Manila's Most Stunning Resort: Breathtaking Views & Unforgettable Luxury
Manila's Most Stunning Resort: A Messy, Honest, and (Mostly) Wonderful Review
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to explode on you about this resort. Manila's "Most Stunning"? They ain't kidding. But trust me, it's not all roses and champagne flutes. I'm here to tell you the whole truth – the glitter, the grit, and the occasional spilled latte.
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- Meta Description: My honest review of Manila's "Most Stunning Resort." Stunning views, yes, but is it all it's cracked up to be? Accessibility, dining, spa, and everything in between – I'm spilling the tea (and maybe the coffee) in this chaotic, real-world rundown.
First Impressions (and a near-disaster):
So, the drive in? Gorgeous. Lush greenery, winding roads, the anticipation thrumming like a bad pop song stuck in your head. And then… the lobby. Whoa. Crystal chandeliers, massive windows showcasing the… well, the breathtaking views. Seriously, the view alone almost made me weep. The sheer scale of the place is genuinely impressive.
But here's where the "messy" comes in. Checking in. Apparently, my pre-booked room wasn't quite ready. Cue awkward shuffle, a muttered apology from the clearly frazzled receptionist (bless her heart, she was doing her best), and a frantic search for… well, anywhere to sit. Eventually, we were pointed at the "lounge" – more on that later. It wasn't ideal, but hey, nobody's perfect, right?
Accessibility: The Good, the Bad, and the "Almost There":
Okay, let's get real. Accessibility is a big deal for me (and it should be for everyone). This resort gets a mixed bag.
- Wheelchair Accessible: Generally good. Ramps, elevators (thank GOD!), and wide corridors. But, and this is a big "but," some areas were a bit tight. Like, "did they really measure this?" tight. The "lounge" (again, more on that) was a bit of a squeeze. Getting around, especially in the outdoor areas, required a bit of pre-planning to ensure pathways were clear but it was manageable.
- On-site accessible restaurants/lounges: Yep! At least, they claimed to be. I'd say 80% accessible but needed some minor adjustments.
- Essential Extras: They had all the essentials – accessible bathrooms, braille signage. The little things matter.
Internet, Internet, Internet…and the Free Wi-Fi (Thank Goodness!):
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms?! Hallelujah! Honestly, in this day and age, it's practically a basic human right. It worked mostly flawlessly. Though, on one occasion, I did end up having to hot spot my phone - so there is room for improvement!
Things to Do (and Ways to Relax - My God, the Relaxation!):
Oh, the relaxation. This is where the resort truly shines.
- The Spa: This is where I basically disappeared for two days. The massage… oh, the massage. I opted for the deep tissue and emerged a reborn human. The sauna, the steam room, the foot bath… pure bliss. Honestly, I could have happily lived in the spa. The body wrap? Meh. I tried to enjoy it, I really did. It just felt… sticky.
- Pool with a View: The infinity pool. The photos don't do it justice. Swimming, gazing at the vista… I swear, I saw my life flash before my eyes in the best possible way.
- Fitness Center: I, um, glanced at it. From the outside. Looked intimidatingly shiny.
- Other Ways to Relax: Reading on a sunbed, napping, staring at the sky, contemplating the meaning of life. All very achievable.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because We're All a Little Germ-Obsessed Now):
The resort clearly takes this seriously.
- Anti-viral Cleaning: Yes, indeed.
- Daily Disinfection: See above.
- Hand Sanitizer: EVERYWHERE. Seriously, I felt safer than I have in my own apartment.
- Staff Training & Protocol: Staff members were masked and clearly well-versed on the safety rules.
Dining & Drinking - From Buffet Bliss to Room Service Rambles:
The food… was a rollercoaster.
- Breakfast Buffet: Phenomenal. Seriously. Everything you could want. Asian, Western… a whole section dedicated to pastries. I may have overindulged. Multiple times
- Restaurants: A la carte was consistently good but pricey. Shoutout to the Asian cuisine – I could eat their noodles every day.
