was.
After that, we asked to be dropped off at sister resort, Miniloc Island. The place is more rustic in ambiance and had less amenities but this was where all water sports was located at. We just lounged around on the beach, while Lauren played around in the sun until the last trip back to our resort.
On our last day, we were given a leaf hat made by the staff for all guests checking out. Seeing them assemble the hat was an interesting sight.
El Nido Lagen Resort was indeed very quiet and relaxing, even when there were a lot of people. The amenities and rooms were very nice with little touches like the extra bed and a night snack left on our bed. I’d recommend the place more for honeymooners or couples looking to get away. For people more interested in snorkeling, we enjoyed Club Paradise in Coron much much more, even the food there was better.
Lagen Island Resort
El Nido, Palawan
894.5644
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I remembered the last time we went there. we paid around 30k per pax for 3 days 2 nights and it included everything — buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, airfare plus all activities (even diving) without any extra cost.
@cheftonio,
I guess it about the same if you add everything. At least we had a choice whether we wanted to spend the money.
Putting it that way, yes.
I searched for the Apulit island deal. It included all meals and flights for 30k (2pax). Not bad! I Should have gotten that haha
will be going to Miniloc this April with my parents and my brother. Any tips on what not to forget to bring? i usually just bring a few sets of clothing and my survival bag which includes only a knife, a camera, first aid kit, cash and a flashlight.
sunblock. Anything you might need beyond that should eb available at the 1st class resort.