If you are visiting the Philippine’s Caraga region and will be staying in Butuan, there is a number of hotels and accommodations in the city. You may stay in a classy but expensive Butuan Grand Palace Hotel, Hotel Oazis or Almont City Hotel. If you are a backpacker or budget traveler, choose Gloreto Guest House as it has the cheapest rates for an overnight stay in Butuan City.
Gloreto Guest House Butuan City
Gloreto Guest House Location
Gloretyo Guest House is located in Ilang-Ilang st., Ochoa Ave., Butuan City. This cheap Butuan city accommodation is just a few minute multicab ride away from Butuan bus terminal, Butuan National Museum and Gaisano mall. If you are coming from Butuan’s Bancasi airport, Gloreto Guest House can also be reached via multicab.
Gloreto Guest House Butuan Published Room Rates
Matrimonial Bed (Queen Size) 1099.00 P
Single Bed 799.00 Php
Twin Bed 999.00 Php
Tip: Book your discounted Gloreto Guest House room HERE. I only paid 642.50 Php instead of 799 Php for a Single Bed room.
Warm Welcome
After a long bus-ride from Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur, I arrived in Butuan bus terminal at 4:50 PM. I took a special multicab trip (50 Php) to Gloreto Guest House and arrived at exactly 5:00 PM. I immediately headed to the reception area and was warmly welcomed by the receptionists.
Reception Area
Single Bed Room
The receptionist assigned me to a single bed room on the second level of the hotel. The room smells good and is generally clean. It comes with an air-conditioning unit, an old-fashioned cable TV and a mini table that can serve as a work area. The bed and one pillow are just okay. Basic toiletries such as shampoo, soap and bath towel are provided.
Single Bed
I was good with the room but the toilet and bath surprised me. There is an issue with the toilet flush and the faucet needs to be replaced. Good thing is that there is a hot and cold shower with an okay-ish water pressure. I could not complain and reminded myself that I was in a budget hotel.
Overall, I was fine it with it. The room is clean and I had a good night sleep.
Missed Complimentary Breakfast
Gloreto Guest House Butuan offers complimentary breakfast from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Since I was too tired from my Hinatuan trip, I woke up past 9:00 AM the next day. Well, I missed the complimentary breakfast!
Surprisingly, one of the staff knocked on my door and asked if I want the breakfast. It made my morning since I will not have to spend for breakfast outside.
Complimentary Breakfast
I was very thankful to the staff for the room-serviced complimentary breakfast.
Recommended Budget Hotel in Butuan City
Gloreto Guest House is definitely not the best hotel in Butuan City but it is the cheapest and most affordable. The room is clean and customer service is superb. You will not need to worry about your security as there is a guard manning in the hotel. If you are a backpacker or a budget traveller, I would definitely recommend Gloreto Guest House.
Being one among the long list of beautiful places in the Philippines, Enchanted River in HinatuanSurigao del Sur is truly a promising tourist attraction and travel destination in the country.
Enchanted River, Hinautuan, Surigao del Sur
Due to the local government’s efforts in protecting and preserving Enchanted River, there are no accommodations within the river’s vicinity. However, there is a number of accommodations, lodges and inns in Hinatuan proper. One of which is the highly recommended by backpackers and travel bloggers – Marky’s Hostel.
Note: Hinatuan is a small laid-back town in Surigao del Sur. So don’t expect hotels or high-end resorts in the area.
Marky’s Hostel is just few minutes away from Hinatuan terminal. This Hinatuan accommodation is perfect for budget travelers and backpackers for their very affordable and cheap rates.
Marky’s Hostel Room Rates
400 fan room good for 2
1500 aircon room good for 6
Marky’s Hostel in Hinatuan
The hip and cool facade of Marky’s Hostel makes it stand out among other accommodations in Hinatuan. From outside, it appears to be very clean and well maintained.
Warm Welcome
When I arrived at Marky’s Hostel, the owner immediately welcomed me with a smile. He shared some tips and information about Enchanted River and other Surigao del Sur tourist attractions such as Tinuy-an Falls and Licbuacan cold springs.
We further exchanged stories. I mentioned that I’m a travel blogger and also came to know about Marky’s Hostel thru Ms. Gael’s blog pinaysolobackpacker.com. It was nice that he knows about the internet specifically blogs. Since I’m traveling alone, he was so kind to give me a discounted rate of 200 Pesos instead of 400 Pesos for a fan room.
Very Clean and Well-Maintained
kitchen area and toilet and bath
True enough, once you get inside, Marky’s Hostel is very clean and well maintained. There is a common area with dining table where guests can eat or simply hang-out. There are 2 separate toilet and bath, for men and for women. I learned from Sir Anselmo that Marky’s Hostel was originally planned to be a house for rent but was turned into a Hostel when tourists started pouring in because of Enchanted River. This is the reason why they were unable to place toilet and bath in each room.
Marky’s Hostel Fan Room
fan room at Marky’s Hostel
I have to admit that I did not really expect anything since the room is cheaply priced. Surprisingly, the room is very clean and well maintained. The matress and pillows were comfortable. The room is well ventilated and I never had a hard time sleeping given that I had a fan room.
Highly Recommended Accommodation Near Enchanted River
I enjoyed my stay in Marky’s Hostel. The owners, tatay Anselmo and nanay Lumen were very welcoming and accommodating. They were more like a family to their guests. They ensure that you enjoy your stay in Hinatuan and are always willing and available to chat and share stories with you.
