We arrived at J&R Residence in a special period. Just before the whole world went into lockdown we were picked up from the airport in Panglao. We booked 6 nights, due to the COVID-19 outbreak it became a 28 nights staycation, and even that felt actually way too short for us. Never ever have we come across such guest-friendly owners who are really concerned with their guest’s wellbeing. For example, we were given fresh ginger tea every day by Jilo, and Ralf ensured every day we were informed on the latest news regarding the situation in Bohol and the Philippines. They even arranged all of the necessary documents to be able to safely depart the island. Hard to express in words how much peace, security and safety (and fun!!) we have experienced in the anxious times of the corona virus outbreak.
On to the J&R experience: the rooms all are beautiful and each one has a unique view, the peace lingering all day when being on site really relaxes. All rooms (should we say: houses) are equipped with aircon, topped off fridge and extremely good beds. Cleanliness is of the highest state. The restaurant has an abundant menu – in addition to the fish and meat choices (special mention goes out to the sausage menu!), you’ll find more than enough picks for vegetarian dishes, it’s even possible to order various dishes in a vegetarian version. All menu options are home made and wonderfully well prepared by the magnificent kitchen staff, no exaggerating here – and all at extremely pleasant value for money rates. We obviously took a snorkeling trip on the resort owned cruiser “Kingfisher” and marveled at the beautiful sea and marine life on our doorstep. Scuba diving can usually be done with lots of dive centers, we chose the only one opened, a short stroll along the beach brings you to Anda Scuba Diving, where owner Hubert showed us so many great spots on the house coral reef. Despite not being able to visit the island’s must-sees (Tarsier sanctuary, chocolate hills, the waterfalls), we could exercise ourselves in another manner by taking daily morning walks along the beach. At night fall…. the tremendous sunsets – enjoyed from whatever spot you like in the gorgeous well kept grounds.
We are travelers who never return to an already visited spot, simply because the world has so many beautiful places. J&R Residence is going to be the first and only exception. Next year, if circumstances allow us to freely travel again, we will definitely come back and combine a for sure soothing stay with discovering the beautiful island of Bohol.
Once more, Jilo & Ralf: you are special people who know in detail how to make your guests feel comfortable, thanks so much! A big shout-out goes to miss Jenny, miss Pearl and Lando – stay awesome!