hi, can i ask for advice please:
1) is it safe to dive El Nido in coming Feb? I understand recent typhoon has caused relative instability in the roads etc. in some parts of Palawan.. just want to know whether El Nido is affected??
2) For those who have been there and done that for the amazing El Nido, i would like to seek advice on how easy or difficult to secure tickets from Manila - El Nido via ITI ? the fact that we are allowed to book tickets only 5 days prior to departure (for non-resort guests) freaks me out. I want to dive El Nido, but the last thing is to be stranded in Manila because i cannot get tickets to El Nido
is it common for non-resort guests to be unsuccessful?
I appreciate any advice please. Thanks very much!!
El Nido is indeed a great place to dive as they have over 20 amazing dive sites which features perhaps the most diverse marine life in the area. It has remain a safe and beautiful destination even after the recent storms which did not leave any damage other that the slight winds and rains experienced at the time.
The best and most convenient access to El Nido is via Islandtransvoyager, Inc (ITI). Other access to El Nido includes Puerto Prinsesa, Busuanga or Taytay. These flights are scheduled twice a week and are serviced by Seair. For further inquiries on Seair flights, you may contact them at (632) 851-5555 directly. Land transfer can be very erratic, varying from 8 hours to 16 hours, depending on weather condition. Public transport (buses) are scheduled daily at 9AM.
For a more worry-free and worth-while vacation, I personally suggest that you stay in either Miniloc Island resort or Lagen Island Resort. The two resorts are collectively known as El Nido Resorts and are both multi-awarded for their standard of service and their commitment to the environment and to a more sustainable tourism in the area.
El Nido Resorts arranges the flights (via ITI) of their guests. Confirmation is subject to availability. Daily flights are offered.
It is true that ITI can only confirm flights to El Nido 5 days prior to tour date for non-El Nido Resorts guests. Choosing to book your holiday in El Nido Resorts not only eases your worry regarding arrangements of your (ITI) flights but will ensure a more quality time by availing of the services of their well-trained dive/marine sports staff whose level of competency is commendable. These people undergo regular trainings, lectures and familiarization activities to ensure that they are knowledgeable not only in terms of diving skills but of familiarity in the area and what it has to offer in terms of marine sports, diving and flaura and fauna.
In the end, your concern should go beyond ease of flight arrangements but should also include the comfort during the actual transfers, security, quality accommodation and service and competent dive masters/instructors to ensure a worth-while dive holiday. And given the establishments in El Nido at the moment, El Nido Resorts Lagen Island resort and Miniloc Island Resort are by far the only establishments offering all of the above. The numerous awards given to the two resorts second this opinion.
Their package includes buffet meals, boat transfers to and from El Nido airport, 20 exciting activities and tours and more! Their dive supplement of PhP 1500.00 nett per dive per person includes the use of a boat, snorkeling set, tanks and weights; and the services of a dive master. Wetsuits, BCDs and regulators are available for rent to in-house guests.
For more information about El Nido Resorts, you may contact them at
holiday@elnidoresorts.com, call them at +632-8945644 or visit their web-site
El Nido Resorts - We turn holidays into distinctive lifestyle experiences
