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Tag: Siquijor Island accommodation

  • DonRio Hotel Siquijor, Siquijor Island, Philippines

    DonRio Hotel Siquijor, Siquijor Island, Philippines

    Experience the charm of Siquijor while staying at a central, accessible hub. This guide is tailored for travelers who want a reliable home base near the island’s main entry point and heritage sites.

    DonRio Hotel Siquijor: Travel Guide & Itinerary

    Located just a stone’s throw from Siquijor Airport and the historic St. Francis of Assisi Church, DonRio Hotel is a 4-star boutique-style accommodation known for its modern facilities and exceptional service. It serves as an ideal gateway for those looking to explore both the “mystical” heritage and the vibrant beach life of Siquijor.

    Guest Reviews & Ratings

    Overall Rating: 7.9 / 10 (Very Good)

    • Service (9.5/10): Guests frequently highlight the “100% staff service,” describing the team as warm, friendly, and highly accommodating.
    • Accessibility (9.0/10): Rated highly for its proximity to transport. Its location near the Siquijor Port and Airport makes it incredibly convenient for arrivals and departures.
    • Facilities (7.2/10): While the rooms are praised for being “new, clean, and elegant,” some guests noted occasional utility challenges, such as generator issues during regional power outages.
    • Value for Money (7.7/10): Often cited as an “excellent budget-friendly” option for travelers who prioritize a clean, comfortable bed and a central location over a beachfront resort.

    Recommended Places to Visit

    • St. Francis of Assisi Church & Bell Tower: Located within walking distance. This 18th-century coral stone church is the first landmark you see upon arriving at the port.
    • Paliton Beach: A 15-minute drive away. Often called the “Little Boracay” of Siquijor, it’s the premier spot for sunset viewing and white sand relaxation.
    • Cantabon Cave: For the adventurous, this cave system offers a trek through subterranean streams and impressive stalactite formations.
    • Century-Old Balete Tree: A massive 400-year-old tree featuring a natural spring at its base where tiny fish provide a “foot spa” for visitors.
    • Cambugahay Falls: Famous for its three-tiered turquoise pools and exhilarating rope swings.

    What to Eat: Siquijor Culinary Highlights

    • Fresh Seafood at Dalahikan: Enjoy “catch of the day” grilled over charcoal right by the sea. Known for budget-friendly prices and an authentic island vibe.
    • Italian Fusion at Dolce Amore: Located in nearby San Juan, this is the go-to spot for authentic gelato and wood-fired pizzas.
    • Traditional Filipino at Twenty4 Cafe: Try their Lechon Kawali (crispy deep-fried pork) or their unique homemade chili sauces.
    • Scenic Coffee at Bucafe: A hillside cafe offering panoramic ocean views—perfect for a mid-day refreshment of native coffee and light snacks.
    • Healthy Bowls at Shaka: A vibrant vegan spot popular for its colorful smoothie bowls and fresh fruit shakes.

    Suggested 3-Day Island Itinerary

    Day 1: Coastal Heritage & Sunsets

    • Morning: Check-in at DonRio Hotel and visit the neighboring St. Francis of Assisi Church.
    • Afternoon: Head to Paliton Beach for a swim and lounge under the coconut trees.
    • Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner in San Juan and watch the sunset at a beachfront bar.

    Day 2: Waterfalls & Mystical Landmarks

    • Morning: Drive to the Old Enchanted Balete Tree for a fish spa, then proceed to Cambugahay Falls for rope swinging.
    • Afternoon: Explore the Lazi Convent (one of the largest in Asia) and the San Isidro Labrador Church.
    • Evening: Have a relaxed dinner at Baha Bar for live acoustic music and local fusion dishes.

    Day 3: Caves & High Views

    • Morning: Gear up for a guided tour of Cantabon Cave.
    • Afternoon: Drive up to Larena Triad or Bucafe for a late lunch with a bird’s-eye view of the island and the sea.
    • Evening: Quick souvenir shopping near the port before heading to your next destination.
  • ISLA INN, Siquijor Island, Philippines

    ISLA INN, Siquijor Island, Philippines

    ISLA INN is a budget-friendly gem located in Dumanhog, Siquijor, offering a straightforward stay for travelers who prioritize location and service over luxury. Positioned right along the circumferential road, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the “Mystical Island of Fire.”

    Travel Guide and Tips

    To make the most of your stay at Isla Inn, keep these local insights in mind:

    • Book Your Tours On-Site: The staff is well-known for helping guests organize island tours and boat rentals.

    • Bring Cash: While some resorts are starting to catch up, Siquijor is still largely a cash-based economy. There are ATMs in Siquijor town and Larena, but they can occasionally run out of bills.

    • Connectivity: Wi-Fi can be spotty in the rooms. If you need a stable connection for work, the lobby or the on-site restaurant generally offers better signal strength.

    Nearby Attractions

    • Paliton Beach (5.5 km): The best spot on the island for “purple sunsets” and white sand.

    • Old Enchanted Balete Tree (13.4 km): A 400-year-old tree with a natural fish spa at its base.

    • Cambugahay Falls: The famous three-tiered turquoise waterfalls. It is best to go before 9:00 AM to beat the crowds.

    • Tubod Marine Sanctuary: Located right in front of Coco Grove, this is a premier spot for snorkeling and seeing giant clams.

    Transportation Tips

    • Ferry Arrival: Most travelers arrive at Siquijor Port from Dumaguete. Isla Inn is very close to the port; the hotel often offers free pick-up/drop-off services, so be sure to coordinate your arrival time in advance.

    • Scooter Rentals: You can rent a moped directly from the inn for approximately 350 PHP to 500 PHP per day. The circumferential road is well-paved and easy to navigate.

    • Tricycle Tours: If you don’t ride a scooter, a private tricycle tour of the island typically costs between 1,000 PHP and 1,500 PHP for the day.

    Best For

    • Budget Backpackers: Travelers looking for a clean, affordable place to sleep between adventures.

    • Solo Travelers: The social atmosphere and helpful staff make it easy to find information or join tours.

    • Short Stays: Its proximity to the ferry terminal makes it ideal for those only spending 1–2 nights on the island.

    Pros and Cons

    ProsCons
    Exceptional and friendly staff serviceSmall in-room bathrooms
    Proximity to the ferry terminalSpotty Wi-Fi in certain rooms
    Affordable on-site restaurantInconsistent hot water in showers
    Free port shuttle serviceFrozen “pizza bread” (opt for local dishes instead)

    Pricing Observations

    Nightly rates typically range from $30 to $60 (approx. 1,700 PHP to 3,400 PHP) depending on the season and room type. Booking in advance for the peak dry season (February to May) is highly recommended as budget spots fill up quickly.

    Local Food and Tourism Tips

    • Must-Try Food: Look for Bukayo (sweet coconut strips) sold by local vendors and enjoy fresh seafood at the San Juan night market.

    • Eco-Tourism: Siquijor is proud of its “healing” traditions. If you visit during the Lenten season, you can witness the Folk Healing Festival at Mt. Bandilaan.

    • Tipping: While not mandatory, a small tip for your tricycle guide or boatman is always appreciated and goes a long way.

    First Person Review

    “I chose Isla Inn because I wanted to be close to the port for my early morning ferry, and it didn’t disappoint. The staff, especially Mary and Gilbert, were the highlight of the stay—they treated me like family and helped me snag a scooter the minute I checked in. The room was basic but clean, and while the shower had a mind of its own regarding temperature, the free breakfast and the genuine smiles from the team made it feel like a steal for the price.