The hostel is also strategically located as it is few minute tricycle, pedicab or habal-habal away from Hinatuan bus terminal. There are also nearby cheap food places (cartenderia) such as Leng-Leng and Drawde’s Tudlo Hakop.
Note: Since Marky’s Hostel and other Hinatuan accommodations, lodges and inns are situated in Hinatuan proper, travel time from Marky’s Hostel to Enchanted River is approximately 30 minutes by habal-habal. For my complete Enchanted River Itinerary, visit link below.
The majestic Enchanted River is located in municipality of Hinatuan in the province of Surigao del Sur. If you are planning to visit Enchanted River, unfortunately, there is no airport in Surigao del Sur. However, Enchanted River is accessible via Cagayan de Oro City, Davao City or Butuan City airport. Geographically, the Bancasi airport in Butuan is the nearest airport to Enchanted River.
How to get to Enchanted River from Manila
1. Manila City to Butuan City
Bancasi Airport, Butuan City (Agusan del Norte)
The fastest route to Enchanted River is via Butuan Airport. Book a flight from Manila to Butuan. The Philippine based budget airline Cebu Pacific has 3 flights daily from Manila to Butuan. Alternatively, you may also book your Butuan flight via Philippine Airlines. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tip: Book the earliest flight to Butuan so that you’ll arrive in Hinatuan on or before noon time.
2. Butuan City to Hinatuan (Surigao del Sur)
Once you arrive in Butuan’s Bancasi Airport, you may ride a bus or van to Hinatuan terminal.
Butuan Bus Terminal
By bus – From Bancasi airport, just locate the multicabs in the area and tell the driver that you are going to Butuan bus terminal. Fare is 10 Php per person. In Butuan terminal, ride a bus (Bachelor bus lines) bound to Bislig. Just tell the driver to drop you off the Hinatuan terminal. Bus fare is approximately 200 Php and travel time is 5 to 7 hours.
By van – Walk few meters from the Bancasi airport’s departure area and you will find vans bound to several municipalities and cities. Just look for the van headed to Bislig or ask the driver if the van is passing through Hinatuan Terminal. Fare is 350 Php and travel time is approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Since I didn’t want to waste time, I decided to ride a van instead of a bus. I soon later regretted it as the van had numerous stopovers, just like the buses. I also learned from the owner of Marky’s Hostel, the accommodation where I stayed during my Hinatuan visit, that vans do not provide accident insurance to its passengers unlike with buses.
Tip: If you are on a budget and after security and safety, ride a bus going to Hinatuan. Note though that most of the buses are non-airconditioned.
3. Hinatuan Terminal to Enchanted River
Hinatuan Terminal, Surigao del Sur
In Hinatuan terminal, habal-habal drivers will approach you and offer their service to Enchanted River. A two-way trip from Hinatuan terminal to Enchanted River costs 300 Php good for 2 persons. Habal-habal travel time to Enchanted River from Hinatuan terminal is approximately 30 minutes.
Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur
Tip: You may also arrange Tinuy-an trip with your habal-habal driver for an additional price. In my case I paid 1,200 Pesos for Enchanted River and Tinuy-an falls trip. I was offered a cheaper rate than the standard tour rate which is 1,500 Pesos.
Enchanted River Entrance Fee + Other Fees
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Since I’m alone, I did not rent for a shed or a cottage. I just paid the 40 Php for the entrance fee including the environmental fee.
Enchanted River Operating Hours
Note that the river is open to the public daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM only.
Tip: Plan your visit on a weekday and during the morning. The area gets crowded during weekends and during noon time and afternoon.
There are no ATMs in Hinatuan. Ensure to bring enough money before traveling for Enchanted River.
You can do Enchanted River and Tinuy-an falls in one day. It is highly recommended to spend a night in Hinatuan to rest.
The mobile and internet signal in Hinatuan proper are fairly decent but expect poor internet signal in Enchanted river and Tinuy-an falls.
Habal-habal can only accommodate 2 persons. Hire multiple habal-habal if you are travelling in a group.
Swimming is allowed on a certain part of the river. Local tourism has prohibited swimming in the deeper part (darker blue) of the river to ensure that fishes are protected.
Do not wear sunblock if you are planning to swim in the river. Locals say that sunscreens can be toxic to the fishes and other sea creatures in the river.
And, please include your habal-habal driver in your lunch or snacks. If you have spare money, give them tips. The tourism industry in Surigao del Sur is struggling since the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao.
Royal Park Hotel, also known as Royal Park Resort, is one among the long list of beachfront hotels in Boracay island.
Royal Park Hotel Boracay Facade
Strategic Location
Royal Park Hotel is strategically located as it is situated in the border of Station 1 and Station 2 of Boracay’s white sand beach. Guests at Royal Park Hotel get to enjoy the proximity of various bars and restaurants in Station 2. It is also a few minute walk from D’ Mall, D’ Market and D’ Talipapa.
Royal Park Hotel has an elevated private space right in front of the property where beach beds are located. I personally love this elevated space as it serves as an area where guests can enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking view of the beach. The property also has coconut tress which adds up to the tropical feel and vibe of the area.
