Swiftlets Inn

This place is a disaster from the ground floor to the top. If I could give Swiftlets Inn / Bonbob Inn zero stars, I would. Save your money and sanity and stay somewhere else. There's no elevator, and they don't tell you. From the fourth floor, you have to carry your luggage up four flights of stairs yourself, with no help. My room had smashed, sharp floor tiles that felt like a death trap. When I asked to change rooms, reception flat-out said "NO." They wouldn't even cover the hole until I argued with them, and I had to suggest using a carpet because they couldn't find a solution. The shower had a pathetic trickle of water pressure, and the sink didn't work. After hauling luggage up those stairs, you couldn't even get a proper wash. The service was useless, with "No" seeming to be their favorite word: no room change, no repairs, no help. They hide behind two different names, Swiftlets and Bonbob, to trick people into booking this crumbling building.

The location is handy, right in town between the van terminal and the center. It may not have a beach view, but the service and facilities make up for that, especially at this price. The staff were friendly and attentive, and they helped carry our luggage up when we checked in. They work hard to keep the hallways clean every day. Our bed was comfortable, the linens and towels were fresh, and the bathtub and hot shower both worked well. The air conditioner was quiet and cold, and each room has a safety box. Shampoo and hand wash were provided, with free instant coffee outside the room, drinking water at reception, and a good breakfast served on time. I'd happily stay here again when we return to El Nido.

This inn is a short walk, around 5-10 minutes, from downtown and the beach launch area for island tours. It's near Prince Hypermart, and there are lots of restaurants nearby, including Thai, Indian, Italian, and Korean places. Souvenir stores line the street right outside. It's also away from the party area, so it stays quieter, though you can walk over if you want to go out. Breakfast is included, which was especially convenient after a long day of island hopping. You pick from a menu and choose the serving time, and the staff are friendly and accommodating. The room was as advertised, with cold AC, working hot water, and clean sheets and towels. There's a bathtub, but the water pressure makes it slow to fill. Beach towels can be rented for ₱50 each. One thing to keep in mind: there are steep stairs and no elevator, so it may be difficult for older guests or anyone with mobility issues.

The shower leaked, and breakfast was cold unless we asked for it to be heated. The young man at reception also seemed unsure about our room reservation and island hopping bookings.