First impressions of El Nido are awful. A backpackers’ hub: dirty, crowded, smog filled, hassle. A backpackers’ magnet so a vendors hot spot too. We have done this before - go from an oasis of calm back into the maelstrom and it always disappoints. The Marygold Beachfront Inn , where a chain link fence separates the cafe from the beach, is adequate. In the evening after investigating four restaurants we pay above average prices for below average food. In the morning sunshine El Nido looks a little better. The 100+ boats in the bay are busy touting and filling up to take the tourists on the same four tours. The hawkers know their market and are doing a brisk trade in dry bags and waterproof bags, and floats, for phones. The Chinese have all the gear, the locals keep sensibly…
MaryGold will go down as the least favorite of the 15 places we stayed on a recent vacation. Pros - good beach bar - good location for taking tours Cons - very small room - bathroom smells of sewer water - breakfast was poor (actually went out to nearby restaurant for breakfast on day 2 - bay in front of hotel is polluted and one can not swim in water - location is poor, stay outside El Nido town. Be very careful if eating anything in El Nido town. They currently have a bad water problem. El Nido is beautiful island. I would recommend staying outside town - Maremegmeg beach area was great.
Let me start by saying that I travel all the time for my work and pleasure. I have stayed in different type of accommodations, anywhere from hostels to a Five-Diamond hotel and visited third to first world countries. I can make a difference between reality and unrealistic travellers expectations. LOCATION: I give +5*. You can't get any better than this place. Its right in the core of the city with restaurants, market etc and directly on the beach. If you do tours, no need to walk or take a tricycle. The boats are right there! The location of this hotel is perfect. ROOMS/HOTEL: Okay, people need to remember it's a third world country, not Cancun and not a resort town. If you are expecting all of the above, El Nido is not for you. The rooms are basics. Like going to a…
I enjoyed my week long stay in the Jessica Cottage. Warm shower and clean accommodation with AC and super fan. Relaxing evenings and a quiet, calm atmosphere throughout the day, if you have had enough island hopping - which is easily arranged at the reception desk. It is a shame that the water at the beach is not clean enough for swimming (the sound of the waves puts you to sleep), but Las Cabanas beach is only a 15 min. tricycle ride away for 150 pesos. Good hamburgers and breakfast was okay. Everything you need is only steps away. Internet always functioned. I met some friendly people and the staff were always helpful. Since cleaning is only done on request, I would have appreciated a toilet brush, and basic cleaning supplies. There is a fridge in the room, but unfortunately…
This small little beach resort is right on the beach in the middle of the main town. It’s the only place that’s directly on the beach with a modern yet tropical vibe. Other places are too old and lack modern amenities or, too modern and lose the beach feeling. This place hits the sweet spot and you get a clean room with nice beach atmosphere directly on the beach. The owners are awesome too! They were very accommodating to the group I was with and helped make our stay in el nido amazing! Very friendly staff too, can’t wait to go back!
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