Royal Park Hotel boracay lobby
The lobby is simple and homey. We felt like we were just visiting a house of a friend or a relative.
Upon entering the Royal Park Hotel, we were warmly greeted by the receptionist. I handed the soft copy of our Agoda booking confirmation slip and our booking was immediately confirmed after few minutes. We were asked by the receptionist to sit for the welcome drinks. We were really surprised that Royal Park Hotel offers welcome drinks! Coming from a luxurious stay at Henann Prime Beach Resort, I have to admit that I did not really expect too much from Royal Park Hotel. But the welcome drinks was really surprising and made us feel important.
Royal Park Hotel Room Rates
Low Season rates (June 1 to November 30)
Single Room (2 PAX) – 4,500 Php
Standard Room (2 to 3 PAX) – 5,000 Php
Family Deluxe (4 PAX) – 6,000 Php
Hollow Suite (4 PAX) – 7,500 Php
Suite (2 PAX) – 8,000 Php
Executive Suite (2 PAX) – 9,000 Php
extra PAX – 500 Php
extra bed – 1,000 Php
High Season rates (December 1 to May 30)
Single Room (2 PAX) – 5,500 Php
Standard Room (2 to 3 PAX) – 6,500 Php
Family Deluxe (4 PAX) – 7,500 Php
Hollow Suite (4 PAX) – 8,500 Php
Suite (2 PAX) – 9,000 Php
Executive Suite (2 PAX) – 10,000 Php
extra PAX – 500 Php
extra bed – 1,000 Php
Discounted Royal Park Hotel Room Rates!
After enjoying our 2 nights stay at Henann Prime Beach Resort, we transffered at Royal Park Hotel. We were very lucky to have booked a Family Deluxe room at a discounted rate. We booked it for only 2,600 Php instead of the 6,000 Php published rate. Thanks to Agoda!
Tip: You may book your discounted Royal Park Hotel room HERE.
Family Room at Royal Park Hotel, Station 1 Boracay
Our room was room number 1, technically the nearest to the beachfront. Surprisingly, the family room at Royal Park Hotel is very spacious. It comes with 2 double beds, spacious toilet and bath with hot and cold shower, LCD cable TV, dresser, air-conditioning unit and a dinette set. There are no complimentary bottled water but a pitcher of cold purified water is provided when you arrive.
Royal Park Hotel Boracay Family Room
The double beds are okay. Not the type you get to experience in high-end hotels but are comfortable enough for a good night sleep.
Overall, I should say that the room is clean and simple. The room’s classy furnitures and fixtures are indication that the Royal Park Hotel was once a high-end hotel in Boracay. The rustic feel reminds be of cheap and affordable hotels I’ve been to on my previous travels.
Being in the border of Stations 1 and 2, Royal Park Hotel’s facade and beachfront may tend to become crowded. Tourists walking from station 2 to station 1 pass along the beachfront of the hotel. If you are after peaceful and serene beachfront, I would not recommend Royal Park Hotel. However, if you are going to Boracay to party, shop and fulfill your gastronomic adventures, this is the best hotel due to its proximity to bars, shops and restaurants.
Apart from enjoying the fine white sands and crystal clear waters of Boracay, the island is also the best place to fulfill your gastronomic adventures. There are countless restaurants in the island serving various dishes such as Filipino, American, Mexican, French, Chinese and many more. If you love seafood, skip these restaurants as there is only one place to enjoy one of a kind seafood dining experience in the island – D’ Talipapa in Station 2 Boracay.
Where to eat seafood in Boracay? – D’ Talipapa
D’ Talipapa is a popular food destination among tourists visiting Boracay island. Located in the busy and crowded Station 2 of Boracay, D’ Talipapa has established its name as the ultimate food destination for seafood lovers. Just like the Seaside Dampa Macapagal in Manila, diners at D’ Talipapa get to enjoy a unique seafood dining experience.
What makes the D’ Talipapa dining experience unique?
Wet market
Talipapa is a Filipino word which means a small wet market.
Unlike in a typical Boracay restaurant, at D’ Talipapa, you get to choose and shop from various fresh seafood in wet market. The market offers fresh seafood such as shrimps, lobsters, crabs, oysters, squids, sea urchins, fishes and different types of shell fishes such as mussels, scallops and many more!
Scallops
Shrimps
Fishes
Tip: Use you hanging skills in the wet market. Jen and I strolled around the market to check-out the prices of fresh seafood. A kilo of medium-sized shrimps is sold from 550 Php ($11) to 600 Php ($12) . We bought a kilo of shrimps at only 500 Php ($10). Scallops is sold at 400 per kilo. We bought ours a half kilo for only 150 Php ($3).
After shopping, you will have to bring your fresh seafood to a paluto restaurant within the area. Paluto is a Filipino word which means to have the food cooked for you. Just like Seaside Dampa in Manila, you shop for seafood in the wet market and choose a restaurant. Ask the retaurant to cook the seafood for a cooking service charge.
Etniko Bar Resto, Paluto restaurant at D’ Talipapa Boracay
Entiko Boracay Resto Bar, Station 3
After shopping for seafood, we immediately headed to Etniko Resto Bar. This eye-catching restaurant is literally few steps away from the wet market. Etniko Resto bar has this ethnic theme which makes it stand out from other paluto restaurants.
