Escape to Paradise: Asia Grand View Hotel, Palawan Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Asia Grand View Hotel, Palawan Awaits! – My Unfiltered Palawan Rhapsody. (Prepare for Real Talk.)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a stay at the Asia Grand View Hotel, Palawan and I'm here to spill the tea. Forget your perfectly curated Instagram feeds; this is the raw, honest truth. And trust me, Palawan is worth the trip.
The Grand View, and the Grind (Accessibility, Safety, and All That Boring Stuff… Important, Sadly):
Let's get the "adulting" part out of the way first. Yes, they seem to take cleanliness seriously. They mentioned anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection, and all that jazz. I saw staff with masks, and there were hand sanitizer stations everywhere. Good, good. (Though, honestly, I’ve seen better. Felt a bit like they’re going through the motions. But hey, effort, right?)
Accessibility? Okay, this is a maybe. While I saw an elevator, and the website says they have facilities for disabled guests, I didn't see any ramps or grab rails screaming "accessible." I highly recommend contacting them directly to confirm specifics if you have mobility concerns. Don’t trust my hazy memory! Front desk is open 24-hours though so you can at least annoy someone.
Internet: Bless the Wi-Fi Gods!
Okay, this is a BIG one for me. I need to, you know, exist online. Free Wi-Fi in the rooms? YES! And it actually worked! I could stream, upload, and catch up on all those cat videos I desperately need. The Wi-Fi in public areas was solid too. Seriously, internet access is a HUGE deal for me, and they nailed it. (And let's be honest, I'm not using that LAN cable; I just threw it out for some space. Sorry, hotel!)
Food, Glorious Food (or at Least, Adequate…):
Alright, the food situation. They have a few restaurants, and a poolside bar. Buffet? Yes. My favorite? Not exactly. The Asian breakfast was… well, it was breakfast. You'll find the usual suspects: noodles, rice, some… things. Let’s just say, a Western breakfast is always an option. There’s an a la carte menu and a snack bar too, which is good, I guess. They mention vegetarian options, but you'd better ask. Honestly, Palawan is more about the beaches and less about Michelin stars. (Though, I wouldn’t have minded a star or two.)
The poolside bar was… well, it existed. Strong points? The pool and view! Weak? The drinks were… functional. But hey, it’s a vacation; anything tastes good when you’re escaping reality and the daily grind.
Pampering, Paradise, and the Pursuit of Bliss (Or Just a Nap):
Okay, this is where it gets interesting. They have a fitness center (I saw it. Didn't use it. Because vacation.), a spa, a sauna, and a steamroom. (Heard the steamroom was a bit… lukewarm, but hey, again, effort.) They also offer massages and body wraps. I sampled a massage - oh, sweet heaven! It was pure bliss, kneading away all the stress I’d accumulated just getting to the Philippines. They do offer a pool with a view! And trust me, the view is magnificent. You’ve just got to see the pool – and its view - to believe it.
It was simply idyllic.
The Room: My Humble Abode (and its Quirks):
My room? Clean. Decent size. Air conditioning? Thank the gods! (Humidity is a real thing in Palawan, trust me). They had all the basics: a coffee/tea maker (essential), a mini-bar (tempting!), a safe box, and a window that opened (gasp!). The bed was comfortable enough, but not so comfy I didn't want to leave. (There's a fine line with hotel beds, you know? Too comfy and you'll never explore!) The bathroom was functional, with a decent shower. Also, black-out curtains. YES! The most underrated feature in a hotel room. Thank the deity of sleepy people, and I am one.
Things to Do (Besides Staring at the Ocean):
Palawan itself is the star. The hotel offers little compared to the island itself. The real activities are outside. You should visit the beaches. You should swim.
Important Services & Conveniences (The Little Things That Matter):
They have a concierge, laundry service, dry cleaning, and all the usual suspects. They offer a room service and daily housekeeping. Oh, and the elevator! Crucially important. They have a gift shop too, which is perfect for buying last-minute souvenirs (or, you know, actual gifts).
For the Kids (or the Kid in You!):
The place is family-friendly with babysitting service.
Getting Around:
Airport transfer? Yes! Worth it after what seemed like hours on that plane. They also have car parking, valet parking, and a taxi service.
