Puerto Galera is one of my favorite places in the Philippines. Located on the beautiful island of Mindoro with it’s steep mountains, lush jungles, remote beaches and tranquil pace of life, it is a destination that is surprisingly easy to get to with only a 2 hour bus ride and boat crossing from metro Manila. It features some of the finest snorkeling and diving in the Philippines.

White Beach is a famous tourist destination and very crowded, expensive and busy with all the activities that you expect in a tourist resort (jet skiing, bars, restaurants, etc.). Sabang is more laid back with dive shops, hotels and lots of ex-pats, but the real gem lies to the west of Sabang, east of white beach and north of Puerto Galera. This triangle includes the small islands of Paniquian and Medio islands. The coves, beaches and reefs here are the best in the area. There is even a cave you can visit with an underwater entrance in addition to land access. It's the area near the town of Puerto Galera proper which is the main business center featuring some great restaurants, fruit markets and stores without the frantic pace of White beach and a short ride to Sabang. Most convenient to this area is The Manor which sits up on a hill on a peninsula overlooking the entire Puerto Galera area with sweeping views up and down the coast and across at the huge volcanic mountains. It is built like an estate with a large main building, lots of out buildings, private pool, long winding driveway. The Manor is filled with beautiful pieces of art collected from all over the world by the owners and huge spacious rooms exactly like you would expect as a guest of a large private estate. For those old enough to remember the show; think “Fantasy Island”. It is one of the most unique properties in the Philippines and a must if your itinerary includes Puerto Galera area.

The hotel is usually quiet and very private. It features a beautiful swimming pool with views of both the mountains and the majestic palms and waters of Balateros cove. It’s only a short walk from the hotel to Sandbar beach where you can rent the boats to take you out to the snorkel sites on Paniquian and Medio islands.

The staff at the Manor are also first class. Well trained, friendly, helpful with an intimate knowledge of the area. They arrange all your transportation needs, prepare meals in the dining area if you are eating breakfast, lunch or dining in for dinner. The rooms and grounds are maintained in great condition.

Restaurants in the area include Robbies pizzeria and the yacht club located just down the hill from the hotel which also features a once a week Indian night.

I have stayed at the Manor every trip for the last 11 years for a week or so and can heartily recommend it. It is a unique property, a unique and special feeling to live on an estate with a private pool and wait staff, unbelievable views and such convenience to world class activities but yet private and quiet. And it’s surprisingly affordable. I attached photos of the views and sunsets that text can’t convey ;)