We browsed the menu and asked one of the staff to cook buttered shrimps and baked scallops. Cooking charge is 200 Php ($4) for the 1 kilo of shrimps and 150 Php ($3) for the half kilo of scallops. Please see the complete list of paluto (cooking) charge below:
This seafood haven is located in Station 2. If you are coming to any part of the main road, ride a tricycle. Fare if you are coming from Stations 1 or 2 is only 10 Php each ($0.20). Alternatively, if you are coming from any part of the white beach, just walk to Station 3 and ask some locals where D’ Market is. D’ Talipapa is just within the area of D’ Market.
Highly Recommended
If you want a unique and one of a kind cultural dining experience, visit D’ Talipapa in Station 3 Boracay. You get to experience shopping in an authentic Filipino wet market and have it cooked at a nearby Filipino-owned restaurant. Would I recommend this Boracay food place? Definitely yes!
Visiting Boracay? Book you discounted Boracay hotel HERE.
Henann Prime Beach Resort Boracay is the newest addition in Henann Group of hotels chain in Boracay island, Philippines. Situated in Station 1, Henann Prime Beach Resort offers the best beachfront experience to its in-house guests. This luxury Boracay resort also offers mouth-watering dishes at its al fresco Sea Salt Cafe which provides an incomparable view of the white sand and pristine waters of Boracay.
Henann Prime Beach Resort building in main road Boracay
From the main road, the hotel looks very new and well maintained. It stands out among its neighbouring resorts, 2 Seasons resort and Las Brisas Resort. Henan Prime Beach Resort as 2 main buildings, the Beach wing and the East wing. Rooms at Beach wing are near to the beachfront. East wing rooms on the other hand are situated near the main road. I was amazed that Henann Prime Beach Resort made a walkway connecting both East wing to the Beach wing of the resort. It definitely provides convenience to its guests whose rooms are situated on the East wing building.
Classy Lobby and Al Fresco Common Area
Lobby
Common area
The hotel’s lobby is located on the ground floor of East wing building. The lobby is simple, minimalist but classy. It is spacious and cater a huge number of guests checking-in and out of the hotel. When we arrived, there were 3 welcoming front desk staff and a concierge who assisted us with our backpacks.
The common areas along with the hallways are amazingly clean and classy. Just like the lobby and reception area, the common area and hall ways give a minimalist yet classy vibe.
Please watch my video below of Henann Prime’s reception area, lobby and hallway:
Henann Prime Beach Resort Boracay Premier Room Review
Premier rooms at Henann Prime Beach resort are located on the Beach wing of the hotel. A premier room is approximately 36 square meters.
The key cards provided by the receptionist work perfectly. The room’s door comes with an eyelet for in-house guest’s security. Unlike in a typical hotel where the key card also serves as the power switch, rooms at Henann Prime have an automatic key card for the power. You can go outside leaving the air-conditioning unit running.
Premier Room
Premier Room at Henann Prime Resort Boracay
Upon entering the room, on the left side is a spacious dresser with hangers, 2 Hennan bathrobe, 2 pairs of room slippers and a safe deposit box. There is also a Henann plastic bag if you wish to avail for their in-house laundry service. On the right side is a space between the wall (with an intricate accent) and the king-sized bed.
The bed is very comfortable, definitely of high quality. Same as with 6 pillows where 2 of which are cylindrical in shape. The bed, the 300 thread count linens and pillows are the one you get to experience in 5-star hotels. There are also bed side tables with classy lamp shades.
Henann Prime Premier Room Boracay
work area
welcome fruits
Beside the bed is a spacious sitting area with a small sofa and a small marble clad table. On the table is Henann Prime’s welcome gift – a plateful of fruits. If you’re bringing your laptop or macbook, across the sitting area is a work area with a huge mirror.
The room also comes with a 43″ LCD cable TV, personal refrigerator, coffee and tea making facility with a complimentary coffee and complimentary daily bottled water, individually controlled air-conditioning unit and telephone with IDD and NDD.
Toiletries
shower are and bathtub are separated from toilet
Spacious vanity area
Surprisingly, the toilet and bath is very spacious. There is a vanity area with a long marble clad partnered with a long mirror. On the vanity area are Henann Group of resorts toiletries. We personally loved the Henann soap and shower gel. The toilet comes with a bidet spray. Bath and face towels along with a toilet matt are provided too. The hot and cold shower area and bathtub are separated from the toilet by a glass partition. My only review for improvement is the water pressure of the bidet spray. Nonetheless, the water pressure in the shower and sink in the vanity area are excellent.
One of my favorite spot in the Premier room is the spacious balcony. There is a dinette set and an area to hang your wet clothes. We also had a Premier room on the third floor where smoking is allowed in the balcony. The room has a swimming pool view which looks very beautiful and elegant especially at night.
The entire room, toilet and bath and balcony are very clean and elegant. I love the attention to detail of the interiors. Furnishings and fixtures look expensive and of high-quality. Truly at par with high-end hotels in Manila such as Shangri-La and F1 Hotel Manila.
On our second day, we posted the make-up room outside our door. The housekeeping staff is commendable as the room was very clean the moment we returned after visiting Diniwid beach and D’ Mall.
