Palau is a pacific island east of the Philippines and a two-hour flight from Guam. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity for most people to visit. When looking for accommodation, it is not surprising to see places costing $80-$100USD per night. If you’re thinking it’s an expensive island, you’re right. Shell Villa Apartel Resort is a more affordable option to consider if you’re planning a trip to Palau. I had planned to stay for two nights and I ended up spending here for my entire trip. In this article, I will share my experience of staying there during my trip to Palau.
From the moment I was picked up at the airport, Leo, Josh, Elmer and Sylvia were always kind and friendly faces to see during my stay at Shell Villa. Their level of hospitality was incredible and I felt like I was staying in a guesthouse rather than a hotel. In addition, there was a very personal feel to the place in comparison to your typical hotel chain resort.
Location
Shell Villa Apartel Resort is located just outside of downtown Koror and about 20 minutes away by foot. It has pleasant views of the Palauan sky and palm trees. It is along a main road but it’s more peaceful than if you’re downtown. At night time, there is very little to no noise for a restful sleep. If you are planning to do a lot of activities (there are no beaches to really just go to in Palau, so if you don’t you’re likely to be bored) you will be picked up and collected so don’t let the location put you off.
Facilities
During my stay at Shell Villa Apartel Resort, I stayed in a standard double room. I found it very spacious and private with a small lounge area joined onto the bathroom which had a standard sink, toilet and a standing shower.
There are plenty of blinds so you can decide how much light you want. The room also has a television if you want to connect your computer to it and the wifi worked well. While I was there it wasn’t connected to any TV channels. Personally, I didn’t mind this as I was doing activities the majority of the time I was there. They also have studio apartment and maisonette options if you prefer. My room was located inside a cabin with a communal area outside with kitchen facilities. I had my breakfast with coffee delivered to me daily each morning as well.
Unfortunately, Covid majorly affected tourism in Palau and Shell Villa Apartel Resort was affected by this. They used to have a large restaurant open in the past but right now they are still trying to get back up and running. That said, there are also plenty of very nice restaurants downtown worth checking out.
Arranging Excursions
I thought arranging excursions and day trips would be relatively straightforward. Palau is a very interesting island in the sense that it is very chilled out. As I live in a city full of hustle and bustle, it was a welcome change. However, it also took some getting used to. Although many dive shops, activity groups, etc. have social media pages and websites, it was common to be told to call in when I arrived. Taxis and buses don’t run typically like in most places.
It is common to get a lift everywhere and Leo and Josh at Shell Villa Apartel Resort were always very willing to take me places. This was where their hospitality and friendly nature came to the forefront.
A prime example of this was on my first full day when they helped me plan out my week. Initially, I expected to go to one or two places to arrange all of my activities. However, I learned very quickly that dates and activities were limited. Most places catered to chartered tours and private groups as opposed to your typical solo traveller. Leo and Josh took me to every possible place and gave me plenty of suggestions as well not just for tours but for restaurant recommendations, too!
Even though I bought a SIM card in Palau, I had some hassle making calls. Leo at Shell Villa Apartel still called and checked the availability on my behalf when I couldn’t do so myself. Not only this, but they checked in with me daily to see how I was enjoying my stay and if I needed help with anything. I am normally very independent but I know for sure that they made this trip to Palau even more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Honestly I felt like I had personal assistants taking care of me. I don’t know of any resorts where members of staff are willing to drive you around and make sure that you’re able to get onto different tours or get anything you need. I slept like a log every night, the bedroom and bathroom were very spacious. It really felt like a guesthouse and it was a very affordable price compared to other accommodation in Palau. Shell Villa Apartel Resort is of the most affordable but also hospitable places I have ever stayed and great value for money!
Thanks for reading and please consider sharing this to anyone who you think may be interested.
