Escape to Paradise: Uncover HarmonyHaven, Siquijor's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Uncover HarmonyHaven, Siquijor's Hidden Gem - A Really Honest Review (and Maybe a Rant or Two)
Okay, folks, listen up. I've just crawled out of a week-long love affair with Siquijor, a teeny island in the Philippines that’s basically the lovechild of a postcard and a dream. And nestled in the heart of all that dreamy-ness? HarmonyHaven, a.k.a. Escape to Paradise. Now, I'm not usually one for flowery adjectives, but this place… it almost broke me. In a good way, mostly.
Accessibility & Getting There: The Good, The Slightly Grumpy (and the "Where's My Taxi?!)
First things first: Accessibility. Okay, so Siquijor itself isn't exactly wheelchair-friendly on a grand scale, let’s be real. The roads are… well, let’s just say they have character. HarmonyHaven, however, does offer Facilities for disabled guests. I didn't personally verify their level of access, but it's a definite plus.
Getting to the island? That's a whole other story. You can fly into Dumaguete (Negros Island), which is about a 1-2 hour fast ferry ride from Siquijor. Booking a Car park [on-site] is great if you're driving in, and Airport transfer is essential. Me? I opted for the "trust the locals" approach and ended up haggling with a tricycle driver who may have lost his license sometime in the last decade. The trip was an adventure, to say the least!
Speaking of adventures, Taxi service is available but can be a bit…hit or miss. Be prepared to wait, or, like me, embrace the tricycle chaos.
Hygiene, Safety and COVID: Trying to Relax in a Pandemic
Alright, let's address the elephant in the room: the pandemic. I'm a worrier, okay? I carry enough hand sanitizer to disinfect a small army. And HarmonyHaven? They did a phenomenal job. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They even offered Room sanitization opt-out available, which, frankly, I didn't need. The place already smelled like pure, clean air and a hint of tropical bliss.
They took it seriously. Staff trained in safety protocol, Hand sanitizer everywhere, and Daily disinfection in common areas. I felt genuinely safe, which allowed me to actually relax. Which, you know, is the point! Cashless payment service was a lifesaver and a sanity saver.
Internet: The Eternal Struggle (But They Tried!)
Internet access is a thing, people! Essential, even when you're on a tropical island, right? Okay, so Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – hallelujah! And Wi-Fi in public areas? Check. But let's be real. Island life means island internet. Expect fluctuations. There's also Internet [LAN], but honestly, I just wanted to disconnect from the world. The Internet services were good enough to do some basic things but forget streaming a Netflix marathon. Which, in the grand scheme of things, was probably a good thing.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: My Belly Approved!
Food! Oh, the food! HarmonyHaven gets it right. They had a Restaurants! Now, I'm not a buffet person, but the Breakfast [buffet]? It was glorious. Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, fresh fruit overflowing, and the coffee? Delicious.
They have the usual A la carte in restaurant, and Room service [24-hour] which is great for those late-night cravings. I had a plate of perfectly grilled fish from the International cuisine in restaurant and nearly wept.
Poolside bar? Absolutely. Happy hour? You betcha. Snack bar? Always. Desserts in restaurant? Prepare to loosen your belt. Be warned, the Poolside bar made me lose track of time, and the Happy hour made me forget my name.
The only slight downside? No Vegetarian restaurant listed but the restaurant did provide Vegetarian options.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax: Paradise, Personified.
This is where HarmonyHaven truly shines. Forget screens, folks. Embrace the island life.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: Absolutely stunning! The pool with view took my breath away.
- Spa: Oh, the spa. Spa/sauna, Massage, Body scrub, Body wrap and the Foot bath! I spent half my vacation submerged in a cloud of aromatic bliss. I even tried the sauna – and didn't spontaneously combust!
- Gym/fitness: They had a Fitness center which I didn’t use (see spa comment above) but it was there if you’re that person.
The Indoor venue for special events/Outdoor venue for special events and Proposal spot were excellent touches, maybe if I had a boyfriend.
Available in All Rooms: What Makes it Home
The rooms were… well, they were perfect. Air conditioning, of course, because, Siquijor. Blackout curtains, a lifesaver after too many cocktails. Coffee/tea maker to fuel my day. A Refrigerator to keep my wine cold (essential!). The Wi-Fi [free], obviously. But the thing that really got me? The Slippers. Seriously, it’s the little things.
