NO doubt, Palawan has established itself as a special point of interest on the world map. For starters, it is now more preferred as a tourist destination over Boracay in the Philippines.
In fact, two of the leading global international tour operators—Mountain Travel Sobek and Wilderness Travel—have included Palawan in their list of high-end adventure travel destinations. With this development, Palawan now ranks among Mount Everest, which sits between the border of China and Nepal, Machu Picchu in Peru, Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro and the Swiss Alps in the bucket lists of adventurers all over the globe.
Having said that, the place most visited in Palawan today is Coron, which comprises the eastern half of Busuanga Island. Coron Island and about 50 other minor islets stretch as far as Tara Island in the northeast and Canipo Island in the south.
For sightseeing, one can rent a motor boat for only P1,500, inclusive of a captain, a tour guide and life jackets for a whole day of taking in the different breathtaking sights of Coron.
Kayangan Lake is a must-see, which is said to be among the cleanest lakes in Asia. The lake is surrounded by rocky mountains covered by green trees and plants, which are worthy of space in any postcard or movie. The path made of limestone rocks leading to the lake is a prelude to paradise on Earth.
Coron is where people from all walks of life are reborn and rejuvenated after soaking in the waters of its tranquil lagoons and beaches. The fine sand of the beaches, crystal-clear waters, signature Filipino hospitality and good food are irresistible to locals and foreigners alike.
But amid these untouched and seemingly surreal settings in Coron is a new boutique resort—The Funny Lion Inn. The resort, which is only five minutes away from Coron town, is the perfect choice for those who want a peaceful stay away from the crowds and noise of the beachfront, yet still close enough to the island’s attractions. Privacy and sheer relaxation are guaranteed.
Lion Inn, which opened in December of last year, is the new addition to the set of luxury accommodations managed by One-Of Collection, a hotel management company owned and run by couple Nikki and Ria Cauton, who also manage other boutique resorts, such as Amorita and Momo Beach House in Bohol, and Sta. Monica Beach Club in Dumaguete.
Nikki believes that Coron has so much to offer to all types of tourists. “The island is well-known for backpacking adventures,” he said. “Funny Lion is aiming at filling the gap of luxury travelers.”
The Funny Lion Inn takes the “nature” experience very seriously as it employs eco-friendly technology and practices. As an example, the resort uses solar panels for its water heaters, owing to the owners’ belief in promoting sustainability.
The two-building establishment is designed by architects Jojo Gutierrez and Rapunzel Caparas. The modern and industrial motif echoes the environmental advocacy of One-Of in all its other projects.
The nice thing about being in the tropics is that the nature-feel of the island is maintained in such a way that it still feels homey unlike a city hotel. You’re in an island, so you should feel you are in an island, even when you’re already in your room.
Because Lion Inn has always maintained its cozy and classy vibes, each room in the resort is simple and elegant, and the amenities are sure to get guests in the island paradise mood. Lion Inn has a total of 32 rooms, with a choice of either a Cub for twin sharing and King with a king-sized bed. Also available is a premium room aptly called Pride, which offers a breath-taking view of Coron Bay at any time of the day or night.
Funny Lion prides itself in serving as a perfect venue for watching the beautiful Coron sunset. Guests usually converge on the Pride Rock Deck on the fifth floor as the sun sets every day. The two Jacuzzis are also excellent spots to experience sundown with cocktails available at the bar, not to mention the pool at the center of the location.
Aside from its accommodations, Funny Lion will soon be offering tour packages that will include island hopping and snorkeling, and side trip to the Maquinit Hot Springs, which guests can visit on their first day, if they wish.
Of course, food will not be overlooked as Lion Inn offers a wide variety of Asian dishes at Hunt Restaurant. The bestsellers are their seafood, which are served fresh and deliciously prepared, and available in “big and small plates,” according to Nikki. One can expect a wider fare of dishes because Palawan is rich in fresh marine resources. The restaurant offers a diverse menu, which is specially created for island travelers.
The one thing that stands out at Funny Lion is the One-Of Collection’s personalized service. Guests, who have stayed at the resort, marvel at the handwritten notes and surprise treats they find when they return to their rooms.
“We want people to have a different and pleasant experience when they stay at our resorts,” Nikki said.