Escape to Paradise: Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven in Palawan!
Escape to Paradise: Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven in Palawan! - A Rambling Review (with a dash of SEO)
Okay, so picture this: you're scrolling through Palawan hotels, dreaming of turquoise waters and sunsets that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy. You stumble across "Escape to Paradise: Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven". Sounds… cheesy, right? Well, let's be real: paradise is always a little cheesy. But trust me, this place, even with its slightly ridiculous name, actually delivers. Here's the lowdown, straight from someone who's been there, done that, and probably left a towel somewhere. (Don't judge me!)
Accessibility:
Alright, this is important, especially for some people, because, let's be real, a "hillside haven" sounds like it’s perched on the side of a mountain. Accessibility at Purple Homestay is… well, it's there, but definitely not perfect. They have facilities for disabled guests, which is a good start, but the "hillside" element means some stairs are inevitable. Definitely inquire beforehand if you have mobility issues because some parts are definitely a hike. I did see an elevator, thankfully!
Internet, Internet, and More Internet (and Wi-Fi!)
Okay, let's get this out of the way. Internet access is crucial. Being stranded on a beautiful island with no connection is, let’s be honest, a special kind of hell. Good news: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Internet access – wireless is available everywhere and the Internet access – LAN is available too, should you require it. I found the internet connectivity pretty darn good, and I'm a notorious internet hog. There's even Wi-Fi for special events and Internet services. Not once did I have the sudden urge to throw my laptop into the ocean (a common urge, trust me).
Cleanliness and Safety (Important Stuff!)
Let's address the elephant in the room: COVID. This place gets it. I saw staff trained in safety protocol and hand sanitizer everywhere. They use anti-viral cleaning products and employ professional-grade sanitizing services. The rooms [were] sanitized between stays, and there was even an option to opt-out if you’re weirdly anti-sanitization (no judgment… maybe a little). They also had daily disinfection in common areas and sterilizing equipment. The safe dining setup really stood out, making me feel more at ease. They also had Individually-wrapped food options which was nice. They really went above and beyond.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - My Stomach's Verdict!
Okay, food. Crucial. Purple Homestay had restaurants! Plural! Plus, you had options. There was an Asian restaurant, a western restaurant, and even a vegetarian restaurant (hallelujah!). They offered a la carte and buffet in restaurant services and they had a poolside bar. They had a fabulous coffee shop for a little afternoon boost and a snack bar for those midnight cravings. The Asian breakfast made me want to slap my mama (in a good way). And the Desserts in restaurant were sinful.
I'm a sucker for a good happy hour, and their offering was, shall we say, quite enjoyable. The poolside bar served ridiculously good cocktails and the bottle of water provided was a nice touch. The breakfast [buffet] was a highlight, especially the (ahem) generous portion of bacon I may have consumed. There was even room service [24-hour] (thank you, gods of convenience!). Coffee/tea in restaurant and soup in restaurant were lifesavers.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax – Where the Magic Happens (Maybe)
Alright, this is where Purple Homestay truly shines. They've got a proper swimming pool [outdoor], with a pool with a view that legitimately made me gasp. And the spa/sauna!!! I'm not usually a spa-goer, but I gave in. Body scrubs, body wraps, foot baths… I was practically melting into a puddle of relaxation. I had a phenomenal massage, and it was worth every penny. They even had a sauna and steamroom for when you need to sweat out the existential dread of being a tourist (it happens). The fitness center was actually pretty decent, and I even used the gym/fitness area (briefly… very briefly).
Anecdote Time!
Okay, so here's the funny thing. One afternoon, I was in the pool, blissfully unaware of anything but the sun on my back. Suddenly, this massive downpour started. Everyone scrambled for cover, except for me. I just stayed there, laughing. The pool water was so warm, the rain felt refreshing… and then one of the staff members, a sweet girl named Maria, came running out with a giant umbrella. She wouldn't leave until she had me covered, even though I was laughing so hard I could barely breathe! It’s those little gestures that make a vacation memorable.
For the Kids & Family Friendly
Purple Homestay is definitely Family/child friendly. They offer babysitting service and they have Kids facilities. Although, I didn’t have the kids there and, I’m not sure of the specifics of the facilities.
