Villa Umi Panglao Resort

We wanted somewhere peaceful, away from noise and partying, and this resort was just right. The staff were great, the room was fantastic, and the beach amenities were lovely, with kayaks and gear available for free. I'd happily return, and I already miss it. The wifi was weak in a few spots, and breakfast prep got a little loud, but only briefly.

Breakfast took 1 hour and 17 minutes to arrive, and by then it was cold because rain had sent us inside. The service was painfully slow, and despite checking more than once, the waitress kept telling us the food was coming. She was handling the outdoor diners alone while other staff were inside. We even offered to help carry the plates because we had a child with us, but she said she had it under control. Our drinks only arrived after we'd finished eating. We paid around 500+ PHP per plate for tiny servings, just two sausages, one egg, and a cup of rice. Similar or better breakfasts elsewhere cost 150-200 PHP. The staff seemed overwhelmed, and the price didn't feel justified. I wouldn't recommend this restaurant. For a decent breakfast or other food with quick service, try the next door restaurant “Marilou”. Their portions are reasonable and worth the money.

The water was super clear and lovely for swimming, though there was a fair bit of plastic on the beach. I wish it had been tidied up, especially since the beach is half the reason to come. Otherwise, service was top-notch, and our room was the cleanest of our whole one-month trip in the Philippines. The place is lovely and would suit couples as well as families with kids. We stayed with our three children, aged 3, 7, and 10. There were hardly any other guests, which felt a little strange given how nice the hotel was.

The food and staff were good, but we came here as Canadians hoping not to pay outrageous prices for a meal. Then we learned the owner is Canadian, and apparently doesn't care about the way people are charged. Breakfast cost far more than we'd ever pay in Canada. Too bad some people care more about money than people or staff. The staff said they wouldn't eat at the place where they work.