Services and Conveniences: The Perks
They were incredibly helpful. Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, Concierge, Cash withdrawal. And the staff? Always smiling, always helpful. Front desk [24-hour]! Safety deposit boxes and Luggage storage. They had it all. It felt like they anticipated my every need.
For the Kids: Family Friendly
They are Family/child friendly with helpful Babysitting service and even Kids meal available.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe
Cleanliness and safety: They take it seriously. CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express] (or private), Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Non-smoking rooms, Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms, Security [24-hour]
My Biggest Takeaway (The Emotional Response):
This place isn't just a hotel. It's an experience. It's a chance to breathe, to unwind, to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. I'm not exaggerating when I say I almost cried when I left. (Okay, I may have shed a tear or two on the ferry back). It's the kind of place that stays with you, a warm hug on a breezy evening.
Now, let's be honest, it wasn’t perfect. There were a few minor issues with the internet connection, and sometimes the food came just a little late, but really, these were VERY minor. The staff immediately handled every item I brought up to them.
The Deal: Your Escape to Paradise
Ready to trade your everyday for sun-kissed skin and island vibes?
Book your escape to HarmonyHaven, Siquijor's hidden gem!
Here's why you should book your stay now:
- Unbeatable Value: Enjoy luxurious accommodations, incredible amenities, and world-class service without breaking the bank.
- Safety First: Rest easy knowing HarmonyHaven is committed to your well-being with comprehensive COVID-19 safety protocols.
- Island Magic: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Siquijor, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that will melt your stress away.
- Pampering Paradise: Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, swim in the breathtaking pool, and savor delicious cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds.
Don't wait! Paradise is calling. Book your escape to HarmonyHaven today and let the magic begin!
Click here to book now! (I wish I had a real link!)
P.S. Seriously, the spa. Go for the spa. And the sunset. Make time for the sunset. You won't regret it. And tell them I said hi!
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Okay, buckle up buttercups! This isn't your pristine, Instagram-filtered itinerary. This is the REAL Siquijor, the messy, magical, sometimes frustrating, and totally unforgettable Siquijor. Here we go…
HARMONYHAVEN SIQUIJOR: The Unfiltered Adventure (A.K.A. My Sanity's Demise)
(Disclaimer: May contain excessive use of exclamation points, questionable decisions, and a deep-seated love for adobo. You've been warned.)
Day 1: Arrival & Island Orientation – Hello, Humidity!
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrival at Dumaguete Airport (DGT). Oh joy, the humid blast of tropical air! Seriously, it hits you like a wet, warm hug… and then you're instantly regretting your choice of jeans. Grab a van (booked in advance, thank god) to the ferry terminal. Cross fingers the ferry isn't delayed. It is, of course. This is the Philippines. Patience, grasshopper, patience. The ferry ride itself is… an experience. The turquoise water is mesmerizing, the sun is brutal, and there might be a karaoke session breaking out. Embrace it. Arrive at Siquijor Port. The chaos begins… but in a charming way.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Check into my accommodation at Coco Grove Beach Resort, which is, by all accounts, the place to be – after a long search for a place that is not the "luxury" range. Ubers aren't a thing here, so you gotta wave down a tricycle. They're basically souped-up motorcycles with sidecars. Be prepared to squeeze. And yes, you'll probably underestimate the distances involved. (Tip: negotiate the price before you hop in. Trust me.) After a quick check in and settling down. First impressions are the best part, but i have second thoughts. The white sand is incredible, but the water is a bit murky due to the rainy season - Oh well, that is still a win. I did find a very cute cat in their little cafe.
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Island orientation! Hire a motorbike (again, negotiate hard, and maybe, MAYBE, get a local to help you… safety first!). I'm not the best rider, but you get the hang of it. Drive around the main road and see the sights: quaint villages, roadside shops, and the breathtaking coastal views. Stop by Salagdoong Beach for a peek– the diving board is apparently epic, but I'm chicken. Get some street food for dinner and find a spot to watch the sunset. Tonight's sunset is magnificent, and I'm left pondering my life choices.
Day 2: Waterfalls & Witchcraft… Oh My!
