Where to Stay in El Nido: Honest Review of Maremegmeg Beach Club & Charlie’s

 ABBEY: 

Maremegmeg Beach Club

Wilma and I spent our first night at Maremegmeg Beach Club. We were picked up from Lio (El Nido) Airport and brought straight to the guest waiting area. We arrived around 8:00 AM, which was way too early for the 2:00 PM check-in, but they welcomed us with a refreshing fresh watermelon drink. We then had breakfast at their restaurant, choosing danggit and beef tapa to start the day.

With no time to waste, we headed straight to the beach and soaked in the stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. The infinity pool offers the same breathtaking scenery. We spent hours swimming, lounging, and sipping margaritas and sangrias.

By the afternoon, our room was finally ready. After climbing a few flights of stairs (yes, no elevators), we were pleasantly surprised by how huge the room was. The balcony overlooked the resort, and we caught a beautiful sunset from there. It really felt like we got a lot of space for what we paid.

Come early evening, the bar area came alive. Guests were enjoying dinner with an upbeat DJ mix in the background. We ordered smash cheeseburgers and nachos, paired with cuba libre and mojito cocktails. Back in our room, we prepared for our massage. While there’s still room for improvement in the masseuse’s technique, the session sent us straight to sleep. That might also be thanks to the cocktails and a full day of travel.

The next thing we knew, it was breakfast. I happily loaded my plate with bacon, sausages, and daing with bagoong rice. We squeezed in one last dip at the beach before heading to our next stop, Charlie’s El Nido.

Charlie’s El Nido

Similar to our previous stay, we arrived early and waited for the official check-in time at Charlie’s El Nido. This time, we were welcomed with calamansi slushies with mint, which were refreshing and perfect for the heat.

We explored the resort, found the gym, and managed to squeeze in an hour-long workout. For lunch, we had ginisang munggo and lechon kawali, both of which were delicious and comforting.

Our room was spacious and came with a balcony overlooking the pool. While the furnishings felt a bit old-style, the room was still comfortable. Charlie’s also provides shuttle service to and from El Nido Town, which is very convenient.

The staff made a clear effort to ensure our stay was comfortable. They waited for us during our late dinner, were attentive during lunch, and even served Wilma a huge frozen margarita. That said, there are a few areas where they can improve. When settling the accommodation payment, we almost got billed twice for our booking, which we only caught by double-checking. The island tour could have turned into a disaster when we found out from the tour agency that the hotel’s reservation did not push through. Lastly, the shuttle pickup at Lio Beach would benefit from clear signage and stricter adherence to pickup timings.

Overall, staying at both Maremegmeg Beach Club and Charlie’s El Nido gave us two very different but memorable experiences in El Nido, each with its own strengths and areas for improvement.

Guest room at Charlie’s El Nido Palawan

Maremegmeg Beach Club beachfront resort in El Nido Palawan

WILL: On every travel you will need an accommodation that will suit your preference and budget. Here in Palawan here are the questions you need to consider before booking your stay. 

• Budget 
• Location 
• Comfort 
• Amenities 
• Service 

Below are what I want to emphasize in our Palawan accommodations 

Maremegmeg: We want to splurge to LIHIM but due to their unresponsiveness we chose Maremegmeg. Our second in the list and we do not regret it. 

Maremegmeg is a beach club that consists of only 12 rooms and mabned by almost more than 25 staffs. Now I understand why they immediately knew your preferences, your name and the quality-focus service. 

It is also beach front — swimmable beach I should highlight. And the location of one of the best sunset on the island. 

One and only McDonalds is 1 block away from the resort. Speaking of food, Maremegmeg have restaurants and bar that you will not think of where you’ll buy your next meal. Oh, the buffet breakfast is also exciting. Dangit and their freshly squeezed juices are for the win. 

Oh their room, 

If you really want to experience a serenity and yet fun night in El Nido, put Maremegmeg in your list. 

Charlie’s: This is far from the beach and centre. I was allured to get this because of their free shuttle service which we experienced it inconveniently because the very less frequency. Charlie’s should reconsider to put timing. 

Upon arrival, they gave us a very soothing slushy. A welcome drink that stands out to others. But me mindful on what Charlie is billing you. I was so shock that the receptions billing us for almost Php70k. Well, it was settled right away when Abbey and I questioned the amount and she found out that she billed one of the room twice. Another mishap of the same receptionist is when we booked an Island Hopping Tour C for the next day and we foubd out that she forgot to book us. Whattt?? Good thing that their Tour Provider Spyder look for ways for us to get in to another group. Whew. 

The outer facade of the buildings are well maintained but the rooms are quite outdated given ot was only built 5 years ago. 