The Negatives (Because Nothing is Perfect):
Okay, I'm being picky. Honestly, it's fine. But I have to find something, right? The food could be better, and the service (while friendly) wasn't always the slickest. Sometimes it felt like there weren’t enough staff around; the whole vibe was relaxed, as in sloooow. And while the Wi-Fi was amazing, the TV channels were a bit… limited. (But who watches TV on vacation? Me, sometimes, late at night when I’m too tired to think.)
And it's not the most stylish hotel. It's functional, not particularly Instagram-worthy.
The Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Absolutely. For the price, the location, and the escape it offers, yes. It's not perfect, but it’s a solid base for exploring the beauty of Palawan. It's comfortable. It's clean. It's got good Wi-Fi. And most importantly, it puts you within striking distance of paradise.
My Unfiltered Offer: Escape to Paradise – Palawan Awaits!
Tired of the same old grind?
Yearning for sun, sand, and shimmering turquoise waters?
Look no further than the Asia Grand View Hotel, Palawan!
While the food might need a little pizzazz (bring your own snacks!), and the service is "relaxed," the real star here is Palawan itself, and this hotel offers a comfortable, convenient, and affordable launchpad for your island adventure.
Here's what you get:
- Guaranteed relaxation: Comfy rooms, a pool with a killer view, and a spa to melt your stress away.
- Freedom to roam: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, so you can share your envy-inducing photos while you're there.
- A safe haven: The hotel's doing what the could to keep you safe from the virus.
- Convenience: Everything you need, from airport transfers to laundry services, is right at your fingertips.
But Wait, There's More!
Book your stay at the Asia Grand View Hotel this week (I mean, what are you waiting for?) and receive:
- A free welcome drink to kick off your vacation.
- A special discount on a massage at the spa (because you deserve it!).
- My undying envy (because I wish I was still there.).
Click that "Book Now" button and start planning your escape. Palawan is calling, and adventure awaits!
(Disclaimer: I’m not being paid to say any of this. I’m just a hotel guest looking for a good time and a solid Wi-Fi connection! And yes, I’m probably still slightly sunburned.)
Indonesian Paradise Found: Royal Hotel & Villa Trawas Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, 'cause we're heading to… PALAWAN! And not just any Palawan, but the Grand View Hotel. (Insert dramatic music here, because, you know, travel is DRAMATIC.) I'm basically winging this itinerary, so prepare for chaos. Also, fair warning, my brain is wired for tangents. Consider yourself warned.
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Coconut Crisis of '24
Morning: Touchdown in Puerto Princesa! Air Asia, of course. Because budget travel is my love language and my bank account's sworn enemy. The flight was standard… mostly. Ate a stale croissant that looked less sad than it tasted, and a baby screamed the whole time. I swear, that kid had lungs of steel. It’s a long walk across the airport, and I thought I would pass out from the heat while waiting to get to the hotel.
Afternoon: Check-in at the Grand View. The view from the lobby? Yeah, GRAND. I'm talking postcard-worthy. And, naturally, my room wasn't quite that. But hey, clean sheets! That's all I ask. The staff, bless their hearts, tried to be helpful, even when I almost tripped over a rogue luggage cart trying to get to the front desk. (Note to self: invest in some damn decent walking shoes).
Late Afternoon: The Coconut Calamity. Okay, so, the hotel pool is gorgeous. Crystal clear, infinity edge… you get the gist. And the bar? Ooh la la. I decided on a coconut drink. Sounded idyllic, right? WRONG. Apparently, the coconut gods were not smiling upon me. Firstly, the bartender was a bit frazzled – new guy, maybe? – and he struggled with the coconut. Like, legit wrestling match. Then, the drink itself… tasted suspiciously like watery, vaguely coconut-flavored sadness. I wanted sunshine and tropical bliss, I got… lukewarm disappointment. I sulked, I'll admit it. Briefly considered asking for a refund on the sadness, but decided to instead gaze at the glorious view of The hotel is good as a whole.
Evening: Dinner at the hotel restaurant. The food was… passable. Nothing to write home about, but I was famished, so I devoured it. I spotted a couple on their honeymoon across the room. All doe-eyed and giggling. I almost choked on my spring rolls. (Too cynical? Maybe.) Afterwards, watched some cheesy TV show, which really helps you to sleep.