- Room Service: A mixed bag. Sometimes amazing, sometimes… a little chaotic. Once, my order arrived with the wrong drink for example. But hey, it's the effort that counts, right?
- Poolside Bar: Perfect. Cocktails, sun, and that view. What's not to love?
- Vegetarian restaurant? Unfortunately, my options were very limited.
Services and Conveniences - The Little (and Not-So-Little) Things:
- Concierge: Helpful, but sometimes a bit… overbooked. Need to book a specific restaurant for dinner? Plan it well in advance.
- Daily Housekeeping: Impeccable. My room sparkled.
- Laundry Service: Efficient and reasonably priced.
- Business Facilities: I didn't use them but they seemed well-equipped, including a Xerox/fax.
- Currency exchange: Convenient, but the rates weren't the best.
For the Kids (Spoiler Alert: Mostly Great!):
- Family/Child Friendly: Yes! They had a kids' club and babysitting service available, but my child had to use the kids' facilities.
- Kids Meal: There were plenty of kids' meal options.
Available in All Rooms (The Nitty-Gritty):
Air conditioning? Yup. Bathtub? Yes! Bathrobes! Yes! Slippers! Yes! You get the idea. The rooms are well-equipped.
Some Annoying Things:
- Noise: The walls seemed a little thin. I could hear the neighbors.
- The elevator: Slow and crowded.
- Pets allowed unavailable: I wanted to bring my dog with me, but I couldn't.
- Check-in/out [private]: I wish I'd experienced this.
- The "lounges": A place to wait. That's most accurate.
My Verdict:
Look, it wasn't perfect. There were hiccups, little annoyances, and moments of pure, unadulterated frustration. But… the views. The spa. The overall vibe. They outweigh the negatives.
Would I go back? Absolutely. Would I recommend it? Yes, with the caveat that you should be prepared for a few bumps in the road. It's not a perfectly polished experience, but it's a real experience. And, at the end of the day, it's a stunning, luxurious resort that will leave you feeling refreshed and, if you're anything like me, slightly in awe.
Final Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Parisian Paradise: Hotel du Lys Awaits Your Dream Getaway!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into a Manila resort experience so messy and glorious, it'll make you question the meaning of life (in a good way, hopefully). This isn't your cookie-cutter itinerary. This is… reality.
The Subject: Stunning View Resort, Manila (or Bust!) - A Trainwreck in Paradise (fingers crossed)
Day 1: Arrival, Arrival, Ugh… Arrival (and Expectations CRUSHED)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at NAIA. Oh, the joy. The sheer, unfiltered joy. (Said with extreme sarcasm. Aircon is broken on the bus, feels like bathwater and I forgot deodorant. Fantastic start.) Taxi ride? Pray to whatever deity you believe in, because Manila traffic is a sentient beast, capable of devouring patience and sanity in equal measure.
- 2:30 PM: Finally arrive at Stunning View Resort. The website showed… well, let's just say the reality is… different. Less "stunning" and more "vaguely picturesque." The view, however, IS pretty freaking amazing. Like, jaw-dropping, Instagram-worthy. But… the lobby smells faintly of mildew and regret.
- 2:45 PM: Check-in. The staff are trying, bless their hearts. But "trying" doesn't always translate to efficiency. I'm pretty sure the receptionist just double-booked a room. Drama!
- 3:30 PM: Success! (Maybe.) Finally installed in room. The AC is making a noise like a dying whale. And the "stunning view" is, in fact, stunning. I stare at the city sprawl, a chaotic, gorgeous mess. Feeling overwhelmed/elated. Let's go order some overpriced drinks and try to forget the whale noise.
- 4:00 PM: Poolside. The pool is…cleanish? There are some questionable leaves floating around. The bar is open. It looks like a place for Instagram. I had a thought if this could be a meet-up place for some influencers. Is the pool water salty? Maybe it is my sweat. The cocktail? Too sweet. The sun? Glorious.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at the resort restaurant. Don't raise your expectations. Ordered the "fresh catch of the day" and got something deep-fried and vaguely fish-shaped. Expensive, though. At least the wine is cold. The band is playing a cover of "Hotel California." It's actually not terrible. Maybe there's still hope for this trip.
