★★★★

We resided at La Salangane, in beautiful El Nido, and couldn't have been happier. Before I go into too much detail it's important to understand a few things about us because everybody travels a bit different. Meaning, what might seem comfortable to me might be a shock and disappointment for you. First (and most importantly) my partner and I are "modern" backpackers. We truly enjoy the finer things in life, but if I'm not provided with a towel in my hotel room, I'm going to smile and make the best of it. Second (and lastly because I want to get to the review) is that we have traveled to many places around the world and have encountered some of the worst so some things to us feel like perks versus other hotels/hostels we've stayed at.

Now the review.

Staff: Run by a group of very friendly ladies. The bartender (blonde diver from Texas) was down to earth and great to chat with. They were happy to let us look at the rooms before we booked and were accommodating when we wanted to upgrade to the Suite after our first nights stay.

Accommodation: *Reminder* You are in the Philippines! That being said, look around you and realize that a Suite is going to be a big room with an amazing view, but your not getting mints on your pillows or jacuzzi tubs. We found the accommodations to be a great surprise. The air con here works amazing! I was actually cold when I woke up and had to turn it down. The bed sheets are clean and crisp. The mattress is typical to Asia in that it's a flat, no spring mattress, but comfortable enough to do the job. Plenty of room for organizing your stuff for a longer stay. We had tv's even though they are unnecessary, but a nice touch. Budget rooms do no have tv's. There was a desk which was helpful for us because we do a lot of video editing for drone footage and making reviews. The best part was the view! If you're lucky enough to get their 1 room facing the water... Take advantage because it's the best view you'll have in a while. Just amazing (especially for the price). We paid $100USD for the suite (Room #1) Even as budget travelers you do not pass this up.

Cleanliness: How clean a room is, to me, is always decided by the state of the bathroom. Here, the floors were clean, the walls of he shower were mold free, the toilet looked brand new (maybe it was), and the sink was spotless. The only negative I have is the uncomfortable shower curtains that are too close for comfort when you shower, but who needs them anyways? And the shower hose was a bit rusty, but that doesn't really affect you personally so it's ok. There are some spots on the ceiling that look like old water damage (it's a country with monsoons so it's expected) and I had some ants crawling around the sink. No biggie. I seriously give this place 5 stars on cleanliness because they could easily let this place go and they really take good care of it!

Location: The best! Right in the thick of the city center and on the water. Everyone else on our bus was getting dropped off in the middle of the city, but you made it all the way to El Nido... You gotta be on the water! It's beautiful and still budget friendly! A win-win.

Summary: Included in the rooms is a free breakfast which had traditional fare as well as a few Filipino dishes. All were awesome. The food takes some time to come out but it's 1 lady cooking for everyone at once and it's very delicious so it's worth the wait. We were also directed to tour guides and other places to drink & dine at night. I can't forget to mention FREE WIFI!!! (It's slow. Be patient.) If you are already in the Philippines then you must have a sense of adventure and I think you would really enjoy this place. Right on the water, one of the cleanest looking places I'd seen in El Nido, and hospitality at its best!

Thank you La Salangane! We will continue our good times and spread the word!