Unbelievable Palawan Paradise: Cuna Hotel Awaits!
Unbelievable Palawan Paradise: Cuna Hotel Awaits!
Unbelievable Palawan Paradise: Cuna Hotel Awaits! … Or Does It? My HONEST Review! (Prepare for Rambles!)
Okay, people, buckle up. Because I've just emerged from the supposed "Unbelievable Palawan Paradise: Cuna Hotel Awaits!" and I'm here to tell you… well, it's complicated. Let's get into the messy, glorious, frustrating, and definitely opinionated details. Forget the polished brochures; this is the REAL dirt. And trust me, I've been digging.
First Impressions & Accessibility - The Good & the "Meh"
The view? Unbelievable. Seriously, the pictures don't do it justice. Turquoise water, towering limestone cliffs… it's postcard perfect. Getting to it, however, is where things started to wobble.
- Accessibility: This is where I got a little worried. While they claim "Facilities for disabled guests," I didn't see a TON of super obvious wheelchair-friendly stuff. There's an elevator, thank God, because some rooms are high up. But navigating the pathways seemed a bit…challenging for someone with mobility issues. (Potential for improvement here, Cuna Hotel!) I'd call ahead and ask specifics if that's a major concern.
- Getting Around: The airport transfer was smooth, thankfully. That was a HUGE relief after the flight – who wants to haggle for a taxi after sweating for hours? There's also car parking on-site and it's even free of charge! Yay! Definitely a plus.
The Rooms: A Mixed Bag of Bliss and Bafflement
Alright, let's talk rooms. My room was… a study in contradictions.
- Amenities: Okay, the basics were there: Air conditioning (a MUST in Palawan!), a mini bar (hello, late-night snacks!), a coffee/tea maker (essential!), and a safe box (always a good idea). Free Wi-Fi in the rooms? YES! And it actually worked. Unlike some places where you're staring at the spinning wheel of death. (Major points for connectivity!) They also had a refrigerator, which I used to chill local beers. Priorities, people.
- The View (Again!): My room had a seating area with a window that opens and a spectacular view. Seriously. I could’ve stared at the sunset forever… and I kind of did. The blackout curtains were also a lifesaver for sleep.
- The "Meh" Bits: The "decorations" were… well, they were there. Nothing offensively bad, but nothing particularly… inspired. The bathroom… it was fine. Standard. Functional. Nothing to write home about, but it was clean, and the shower had good water pressure, so I can't complain TOO much. It's not a five-star hotel. It's a solid, comfortable, and in my book, a good base.
- Extra Stuff: (The unexpected extras) You can request interconnecting rooms if you're a larger group. Alarm clocks are available. Bathrobes and slippers are provided. I'm a sucker for getting to wear a robe! And there are slippers. Who doesn't love putting their feet up and relaxing? Laptop workspace is available. Also, there's a mirror for those who like to get dressed (like me).
Cleanliness, Safety & The Pandemic Punch
Okay, let's get serious. The world is a mess, and safety is paramount.
- Cleanliness & Safety: Okay, I was impressed. Hand sanitizer everywhere (a must!). They definitely take this seriously. They have a First aid kit. They have Staff trained in safety protocol. They were constantly Daily disinfection in common areas. And the rooms? Rooms sanitized between stays. I saw them doing a deep clean before I entered my room. It made me feel secure to know that they have Anti-viral cleaning products. I found this comforting!
- COVID-19 Protocols: They have Contactless check-in/out. Guests will see Physical distancing of at least 1 meter implemented. Individually-wrapped food options are available. I didn't spot anyone eating at the bar while I was there. Safe dining setup is used. Staff are well trained.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure
Okay, time for the food! This is where things got really interesting.
- The Restaurants: There are restaurants which have a Bar and Poolside bar. The Coffee shop is great.
- Breakfast: Ah, the most important meal of the day! There was a Breakfast [buffet], and it was a decent spread. Western breakfast options were there. I'm a big fan. They had Asian breakfast options as well.
- Lunch & Dinner: I tried a few dishes. Honestly, the quality varied. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was pretty good. I loved the local flavors. I will say the Salad in restaurant left something to be desired. However, if the Soup in restaurant, you're golden. I got some of the Desserts in restaurant, and they were amazing!
- Room Service: Room service [24-hour]? YES PLEASE! I can confirm this is a major mood booster after a long day of exploring or after a few drinks at the bar.
- Other Options: They had a Snack bar and Bottle of water available.
Things To Do & Ways To Relax: Paradise or Just Plain Relaxing?
Okay, the million-dollar question: what can you actually do here?
- The Pool: The Swimming pool [outdoor] is beautiful. And guess what? The Pool with view is incredible. Lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, watching the sun dip below the horizon… that felt like paradise.