- 9:00 PM: Back in the room. The whale noises are louder. I consider calling the front desk, but then I remember I'm on vacation and decide to embrace chaos. I stare at the night sky and make a mental note to buy earplugs for the next day just in case.
Day 2: The City, The Madness, The Real Manila
- 8:00 AM: Sleep? What's "sleep"? The whale is still at it and the sun is beaming through that window from heaven.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at the resort. Buffet. The food is… edible. Okay, it's mostly okay. The coffee is strong, which I desperately need. I feel like I am not going to make it today.
- 10:00 AM: Venturing out. I decide to brave the real Manila. This is going to be terrifying, exciting, and potentially life-affirming, all at once.
- 11:00 AM: The chaos begins. I take the train but the smell is awful. The heat hits harder than a midget with a whip. Manila is a sensory overload. The noise, the smells, the colors… It's overwhelming, it's exhilarating, it's exhausting. Love how you get to be the master of your own destiny.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a local carinderia (small, local eatery). I ordered something I couldn't pronounce, but it tasted like heaven. The owner is a sweet old lady who just kept saying "Masarap!" (Delicious!). And she was right. This is the soul of Manila.
- 2:00 PM: Stroll through Intramuros, the old walled city. History! Culture! Cobblestone streets! The Philippines in the past. It's beautiful but also a sweat-fest. The kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride is romantic, or what could be romantic, if not for the flies. I think the horse is as tired as I am.
- 4:00 PM: Shopping. I try to bargain. I fail miserably. I end up with a bag full of souvenirs I probably don't need, but hey, it's Manila.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. Found a restaurant with good food. I am going to try to relax a bit. The place is full of people.
- 8:00 PM: Back to the resort. The whale sounds are still here… It is becoming my lullaby.
Day 3: Sunset, Surprises, and the Sad Goodbye
- 9:00 AM: (Finally) Morning. I skip the whale noises. The sun is finally at its right place.
- 10:00 AM: Another dip in the pool. At this point, I'm going to assume the leaves are part of the decor. I get to take the best pictures.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. Same place as yesterday. I am starting to like this place.
- 2:00 PM: Packing (ugh). This trip leaves me with a lot of good memories. I feel good and well-fed.
- 4:00 PM: I sit by the pool to watch the sunset. The view… still stunning. The sky is a wash of colors. It's the perfect ending to the trip.
- 6:00 PM: I am ready to head back home. I will remember the time I spent in Manila.
Final Thoughts:
Manila is a rollercoaster. Messy, chaotic, beautiful, frustrating, and utterly unforgettable. This resort? Yeah, it had its issues. But even with the whale-like AC and the "questionable" pool, the stunning view, the beautiful people, the genuine warmth of the locals, and the sheer energy of the city, it was worth every single sweaty, chaotic, and utterly imperfect moment. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. But next time, I'm bringing those earplugs. And maybe a hazmat suit. You never know.
Amiens' Hidden Gem: Hotel Central Anzac – Unforgettable Stay!
Manila's Most Stunning Resort: The Real Deal FAQs (Because Let's Be Honest, You Need 'Em!)
Okay, spill. Is the view *really* as jaw-dropping as the pictures? Like, actually?
Alright, buckle up. I'm not one for hyperbole, but… yeah. It's pretty damn breathtaking. I mean, I saw the sunrise over that bay and almost choked on my coffee. Partly because the coffee was weak (more on that later), but mostly because the view just...hit you. It's like, all of a sudden, reality hits you. Which means I dropped my coffee. And, the coffee was cold. It's all fine though. But seriously, the photos don't even do it justice. They can't capture that *feeling*. The way the light changes? Unbelievable. Just make sure you book a room with a balcony. Trust me. Unless you enjoy peering out of a window. I'm sure that is fine.
Is it worth the price tag? Because, let's face it, luxury ain't cheap.