Services and Conveniences:
Loads. Think of something you need, and they probably have it. Air conditioning in public areas? Check. Air conditioning in the rooms? Double check. Cash withdrawal (very important for those unexpected souvenir purchases). Concierge? Yes, and they're actually helpful. Daily housekeeping? My room was sparkling every day. Doorman? Yep. Dry cleaning, laundry service, ironing service? They've got it all. Luggage storage? Check. Safety deposit boxes? You bet. Taxi service? Yep. Airport transfer? Yep. Everything. It's almost overwhelming, but in the best way possible.
The Nitty-Gritty (Rooms & Amenities):
Alright, the rooms themselves are a sanctuary. Air conditioning is a MUST in Palawan. They always had Additional toilet, and you could get a bathtub and a separate shower/bathtub if you're feeling fancy. They have blackout curtains, so you can sleep in until noon if you want. The coffee/tea maker was a lifesaver for early mornings. They provide Complimentary tea, too. Desk and Laptop workspace were there! They had an extra long bed. Mini bar, refrigerator and free bottled water and a safe box! They have a soundproof room.
Safety and Security:
They have CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, fire extinguisher, front desk [24-hour], smoke alarms, and security [24-hour]. So, they got you covered
Getting Around:
They had a Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site]. Also, they have taxi service.
The Quirks and the Imperfections (Because, You Know, Real Life):
Okay, no place is perfect. The "Hillside Haven" part means there are a few stairs. And sometimes, the Wi-Fi would momentarily stutter. But honestly? These were minor hiccups. The staff were so genuinely friendly and helpful that I almost forgot they existed.
In Conclusion: My Recommendation!
So, would I recommend Escape to Paradise: Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven? Absolutely! It’s not just a hotel; it's an experience. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, indulge, and maybe even get a little bit lost in the beauty of Palawan. It's a perfect blend of comfort, service, and a genuine attempt to create a memorable vacation. It might sound cheesy, but sometimes… cheesy is exactly what you need.
SEO-FRIENDLY OFFER FOR YOUR PALAWAN ESCAPE: Escape to Paradise: Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven!
Headline: Escape to Paradise: Unwind in Palawan at Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven! (Book Now & Save!)
Body:
Tired of the same old vacation? Dreaming of turquoise waters, stunning sunsets, and unparalleled relaxation? Then escape to Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven in Palawan, a true escape to paradise!
Imagine waking up in a beautifully appointed non-smoking room with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, ready to explore the wonders of Palawan. This family-friendly haven offers everything you need for an unforgettable getaway.
Here's what makes Purple Homestay special: (Key features & SEO keywords):
- Unmatched Relaxation: Indulge in a luxurious spa experience with massage, body scrubs, body wraps, sauna and steamroom. Enjoy the captivating pool with view.
- Delicious Dining: Savor delectable meals
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because here's the REAL, unfiltered, probably-slightly-melodramatic itinerary for my stay at Purple Homestay (Hill Side) in Palawan. You've been warned. This ain't your grandma's organized travel diary.
Day 1: Landfall (and Questionable Decisions)
- Morning (or, rather, what passed for morning after a red-eye): Arrived at Puerto Princesa airport. First thought? "Wow, it's…hot." Second thought, right on the heels of the first: "Did I pack enough sunscreen? Probably not."
- Transport: Trike to Purple Homestay. This was a wild ride. The driver seemed to think he was auditioning for a rally car driver role. I clutched my bags so hard I swear I left fingerprints. The view? Stunning. The existential dread of plummeting into a ravine? Also, part of the experience.
- First Impressions: Purple Homestay itself! Cute! Pictures don’t lie. The hill is real. My legs already hate me, but the view…WORTH IT. Check-in was a breeze – the staff, bless them, are ridiculously friendly, even at 8 AM. The room? Basic, but clean, with a mosquito net that, frankly, looks like it's seen some things. I swear I heard a mosquito laugh at me.
- Afternoon: The Great Nap Attempt (Failed):
- Tried to nap. Failed. The sounds of the jungle (chattering birds, the occasional, unsettling croak) were too distracting. I think. Or maybe I was just too wired from the trip. Or maybe it's the anticipation.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Exploring (and Questionable Food Choices)
- Walked (limped) down to the main road. This is where I discovered my complete and utter lack of directional sense. Got slightly lost. Twice. Eventually found a sari-sari store and bought some… mysterious snack food. Ate it. Regret is already setting in.
- Dinner: The homestay can arrange dinner. Ordered Sinigang. Oh, the Sinigang. Its sourness and the sweetness of the meat are the perfect kick-starter. Pure comfort. Followed it up with a San Miguel Light (or two). The sunset? Unbelievable. Like, painting-a-masterpiece unbelievable. I actually shed a tear. Maybe it was the beer. Maybe it was the beauty. Probably both.
