Escape to Paradise: Rainbow Bay's Unbeatable Siquijor Getaway
Escape to Paradise: Rainbow Bay's Unbeatable Siquijor Getaway – My Honest Take (No Filter!)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from Escape to Paradise at Rainbow Bay in Siquijor, and I've got a lot to say. Forget those cookie-cutter reviews; this is the real deal. I'm talking messy bun, leftover sunscreen, and a deep, deep dive into what actually makes this place tick. And trust me, it’s a place that ticks… or maybe buzzes with a certain island vibe.
Accessibility: Getting There & Gettin' Around - It's a Journey, Folks! (Mostly Smooth Sailing)
First things first: Siquijor. It’s not exactly next door. From the airport, it was a bit of a trek, including a boat and then some tricycle action. Definitely factor in travel time when planning your escape. But once you're there, the island itself is pretty manageable. Freedom of movement is crucial for an unforgettable vacation. It’s vital for someone with disabilities.
On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: I didn't see any specific dedicated "accessible" areas to be honest. But there was a solid elevator, and the staff seemed genuinely happy to help. I'd check in advance, especially if wheelchair access is a top priority. I'd say, there are no visible accessibility issues!
Wheelchair accessible: Not the most obvious. I didn't see tons of ramps everywhere, but the staff seemed really, really accommodating. I am thinking that, better inquire with the property.
Internet Access: The Wi-Fi Whisperer - Or, The Case of the Spotty Connection (Don't Judge the Island Life)
Okay, let's be honest: the internet wasn't blazing fast. But hey, you're on a freaking ISLAND. Free Wi-Fi is a lifesaver AND available in all rooms! Don't expect to stream HD movies, though. I did find strong internet in public areas as well. I mean, you are trying to escape, right? Embrace the digital detox, even if it’s forced.
Things to Do/Ways to Relax: Drowning in Zen (Almost Literally)
This is where Escape to Paradise shines. Seriously, I spent a solid afternoon in the Spa, which boasts and a Sauna, and a Steam Room. The Body scrub was absolute bliss. The Massage was so good I practically drooled on the massage table (sorry, masseuse!). There's a swimming pool, of course – an outdoor swimming pool with a view. Seriously, the best way to relax. There is even a poolside bar! I was a bit of a mess after one of the happy hours :)
Fitness Center: Okay, I'll Admit, I Didn't… (But It's There!)
I intended to hit the Fitness center/Gym, you know, work off all those cocktails and delicious food. But the lure of the beach, the spa, and the general lack of urgency that pervades Siquijor won out. Maybe next time…
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Feeding the Soul (and the Stomach!)
The food situation at Escape to Paradise is top-notch. I made it a point of trying out almost everything, here's a breakdown:
- Restaurants, a la carte menus, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine, International cuisine, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine: A wide range of options. Breakfast was buffet heaven - I gorged myself on fresh fruit, pastries, and made-to-order omelets.
- Poolside Bar: The best place for a sunset cocktail, hands down. The Happy hour made my wallet happy, too.
- Desserts, Snacks, Coffee/Tea: Amazing - I have a real sweet tooth.
- Room service [24-hour]: Huge plus for late-night cravings.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Shielded (and Sanitized!)
Post-COVID, I'm a bit of a germaphobe. I can definitely say that I found Escape to Paradise super clean and safe. They have all sorts of precautions – Daily disinfection in common areas, Staff trained in safety protocol, Hand sanitizer, Anti-viral cleaning products, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup etc. They even offer a Room sanitization opt-out.
Services and Conveniences: Little Things, Big Impact
- Concierge: Super helpful with booking tours.
- Daily housekeeping: Rooms always felt fresh and clean.
- Laundry service: A lifesaver after a week of island adventures.
- Cash withdrawal, Currency exchange: Convenient.
- Safety deposit boxes: For peace of mind.
- Facilities for disabled guests/Elevator: A bit of a mixed bag.
For the Kids: Family Friendly (but Maybe Not Over-the-Top )
I saw a couple of families, and it looked like they were having a blast. Seems like they are Family/child friendly, and the Babysitting service is a nice touch.
Available in All Rooms: The Comforts of Home (and More!)
