There are some places you stay at during your travels that you remember for the location, or the facilities, or the price. And then there are places you remember because they wrap you in a kind of warmth and care that makes you forget you are thousands of miles away from home. Bonsai belongs firmly in that second category for me.
From the moment I arrived, I was met not with a formal check-in, but with genuine smiles and kindness that instantly dissolved the fatigue of travel. Chris, Aple, and the entire team never once treated me like “just another guest.” They treated me as if I was someone they had known for years. The warmth was effortless, unforced, and consistent every single day of my stay.
The location is exactly what you want when you are in Panglao. Alona Beach is close enough to reach in minutes — perfect for a spontaneous sunset stroll or a quick bite — but far enough that you can escape the noise and have complete peace when you want to rest. They even rent scooters on-site for a very reasonable price, making it incredibly easy to explore the island on your own terms.
The property itself is a gem. Clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully laid out. The fact that you get a Jacuzzi at this price point feels almost unreal — it is the kind of extra that makes you stop and think, “How is this even possible here?” My room was spotless, airy, and comfortable, with every little detail looked after.
But what truly makes Bonsai exceptional is the people. Chris and Aple checked in often — not in a way that felt intrusive, but in a way that made you feel cared for. They anticipated needs before I even voiced them. The ladies at the reception were always smiling, always patient, and always ready to answer questions with genuine attention. No query felt too small, and no request felt like a burden.
Everything about my stay felt easy. I never once worried about safety, comfort, or whether something would work as promised. There were no disappointments, no “I wish this was better” moments. It was one of those rare stays where you realise you have not once had to compromise.
Bonsai is not just accommodation for me anymore. It is a place I now consider home in the Philippines. It is a place I will return to without hesitation, knowing I will be welcomed not with formality, but with the same warmth and care that made my first stay unforgettable.
To Chris, Aple, the reception team, and everyone who works quietly behind the scenes to make this place what it is — thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have set a new standard for hospitality in my travels, and I am already looking forward to the day I walk through those doors...
Read moreThe most outstanding element to this place is incredible customer service. Chris and Aple go over and above to ensure that their guests have the best experience possible.
As an experienced traveler, I can tell you that it's the people who shape the vacation. That's where the gold is, and these people are a treasure grove!
Joshua was waiting in the first available pickup spot right as we got off the ferry. The drive to the unit was peaceful and efficient. We were going to originally hire a tricycle for 500 php, but the rate with Joshua in a private car was the same price!
The reception with Judy was warm and fluid. Everything came together beautifully. The prices are also lower than most. A rental of a new 125 Click scooter was only 350 php per day, which is the lowest we have seen here.
The room was nice and cool upon arrival and spotless.
This location is good for those who want to be close to the famous Alona Beach. They have an amazing fireshow there, along with incredible restaurants.
Chris also offers island hopping tours, including snorkling to Balicasag island. Which, of course, have amazing rates, best you'll likely find.
Chris was also very responsive with communication using the Air B and B app.
We couldn't have been more pleased, and we left inspired to give back more value because of all of the extra value Chris would constantly...
Read moreAbsolutely Incredible stay 💯 From the moment we checked in we knew that we are in for a treat. Communication was seamless, Check in process was smooth and last but not the least the owner is a True legend! He helped us carry our heavy duty luggage at the time of check in and even gave us a huge favor by letting us check out late as we were busy exploring some of the attractions around Bohol. He was kind enough to take all our stuff from the room and carry it all the way down to the storage area. What a Gem! I'd highly recommend this awesome stay to anyone coming to Bohol. You will be in for a real treat. Not to mention the rooms are equipped with stunning Jacuzzis with led lights. Room has all the basic amenities such as Kettle, complimentary coffee, water, Aircon, hair dryer and a smart tv with Netflix. Seriously, what more could one ask for? Last but not the least the price was the main driving force behind booking this property. We paid $35 Usd for 2 nights and got to enjoy so many amenities. Truly unbelievable 👏 Would definitely be...
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