Pangil Beach Resort

The location is the strong point, with cottages in front of the rock formation. The family rooms, though, needed better upkeep: there were bugs and ants, the blankets had stains, and we had to borrow a broom from housekeeping to clean some dirt ourselves. Breakfast cost a lot for very small portions, and the black coffee tasted like tea.

The beach is a lovely place to spend time, and Ilocos Norte has plenty of attractive spots like this one, though they don't get the attention Palawan and Cebu do. More visitors could be drawn by good service, affordable prices, and better advertising beyond Facebook. The Bamboo cottages seem a little expensive and sit empty most days, so perhaps charging by the hour and lowering the price would help them earn their keep and appeal to local and foreign tourists.

The rocks along the shore still give the place an enchanting island feel. On my last visit, early November this year, I noticed they had started putting up tower-like structures, maybe fence towers. I don't know what they're called, but they look like an eyesore. I actually like that they haven't added several cottages near the rocks.

We got a lot done at our workshop and planning stay, and then some. Mick Godoy and his crew were gracious and accommodating, making things comfortable and relaxing. The Casitas room fit our group, and the view from its veranda was breathtaking.