El Pueblo De Hermano by Cocotel

The rooms are spacious, and the rooms, garden, and dining area were very clean. The staff were accommodating, and the dishes were affordable. The pool could use a little cleaning, since fine sand or dust was floating around. The shore isn’t the resort’s strong point because it’s usually low tide, but all in all it’s a nice place to relax and spend time with family.

We brought the family during rainy season and still had a great time. It was a nice find, almost like a little haven since it wasn’t crowded. The rooms and grounds were clean and spacious for the price, and swimming in the pool in the rain late into the evening was fun. It stayed open until around 9 PM. They provide basic toiletries and free breakfast at the small restaurant. Internet and data access were just okay, and there’s a little shop outside for necessities. If you’re planning to eat dinner there, check what’s available first. Most menu items weren’t available while we were there, which was the biggest downside.

We stayed 3D2N, and it’s about two hours south of Metro Manila, so getting there is pretty easy. I liked that there are ramps to the rooms for PWD access, though ramps at the restaurant and grab bars in the toilets would help too. Our room was clean, cozy, and smelled so good I almost didn’t want to leave it. The toilet was okay but smaller than usual, and the water had a bit of a smell, maybe from the deep well. The setting is scenic, with an infinity pool, cared-for greenery, and a wide view of the sea and beach. The beach isn’t great for swimming at low tide, but a morning walk out toward the deeper water was nice. The restaurant by the pool and sea has a relaxing feel and a good food selection. It wasn’t as breezy as we expected, but they had large fans. They were also willing to adjust dishes when asked. My dad requested steamed fish and asked to swap the pork for chicken in his chopsuey for dietary reasons. The pool looks great, and they clean it every day, though we still found sand and floating oily debris in it several times. We asked the pool guy to clean it, and they did so quickly. The staff made the stay, especially Jaja at the front desk, who was welcoming and helped with several requests for my dad because of his special condition, PWD. The pool boy and restaurant team were attentive and always smiling. They really deserved a generous tip.

The staff were helpful and welcoming, and we had an easy check-in. The Facebook Messenger account was also quick to answer my questions. The phone help desk could use training in phone etiquette, especially introducing themselves when they answer, though they were responsive and helpful. My family had a relaxing stay. The rooms were clean and cozy, but the bathroom needed more cleaning. Towels and toiletries were provided. You can bring ingredients to cook or grill, and they can prepare them for you for an added charge. There’s also an in-house restaurant. The sea is usually at low tide, I think, so it isn’t good for swimming. Still, sitting by the pool with a sea and sunset view was enough for a beach break. The resort didn’t have water activities available. Book through their website directly and check for discounts.