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Cambugahay Falls! This is why you came to Siquijor. Seriously. It's more beautiful than the pictures. Prepare to get wet. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone. The turquoise water cascading over multiple tiers is pure magic. Swing on the rope swings like a kid. Laugh, scream, and pretend you're Tarzan. Get there early to avoid some of the crowds, and accept the fact that you WILL get splashed. And you know what? It's the best feeling ever.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Lunch at a local eatery. Order adobo, because you need to. Wash it down with a cold San Miguel beer. Talk about bliss. Afterwards, embrace the "witchcraft" side of Siquijor. Visit Balete Tree. It’s HUGE. And there are little fish that nibble at your feet. It feels weird and tingly, but I kind of like it? Learn a little about the island's mystical traditions. Don't expect to find a cauldron and a bunch of pointy hats, but there is a palpable sense of something different here.
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Paliton Beach. This is where I almost LOST my mind. Okay, not literally, but it was a battle. It was beautiful, yes, but the wind was whipping, my hair was a disaster, and I couldn't find a decent sunset spot. Spent an hour trying to capture the "Instagram-worthy" moment. It felt ridiculous. I spent the next hour just letting go and laughing at how pathetic I felt. The sunset eventually came, and it was truly spectacular. It was a reminder that even when things don't go as planned, sometimes, it's better that way.
Day 3: Island Hopping & Snorkelling - Feeling like a fish!
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Let's do this thing! Island hopping! This is the day to hire a boat and head to the marine sanctuaries of Siquijor. Snorkelling! You can see the beauty of the diverse aquatic life by just diving in the crystal-clear water. The feeling of being surrounded by colourful fishes and corals is indescribable. You'll think you're in some fancy aquarium. The feeling of floating on the water is magical too.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Lunch at a local eatery. Order sinigang, because you need to. Wash it down with a cold San Miguel beer. Talk about bliss. Afterwards, continue your island hopping escapade. Just be ready to get wet!
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Return to the resort and cool down. Watch the sunset. Reflect on the fun with your loved ones. Have a nice meal.
Day 4: More Exploration (and probably more motorbike mishaps)
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Try to find a hidden beach, I am currently exploring the quiet town of Lazi. The church is beautiful, and I get lost wandering the streets.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Lunch at a local eatery. Order bulalo, because you need to. Wash it down with a cold San Miguel beer. Talk about bliss. Afterwards, visit a local market. You can find fresh fruits and vegetables.
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Get ready for your departure. Go to a spot overlooking the ocean, and reflect on the wonderful time you've had.
Day 5: Departure - Goodbye Siquijor!
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Pack your bags. Grab one last delicious breakfast. Head to the port, and start the journey back to the airport.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Be thankful of a wonderful experience. Enjoy!
Quirks & Observations:
- The Driving: It's chaotic, but it works. Honking is a language. Embrace it.
- The Food: So good. So cheap. You will eat adobo and sinigang every day. You won't regret it.
- The People: Warm, friendly, and always willing to help. Flash them a smile, learn a few Tagalog phrases, and you'll fit right in.
- The Internet: Spotty. Embrace it. Unplug and enjoy the moment. (Okay, maybe take a few photos for the memories…)
- The Sunset on Siquijor: Simply the best, can be a great option for you to ponder your life choices.
- The Cockroaches: They're everywhere. Get used to it. They're just part of the adventure.
Emotional Breakdown:
- Day 1: Excited! A little overwhelmed. Humid hair. Ready for an adventure!
- Day 2: Magical. Waterfalls are pure joy. Feeling a bit witchy.
- Day 3: Okayish. Water is amazing!
- Day 4: A bit of sadness. But ready to go home!
- Day 5: Thankful. Very thankful. And plotting my return.
Final Thoughts:
Siquijor isn't perfect. It's raw, it's real, and it's utterly captivating. It's a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. It's a place that will challenge you, frustrate you, and ultimately, leave you with memories you'll cherish forever. So go. Get lost. Embrace the chaos. And don't forget to try the adobo… seriously. You'll love it.
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So, like, what *is* this thing anyway? I'm already confused.
Okay, extreme pet-sitting. Sounds… intense. Do you actually, like, *like* animals?
What kind of "extreme" are we talking here? Like, are you dealing with lions?
So, what happens if a pet gets… sick? Or… you know… something else.
How do you handle the… *ahem*… "waste disposal"?
What's the weirdest thing that's ever happened on the job?
Any advice for someone thinking of getting into the extreme pet-sitting biz?
Are there any pets you refuse to sit?