Day 2: Island Hopping and the Case of the Missing GoPro
Morning: Okay, ISLAND HOPPING! This is what I came for. Sun, sand, turquoise water… the stuff of Instagram dreams. Booked a local tour. We hit Honda Bay. Snorkeling was amazing! I saw so many fish! So many colors! I almost ate a jellyfish (don’t ask).
Mid-Morning: The Epic Snorkel Fail. The water was so clear that I could see everything! The fish, the beautiful coral, every goddamn thing! I, of course, had to be that person with the GoPro. Spent half the time adjusting it and the other half trying to look composed and cool while battling the current. (Spoiler alert: I failed at both). At some point, I think I even got a bit seasick from all the struggling. I was not prepared. Was like an absolute clown. I'll post it online later, I'm sure.
Afternoon: The GoPro Gone Missing? We did some other stuff like Starfish Island and Luli Island. We met people who were very kind, and it was fun. But, as if the coconut disaster wasn't enough, back at the hotel, I realized… my GoPro was gone. Vanished. Poof. Cue the internal meltdown. Did I lose it? Did someone steal it? Did a rogue crab kidnap it out of spite? I have zero answers, but I’m definitely questioning my life choices right now.
Evening: Forced happy hour at the hotel bar (I needed the alcohol, let's not kid ourselves). The sunset was beautiful, though. Like, genuinely breathtaking. Maybe Palawan is trying to make amends for the GoPro incident. Maybe.
Day 3: El Nido Dreams and the Great Transportation Tango
Morning: The plan was to head to El Nido. The pictures are everywhere, and that's what everyone tells us to visit. But the journey! Oh, the journey. Got a van from the hotel. This was an experience. Road was a rough one. Bumpy. I swear, my bladder is getting a workout here.
Afternoon: Arrived in El Nido! The vibe is different here. Super touristy. Some of the most beautiful beaches, though. The town is a bit… chaotic. Lots of backpackers, street vendors, and scooters whizzing past. It's a sensory overload, but the view…. the view is worth it. The water is like something out of a fantasy novel.
Late afternoon: Island hopping tour! The boats are more beautiful than the ones in Puerto Princesa. I'm starting to feel like a professional island hopper at this point.
Evening: I saw a beautiful sunset and have some great memories. El Nido gave me that.
Day 4: Departure and the Lingering Palawan Charm
Morning: Woke up feeling refreshed. I'm starting to feel like a real islander. I'll have to get back here!
Afternoon: Leaving for the airport. I'm sad that I'm leaving. I wish i could have stayed.
Evening: I'll miss you Palawan!
Final Thoughts (and a little bit of a mess):
Look, this trip wasn't perfect. In fact, it was a bit of a disaster in places. But! It was mine. The good, the bad, the GoPro-less… it was all part of the experience. Palawan is stunning, despite the occasional coconut crisis and my questionable navigational skills. Don't expect perfection. Expect some epic views, some questionable decisions, and a whole lot of memories. Oh, and definitely bring a spare GoPro. You know, just in case.
Escape to Paradise: Tejomaya Jungle Retreat, Corbett's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Asia Grand View Hotel, Palawan Awaits! - Your Messy & Honest Guide
Okay, Palawan... Is it *really* paradise? And is this Asia Grand View Hotel the key?
Alright, alright, let's be real. Paradise? Palawan *tries* to be. And listen, the Asia Grand View Hotel... it's a PLAYER in the paradise game. Think of it less "perfect sun-kissed island haven" and more "charming, slightly weathered beachside retreat with a killer view that hits you right in the feels."
My first impression? Well, navigating the chaotic energy of Puerto Princesa airport after a flight from Manila was… an experience. Let's just say, I was *sweating*. Then, the transfer to the hotel. That drive? Buckle up, buttercups, because it feels like one giant rollercoaster ride… But as the hotel finally came into view, perched up on that hill, overlooking the bay? That’s when the "Oh. Wow." moment hits. The view. Seriously. Worth the sweaty flight, the bumpy ride. That alone gives it several bonus points.
Don't expect everything to run like clockwork. Remember you're in the Philippines! But the staff is undeniably warm and will go the extra mile. The smiles? Genuine. The service? Well, let's just say sometimes it's a little... leisurely. But hey, you're on island time!