- The Spa: Ah, yes. I tried the Massage. (You know, for "research" purposes.) It was amazing. I got a Body scrub. I had a Foot bath I felt like a new person. I wish I could have got a Body wrap.
- Fitness Center: There's a Fitness center, if you feel the need to work off all those delicious meals.
- Other Activities: I love that they have a Shrine! Seems peaceful. I did not see any Couple's room listed, but I'm not exactly scoping those rooms anyway. They also did not list any Proposal spot! Hmmm, maybe I should suggest that!
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Okay, let's talk about the practical stuff.
- The Good: Daily housekeeping? Absolutely. Cash withdrawal on site? Convenient. They have a concierge. The elevator is great. They have Currency exchange.
- The "Could Be Better": I didn't see a ton of shops for actually buying things; the Gift/souvenir shop was pretty small.
- Business Facilities: They have Meeting/banquet facilities which are a good option. They offer Meetings, and Seminars.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly?
- For the Kids: There is a Babysitting service. It's Family/child friendly. Also, they have Kids facilities and offer a Kids meal.
The Staff: The Human Element
- The Staff: The staff were generally lovely, helpful, and seemed genuinely eager to please. They're not perfect; occasional language barriers emerged, but the kindness shines through.
The Verdict: Unbelievable with Caveats… and Maybe Book!
So, is Cuna Hotel really "Unbelievable Palawan Paradise"? Well… it's complex.
- The Awesome: The location is absolutely STUNNING. The pool and the views are pure magic. The staff are friendly. The rooms are comfortable and functional. The spa is divine, and the WiFi is reliable.
- The "Hmmm…": Accessibility could be improved. The food is sometimes hit or miss, and the decor isn't exactly cutting-edge design.
So, here's the deal: If you want a stunning location with a solid, comfortable base, good amenities, and a genuinely warm staff, then YES, book it. Don't expect perfection, but embrace the beauty and the imperfections.
My Honest Recommendation:
Book it if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with stunning views, access to incredible tours, and enough comforts to make you feel pampered. Just be prepared to adjust your expectations slightly and embrace the adventure.
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your typical travel itinerary. This is… well, this is me trying to survive Cuna Hotel, Palawan, Philippines. God, I hope I survive.
Cuna Hotel: Operation "Don't Die of Bliss (or Mosquitoes)" - A Messy Itinerary
Pre-Trip Nervous Breakdown (aka Planning Phase)
- Phase 1: The Infatuation (Panic Buying - 1 Week Before Departure): Okay, so I saw the pictures. Turquoise water. White sand. Hammocks swaying in the breeze. Cue the immediate, irrational urge to buy ALL the things. Sunscreen? Triple the usual. Mosquito repellent? Like I'm stocking for the apocalypse. Oh, and that ridiculously oversized straw hat? Needed. Absolutely needed. My credit card is weeping.
- Phase 2: The Research Rabbit Hole (Days Before Departure): TripAdvisor is my new bible. I read every single review of Cuna Hotel. Every. Single. One. Good reviews? "Heaven on earth!" Bad reviews? "Beware the sand fleas!" (Shudder). I basically convinced myself I was going to experience a paradise-infused nightmare. This is when I learn the "optional" pool is very green and has some weird "residents." (Probably frogs.)
- Phase 3: The Packing Disaster (Night Before Departure): Do I need hiking boots? A formal gown? An emergency supply of chocolate? I'm clearly overthinking, but it's a compulsion. My suitcase resembles a hoarder's dream. My anxiety is at a solid 8/10.
Day 1: Arrival - The "Did I Just Make a Terrible Mistake?" Phase
- Morning (Travel): Flights. Delayed flights. The usual soul-crushing airport experience. Feeling grumpy. Praying I've packed enough sanitary wipes.
- Afternoon (Arrival at Cuna): Okay, the hotel does look like the pictures. That turquoise… it actually exists! I mean, it's stunning. And… there's a cute fluffy local dog here. Instant mood lift. But then… the humidity hits. It's like being wrapped in a damp, warm blanket. And my luggage never seems to arrive. "Lost luggage" at the start? Wonderful.
- Evening (Settling In & First Impressions): Getting the room. It's nice. Simple. Clean. Then I discover the mosquito net is… well, it's more of a suggestion than a fortress. The view from my balcony is breathtaking, even though I am sweating. The nearby restaurant is playing a little too much pop music, though. It is kinda ruining the peace of the ambiance, but the food is kinda good.
- Quirky Observation: The staff at Cuna Hotel seems suspiciously cheerful, almost too cheerful. Are they hiding something? Are they used to dealing with overly anxious tourists like me?
- Emotional Reaction: Initial awe. Followed by a healthy dose of "I hope I don't get malaria."
- Imperfection: I forgot my phone charger. Rookie mistake. Now I'm dependent on hotel-provided charging cables.