Here's the thing: it's expensive. No sugar-coating it. But… and it's a big but… it *mostly* feels worth it. Okay, so, the first night I spent way too much on a cocktail that tasted faintly of sadness and regret (again, weak coffee flashbacks). BUT, the second night, I had a *fantastic* dinner, the service was impeccable, and I finally felt like I was living the life (even if I was probably paying for it for the next six months). So, depends on your budget. If you're scraping by? Probably not. If you're saving up, I say… go for it. Just… maybe pre-game with some cheap booze at home. Save the sadness-cocktails for later.
What's the food like? Because a pretty view can only get you so far.
Okay, the food is… *mostly* good. Here's where things get a little messy. The main restaurant? Excellent, especially the seafood. Fresh, delicious, I still dream about the grilled prawns. The buffet? Hit or miss. Some days, amazing. Other days? Let's just say the "egg station" was a source of much amusement/horror. Remember that weak coffee mentioned? Well, now think of an overcooked omelette. And the pastries...they were not Parisian. But the service is generally top notch. Just...pick your battles. And maybe skip the breakfast buffet if you are picky. Or get there early!
What about the rooms? Clean? Comfortable? Because I *need* a good bed.
The rooms? Gorgeous. Seriously. Spacious, well-appointed, and the beds…oh, the beds. Cloud-like. I actually considered taking the entire mattress home with me. I didn't, but I thought about it. The bathrooms are all marble and gleaming, the toiletries are fancy, and there's a lovely robe you can wear. So, yes. Clean, very comfortable, and practically a palace. The only 'flaw'? The hairdryer. It was like using a gentle breeze. My hair needs a hurricane, people! But other than that, no real complaints. Although I swear I heard a tiny mouse running around at 3 AM. I chalked it up to the jetlag.
And the service? Are the staff genuinely helpful and friendly, or just…faking it?
The service is… *superb*. Seriously, they're amazing. Attentive, friendly, and genuinely seem happy to help. They remember your name, your preferences (coffee, weak, remember), and are always smiling. It actually made me feel a little guilty about complaining about the coffee. Probably the best service I've ever experienced at a resort. Though, I did witness one waiter trip and spill a whole tray of drinks. He was mortified, but everyone around was just incredibly helpful. It's not just a show, it's genuine hospitality. They make you feel like royalty, even if you look like you haven't slept in days (which, full disclosure, I hadn't).
Is there anything *bad* about the resort? Be honest!
Okay, here's the dirt. Firstly, the location. While the view is stunning, getting *to* the resort can be a nightmare. Manila traffic is legendary. Budget extra time. Trust me, it’s hell. Second, the aforementioned coffee. Step up your coffee game! And the prices, look, it’s luxury, you get what you pay for. But everything is so expensive! And finally, the sheer perfection of it all... it can feel a bit *much* at times. Too polished, too perfect. Sometimes you just want a little chaos, you know? I almost tripped on the pool table!
What's the best thing about the resort? And what should I focus on?
The best thing? That view. And the feeling of utter tranquility. You can feel yourself slowly defrazzling. Focus on the experience, that you pay everything for. Sip those (expensive) cocktails on your balcony, watch the sunset, and just… breathe. Enjoy the service. Eat the seafood. Just... *be*. And don't sweat the small stuff. The slightly overcooked eggs? The weak coffee? It's all part of the adventure. You're going to love it. I hated it. I loved it. The mix of both, is what it's all about. Now go. And have a good time.
The pool! What's the deal with the pool?
Okay, the pool. Let me tell you about the pool. The pool is an experience. It's not just *a* pool. Oh no. It's infinity edged, it's overlooking the entire bay, and it's perfect. Seriously, perfect. Except. See, the first day I got there, I forgot my sunblock. I am a ginger, let me tell you, I burned. So I couldn't *actually* enjoy the pool for the first day. The second day I was okay and I actually jumped in the pool. But the pool itself? Glorious. The water was the perfect temperature, the view was stunning, and there were these super comfy loungers. And yes, I was wearing sunblock that day. The pool is worth it. The pool is a *must*. And it's probably the only thing I would recommend, if I was forced to choose a single thing about the resort.