The Rooms… What’s the real deal? Are they Instagram-worthy?
Okay, the rooms. My advice? Manage your expectations. They're not going to be *luxury* hotel rooms. Think… comfortable, clean, and with that all-important view. We stayed in the "Deluxe Room" - which was fine, spacious enough, the air-conditioning was a godsend (seriously, you *need* AC). And that balcony! I spent a ridiculous amount of time just staring out at the water, especially in the morning when the sun was getting up.
Instagram-worthy? Maybe not. Unless you're a VERY good photographer and have great angles! The furniture is a bit… dated. The bathroom? Functional. Don’t expect marble and gold faucets. If you're looking for absolute perfection, well, this ain't it. But honestly? After a day of exploring, all I wanted was a comfortable bed and a decent shower. And the hotel delivers on that. Plus, knowing you're not paying crazy prices… gives you some perspective. And as an added bonus, the wifi did work, most of the time, in the rooms! So, brownie points for that.
One HUGE tip: Request a room with a sea view! Seriously. It makes *all* the difference. I mean, you're in Palawan! Don't stare at a car park if you can help it.
Let’s talk food. Is the hotel restaurant any good? (And what's it *really* like?)
The food… ah, the food. This is where things get a little messy. The hotel restaurant, let's call it "The View," offers… a variety. Breakfast is included: a buffet of mostly standard fare: rice (of course!), some eggs (cooked to your liking), fruits (when they where ripe, they where great!), and the occasional sliver of something that might be meat. Okay. It's filling. But let's be honest, it's not exactly a culinary experience that will blow your mind.
Dinner? Well, I ordered the grilled fish one night. It was... okay. A little overcooked. But the views from the restaurant at sunset? UNBEATABLE. The vibe is super relaxed. It’s not fancy, but it’s convenient, especially after a long day of island hopping. If you are a westerner you are pretty much safe here from stomach bugs, while still getting the local experience.
My advice? Embrace the local food! There are some amazing restaurants in town. Definitely try the seafood. And get ready to eat a TON of rice.
Island Hopping! How do I do it? And is it as amazing as the pictures?
Okay, island hopping. THIS is what you came for. YES. Absolutely YES, it lives up to the hype. Is it picture perfect? Mostly. You'll be blown away. The Asia Grand View can arrange tours. Very useful. The staff can help you. It takes the stress out of the whole thing.
The tour I did had Secret Beach. The name speaks for itself. Pure magic. The only downside? The crowds! Tourist central, y'all. But even with the crowd, it was stunning. I spent ages taking photos, and got some amazing shots that I could add to my insta.. I also went snorkeling; I'm not a natural, but I loved it. The clarity of the water is insane. The coral reefs? WOW. Even if you're not a big snorkeler, do it.
One word of warning: Wear sunscreen! And reapply it constantly! And seriously, bring a hat. I got a major sunburn on my nose, and felt like Rudolph for days. Also, be prepared for long boat rides. They're totally worth it, but they can get a little bumpy. If you get seasick, pop a pill beforehand.
Okay, the hotel itself. What are the grounds like? Any hidden gems?
The grounds? Pretty, but a little… rustic. There's a small pool. It's clean, and it offers respite from the intense heat. The biggest hidden gem is, again, the view, especially from a quiet corner. Seriously. From the rooms you cant see it well. Wander around the area in the day, and the setting sun will treat you to fantastic vistas. I spent hours just sitting on a random bench, watching the boats come in.
The gardens are nice, full of tropical plants. They are constantly being tended to. The area around the pool is nice, but don't expect manicured lawns - think more... "laid-back tropical vibes." I saw some adorable little geckos scurrying around (they mostly leave you alone!).
Be prepared for the occasional power outage. It happens. But the hotel has a backup generator, so it’s usually back up pretty quickly. Embrace the adventure! It adds to the experience! Be prepared! Keep things charged!
The Staff: How's the service? Friendly? Helpful? Or…?
The staff is one of the best things about the Asia Grand View, and yes, is it is friendly and helpful. Honestly, the staff are wonderful! They are polite, accommodating, and always eager to make you happy.
They're genuinely happy to help, and they always greet you with a smile. Language can sometimes be a slight barrier (English is spoken, but sometimes things get a little lost in translation),Save On Hotels Now
