Panorama Ekas

We’ve never posted a bad review before, but that unusually high rating got us here, and we felt we had to restore some balance. The review page was the best part of Ekas Panorama. We kept coming back to the owner’s replies to negative reviews. They’re remarkable, with hostility, denial, and comedy all mixed together. If hospitality doesn’t work out, stand-up could be next. Our mosquito net was covered in blood spots from earlier guests, as if to remind us that travelers before us had suffered too. The air conditioning was there in name only, rather like a scarecrow is technically a person. We’re fine with rustic places, but these bungalows are barely more than rough shacks, and the price doesn’t justify them. Save your money, read the reviews and the owner’s responses, enjoy the show, then book somewhere else. Anywhere else. To the owner, I’m looking forward to your reply. Judging from the earlier ones, it might become the highlight of our whole Ekas Panorama stay.

The staff were the standout: friendly, cheerful, and helpful, even though we had a language barrier. There’s also a dog wandering around the pool, which may not be for everyone. We booked through Booking.com, but the accommodation was much more basic than we expected. The rooms are simple wooden huts with creaky floors and very little comfort. Arriving in 31 °C heat to find the air conditioning and fridge switched off didn’t help. The pool area and facilities need attention. The sunbeds are worn and mosquito nets have holes. The town is very quiet with little to do, so we felt tied to the hotel. At low tide the beach isn’t great, and the scooter we rented looked unsafe. Early mosque calls and animals making noise at night made it hard to sleep. This might suit surfers or people after a very laid-back local stay. It wasn’t right for us, so we checked out early.

The employees were the bright spot of our stay. They were so friendly and helpful, and even played mini billiards with our four-year-old to keep her company. I can only give the staff five stars. Their kindness made us feel a little better. What upset us most, especially our daughter, was the green pool. One staff member said it had been two weeks since they changed or filtered the water, and even the dog used the pool. Our daughter chose this place because of the pool and cried to get in, so we let her. Now all of us have itchy rashes over our bodies. I understand this is low season, but keeping the facilities clean, safe, and ready is part of hospitality all year, not just in high season. We’re local guests, by the way.

The evening music sessions really captured the relaxed island mood, and Toby and Spaghetti, the two sweet dogs, brought extra joy. The hosts are a lovely couple who make guests feel welcome and comfortable, with the kind of easy warmth that makes you feel like old friends. The food was a real highlight. We tried several pasta dishes and loved them all, made with fresh ingredients and loads of flavor. The pool is incredible, the longest I’ve ever come across, and great for a swim or a lazy float in the tropical sun. Rooms were spotless, thoughtfully arranged, and comfortable without unnecessary extras. After days exploring the Ekas coastline, they felt peaceful and clean. Panorama Hotel on Ekas Beach has a simple exterior, but it gave us a memorable stay and had us thinking about coming back before we’d even left. It’s a cozy place that shows luxury can come from warm hospitality, great food, and lasting memories, rather than fancy amenities. Highly recommended!