We all have our reasons to travel. Some seek thrill, to test out their physical limits by going through extreme environments like the hot desserts of the Sahara, the freezing heights of Mount Everest, or the damp forest of the Amazon. Others set out to get lost on distant lands, immersing themselves in unfamiliar cultures, food, and traditions. Many of us based in the metro, meanwhile, search for liberation from our hectic lives, to escape the city hubbub.

Where the warmth of the sun and the cool ocean breeze kiss the skin, and the acoustic of crashing waves titillate the ears, beaches remain among the prime spots for relaxation. As an archipelago, the Philippines is home to some of the most stunning shores in the world, many of which are nestled in Palawan.

Otherwise known as the Philippines’ last frontier, the province alone has 1,780 islands and islets, each more magical than the last, which makes Palawan a dream destination for unwinding.

From myriad accommodations in the white sand paradise, one particular luxury resort is on the rise and has caught the attention of travelers. As of writing, the number one hotel brand in Palawan, according to guest reviews from the travel network, Tripadvisor, is The Funny Lion El Nido.

The contemporary safari-themed resort is part of the hotel management group One-of Collection, which is also responsible for Amorita. It currently has two branches, one in El Nido and the other in Coron. Slated to open on Dec. 20 is Puerto Princesa.
 

I was lucky enough to stay in the Coron property, experiencing firsthand what makes The Funny Lion tick.

The place is unassuming. It does its job well as a refuge where you simply rest your head and soak up the soothing atmosphere of the island.

The boutique hotel sits on a lush hillside, just 30 minutes away from Busuanga airport. Cellular signal is slightly weak, which could be a good thing, especially if you’re really committed to going off grid and taking a breather.

All 46 well-appointed rooms are spacious, replete with eco-chic interiors, industrial rustic furniture, lime-washed walls, and cozy beds.

There are two swimming pools on the ground floor and two plunge pools on the rooftop, which is a fantastic vantage point for sunset or sunrise spotting, especially since it also houses a bar.

The town and docks are easily accessible, neither too close nor too far. Everything is a few minutes away, yet at the hotel you feel secluded, away from it all. Going around Coron is not that hard. The Funny Lion has a fleet of vans and bikes to take guests around, but those who want a greener way to go around can borrow bicycles from resort free of charge.

Outside the hotel, near the receiving area, are tricycles that charge around ₱30 for a ride. Scooters may also be rented from certain shops for those who want to drive themselves.

Chef Bobet Clasara brings 13 years of his culinary expertise on local cuisine into the kitchen of Hunt Restaurant. The in-house diner specializes in western comfort food. The Palaweño dishes on the menu are the standouts. The executive chef is, after all, a native of Palawan.

Hats off to the complimentary snacks as well, particularly the peanut butter dipped in chocolate and the bandi, Palawan cashew nuts coated with hardened brown sugar. I don’t usually eat the nibbles provided in my accommodations, but these I finished, which even left me wanting more.

During my vacation there, I was served by Chef Bobet an amazing Filipino spread comprised of native chicken binakol, fried shrimp roll, kinilaw, sizzling bistek, grilled lobster in garlic butter, crispy pata ala pobre, pandan rice, ginataang gulay, radish salad, lato salad, Tagbanua coffee custard with caramelized labong, and fruit platter.

A pleasant and welcome surprise was the signature cocktail Maldita, an ice blended marriage between gin and sweet calamansi. I might have had at least three glasses of the refreshing mix each day. I’m no alcoholic, but it was that good.

There are so many sights to see and activities to do in Coron. The Funny Lion, nevertheless, is so homey you might be able to resist the allure of Palawan’s natural pleasures and treasures outside the resort.

Lyba Godio, One-Of Collection chief operating officer, takes pride in giving the locals opportunities. “Most of our staff here, around 95 percent, is from the area,” she explains, giving credit to the hospitality and local know-how of the workers, which ultimately add to the charm of boutique resort. For her, The Funny Lion remains at the top of the most loved hotel brands in Palawan for its unique personalized service.

Marking a significant milestone, The Funny Lion is officially launching its third property, its largest yet, before Christmas. The Funny Lion Puerto Princesa will have 77 appointed rooms with the same jungle vibes and aesthetics. These rooms, are classified into Cub, Lion, and Pride. This branch, consistent with its predecessors, is located near major routes. It is only a 15-minute drive from Puerto Princessa International airport.

The Funny Lion Puerto Princessa also shares the same features and amenities like the Hunt Restaurant and a pool overlooking the beach. The hotel promises to follow eco-conscious practices too.

“We are delighted to bring The Funny Lion’s unique blend of comfort and charm to Puerto Princesa,” says The Funny Lion general manager Michael Mahinay. “This expansion signifies our commitment to providing guests with memorable stays in one of the most beautiful locations in the Philippines.”