The shower pressure is inconsistent and the lavatory faucet have gunk build up. 

Nothing fancy in bed. Old style cabinets and drawers. 

What I really commend is the restaurant in El Nido. Morning, lunch and even in late evening they are there to make sure our tummies are happy haha. 

So that’s it. Will you stay in these accomodations in El Nido Palawan after you read out blog? 

***

Maremegmeg Beach Club

(W) https://mbcelnido.com/

(A) Sitio Maremegmeg, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, Philippines

(E)reservations@mbcelnido.com

Charlie’s El Nido

(W) https://www.charlieselnido.com/

(A) Km 279 National Highway, Barangay Villa Libertad, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines 5313 

(E)reservations@charlieselnido.com

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Cubao's Hidden Cheap Hotel -- Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City

ABBEY: For our staycation before heading to Bulacan, we chose to spend a night at Ibis Styles Araneta City in Cubao. From the moment we entered the hotel, we were welcomed by a giant glove sculpture in the lobby, which added a playful touch to our arrival. Check-in was a breeze—just a couple of minutes, and we were on our way to our room.

The room was immaculate, exuding a cozy ambiance that made us feel instantly relaxed and ready to unwind. The fragrant toiletries added a touch of luxury, and I took full advantage of the hot shower, letting the warm water wash away the day’s fatigue.

One of the perks of staying at Ibis Styles is its direct connection to the nearby malls. We couldn't resist exploring, so we strolled through the shops and grabbed some snacks at Manam. The place was bustling, so for dinner, we opted for a KFC takeaway, bringing our meal back to the comfort of our room.

As we settled in, we tried to catch a bit of the Formula 1 Grand Prix, but the cozy bed quickly lulled us to sleep. Before we knew it, morning had arrived, and it was time to pack up and check out.When it comes to transportation, there's no need to worry—plenty of options are available right outside the hotel, making travel a breeze.

A Modern Hotel in the Heart of Quezon City: Our Ibis Styles Experience

WILL: Cubao, Quezon City, often known for its bustling streets, love hotels, and the infamous pickpocket, isn't the first place you'd expect to find an upscale hotel. Yet, the Accor Group has strategically placed Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City right to Gateway Mall, a move that left me both surprised and impressed.

Initially, I wondered who this Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City would cater to. However, during our stay, we observed a diverse crowd—business travelers, seminar attendees, and international guests. It’s clear that Ibis Styles has tapped into a niche market here, providing a fresh and modern option for those visiting the area on business.

Check-In/Check-Out Experience: As an All Accor Plus member, Abbey and I experienced the perks of priority service. The check-in and check-out process was seamless, reflecting the efficiency that the Accor Group is known for.

Room Experience: The room was charming, with a layout that reminded me of our stay in Danang. However, I noticed one peculiar omission—there was no proper desk, a surprising detail for a hotel branded as business-friendly. Despite this, the room hit all the right marks in terms of cleanliness, making our stay comfortable.

Location and Amenities: One of the major perks of Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City is its location. Being adjacent to Gateway Mall, we had easy access to a variety of dining options, which made exploring the area a delight.

Final Verdict: Will we return? Absolutely! Despite some minor drawbacks, Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City offers a unique and convenient option for those visiting Cubao. It’s a refreshing addition to the area, and we look forward to our next stay. 

Per Night: Php3,206.50

***

Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City

(W) https://all.accor.com/

(A) General Roxas Avenue, Araneta City, Quezon City 0810 Philippines

Acuatico Beach Resort Review -- Is It Worth the Php100,000+ for a Family Getaway?

ABBEY: Our recent family trip to Aquatico Beach Resort in Batangas was filled with fun, relaxation, and plenty of memorable moments. The journey took us almost three hours, but despite arriving before the official check-in time, the resort staff were kind enough to welcome us. They set us up in their playroom, where we could cool off and unwind, keeping us comfortable in the sweltering heat. About half an hour later, we were escorted to our villas, and that’s when our adventure at the resort truly began. The welcome drinks followed shortly after, adding a refreshing touch to our start.

While the resort has its charms, there were a few quirks. Due to space limitations, we found ourselves needing to visit my sibling's room for coffee and access to a fridge. The bathroom, though functional, had no shower door, leading to splashes that were beginning to take a toll on the doorposts. As for the Wi-Fi, it was a bit of a hit-or-miss, with connectivity being intermittent at times. However, these minor inconveniences didn’t stop us from creating some truly happy memories.

Most of our days were spent between the infinity pool and the beach, especially after meals. And speaking of meals, the food at Aquatico did not disappoint. I indulged in a variety of dishes, including beef tapa, roasted pork, pancit, tacos, and chicken. They also offered taho and an assortment of desserts. For drinks, hot chocolate and kapeng barako were on the menu, perfect for a comforting treat. During our two-night stay, my wife and I enjoyed leisurely evenings with servings of margaritas, red sangrias, and mojitos—quality time well spent.