- Emotional High: Sat on the porch, listening to the crickets and feeling…content. A rare feeling, so I’m savoring it. But also, wondering if I'd make it through the night without one of those jungle creatures biting me like what I imagine in movies.
Day 2: Island Hopping - The Highs, The Lows, and the Sea Urchin Incident
- Morning: Today! Island hopping! But…first…the breakfast. The breakfast, my friends, was…amazing. The rice, the omelet, the coffee…all perfection. Fueling up because, well, adventure.
- Transport: Joined a tour group via a bumpy, but picturesque boat ride (thank GOD for Dramamine).
- Daytime: Island hopping was… well, it was a rollercoaster.
- Island 1 (Secret Beach): Pure paradise. Snorkeling was amazing, I saw a sea turtle! (Cue the squealing, underwater). The water was so clear. The sun warmed the skin. Until…
- Island 2 (Snorkeling Site #2): More snorkeling. More fish. More beauty. I actually thought I was going to cry. I was so overwhelmed. However, I also managed to cut my foot (the dreaded coral cut!). Minor, but it bled a bit.
- Island 3 (Lunch Stop, I also got to explore here): Grilled fish. More rice. Beach. The sun! The sand! The salty air! Delicious lunch. And the sun feels good on the skin… I was pretty high on life, even though my foot was still throbbing a little.
- Island 4 (Hidden Lagoon, the Sea Urchin Incident): The worst. The Hidden Lagoon was stunning but… it's where I stepped on a sea urchin. OUCH. A quick, agonizing search for a stone that can treat it, while also running across the beach like a crazy woman (I probably looked like a wounded flamingo). Luckily, our guide treated it but the pain was… memorable.
- Evening: Back at the homestay, slightly bruised and battered but alive. Dinner again, Sinigang again (because, comfort food). And the sunset. Sigh. Maybe Palawan is trying to kill me… with beauty.
Day 3: Lazy Days and Lasting Impressions
- Morning: Slept in. Yes! And then, it started raining. The rain made the sounds of the jungle so magical. I took a nice, slow walk around the property.
- Breakfast: I tried a local dish that I could not pronounce. It was delicious. It took all the worries away.
- The Hill side view: Just sat, listening to the rain, making peace with the sea urchin.
- Afternoon: Tried to read, but the beauty of my surroundings constantly distracted me.
- Pool time. I think I spent most of the afternoon by the pool.
- Late afternoon/evening: Got ready. Dinner, and a long talk with the staff. They are the best.
- Another emotional high the final sunset. It has been the best sunsets of all.
Day 4: Departure (and Deep Regret)
- Morning: The dreaded packing. Stared at my luggage and sighed. I do not want to leave. Ate a perfect breakfast. Said goodbye to the staff (tears were involved). Trike back to the airport.
- Departure: As the plane took off, I looked back at Palawan. Palawan, you beautiful, brutal, unforgiving, and utterly magical place.
Notes:
- Food: Eat everything. Especially the Sinigang.
- Sunscreen: Pack more than you think you'll need. Trust me.
- Mood: Prepare to be overwhelmed. In a good way.
- Overall: This trip? Messy, imperfect, and the best kind of adventure. I’d return to Purple Homestay in a heartbeat. (Just, you know, maybe more careful with the sea urchins.)
Escape to Paradise: Purple Homestay's Hillside Haven - Palawan! (The Honest Guide, Probably)
So, what *actually* is this "Hillside Haven" business? Is it, like, paradise?
Okay, paradise? That depends. If your idea of paradise involves waking up to roosters attempting opera at dawn (true story, nearly jumped out of my skin the first morning), then yes. If it means a view that'll make you weep (I'm a visual crybaby, fight me), then also yes. Basically, it's a collection of colorful, slightly ramshackle (but charmingly so!) bungalows perched on a hill overlooking... well, *everything*. Imagine lush greenery, the shimmering sea in the distance, and the constant, comforting hum of cicadas. It's less "glossy hotel" and more "authentic Palawan experience with a killer view." Think of it like your quirky aunt's house, but in the Philippines, with better Instagram potential.
Are the bungalows... clean? I'm slightly germophobic. (Okay, maybe a lot.)