Day 2: Island Hopping - The "Sunburn and Seagull Assault" Experience
- Morning (Boat Trip): The hotel's "Island Hopping" tour sounds idyllic. I decide to go. I was so wrong. The boat ride is exhilarating but rough. The spray from the waves is like a constant saltwater shower. I forgot water. I'm already regretting my life choices.
- Afternoon (Hidden Beaches and Snorkeling): The first island is… breathtaking! But the sand is REALLY hot. And those seagulls! They're like winged bandits, eyeing your lunch. One tried to steal my sandwich. I swear. Snorkeling is beautiful, even if my mask leaks. I see a fish that looks like a tiny, angry parrot. I can't seem to get it to cooperate, but I'm trying.
- Evening (Post-Island Bliss & Sunburn Ouchies): Back at the hotel, I realize I'm thoroughly cooked. The sunburn is real. The aloe vera is my new best friend. I watch the sunset, it's amazing.
- Doubling Down on the Snorkeling: Forget those perfect Instagram photos. What they don’t tell you is the underwater current that nearly swept me out to sea. I swallowed half the ocean and panicked, the parrot fish mocking me. But then, a moment of pure magic: a sea turtle, gliding effortlessly. Suddenly, everything felt worth it. And I was thankful I was alive.
- Quirky Observation: The sheer variety of colorful fish is mind-blowing. I think I saw a fish that was wearing sunglasses. Or maybe it was the sunburn talking.
- Emotional Reaction: Exhaustion. Exhilaration. A newfound appreciation for the power of sunscreen. And saltwater. Everywhere.
- Imperfection: I accidentally lost my favorite hat while snorkeling. RIP, beloved sun shield. You will be missed.
Day 3: Relaxation (And Possibly a Panic Attack) - The "Attempting to Chillax" Phase
- Morning (Poolside - Theoretically): Okay, plan is to relax. Read a book. Sip a juice. Achieve inner peace. Reality: The pool is full of boisterous kids. Someone is playing loud music. And the green pool has a suspicious smell. I retreat to my room and hide.
- Afternoon (Massage and Meditation attempt): I head to the spa. The massage is… okay. The masseuse kept talking about her cats. The meditation session… not so relaxing. My mind is a whirlwind of worries about forgotten phone chargers and the size of my luggage.
- Evening (Dinner and Stargazing): After a long break, I eat at the dining area. Great view, good food again. I try to look at the stars, but honestly, I get too bored.
- Emotional Reaction: Impatient boredom. A nagging feeling of existential dread. A desperate craving for a good, strong coffee (which they don't have here.)
- Imperfection: I accidentally ordered a dish that looked amazing in the picture, but tasted like… well, it's better off forgotten.
Day 4: The "Maybe I'm Starting to Like This" Phase
- Morning (Beach Walk and Sunrise): I go for a walk on the beach. The air is fresh. The sunrise is spectacular. A little bit of peace creeps into my soul. I actually see a sea turtle, this time it does not vanish.
- Afternoon (Kayaking and River Adventure): Kayaking in the clear waters is a lot of fun. The river adventure is amazing, even though I get mildly scared. Seeing the place from a bit of a new perspective.
- Evening (Dinner and Departure Planning): I eat at the restaurant again. The food is good. I make arrangements for my departure.
- Quirky Observation: I have a strange sense of camaraderie with the other slightly sunburned, mosquito-bitten tourists. We're all in this together.
- Emotional Reaction: A glimmer of contentment. Acceptance. The realization that I might actually miss this place.
- Imperfection: I didn't go the whole time. I'm still a bit of a mess, but a slightly happier mess.
Departure - The "Goodbye, Paradise (and Sand Fleas)" Phase
- Morning (Goodbye!): Saying goodbye to Cuna Hotel and the beautiful place. I take one last look at the turquoise water and that cute dog. Deep Breath.
- Travel: Back to the airport (and possible delays). The anxiety is still there, but it's less intense. I'm taking back a thousand memories.
- Emotional Reaction: A wistful mix of relief, sadness, and a quiet determination to return. Next time with a better luggage.
- Final Thoughts: This trip wasn't perfect. I got sunburned, bitten by bugs. But it was real. It was amazing. And that parrot fish? I'll never forget it.
And that's my messy, imperfect, utterly human journey through Cuna Hotel, Palawan. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to Google "how to treat sand flea bites."
Escape to Paradise: Ningbo's Hidden Gem, SSAW Boutique Hotel
Unbelievable Palawan Paradise: Cuna Hotel Awaits! (FAQ... ish)
Okay, seriously, is Cuna Hotel *really* as good as it looks on Instagram?