Here’s the video clip of our room in Henann Prime Beach Resort:
Henann Prime Beach Resort Promo Package
We were grateful to have checked Henann’s website and seen Henann Prime Beach Resort offers promo packages which are cheaper to their published rates. Jen and I availed for a Splendid Package for Lean Season for 8,223.00 Php per person Ppus 275 Php government fees per person. The promo package includes the following:
roundtrip airport transfers (inclusive of environment and terminal fees)
3 days and night accommodation
2 days buffet breakfast for 2
2 nights buffet dinner for 2
welcome drinks
free use of swimming pools
Tip: For Splendid Package rates and reservation, e-mail reservations.hpb@hennan.com. If you want non-package and cheaper rates, book via Agoda.
Henann Prime Boracay Philippines
Highly Recommended Boracay Hotel
I should say that Henann Prime Beach Resort Boracay sets its own standards of being best in class. Henann Prime Beach Resort is truly a world-class hotel right in the Philippine’s most beautiful island – Boracay.
D’ Mall is located in station 2 of Boracay’s white sand beach. This al fresco shopping center has been around Boracay for quite some time. D Mall has become a popular landmark in the island. It has established itself as the very first and the best one stop shop for anything that any tourist needs.
D Mall Boracay Island Philippines
The entire D Mall complex is jam-packed with restaurants, bars, cafes, souvenir shops, travel agencies, money changers, ATMs and even hotels.
Things to do in D’ Mall
There are countless of things to do in D’ Mall. Fulfil your gastronomic adventures through a wide variety of restaurants. If you love shopping, D’ Mall will not disappoint you. There is a number of shops, mostly international brands, selling apparel from swimwear to casual attire. If you are a party animal, there is a good number of bars that will truly make your Boracay trip memorable. If you just want to simply hangout and relax, milk tea, coffee shops and cafes are everywhere. Souvenir shops are also all the place, you can buy your Boracay souvenirs from keychains, refrigerator magnets, t-shirts, bags and many others.
Tip: If you are buying Boracaray souvenirs, skip D’ Mall and go to D’ Market or D’ Talipapa instead. Souvenirs at D’ Mall are a bit expensive. You can buy souvenirs at D’ Market or D’ Talipapa at a cheaper price.
Below is a short video clip of our D’ Mall visit:
List of shops and establishments in D’ Mall Boracay:
French Nail
Hallowich
Sharetea
Bells & Blooms
Country Jeans
Levi’s
Rudy Project
The Tides hotel
Hama
Island Chicken Inasal
Lemini Cafe
Chanet Spa
Funkie Souver Shop
Fiesta Favorite Souvenir
Ralph’s Wines & Spirits
Golden Bamboo
Fila
a piece of green
Gem Talk
Hugo Home Lifestyle
Itti
Department of Tourism
Goldstar Inn
Happy Planet
Andok’s
Aria
Pick & Match
Big Mouth
The Hobbit
Crocs
Master Twister
Tres Amigos
Ram’s House of Wine
V.B. Queen’s Money Changer
Queen Bee Fruit Shake
Ole
Jeepney Stop
Rumba’s
Bite Club
Epic
Budget Mart
Cyma
Jammers
D’ Mall at Station 2 Boracay
How to get to D’ Mall
Just walk along Station 2 and you will definitely pass by D’ Mall. The are signs indicating the entrance of D’ Mall. If you are staying in a resort, hotel or accommodation in Station 2, D’ Mall can be reached by foot in a couple of minutes. If you are staying in Stations 1 or 3, you can also walk along the white beach to Station 2. You will know that you are already in D’ Mall entrance if you see Epic bar along the white beach. Alternatively, you can ride a tricycle along the main road. Fare is 10 Php ($0.20) each for non-special trip. Just inform the driver to drop you off in Budget Mart convenience store at D’ Mall.
When nature calls, there are 2 paid public comfort rooms within D’ Mall complex. Just make sure to prepare 5 Php everytime you use the comfort rooms. D’ Mall shops opens at 7:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
Overall, I highly suggest visiting D’ Mall if you are going to Boracay. The places if fun and truly a haven for food lovers and shoppers!
Tip: If you are visiting Boracay, get huge discounts on your Boracay hotel HERE.
Henann Prime Beach Resort is the newest and very first Henann beachfront resort in station 1 Boracay. Opened in November 2016, Henann Prime Beach Resort is becoming a popular choice of station 1 Boracay hotel among tourists.
Me being a first timer in Boracay, Jen made sure that to book the best but not the priciest hotel in the island. We were lucky to have booked Henann Prime Beach Resort’s Splendid Package which is a 2 nights and 3 days stay including 2 buffet breakfast, 2 buffet dinner and airport transfers.
We loved everything about Henann Prime Beach Resort and we’re definitely recommending it to anyone who’s planning to visit Boracay. Here are my 7 Reasons why Henann Prime Beach Resort is a Perfect Hotel for your Boracay Trip:
1. Breathtaking Beachfront Resort
Me enjoying the beautiful beach front of Henann Prime Beach Resort
Situated in station 1 which is known to as home of luxury and high–end resorts in Boracay, Henann Prime Beach Resort has the best beachfront compared to other Henann resorts in Boracay island. It’s beachfront is as equally beautiful as other station 1 hotels and resorts. The beachfront is the perfect spot to enjoy the breathtaking view of fine white sands and pristine waters of Boracay. From afar, Henann Prime Beach resort’s facade stands out for it’s signature blue-green beach beds with stylish white umbrellas.