Honestly? They're... clean enough. This isn't a sterile, hospital environment. You're in the jungle, people! There will be the occasional gecko (I befriended one named George, who I swear winked at me), a few stray ants (they're just curious, leave them be!), and natural elements. My bathroom was basic but functional; the water pressure? Sporadic, let's just say. But the bed linens were clean and fresh, and that's what matters, right? I'd bring some hand sanitizer... and maybe embrace a little bit of controlled chaos. Learn to love the little critters, they're part of the charm (maybe not the cockroaches, though, I did *not* love those).
How do you get there? Seems like it's a bit off the beaten path, right?
Oh, it's a *journey*. The journey *is* part of the experience, honestly. You probably fly into Puerto Princesa, then it's either a van transfer (the most common, and often the *cheapest* option, but prepare for bumpy roads and questionable air conditioning) or a private car (more expensive, but potentially a sanity-saver if you're prone to motion sickness). The drive itself is pretty, passing through rice paddies and villages. The last stretch to the homestay? That's where the "hillside" part comes in. It's a winding, slightly terrifying climb (especially if you're as bad as directions as I am). Hold on tight, and pray your driver doesn't have a lead foot! But seriously, the views on the way up are worth it. The anticipation? Pure magic.
What's the food like at the homestay? I like to eat. A lot.
Okay, food lovers, listen up! Now, the food at Purple Homestay is... home-style cooking. It's not gourmet. It's not Michelin-starred. It's hearty, delicious, and often made with ingredients sourced locally. Think fresh fish, grilled perfectly, flavorful curries (the prawn curry was divine!), and a lot of rice (you'll need it for all the activity!). Breakfast? Expect eggs, toast, and fruit. Don't expect a continental buffet. Do expect to feel like you're eating a meal at your super-friendly, Filipino grandma's home. Just a heads-up, be prepared for the pace– meals are served at their time; your stomach will learn. I personally found it really good, the local flavours, fresh catches every day! Plus, the portions are incredibly generous. You *will* be well-fed. And if you're lucky, they'll make their amazing mango shake. Seriously, you'll dream of it for weeks.
And the activities? What is there to *do* besides stare at the view and eat? (Although, that sounds pretty good…)
Okay, so the view and eating are top-tier activities. But, yes, there's more! You're in Palawan, the island of adventure! You can arrange island hopping tours (a must-do – the lagoons are unreal), snorkeling (the coral reefs are seriously vibrant), kayaking (get ready for sore arms!), and visiting waterfalls. Everything is very easy to arrange through the homestay. They were super helpful in helping me arrange everything, and honestly they have a good price. They can also arrange a massage! Please, please, please, get a massage. After a day exploring, your muscles will thank you. The only thing missing was a nap spot. I am also a big advocate for the hammock, bring a book and enjoy being in the sun.
Is it good for solo travelers? I like the idea of being alone with my thoughts, looking up at the stars...
Totally. I went solo. (Okay, I'm a bit of a nervous person; it wasn't my initial plan, but I needed a break from my life at the time.) It was fantastic. The staff are incredibly friendly, and you'll likely meet other travelers. You can easily join group tours or just chill on your own. There were evenings spent chatting with other guests, sharing stories, and drinking beers under the stars. And then, glorious mornings where I could sip coffee, write in my journal, and just… be. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, and reconnect with yourself. Just... be prepared for the nights. They are so dark. But the stars? Unforgettable. Pack a flashlight, though. Seriously.
What's the WiFi situation like? I need to check my email sometimes… or, you know, post to Instagram.
WiFi? *Laughs hysterically.* Okay, breathe. The WiFi... is *patchy*. Let's put it that way. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. When it does work, it's not super fast. This is not a place to expect blazing-fast uploads or video calls. Honestly, embrace the digital detox. It's liberating! If you absolutely *need* to be connected, buy a local SIM card. But I found it best to just pretend the internet didn't exist. More time to appreciate the beauty of the place, and your peace of mind! I could barely get a text message through sometimes, embrace it. My life has not been better since.
Is it noisy? I'm a light sleeper.
See previous answer about roosters waking up at dawn. It depends. It's not a silent retreat. You'll hear the aforementioned roosters (they're relentless), the cicadas (their constant buzzing will become your soundtrack), the occasional dog barking (they roam free), and maybe the neighbors partying a bit late into the night. Bring earplugs. Seriously. If you are a sensitive sleeper, they are an absolute must. I became a fan of earplugs and I'll gladly recommend some more. Don't say I didn't warn you!
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