We stayed for three nights at
Carles Shangri-la Family Resort in Barangay Barosbos, Carles on the
Island of Panay in the Philippines, and with our party of 26 children and adults, paid Php 5000 (a little over £50) for a four-room cottage, beds and a beach hut.
One detail about this resort is, it is not on the Internet and therefore cannot be found.
Unlike
Roxas City in Capiz which is surrounded by hotels and beach huts, where prices were quoted to us from Php 5.000 - 10,000 a night, but unfortunately did not have the flexibility to offer accommodation for a party of 26!
Anyone (ie a Westerner) who is married to or visiting a Filipino family, may well know that a trip out for a meal, or to a hotel planned for four people will inevitably find a bus full of people on the trip comprising of family members!
So when we touched into Iloilo airport on the 16th May we were met by this party of people in a
red Jeepney, consisting of relatives, brothers, nephews, etcetera.
The brochure of the resort suggests tranquiity, with words like..."Take a walk amidst trees. Take a swim. Take in the fresh air. Relax in an environment that is clean and safe. This is what we offer. Simple pleasures with amenities that will make you smile, we cater for your every whim with our friendly staff and great facilities."
The resort at low tide offers golden sandy beaches, and clear water - ideal for swimming, and collecting shells,
starfish, and pieces of coral. However under
Filipino law you are not allowed to take them out of the country - but you can photograph them, as we did!
The resort also offers volleyball and video karaoke, popular with all ages.
If you are visiting the Philippines and would like to stay in this resort, which is off the beaten track, their phone number is 00639196219676.
Our family brought along the rice cooker, and seafood was in abundance, as well as San Miguel Beer!
If you on the other hand, would like your resort more visible - you are welcome to
contact us.