All in all, despite a few minor hitches, our stay at Aquatico Beach Resort was a delightful experience, leaving us with wonderful memories of family bonding and relaxation.

Acuatico Beach Resort Review

Acuatico Beach Resort Review

Acuatico Beach Resort Review

WILL: When choosing a luxury resort like Acuatico, expectations naturally rise, especially when the price tag is steep. After seeing photos and reading rave reviews online, I couldn’t wait to experience Acuatico for myself. So, what is Acuatico really like? Let’s dive into the details—both the highlights and the letdowns.

Rooms and Accommodation

We booked two accommodations for a family reunion and were assigned to the Masters of Casita. The bed was incredibly comfortable and spotlessly clean, which immediately put me at ease. The TV offered a good selection of channels, providing some much-needed entertainment during work breaks. Our room was just three steps away from the beautiful infinity pool and offered a fantastic view of the sea. The staff was attentive, checking in on us and offering to refresh our room on the second day, which added a nice touch to our stay.

But then there was the bathroom. The showerhead was in dire need of replacement, and the faucet’s water pressure was so intense that it turned the bathroom into a splash zone. It’s these small details that make a big difference in a luxury stay.

Dining at the Resort

I have to commend the resort on the food. The ingredients were fresh, and the meals were included in our package, which was a nice touch. However, dining was far from a relaxing experience. The flies were relentless, turning every meal into a battle to protect our plates. It was exhausting and definitely detracted from the overall experience.

The Pool Area

The pool is one of the standout features of Acuatico Beach Resort. It’s divided into three sections, which is ideal for families with young children, as it allows them to play safely in a designated area. The pool area is beautifully designed and offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view.

Is Acuatico Worth the Price?

Despite the luxurious price tag, there were some noticeable lapses in quality that made us question whether the resort is being properly maintained. There’s a sense that it’s starting to show signs of wear and tear, which is disappointing for a place that promises so much.

As for the cost? Our 3-day, 2-night stay in two rooms at Acuatico set us back a hefty Php 117,000++. Given the experience, I’m left wondering if it was really worth it.

***

Acuatico Beach Resort: Resort in Laiya Batangas

(W) https://acuaticoresort.com.ph/

(A) Laiya, San Juan, Batangas, Philippines 4226

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga

ABBEY: It’s always a good idea to catch up with friends so we did that. Not only did we had dinner but sleepovers, yes with an “s” at Sakura Private Villa Angles for 3 days and 2 night. The private house is at Angeles, Pampanga but you can get there via Waze. There could be a slight hiccup finding it when you’re nearby but with a couple of asks with the locals and intuition you’ll get there. 

We were welcomed warmly by the staff as they began to handover the place to us. The rules are printed and make sure you read and adhere to them. We got five rooms, three toilets and two baths, a large swimming including a bubble jet one. It is clean, spacious and relaxing. We played darts, billiards, and even karaoke’d. You can bring your own food. The utensils and cookwares are provided. Or you can order and cook them for you. Internet connectivity is fast. No problem with the heat as well. Where should our next catch up be?

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga: Pool

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga: Bathroom with Tub

Sakura Private Villa - Serene Getaway in Angeles Pampanga

WILL: During our high school days, we made it a tradition to go on annual out-of-town getaways. Now, with most of us living abroad, our reunions have become rare and typically limited to simple dinners. However, we always felt that a few hours over dinner wasn't enough to make up for the lost time. This year, we were thrilled that almost everyone managed to find the time for a 3-day, 2-night vacation. Our friend Denise, the perennial organizer, chose Sakura Private Villa for our much-anticipated reunion.

The accommodations at Sakura Private Villa are modest; don't expect hotel-like mattresses or pillows. However, the inviting pool, karaoke, dartboard, and billiards table ensure that there's never a dull moment, even without televisions (a welcome change, indeed).

Downsides:

Insects: Expect mosquitoes, ants and flies.

No Basic Things: Toothbrushes and towels are not provided.

Hard to Find: The villa's location can be difficult to locate.

Cost:

We spent Php 28,500 for our stay + Php200 per towel. 

Sakura Private Villa provided us with a perfect backdrop for reconnecting and creating new memories. Despite a few minor inconveniences, the time spent together in such a peaceful setting was priceless.

***

Sakura Private Villa Angeles

(F)https://www.facebook.com/p/Sakura-Private-Villa-Angeles-61557800871581/

(A) Purok 2 Sitio Radar Brgy.Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Philippines