Imagine you are at the shores of El Nido where limestone cliffs rise dramatically over the surrounding sea that glimmers in every shade of blue. Then, you are about to stay at The Funny Lion El Nido where it makes a roaring statement that sustainability is not just merely possible, it is essential.
This stylish boutique safari resort offers more than a tropical island escape, but delivers a meaningful experience rooted in responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and engaging community ties.
In today’s world which increasingly seeks eco-conscious travel, The Funny Lion El Nido offers a shining example through interwoven narratives that go far beyond luxury hospitality and customer satisfaction.
Your Stay, but with a Cause
Lots of details at The Funny Lion El Nido speaks the language of sustainability. When you check in to the resort’s thoughtfully designed rooms and you will find an eco-forward philosophy in every detail, from wooden keycards and natural signage to refillable bath amenities that eliminate single-use plastics.
Plastic straws and plastic bottles are nowhere in sight within their service ecosystem. Instead, the resort opts for glass bottles, metal cups, and refillable soap dispensers—subtle choices that significantly reduce environmental impact.
During our Papaya Beach tour, I noticed that they brought towels, secured not with a plastic bag, but with reusable drawstring bags. Other beach items are also placed inside recycled woven tote bags from used rice sacks. They brought glass drinking bottles as well. No single-use plastics.
A thriving herb garden on the property would soon provide fresh ingredients for dishes and cocktails.
Currently they are developing something new. We got access to their upcoming bee colony corner located across the resort building. This stingless species of bees will not only support the natural ecosystem but another level of guest experience to share the story of the bees. This significant eco-initiative is managed with bee experts to ensure sustainability. Developing this eco-corner means being serious with their eco-sustainability practices. Bees are extremely important in the food cycle with their crucial impact to plant diversity.
Additionally, when we checked out, The Funny Lion El Nido management gave us a parting gift secured by natural twine, plus their send-off bracelets made from carved wooden pendants. It was heartwarming.
Sustainability here is not a gimmick. It’s designed, planted, and practiced. I can say, it is their work lifestyle.
Building Better Communities
At sunrise every Wednesday, resort staff gather to clean the nearby beach. Mind you, this is not a photo-op, it is their weekly ritual that reinforces The Funny Lion’s role as a steward of the natural environment. With or without social media posting, they do it. Should I return, I would make sure to be part of this weekly movement.
The message is simple: if you enjoy paradise, you help protect it. The Funny Lion also pays close attention to the people it shapes. On-the-job trainees (OJTs), who are often sidelined in many hospitality settings, are mentored with heart. These young talents are trained not only in skill but in the values that define TFL—turning them into future ambassadors of sustainable tourism, regardless what property they would be involved with.
During our Papaya Beach Tour, one of the staff who attended us is an OJT hailing from Nueva Ecija. Her prowess, energy, eye-to-detail and actions is almost at par with her regular seniors. Wearing my HR hat, these OJT will reach for the stars.
And beyond the resort grounds, The Funny Lion El Nido, through Sir Nilo, connected with a local Sibaltan Weaving Community. With these simple yet meaningful partnerships, the resort promotes indigenous craftsmanship and ensures that local artisans benefit directly from the tourism economy. You would see the actual beautifully woven gift bags and baskets at the Boutique shop, right beside the resort lobby.
My Take On The Funny Lion El Nido proves that responsible travel is not just a trend but a transformative experience. From eco-conscious amenities to inclusive community engagement and far-reaching CSR programs, their group leads by concrete and tangible example. Here, I observed that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. Each and every staycation at The Funny Lion El Nido not only leaves memories for the traveler but meaningful impact for the community. I can say this resort is more than a place to rest and recharge but a sustainable destination on its own that stands for something bigger andmeaningful.
So when planning your escape to El Nido Palawan, choose a place that gives back to the paradise it celebrates. Choose The Funny Lion: “where every roar echoes with purpose”.
For a detailed hotel review, please visit KapampanganTraveller.com website. For reservations or to learn more about their sustainable programs, visit www.thefunnylion.com or follow @thefunnylionelnido on social media. Cebu Pacific Flies Daily From Clark to El Nido.
