El Nido　The Creation of God El Nido, the last land of mystery in the Philippines.

© CEBU navi SAKURA ｜ vol.16 Jul.-Aug. | 2018

Breathtaking beauty One of the world's most miraculous paradises

El Nido is drawing the attention of the world as being the last secret of the Philippines’ 7,107 islands.
We found emerging mountains and a shining, emerald green sea.
The abundant nature splendor is surely suitable enough to call it the world's best resort.
The El Nido Spirit, which respects nature over humans, has taken root here.
In the southwest Philippines, floating in the South China Sea, is a town in the northern part of the Palawan Islands called "El Nido". The harmony of white sand, blue sea, and greenery -- it's said that the Spanish who visited here in the 17th century were overwhelmed by its extraordinary beauty, so they left it as is. Genius diver, Jack Maillol, also was famously captivated by the island's beauty in the movie "Grand Blue". Now we have visited El Nido, the "last land of mystery in the Philippines" - fascinating tourists and divers all over the world.
You can go directly from Cebu to El Nido by AirSWIFT in about 1 hour 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly to Puerto Princesa, the largest city in the Palawan Islands, and reach El Nido by bus in 5-6 hours.

After being welcomed by song from the local staff at the airport, we moved toward the resort by car and boat.

To get touched with untouched nature in the Miniloc Island, "the islands of God"

We headed from the airport to the seaside for the "El Nido Resort". They have a resort area in each of their four islands: Miniloc, Lagen, Pangluasian, and Apulit Island. We chose Miniloc Island this time. Compared with those other island "luxury resorts" equipped with pools, here in this eco-friendly resort you could really experience more of untouched nature.
It takes about 40-50 minutes by car and boat from El Nido Airport to Miniloc Island. You'll fully enjoy the beautiful seascape while heading towards your destination. Beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear seas, the dynamic green mountains rising in the background... A place to call paradise. When crossing pier and arriving on the island, there are cottages made from natural materials on the white sands, some facing the out to sea, and cute restaurants in the center. Beach bars and beach chairs line the sandy beaches with several customers with serene expressions.

Walking barefoot on the white sandy beach feels great!

The sea is so transparent, you can see all the way to the bottom of the ocean.

A restaurant where you can enjoy a buffet style meal.

A marine sports center where you can rent equipment for activities.

The signs and buildings are made from natural materials.

Many activities to have fun in the sea!

When it comes to El Nido, think marine activities. From canoeing and snorkeling, to scuba diving, windsurfing, and stand-up paddle boarding, there's almost every marine activity to enjoy. The sea of El Nido is one of the most beautiful in the world. And of course, numerous sea creatures inhabit the sea here. When we were diving, we were able to encounter a sea turtle! We also recommend taking tours around the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, to fully enjoy the dynamic scenery of mangroves and nature.

Many divers come to El Nido from all over the world.

We encountered many marine creatures, including coral!

The best luxury is "doing nothing"

The most ideal way of enjoying El Nido is to spend a day playing in the sea and the next day, doing nothing. Remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of everyday, be where time flows slowly. Open your body and mind to the beautiful sea, fresh air, and tropical blue sky. Lie on the beach reading your favorite book, sleep when you're sleepy, eat when you're hungry. At night, have a drink, play billiards, chat with the friendly staff. At night, lying on the beach and gazing at the stars is the best.
After such a luxurious time, you'll feel your heart is lighter.

Feels good

Our restaurant recommendation are the steaks and seafood grilled by the chef in front of you! The risotto, made with your ingredient requests, is also excellent♪

Nature has the top priority over humans That's the rule to protect paradise

Do not take anything but photos 　　Do not leave anything but your footprints Do not kill anything but time

There are many resort areas where humans rule over nature, but El Nido, in the country's environmental protection zone, has rooted interest in "making nature the top priority over humans". Signboards with these concept are installed in various places, all visiting tourists agree with and stay in accordance with the rules. Also, plastic products are not used at all in the resort areas, nor will you see PET bottle drinks.
Environmental destruction is a major problem in resorts around the world. El Nido, which has rapidly been drawing attention in recent years, is no exception. In order to preserve this beautiful El Nido forever, we visitors must not forget to cherish nature.

One of the attractions of El Nido is the famous Emerald Green Small & Big Lagoon. It is overwhelmed by the huge rock wall created by nature and history.

In the El Nido Resort, you can carry your drink around in an original tumbler.

Directions

Via direct flight by AirSWIFT

From Cebu-Mactan Intl. Airport to El Nido Lio Airport
Start from P6,300
Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Via Puerto Princessa

Fly from Cebu to Puerto Princessa (Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes)
Transfer by bus or van from Puerto Princessa to El Nido (Duration: 5 to 6 hours)
From airport to accommodation, please use pick-up service of hotel or tricycle.
Miniloc Island will be closed from July 1 to December 23, 2018 due to renovation.
Other islands such as Lagen, Pangluasian and Apulit are available to visit.