The rooms? Comfortable. Air conditioning is crucial. I loved the Blackout curtains, because sleep is a priority for me. The Free bottled water was a nice touch. There were also Bathrobes, Slippers, Toiletries, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free] and a Mirror. But, more! Additional toilet, Alarm clock, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Desk, Extra long bed, Hair dryer, Non-smoking, Private bathroom, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Soundproofing, Telephone, Towels, Umbrella, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
Getting Around: Adventure Awaits (and Maybe a Tricycle Ride)
- Airport transfer: Worth it!
- Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site]: Plenty of space.
- Taxi service: Available, but sometimes a little tricky to find one.
The Emotional Rollercoaster (My Personal Experience)
Honestly, this trip was exactly what I needed. The whole shebang was a blend of pure, unadulterated relaxation and just a touch of chaos (in the best way possible). I woke up one morning with a sunburn, a half-eaten mango by my bed, and a profound sense of contentment. And after the massage? Heaven. This place isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. A slightly imperfect, gloriously messy, and utterly unforgettable experience.
So, Should YOU Book Escape to Paradise?
Here's the deal: If you're looking for a cookie-cutter, perfectly polished resort, maybe this isn't for you. But if you crave authenticity, a healthy dose of island vibes, and a place where you can truly disconnect and recharge, then YES. Book it. Right now. Just go!
My Honest-to-Goodness Recommendation: Give it a try, you won’t regret any second.
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Chandigarh's BEST Hotels: Your Perfect Stay Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your pristine, perfectly-planned travel brochure. This is Siquijor, baby, through the eyes (and often, the hungover haze) of a slightly-unhinged traveler. Let's do this…
Rainbow Bay Beach & Dive Resort, Siquijor: A Messy, Honestly Human Itinerary (with a few added rambles)
Day 1: Arrival & Utter Chaos (But in a Good Way, Mostly)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up on the ferry from Dumaguete. Ugh. Seasickness. That's a fun way to start the day. My stomach feels like it's doing the Macarena. The air smells of diesel and desperation. Also, I forgot my Dramamine. Rookie mistake.
- 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM (ish) : Arrive at Siquijor Port. Sweet relief of solid ground. The island air hits me like a gentle fist. It’s humid. We get bombarded by tricycle drivers, all vying for our business. It’s a delightful chaos. I swear, they're probably all cousins. We pick one who looks the least likely to drive us into a ditch… or at least smiles the least. I’m betting he's got the best karaoke playlist.
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Rainbow Bay. OMG. The turquoise water. The swaying palm trees. The… almost derelict charm of the place. (It's gorgeous, but it has that slightly-worn, "lived-in" vibe that I secretly adore.) Check-in is a bit of a blur. The owner, a cheerful Aussie named Dave, hands us a welcome drink. It might have been the strongest rum punch I’ve ever had.
- 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Room panic. We booked the garden view. It's… well, it's a view of the garden. The garden is lovely, sure, but I wanted the freaking ocean! I wail internally, then tell my travel companion, “It’s fine, it’s fine! We’re just closer to the wifi in the garden, right?” (Lies. Utter lies.)
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch at the resort restaurant. The menu is a glorious mix of Filipino and Western fare. I ordered a sinigang (sour soup) – because, when in the Philippines… also, I needed something to neutralize the rum punch. It's delicious but hot as hell!
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Beach time! Finally. Slather on sunscreen. I discover the glorious power of the "ocean nap." The rhythmic crash of waves lulls me into a blissful stupor. I wake up with a little sand in my hair and a massive grin. Then I see a crab. I may or may not have screamed.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Hike to Paliton Beach (it's a short walk). It's supposed to be the best sunset spot. We actually get a little lost. The path is overgrown and we're slapping at mosquitos the size of small dogs. We ask a local for directions (he looks at us like we're idiots). We take a "shortcut" and end up climbing over a fence. We finally make it and the sunset is… okay. Not amazing, but pretty enough. I’d probably be more impressed if I hadn't just been devoured by bugs.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the resort restaurant. I'm craving seafood. My travel companion and I order grilled fish and a few beers. We discuss our plans for tomorrow, but mostly we sit in companionable silence, listening to the chirping of geckos and letting the day's events slowly digest.
- 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Karaoke at the resort bar. It's inevitable. Dave, the Aussie owner, is a karaoke aficionado. I start off shy, but after a few beers, I’m belting out "Bohemian Rhapsody" like a pro (in my head, at least). I also learn that I will never be able to sing along to the Filipino songs in the local language.
