✈️ Direct Flight na, mga Bai!

Guess what, Cebuanos? Cebu Pacific (CEB), our Philippines' leading airline, just made this Palawan dream way easier! They launched their direct flights from Cebu to El Nido just last October 26, thanks to their partner, Cebgo (DG). Karon, every single Juan from Central Visayas has more chances to finally see those famous natural wonders. CEB now flies daily between Cebu and El Nido via Cebgo. Pero, take note: AirSWIFT also has existing flights to the same spot, so we have options!

🦁 The Spot to Stay in El Nido

When we were there, we stayed at The Funny Lion El Nido—and susmaryosep, it was a beautiful pahulay (rest)! It blends serious comfort with a green, sustainable vibe. This place? It’s not just famous; it’s Michelin Guide–listed and proudly holds the title of the No. 1 Hotel in El Nido! Condé Nast Johansens even recognized them for the Best Value Experience. Imagine na lang! They’ve been hailed as one of Asia’s Top 10 Sustainable Hotels, Best Value Hotels, and New Hotels by Smart Travel Asia.

Managed by the lovely people at One-Of Collection, The Funny Lion truly gets the El Nido spirit: warm, classy, and just so connected to nature.

Balinsasayaw Road, El Nido Town, El Nido, Philippines

+63 917 132 8412

elnido.inquiries@thefunnylion.com

thefunnylion.com/el-nido-home

🌴 Your Epic 3-Day, 2-Night El Nido Itinerary!

Get ready, team! I finally got to tick El Nido, Palawan off my bucket list, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint. Here’s a breakdown of my perfect three-day escape!

Day 1: Landing, Luxury, and Maldita Cocktails

We flew straight into paradise via Cebu Pacific Air (they've got daily flights from Cebu, so check out www.cebupacificair.com to snag your preferred dates!).

First stop: The Funny Lion El Nido! After years of dreaming, I finally experienced their famous hospitality, and I totally get why this place is Michelin-listed. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from the beachfront and truly deserves its spot as one of Palawan’s top accommodations. Seriously, the vibe is just chef's kiss.

We dove straight into lunch at their in-house resto, The Hunt. Everything was divine, but the Saigon Chicken Noodles? Absolute magic! (And yes, you read that right—I paired it with their signature cocktail, Maldita, a local gin mix that hits just right! Don’t judge my vacation choices. 😉)

The afternoon was all about fueling up and relaxation. I hit up Niki Baker for some killer pastries and coffee (perfect for satisfying those afternoon cravings, plus they have great pasalubong goodies to bring home!).

The rest of the day was dedicated to ME TIME. Of course, I squeezed in a quick workout at The Funny Lion’s gym. It’s open from 6 AM to 9 PM, but here's a pro-tip: you can even request the front desk to use it beyond hours—talk about super convenient!

Day 2: Island Hopping Dreams Are Made of This

Today was the day! We were truly living the dream with a full day of island hopping.

We explored the absolute best of El Nido: soaking up the stunning views at Seven Commando, feeling the pristine sands of Entalula, uncovering the hidden gem of Pinaglungaban, navigating the mysterious waters of Secret Lagoon, and paddling through the awe-inspiring beauty of Big Lagoon. Every single spot was unforgettable!

Huge shout-out to Dot Region IV-B MIMAROPA and Ellen's Travel & Tours Palawan for perfectly arranging this paradise experience!

We capped off the day like kings and queens, first with a sumptuous spread at Holy Grill & Restobar, followed by cocktails at Manu Brew. Oh, and get this—Holy Grill even prepared our incredible lunch spread during the island hopping trip. They truly are the perfect pair for any adventure!

Day 3: Cashews, Cookies, and Ciao!

You can’t leave a province without loading up on goodies! Day three was affectionately dubbed Pasalubong Day. I braved the El Nido Public Market to grab local delicacies like freshly roasted cashew nuts, peanuts, and baked camotes. Then, I swung back to Niki Baker for those must-have cookies for my officemates (you know, to prove I didn't forget them 😉).

We squeezed in one last delicious, filling lunch at The Hunt in The Funny Lion El Nido—a perfect way to feel satisfied before heading to the airport.

Speaking of the airport... prepare to be amazed! We were genuinely shocked and welcomed by the resort-themed El Nido Airport. It was such a pleasant, picture-perfect ending to a spectacular trip!