Henann Prime Beach Resort
The facade is truly eye-catching. It has a high-end look and feel. The beautiful beach beds are just few meters from the shore and are perfectly placed for relaxation. Almost all tourists walking in the shore take a glimpse of the carefully arranged and classy beach beds of Henann Prime Beach Resort.
Watch my short video featuring Henann Prime Beach Resort’s beachfront:
2. Superb Customer service
Henann Prime Beach Resort knows what customer service is! The superb customer service starts the moment you arrive in the in the airport. You will experience a VIP treatment throughout your stay, from your Caticalan airport transfer to Henann Prime, during your stay in the resort, until your transfer from Henann Prime to Caticlan airport.
The moment we arrived at Henann Prime Beach Resort, we were warmly greeted by the security guard, luggage attendant and Jcel- resort’s front desk. Since we way too early for the 3:00 PM check-in, we were allowed to check-in at 1:30 PM. We even asked to give us a smoking room. Jcel was kind enough to provide us a Premier room on the 3rd floor, where smoking in the balcony is allowed. While waiting, we checked out Sea Salt Cafe and relaxed at the beach bed. We have not officially checked-in yet but the beach attendant surprised us by serving cold glasses of water and giving us towels while we were on the beach beds.
With Sir Art, Henann Prime’s Manager on Duty
All the staff were very welcoming and accommodating. Every time we bump into a staff in the resort’s vicinity, we were sincerely and politely greeted. There were occurrences where we had to cross the main road and the lady guard made sure of our safety while crossing road. We felt very special.
Some of the staff of Sea Salt Cafe, Henann Prime
During buffet breakfast and dinner, Sea Salt Cafe staff were very accommodating. They were very helpful and were always ready to serve guests. Sir Art, the manager on duty, was very welcoming and accommodating. He makes sure that food are readily available throughout the duration of buffet. He always ensures that chaffers are always refilled so you will need not to worry about running out of your favorite food in the buffet.
3. Smooth Airport Transfer
It amazed me how organized and seamless the airport transfers were. Since we booked via Henann’s reservation, we did not experience any issues at all. The airport transfers went well. We arrived at Henann Prime Beach Resort fresh and relaxed.
Caticlan Airport to Cagban Port
Henann Group of Resorts Boracay van
The moment you arrive in Caticlan airport, there are Henann staff with a Hennan placard waiting for you. These Hanann staff will direct you to your van transfer from Caticlan airport to an exclusive Henann Group of Resorts port. This port is nearby to Caticlan port where tourists go for a boat transfer to Cagban port. Since Henann group of resorts has its exclusive port, you will need not to worry about enduring the long lines and waiting time in Caticlan port. In addition, you also get to ride a Henann Group of Resorts’ speed boat. Meaning, you will not have to undergo the usual process of falling in line, paying for the environmental fee and waiting for the boat to fill up.
Henann Group of Resort’s boat immediately leaves for Cagban port once you aboard. And it only takes less than 10 minutes boat ride from Caticlan port to Cagban port compared to approximately 20 to 30 minutes when you board a public boat in Caticlan port.
Once you reach Cagban port, they will direct you to a Hennan group of resorts van that will bring you to Henann Prime Beach resort. If you have a heavy luggage, no need to worry as the Henann staff will take good care of your luggage throughout the transfers.
I should say that Hennan Prime Beach resorts exceeded my expectations. I did not really expect that the transfer was a breeze.
4. World-Class and Elegant Rooms
Henann Prime Beach Resort has a total 104 world-class elegant rooms. 50 rooms are located on the Beach wing and the other 54 rooms are on the East wing (main road side).
Rooms at Henann Prime Beach Resort is at par with that of luxurious hotels in Manila. High-end furnitures and fixtures are carefully selected making the rooms very functional and elegant. I personally love the attention to detail they have put into the rooms.
Below are the standard amenities you get to enjoy if you book a room at Henann Prime Beach Resort:
Separate toilet and bathtub
Safety deposit box
Telephone with IDD and NDD
Bathroom telephone
Personal refrigerator
Daily housekeeping
Electric kettle
Complimentary coffee
Daily complimentary water bottles
Bathrobes and slippers
Bidet spray in toilet
Hair dryer
Daily house keeping service
Laundry service (with a fee)
In room dining service
Henann Toiletries
Room Types at Beach Wing
Premier Room
Premier Room at Henann Prime Resort Boracay
located on 2nd, 3rd and 4th level
choice of 1 queen size bed and a single bed or 1 king size bed
approximately 36 sq. m.
veranda with a mini dining set
bathroom vanity area
43 inch cable TV
WIFI access
Premier Room with direct pool access
located on ground floor
same features as Premier room plus it’s special feature of having a direct access to the beautiful pool
Grand Room with Sea View
beachfront view
1 king size bed
approximately 56 sq. m.
veranda with a mini dining set
Spacious seating and wardrobe area
bathroom vanity area
large free-standing bathtub
50-inch cable TV
WIFI Access
Ipod docking station
Room Types at East Wing
The East Wing rooms consist of Deluxe and Deluxe with direct pool access.
