Tropical Eco-splendor in El Nido
It’s not just about where we travel, but also about the company we keep and the way we do it that makes a world of difference. Returning to my beloved tropical paradise in El Nido, where nature and environmental respect shine through, feels like a dream come true.
My journey back to this idyllic sanctuary, accompanied by my entire family and some very dear friends, became a defining moment, creating cherished memories to treasure forever. El Nido is a tropical eco-paradise and what makes it even more beguiling is Bahay Artisano, a B&B owned by Bea and Paloma Zobel. I first experienced this paradise within a paradise during a media trip and was so mesmerized by the trip that my sisters and I decided to treat the rest of our group on this priceless vacation and rented Bahay Artisano for four nights.
In the joyful presence of my sisters Jaqui Dayrit Boncan, Michele and Benny Soliven, Yvonne and Carin Romualdez, nieces Alex and Sam Dayrit, Sherjan Rana, Nikki and Jason Buensalido with their kids Annika and Nadia, Christel and Mike Constantino with children Pablo and Amaya, our Miladay consultant Mike Mina, and my BFF Büm Tenorio and Mel Martinez, we embarked on an awe-inspiring adventure exploring El Nido. Little did we know, this trip would be made even more remarkable by the exceptional collaboration between Ayala Land and Airswift Airlines, both deeply committed to preserving the environment. Airswift Airlines in the only airline with many daily flights that goes direct to El Nido.
As we arrived at the El Nido airport, such dedication to conservation unfolded before our eyes, with the airport thoughtfully designed amidst a majestic forest of trees, perfectly blending progress with nature’s preservation.
Our family, recognizing the diverse preferences of its members, chose accommodations tailored to each group. The elder ones enjoyed the luxury and modernity of Bea and Paloma Zobel’s bed and breakfast.
Families with infants found delight in the luxurious pool villa suites of the remarkable 150-room posh Seda Lio. Upon entering the breathtaking lobby, the warm reception by the gracious general manager, Marc Cerqueda, ensures perfection for every guest, unveiling the essence of a tropical fantasy and beach paradise. Congratulations to Seda Lio on its remarkable fifth-anniversary milestone, where love, joy and impeccable service, cuisine and accommodations have been consistently delivered. Seda Lio stands as a luxurious haven of comfort and excellence, marking five years of providing unparalleled hospitality.
Meanwhile, the millennials sought beautiful space at Balay Adlao right on Lio Beach, surrounded by chill restaurants and bars emanating the desired vibe.
Our gastronomic adventures converged at Bahay Artisano, where we savored a delightful array of cuisines from Thai, Pinoy, Italian, Indian, and more. Unquestionable favorites included the Singaporean crabs, Thai curries, Pinoy grilled bangus, and delectable Kashmiri Indian dishes. Bahay Artisano, with a concierge-butler service, is also well-equipped with a cutting-edge kitchen (with SMEG appliances); Büm was even inspired to cook his yummy spicy tuna pasta.
Speaking of new food finds, there’s an amazing resto in town called Tanaw owned by chef Robby Goco and Kristine Singson-Meehan of the Cyma Group, which beckons with global flavors using local and sustainably sourced ingredients. We learned that Tanaw restaurant bakes their own bread, desserts and even make their own tortillas using cassava. It is amazing to realize how caring for the locals and valuing the environment can be truly special
Tanaw (meaning “to see”) will open up your senses to delectable finds like salads, sandwiches, croque monsieur, pasta, gambas, seafood, grilled specialties, Spanish, Greek, Mediterranean and Mexican food as well as desserts and more.
After a heavy feast, time to try island-hopping experiences in El Nido. One can experience Miniloc, Pangulasian and Lagen, each revealing an enchanting world of limestone cliffs emerging majestically from turquoise waters, inviting us into their mystical embrace.
Venturing into small caves opened up to breathtaking turquoise-colored bodies of water, surrounded by centuries-old trees, creating an otherworldly ambiance that left us in awe. The island-hopping adventure on a double-decker yacht led us to pristine white-sand beaches, each more breathtaking than the last. Leatherback Tours is definitely among the best tour operators, offering impressive double-decker hatch, superb crew service and choice island destinations.
We relaxed under the palm tree’s shade, reveling in the serenity of our surroundings. Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters allowed us to witness the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, as schools of colorful fish playfully darted around us. Both the young once and young ones shrieked in utmost delight. The kids even spotted large iguanas like the monitor lizards on Entalula island.
As we navigated the enchanting Lagen Trail, we encountered a diverse array of flora and fauna, underlining the importance of preserving these pristine habitats. Through the Secret Beach’s labyrinthine passages, we discovered a secluded paradise. The small, hidden beach offered a serene escape, encircled by towering limestone cliffs providing natural shade and seclusion. It was a testament to the untouched beauty of El Nido, urging us to cherish and protect these natural treasures.
At these illustrious Ayala resorts, these extraordinary encounters became treasured memories, etched in our very being. Such a precious moment allowed us to taste the salt on our lips, feel the soft sand beneath our feet, and cherish the profound connection we shared. These aren’t just tales; they’re stories validated by prestigious awards. El Nido Resorts proudly holds the Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Resorts in the World and Top Resorts in Asia. The Conde Nast Traveler Gold List embraced them from 2016 to 2018, and in 2020, Lagen Island received the Loved by Guests Award and was crowned Best Resort in Asia by Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Congratulations to our dear friends, Ayala Land’s head of hotels and resorts Javi Hernandez, Ten Knots’ head Joey Bernardino, and Chrissy Roa, marketing head of Ayala Land, who emphasized the estate’s commitment to enhancing land, enriching lives and building a self-sufficient, sustainable community that preserves the environment and supports local businesses while providing pedestrian-friendly spaces and lush greenery.
Sheila Evano, the operations manager of Bahay Artisano, skillfully arranged everything for us as guests.
The sun disappeared below the horizon; my little nieces spotted some turtle hatchlings venturing out to swim in the gentle waves of Lio beach. I smiled, assured that these turtles, conserved and protected, simply mirror the love and respect we have for the entire ecosystem.
With Ayala Land’s dedication to conservation and responsible travel, I am excited to embark on future journeys that leave a positive mark on our precious planet, where dreams come alive, and every step — just like the turtle hatchling marching down to the gentle sea — makes a difference, one step at a time.
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For more information contact Sheila Evano, Kalye Artisano Area operations manager at 0917-5339719 or email: sheila@kalyeartisano.com. Flight to El Nido log on to Airswift at www.air-swift.com. Check out the captivating islands of El Nido and log on to www.elnidoresorts.com. Visit Tanaw Resto @TanawPalawan and for reservations contact Romano Catolico at 0917-7015063.
