The Funny Lion El Nido

A brilliant new hotel has opened in El Nido, offering chic rooms, a pool to satisfy even Michael Phelps, and exclusive day trips to private Papaya Island. What’s not to love?

What’s it like?

HAVING JUST OPENED in December last year, this vibrant 50-room hotel has modern, spanking new guest rooms, averaging about 26sqm in area, immaculate white bedlinen, lush double curtains, and swish amenities, including a swimming pool, long enough for doing a few laps in or for just enjoying the sun and the soon to open, the Sea Tree Spa. The pool is near the hotel’s Hunt Restaurant so easy enough to order drinks and nibbles. While its location is in El Nido town, this hotel is nicely set apart from the rows of hotels and restaurants in town, cocooned by a blanket of tropical trees. The Funny Lion El Nido is the sister company of popular The Funny Lion in Coron, Palawan, opened about eight years ago, and consistently on the top list of TripAdvisor hotels. This year, a Puerto Princesa branch is set to open.

Rooms

The 26-sqm Cub Room with two twin beds, is perfect for when traveling with family or friends. For couples, there’s the King Room with a luxurious king bed. Both room types are airconditioned, with cable TV, phone, mini fridge, coffee maker and tea kettle, luxurious shower, organic toiletries, free WiFi, and a veranda with courtyard pool view.

Amenities

Speaking of pool, The Funny Lion is the king of the jungle. After a day exploring the island, slow down and take a dip at the hotel’s swimming pool, open from 9am to 6pm. It’s surrounded by lush greens. Right by the pool is the Pride Rock Bar that offers a fine selection of wines and spirits, curated cocktails, local and international beers (Happy Hour is from 5-7pm) and specialty shakes and gourmet coffee.

Hunt Restaurant, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant serves mouth-watering Asian and Continental cuisine, and seafood specials. Make sure to check out the famous Saturday grill buffet.

And to cap off your island experience, go on a fancy picnic on a private island. Enjoy some grilled fish and barbecue, some freshly-picked coconut (or wine perhaps?) and the best views at The Funny Lion’s own Papaya Island.

Good to know

Ready for an adventure? The Funny Lion can arrange island tours and leisure activities, depending on what you are in the mood for! All you have to do is ask any of their friendly staff.

How much?

An overnight stay with breakfast starts from Php6,800.

The Funny Lion is a 20-minute drive from Lio Airport, and is located at Balinsasayaw Road, El Nido Town, El Nido, Philippines, tel. +63 917 132 8421. Visit www.thefunnylion.com, @TheFunnyLionElNido on Facebook and Instagram