- 10:00 PM: Bed. Exhausted. Happy. Slightly sunburnt.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Witches, and What?!
- 8:00 AM: Wake up feeling… not as bad as I expected. Hungover, yes, but manageable. I'm a seasoned pro.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at the resort. The pancakes are fluffy. The coffee is strong. Fueling-up for adventure!
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Tour of the island. We hire a tricycle driver for a full-day tour. First stop: Cambugahay Falls. Prepare to have your breath taken away. Actually, prepare for the crowd first. It's beautiful, but crowded. We manage to find a spot on the rope swing and I spend a terrifying yet thrilling few minutes swinging into the crystalline water. My swimsuit falls off and I almost lose it!
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch near the waterfalls. Some grilled chicken and rice from a roadside stall. It’s probably the best meal I’ve had all day.
- 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Explore the old Balete Tree and the Fish Spa. The Balete Tree is HUGE. It's like something out of a fantasy movie. We dangle our feet in the water and let the tiny fish nibble. It tickles at first, then it gets a little weird. I'm convinced I saw a witch nearby.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the Lazi Convent. A beautiful, historic church. We walk around it and take some photos. I light a candle. Mostly I am there for the air conditioning.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: San Juan Beach. Just chilling here. The black sand is weird and gritty, but awesome. I buy a coconut and pretend I'm a castaway.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Beach bar hopping. (Because, why not?) We go to Coco Grove Beach Resort for sunset drinks. It's ridiculously picturesque. We get into a deep debate about the best flavor of ice cream. I choose mango. My travel companion chooses avocado. I’m not sure we can be friends anymore.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. This time for sure some serious seafood. We try to find a restaurant recommended by a travel blog but can't find it. I get hangry and just eat at one of the many of the beachside restaurants.
- 8:00 PM - onwards: Stargazing (maybe?). We attempt to stargaze, but the light from the resort's restaurant ruins the mood. We end up drinking beer and just sitting on the beach. This can be called successful stargazing though.
- 10:00 PM: Bed, but this time, I think I’m asleep quickly.
Day 3: Diving, Despair, and Departure (Hopefully Not All at Once)
7:00 AM: Wake up. Must. Learn. To. Dive. Today is the day.
8:00 AM: Breakfast. A quick, nervous breakfast because I'm so nervous about diving.
9:00 AM: Dive training. I sign up for a Discover Scuba Diving course. The instructor is patient, but I am NOT a natural. The regulator keeps falling out, and I’m convinced I’m going to swallow the entire ocean. I panic when I realize I am under the water, but manage to get a grip, breathe, and start enjoying the experience.
12:00 PM: Lunch at the dive shop. I'm proud of myself for not dying.
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Actual dive! Holy Moly. It was amazing. I see a turtle! I see colorful coral! I feel like I’ve entered an entirely different world. I can officially declare myself a (very amateur) diver.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: I relax on the beach, basking still in the afterglow of the dive.
5:00 PM: Packing. Trying to arrange everything in my luggage again.
6:00 PM: Dinner. Probably a last-night feast of Filipino food. I’ll miss it.
7:00 PM: Last-minute drinks at the resort bar. We meet some other travelers and swap stories of our adventures.
8:00 PM: Sleep and ready to depart.
Day 4: Ferry back to Dumaguete. Back into the real world.
Imperfections & Ramblings:
- Mosquitos: Oh my GOD, the mosquitos. Bring repellant. And then bring extra repellant. And then bring a mosquito net,
Escape to Paradise: Rainbow Bay's Unbeatable Siquijor Getaway - Let's Get Real!
Okay, Seriously, Is Siquijor REALLY Paradise? Like, Instagram Paradise?
Rainbow Bay? Sounds...touristy? Is it overrun with people?
The Food! What's the food situation like? I've heard horror stories of blandness…
Must Do's? What's the *real* Siquijor experience?
Speaking of Locals... Are they friendly? The rumors about witchcraft... are those...real?
Okay, the Practical Stuff: Transportation. How do you get around?
What if I'm a Nervous Nellie? Tips for the Anxious Traveler?
Okay, the inevitable: What's the downside? No seriously, what sucked?
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