Deluxe Room
located on 2nd, 3rd and 4th level
1 queen size bed and a single bed
approximately 40 sq. m.
same features as Premier room but are located on the main road side
Deluxe Room with direct pool access
located on the ground floor
1 queen size bed and a single bed
approximately 40 sq. m.
same features as Premier room with direct pool access but are located on the main road side
Published room rates at Henann Prime Beach Resort
The below published rates are generated from the Henann website and are generated as of this writing. Rates are inclusive of airport transfers and buffet breakfast. Please note that prices vary from the booking date and are subject to change.
Premier Room – 8,664 Php or Premier Room (triple)- 9,242 Php
Premier Room with direct pool access – 10,770 Php or Premier Room with direct pool access (triple)- 10,307 Php
Grand Sea View – 11,984 Php
Deluxe Room – 6,465 Php
Deluxe Room with direct pool access – 7,604 Php
Tip: Henann Prime Beach Resort offers Splendid Package promo rates inclusive of 2 nights and 3 days stay, buffet breakfast, buffet dinner and airport transfer. Jen and I compared the promo rates and found that these are indeed cheaper than the published rates. We booked a Splendid Package for lean season for 16,995 Php all-in. Alternatively, you may also book discounted and cheaper Henann Prime Beach Resort room HERE.
5. Delectable Food at Sea Salt Cafe
If Henann Regency Resort & Spa in Station 2 has Sea Breeze Cafe, Henann Prime Beach Resort’s very own Sea Salt Cafe boasts its delicious selection of dishes, pastries and drinks.
View from Sea Salt Cafe
Dining in at the Al Fresco Sea Salt Cafe is incomparable to any dining experience in Boracay’s popular restaurants. Located in front of Henann Prime Beach Resort’s property, you get to enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful view of white sand beach.
Sea Salt Cafe offers Filipino, Asian and Western cuisine.
Buffet breakfast at Sea Salt
Breakfast buffet is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM and costs 549 Php (approximately $11). Dinner buffet on the other hand starts at 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM and costs 695 Php ($14). Sea Salt Cafe also offers 10% discount for in-house guests! If you drink, Sea Salt Cafe has a happy hour, buy 1 take 1 on selected beers and cocktails from 5 :00 PM to 7:00 PM.
I will write a separate blog post on my review of buffet breakfast and dinner at Sea Salt.
6. Uniquely Beautiful Pool
Henann Prime Swimming Pool at Beach Bing
Compared to its sister resorts Henann Regency Boracay and Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol, Henann Prime Beach Resort is smaller. which makes it more quiet and private. Nonetheless, Henann Group of Resorts utilized its limited real estate and made 2 unique and beautiful pools on each wing of the resort. For the safety of its guests, pool opens and 7:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
7. Peaceful Location
Based on stories from people I know, I must admit that I pictured Boracay as a party place. I was wrong. There is still an area in Boracay white sand beach that is relatively less crowded, calm and peaceful. Being in station 1, which is a bit far from the crowded and busy stations 2 and 3, Henann Prime Beach Resort is a haven to those who want to relax. There are less tourists walking in the beachfront and there are no bars or party places nearby.
Overall, I enjoyed my very first visit in Boracay island. I must say that a huge part of the positive experience was because of us staying at Henann Prime Beach Resort. The airport transfers were hassle free, the room was elegant, beachfront was breathtaking and of course the customer service was superb! Henan Prime Beach Resort in Boracay is truly a perfect hotel if you are visiting the beautiful island of Boracay!
Henann Prime Beach Resort
Address: Station 1, Beachfront, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, 5608 Philippines
Resort Office contact number:+63 36 288 9200
Email: reservations.hpb@henann.com
Website: wwww.henann.com
Book your discounted Henann Prime Beach Resort room HERE.
Being home of the 7,107 islands, the Philippines is blessed with beautiful tourists destinations. On top of the list is the breathtaking island of Boracay. Palawan, Bohol and Davao are also popular travel destination in the country. If you are visiting these destinations or any other provinces in the Philippines, it is highly recommended to book your hotel or accommodation ahead of time. Hotels in these destinations easily get fully book especially during peak season.
Where to book hotels online in the Philippines?
Today, there are various online booking sites that provides your hotel and accommodation options prior to your travel. As a travel blogger, I have tried various hotel online booking sites. I should say that I have not encountered any issues booking my hotel or accommodation prior to my trips. I highly recommend Travelbook.ph online hotel booking site for several reasons.
All online booking sites claim that they offer rooms at a discounted rate. Based on my experience there were instances where the published hotel rate is the same with what other online booking sites offer. What I love about Travelbook.ph is that when they say discounted rates, they mean it. So far, Travelbook.ph is the most consistent and has the best hotel rates among other online hotel booking site there is today.
Apart from the discounted rates published in Travelbook.ph, an automatic voucher code will be generated in your booking. Thus, you will see how much additional savings you get in your hotel. That is on top of the discounted rates!
F1 Hotel Manila
Who would have thought that we paid around 4,320 Php instead of 11,000 Php published rate for an overnight stay at F1 Hotel Manila?
Another feature of Travelbook.ph I love is the no credit card needed, pay at the hotel. Unlike other hotel online booking sites, it is only Travelbook.ph that will let you book your hotel without using a credit card. This is perfect to those who do not have credit card or to those who are afraid for their credit card details to be compromised online. Do not get me wrong, Travelbook.ph site is very safe and secure!