Ugh, Instagram, right? The land of filtered perfection. Look, Cuna? It's... mostly. Let's just say the photographer must have loved the sunrise 'cause the photos are *glowing*. The reality? It's stunning, okay? The views from those overwater bungalows? Forget about it. Jaw-dropping. Seriously, I spent a good hour just staring, slack-jawed, at the water. But! (And there's always a but, isn't there?) My first impression upon arriving at my supposed "bungalow" was "Wow, this looks smaller than the pictures...and the AC is a bit loud". Plus? The internet died like, every other day. So, yeah. Instagram-level gorgeous, but not *entirely* flawless. Gotta find some flaws to make you like me, right?
Are the bungalows actually *over* the water? I'm a little terrified of things...water...related.
Yes! They are! And let me tell you, the first time I went to the edge of my bungalow and looked straight down? My stomach dropped! You can *see* the fish swimming around. It's… intense. But also, amazing. They have these little ladders so you can just plop yourself into the water. I did it, eventually. After like, an hour of pacing and deep breathing. The water's crystal clear, though. And if you're *super* scared, you can stick to the shallower parts. Trust me, someone *very* scared of deep water saying "Trust me" is a big deal.
What's the food situation like? I'm a picky eater. (And I *love* eating.)
Okay, so food. Big question. I am also a lover of eating! And the food at Cuna is... a mixed bag. Breakfast? Amazing. The pancakes were fluffy, the fruit was fresh and my (very picky) friend loved the local fruit. Lunch? Good. Dinner? Okay, here's the tea: they try *really* hard. There's a lot of fresh seafood, but sometimes it's a bit…overcooked? Or bland. I had this grilled squid that tasted like… sadness. BUT! The pasta night? Glorious. Seriously, best pasta I’ve had in ages. The chef clearly has his A-game on some ingredients. So, bring some snacks... or embrace the pasta. Or, heck, bring your own gourmet meals. Don't judge.
How do you get to Cuna Hotel? Is it a nightmare?
Getting there? That's the adventure! You fly into El Nido Airport (which is adorable and tiny, think one runway), then it's a van ride, then a boat. The van ride is fine, scenic even, but it's the boat that gets you there. The boat is... well, it *can* be a bit rough. Like, I swear I saw someone green in the face on the way back to the airport once. Pack Dramamine, even if you *think* you're not prone to seasickness. Trust me. I am a seasoned traveler and I felt a bit...uncomfortable. And bring earplugs, 'cause the boat engines like to sing their own special song all day.
Is it worth the price tag? It looks expensive.
Okay, let's be real. Cuna is NOT cheap. Not at all. Is it worth it? Ugh, complicated. On one hand, the scenery is out of this world, the staff is lovely (mostly), and that pasta… but the internet? The food being hit or miss? The boat ride?!… It's a splurge. If you have the money and are looking for a truly remote, Insta-worthy getaway, go for it. If you’re on a tight budget? Maybe save up a bit longer. Or bring a very large cooler of food. Honestly? Save up the extra money. You deserve it.
What kind of activities are there to do? (Besides, you know, sitting and staring.)
Oh, there's stuff! They have snorkeling gear, and the coral reefs are beautiful, but they're a bit of a swim from the beach, so you might need some flippers. There are kayak and paddleboards. The resort can organize island hopping tours. I went on one, and it was honestly amazing. We went to this secret lagoon with *blindingly* blue water, and it was one of the most incredibly beautiful things I've ever seen. And then, of course, there's sunbathing, reading a book, napping, and... well, sitting and staring. That's a perfectly valid activity, and honestly, the best one.
Tell me more about that island hopping tour! What was the *best* part?
Okay, the island hopping tour. Oh man, it was epic. First, the boat. Beautiful. (See, even *I* learn to appreciate the boat!) We went to a few different islands, each one more gorgeous than the last. Picture this: pristine white sand, turquoise water, and lush green jungle. Sounds cliché, I know, but it's the truth!
The *best* part? The snorkeling. We swam in a lagoon, and it was like swimming in an aquarium. The fish were so colorful, the coral was vibrant. I even saw a sea turtle! I actually YELPED with excitement underwater, which is, y'know, not ideal. It was just... magical. Seriously, pure, unadulterated joy. I almost didn't want to go back to the hotel. Almost.
And, here's a quirky thing: I almost lost my sunglasses. I just *barely* managed to reach for them as they were about to slip off. Could have been disastrous. But I saved them!
The Staff? Good or Bad?
The Staff is generally pretty good. They are mostly trying to do their best and they are *very* friendly and accommodating. There was this one guy who was particularly excellent. He, for the sake of the story, we'll call him "Mario." He helped me a lot when things went wrong with the air conditioner (see earlier mention of the AC issues). He was really helpful and went above and beyond to fix the issue. Mario, if you're reading this? You're a star! However, there were some times where I felt the communication was slightly off because someone wasn't familiar enough with English. It didn't ruin the experience.
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