Mithi Resort and Spa

The Mithi Resort & Spa has the sense of a real nature reserve, which makes this a convincing option for those looking to unwind. Its palm-thatched buildings are scattered across leafy grounds, and are full of natural furnishings and local artwork. A pretty wooden sculpture hangs from the center of the entrance, between layered stone pillars and soothing water features, and the lobby has plenty of places to kick back, with beautiful hand-carved chairs and sofas underneath pagoda rooftops. That style continues throughout the resort and into the rooms, where each enjoys privacy from the lush gardens. The seaside setting is -- of course -- a major draw, and bamboo sun loungers line the infinity pool, with beautiful sea views. Those same views are on offer from the restaurant, making it a lovely place for breakfast and sunset dinners. Overall, the resort is a serene place with a quiet vibe. Guests are mostly couples and families here to relax in the natural surroundings.

This hotel is located on the north coast of Panglao Island, along a white sandy beach. There's not a lot in the immediate neighborhood, but it's a three-minute walk down the road to Hinagdanan Cave, one of the island's top attractions. You'll find a handful of mini-marts and shops there. Alona, the main town on Panglao, is a 20-minute drive from the resort, for more shopping and nightlife. It takes about the same amount of time to reach the airport and ferries to Bohol, as well as the bridges to the mainland. The resort provides free transfers to and from both the airport and ferries. It's a 45-minute drive to the popular Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella and a 90-minute trip to see the distinctive Chocolate Hills. 

Rooms at the Mithi Resort are in the process of being renovated (as of early 2018), and so fall into two categories: standard rooms and bungalows and renovated Mithi rooms and bungalows. The original rooms have a simple style, with rattan furniture, hardwood floors ,and terra cotta colored walls, while the Mithi style is more contemporary. Expect to see pale walls, modern furniture, and neutral color schemes like brown and taupe with occasional splashes of yellow in these units. Both have their own appeal, and all include amenities such as air-conditioning, kettles, safes, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and large furnished balconies. Some bungalows have sea views and outdoor jetted tubs, while the high-end Mithi Seaview Bungalows add dining areas.

Bathrooms are spacious, with large windows on the shower cubicles creating a nice indoor/outdoor feel in some rooms. All have shower slippers, hairdryers, and products, with Mithi rooms adding rainfall showerheads. The Mithi Seaview Bungalows have dual sinks and sunken mosaic-tiled whirlpools on the deck.

The resort is in a secluded spot on the island, but there's still plenty to do on-site. The beach is lovely, with clear blue seas and a few lounge chairs. Kayaks can be rented for exploring the calm water. An offshore island sits in the shallow waters offshore and can be reached on foot during low tide. It's a popular spot for snorkeling when the tide is higher. There are several pools, including an infinity pool with whirlpools and swim-up bar, a four-lane lap pool, and an underground cenote. Loungers and table seating are set up around the pools, plus a restaurant perched above with a nice outdoor treetop deck and a varied menu of international dishes served throughout the day. This includes a free breakfast buffet and room service. Views of the sea make it a popular spot, despite the heavily mixed reviews when it comes to food. There are tennis courts for the more active, plus a gym with weights and cardio equipment. Alternatively, the spa offers a range of treatments for those who'd prefer to relax. A large covered pavilion and several meeting rooms cater for events and weddings, and there's a shaded children's playground plus game room with pool tables, table tennis, darts, and chess. The resort has a small gift and snack shop, and Wi-Fi is free (though can be spotty, at best). Free transfers to the airport or ferry are included in rates.