3. Earn points for every booking!
Aside from the discounted rates and automatic discount voucher, you also get points for every booking you make at Travelbook.ph. This is another first of its kind feature for a hotel online booking site. The points you will be earning for a booking depends on the price of the hotel you booked. The more expensive the more points you get. A point is equivalent to 1 php. What’s exciting about this is you get to spend the points for your succeeding hotel online booking!
I booked a boutique hotel in Dumaguete City for only 362.66 Php instead of 2,600 Php! How? 2,600 Php (Travelbook.ph discounted price) less 1,728 Php (points I earned on my previous Travelbook.ph hotel bookings).
There are indeed many hotels online booking websites. Most of which are globally popular and offers hotel rates worldwide. Apart from the 3 reasons I mentioned in this article, Travelbook.ph only offers hotels, accommodations, resorts and lodgings in the Philippines. They focus in giving the best hotel rates for travelers visiting any part of the Philippines. Truly a great deal not only for business or leisure travelers but also for backpackers. This exclusivity makes Travelbook.ph stand-out among other online booking sites.
Established in 2013, Travelbook.ph maybe the youngest in the hotel online booking world but it offers the biggest hotel discounts in the Philippines!
One Armed Wanderer Recommends the following Travelbook.ph Philippine destinations:
Located in Cavite, Tagaytay city is just few hours away from Manila. Its proximity from the bustling Manila makes this city the most popular travel destination in the south. Apart from its location, Tagaytay city is known for its cold weather and not to mention its various tourists attractions such as Residence Inn Zoo, Tagaytay People’s Park, Skyranch and Picnic Grove.
Tagaytay City will also fulfill your gastronomic adventures. Don’t miss their delicious bulalo in Mahogany Market and nearby South Streat Gourmand Food Park and Twin Lakes. And of course scenic views of Taal volcano which can be enjoyed through various restaurants and hotels in the city.
If you are visiting Tagaytay, here are the 7 best hotels in Tagaytay that will truly make your vacation memorable:
1. Taal Vista Hotel
Taal Vista Hotel is the most popular luxurious Tagaytay hotel in this list. Rooms provide guests with mountain view or lake view. On lake wing, you can choose from a two-bedroom deluxe suite, premier queen, deluxe king, deluxe queen, premier king and Batangas suite, On the other hand, mountain wing rooms consist of one-bedroom deluxe suite, superior twin, superior king, premier room-mountain wing, deluxe ridge, deluxe king, Taal suite and Tagaytay suite.
Taal Vista Hotel
Guests at Taal Vista Hotel will enjoy a showcase of Filipino folkloric dance every Fridays to Sundays at 12:30 PM. The hotel also has a souvenir shop called Culture Butik for those who want to bring home Filipino souvenir items.
Taal Vista Hotel has an outdoor pool, garden, gym, view deck and a recreation facility.
Room price starts at 5,200 Php. You may book your Taal Vista Hotel room HERE or HERE at a discounted rate.
2. Lee Boutique Hotel
If you are into small and more private hotels, Lee Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to spend your night in Tagaytay. Accommodations in this chic and hip hotel are superior room, deluxe room, executive room, regency king, junior suite, 2 bedroom suite and family room.
Lee Boutique Hotel
It is highly recommended to try their delicious special tapa and boneless bangus.
This hotel offers luxurious lobby and suites with a panoramic views of Taal volcano. Accommodations in this high-end Tagaytay Hotel include an English themed Oxford suite, Nantucket Suite and Nara suite. Room rates start at 6,500 Php a night.
If you want relaxation and rejuvination, Nurture Wellness Village is the perfect Tagaytay hotel for you. Nurture Wellness Village offer various services including Filipino Spa & pampering, corporate wellness (business and team building venue), wedding and intimate event venue, detox & holistic weight loss and other holistic health services.
Nurture Wellness Village
Nurture Wellness Village was awarded Certificate of excellence by TripAdvisor from 2014 to 2016.
Accommodations in this unique Tagytay hotel include Ifugao spa suites (7,900 Php), Superior garden view room (6,200 Php) , Deluxe forrest view room (7,900 Php) and the Family room (2,500 Php).
Discounted Nurture Wellness Village room rates HERE.
5. T House
T House
T House is one among the few Tagaytay hotels with modern architecture and vibe. This hotel boasts its restaurant with locally sourced food. On their menu are Filipino dishes to Asian cuisine. All ingredients used on their menu are locally sources from neighbouring farms.
Accommodations at T House are Garden room (4,850 Php), Courtyard room (5,200 Php), Luxe room (5,950 Php), Serenity suite (6,800 Php), Serenity balcony suite (7,200 Php).
The Lake Hotel Tagaytay´s Medditeranean-inspired structure makes it unique among other hotels in the city. Rooms in The Lake Hotel are standard, superior, deluxe, deluxe lake view, junior suite, one bedroom suite and two bedroom suite.
Among the many facilities are indoor pool, Shamble garden, Lake Cafe restaurant, bar and kiddie playroom.
The Lake Hotel Tagaytay
Book your discounted The Lake Hotel Tagaytay room HERE.
7. Domicillo Design Hotel
Domicillo Design Hotel
Last on our list is Domicillo Design Hotel. This hotel reminds me of BRblock Boutique and Residences in Makati City, minimalist, industrial and modern. What makes Domicillo Design Hotel unique is its refreshing ambiance. The lush greens in the garden is truly relaxing.
Book your discounted Domicillo Design hotel room HERE.
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