Where to Stay in Islas de Gigantes: Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn

Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn is located in Gigantes Norte. It is the only place accommodating tourists in the whole of Gigantes Island. It is owned by Joel Decano who happens to be a Tourism Officer for Carles, Iloilo. Just make sure to tell the boatmen in Estancia that you're heading to Gigantes Norte so you get to board the correct ferry. Be there at the port before 2:00 PM because that is when the only passenger boat departs. The Decanos are prominent so just tell the locals where you're going and they'll point you to the right direction.

They have different types of rooms you can choose from. We chose what seems to be a double room with en suite bathroom. Don't expect too much. The floor was not made of concrete. We didn't mind as long as we have a room to sleep in. Who knows, it might be now. Please let me know if it already is, so I can update this blog. :)

our temporary home :)

You may also opt to stay in one of their huts or chalets (check the photo below). It'll give you a more primordial and island feel. I would love to stay in this kind of hut, only if I'm not a human mosquito trap. I don't know why but mosquitoes seem to really like me. Too bad, I didn't have my Off Lotion that time.

this is so cool! :)

You don't pay here per room per night. Their rate is fixed at PHP 200.00 per person per night, regardless of which room you choose.

mini-bar/reception

Majority of the structures and furniture were made of wood and bamboo. Very  eco-friendly and I loved it.

our dining area

The entire place is so chill. You'll see trees, flowers and a bird. Yes, when we were there they have a pet bird stationed near the gate which Ate Anggay (the family cook) takes care of.

very relaxing

When we went here in 2011, Kuya Joel said they don't get as many tourists as any other places in Panay Island do. I'm sure they're getting more and more at the present. His hard work should be paying-off by now.

balete tree house

On a lazy afternoon, you can just spend your time reading a book in a hammock in this tree house or by just simply sleeping.

daily feast :)

One thing I liked the most is their food! Seafood galore! You just have to pay for what they bought for you in the market and give Ate Anggay (their cook) what you think is due for her. Of course we gave her a generous tip because we loved her cooking (and her as a person). I seriously think I'm going to get fatter if I stay there for a long time. I super loved the food!

welcome to Gigantes!

You also may arrange your island hopping tour with Kuya Joel. So, what are you waiting for? Islas de Gigantes may be far as it seems, but it is worth the effort! I swear, you'll never forget about its unique islands and its delicious seafood. Gigantes' beauty has been waiting long enough to be seen and explored. The island hopping story is up next. :)

Accommodation Information:

Gigantes Hideaway Tourist Inn
Address: Sitio Hayahay, Gigantes Norte, Carles, Iloilo
Contact Person: Mr. Joel Decano, Owner and Carles Tourism Officer
Contact No: 09184685006
Room Rates: PHP 200 per person per night

Island Hopping Tour: starts at PHP 1200, depending on the number of pax

*There is no network signal at the Inn and it's spotty in the entire island. You may get in touch with Joel probably when he is in Estancia or Carles, so just keep on trying. :)

This is Part 4 of my Iloilo travel series.