We had an amazing time there, unlimited coffea at breakfast, amazing pancakes. All the staff and diving instructors are amazing. We saw turtles every day. Super for snorkeling and diving. There's a short walk around the island that's nice too.
The food is basic but just what you need. Cerfew at 10pm which we apreceate. Be sure to take earplugs as there are many chickens on the island that like to wake up from 4am!
We didn't want to leave. Would definitely go back!
Oh yes! Kick back and reconnect with nature at Mario and Mila’s hideaway on the fabulous Apo Island. This has to be a destination for real travelers, electricity only from 18-22.00 so the perfect chance to really cut off. Diving was amazing - thanks Big Mac, you are great. Snorkeling was nearly as brilliant and we met too many turtles to count! Mario is a legend and I hope you meet him. Laid back but smooth, everything works and the staff (specially Liza) quickly become family.
We stayed at Mario & Milas for 2 nights. We did 3 dives with smashing dive master Mac, and what a master he is! (Big Mac)
It truly was great dives at 3 different sites and we saw plenty of beautiful things.
The coral reef is the most gorgeous I’ve ever seen and there is lots of gorgeous turtles!
We did a super drift dive with negative entry. “Apo Island Rollercoaster” - highly recommend!
As for the stay, we could not have asked for more. Lovely, basic home stay with the nicest people on the planet. Elisa greeted us upon arrival and made sure we were looked after at all times. Really nice meals and a very kind and friendly vibe, which we really appreciated.
Mario and Mila are such a genuine, smashing people and it was a privilege to meet you both.
The only regret we have is not diving with Master Mario and not staying longer, but we sure will next time. 👌🏻
Thanks EVERYONE including Juno for being incredible people and looking after us so well.
We sure will be back!
This is my second time on the island and it is so nice to say the place sis not change and as beautiful as it always been. The staff in the Mario’s are so friendly and helpful, room is decent size and has everything you need. They also serve you a decent food at the reasonable for the island price.
What also makes this place amazing is scuba team, very friendly, professional, knowledgeable about the dive sites and what you can see there. And, oh boy, it is a lot to see! I was slightly sceptical coming here years after original visit, expecting some affect on the system but the place is in top state. Coral gardens are in pristine condition and variety is mind-blowing, you do not want to get out of the water at all, The same is for the marine life: barracudas, bug schools of jacks, huge amount of nudis and, of course, turtles, turtles are everywhere!
Please keep in mind that this is remote little island with very little infrastructure, so no hot water, very basic bathroom and shower and electricity only 4 hours a day from 6pm till 10pm. If you are looking for the resort style place - this island is definitely not for you, however, if you are into the beautiful natural island with lovely and friendly local people and beautiful marine life, please make sure you do visit the island and stay with Mario!
I visit Apo Island for more than 10 years now and I always enjoyed diving with Mario and his excellent dive masters. The homestay is lovely, located a little bit above the village. Mario and his wife Mila offer many different rooms for a fair price. Thank you Mario and thank you Mila for everything you have done, that I could enjoy my stays with you.
