Travel and Hotel Reviews PH

05/08/2026

Lanson Place Mall of Asia
Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila
Address: Mall of Asia Complex, Blk 12 Palm Coast Ave. cor. Seaside Blvd., Pasay City, 1300 Metro Manila
Date of Stay: 4-5 July 2026
Room Booked: Two-Bedroom Suite Residence (Panorama View)
Rating: 9/10

⚠️Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has experienced during her stay. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

Lanson Place Manila is a contemporary luxury hotel that combines the comfort of home with the sophistication of a premium hospitality experience. Nestled in the vibrant Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City, it offers easy access to shopping, entertainment, dining, and business destinations while providing a peaceful retreat away from the city's bustle.

Designed with modern elegance and understated luxury, the hotel features spacious accommodations, thoughtfully curated amenities, exceptional dining, and personalized service that caters to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're planning a relaxing staycation, celebrating a special occasion, or visiting Metro Manila for work, Lanson Place Manila delivers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere where comfort, convenience, and genuine Filipino hospitality come together seamlessly.

📝 The Pros:
- The suite is huge. With huge it means there are two bedrooms that are connected by a living room with TV and a kitchenette. Both bedrooms have TVs, but the master's bedroom has a comfort room with bathtub. The other bedroom is a bit smaller but still has ample space. The comfort room is beside the door near the kitchenette (which also serves as the common bathroom). The two bedrooms and the living room all have access to the balcony facing the Manila Bay area.
- The rooms are clean, modern, and new. This writer did not get an "ick" feeling anywhere. There are lots of storage space to store clothes and items. The shampoo, body wash and conditioner are all in a large refillable container which is more sustainable and less prone to guests calling the reception to ask for extra.
- The kitchenette is well equipped with utensils, cutlery, crockery, pans and pots, a solid large fridge, microwave and even your own filtered water faucet. The place also has washer and dryer, even if we didn't get to use it. There is also a dining area fit for four and a solid internet. Honestly, we were so satisfied with the internet, we spend a solid hour or two just sitting in the living room to finish work.
- The floors of the suite tend to be higher, perfect for sunrise and sunset views (and watching the MOA fireworks if you are up to it at night.)
- Location is very convenient if you are attending events near the area, especially since the MOA area is known for having events here and there. There are fun runs, anime expos, travel expos, business expos, concerts, fireworks show, to name a few.
- The food is very nice and is worth the 5-star hotel rating. We were satisfied with the spread for both breakfast and dinner.
- The staff are courteous and helpful, and it is easy to request for pillows, toiletries, or luggage assistance. They put value in reputation and good customer service and this writer can attest to that.
- There are big function rooms fit for events like weddings, seminars, and conferences.
- Data signal is a bit tricky, but you have the high-speed wifi to compensate for that.
- The two-bedroom suite came with a lounge access (Club Lanson) where you can do work and enjoy snack and pre-dinner drinks. You can also have breakfast here in case you do not want the rush at Cyan. It can only be accessed by those who have exclusive lounge access.
- Their infinity pool is at the top floor open from 6 am to 9 pm. Although this writer wishes that pool hours are extended (because they do have a bar that sells good-tasting drinks), the place is perfect for night swimming.
- Lanson also has a big fitness center and kid's corner. Perfect for pre-marathon warm ups (since it's near the common race village venues) and staycations.

📝 The Cons:
- Toilets in the common areas are nice, but sometimes more frequent checks are needed during lean times on the outer bathrooms, and during peak times in Cyan.
- Lanson tends to be busy especially in the common areas as they are at the heart of MOA. There are a lot of people checking in and out, people eating dinner at Cyan, and some are just chilling.
- Elevators are chopped. There are elevators that go from the basement parking to only the 3rd floor (Cyan and Check-in areas), and there are elevators that go from the 3rd floor to the rooms. This writer found the transfers a bit of a hassle, but not a deal breaker.
- Very limited basement parking. Although the limited parking is compensated by a much larger Lanson-exclusive open parking nearby.

✏️ Additional Tips & Notes:
1. Are you an SM Advantage Card Holder? You get 30% off in Cyan Modern Kitchen as of this writing.
2. If you want covered parking, either you arrive early so you can park at the basement or bring a car cover as seaside-parking can be a bit harsh because of the sun. Do not expect tree shades.
3. The breakfast area can get full from 8:00–9:30 AM. Arriving earlier typically offers a quieter and more pleasant dining experience.
4. Check event schedules if possible. The hotel frequently hosts weddings, seminars, and corporate events. On such days, expect higher foot traffic, busier elevators, and full parking. Planning around these can help avoid delays.

❗️The Verdict:

Some weekends are meant for adventure. Others are simply meant for slowing down.
Our stay at Lanson Place Manila was exactly the kind of reset I didn't know I needed.
From the moment we stepped into the lobby, there was a sense of calm that carried throughout our stay. The interiors are modern, elegant, and thoughtfully designed—luxurious without trying too hard. It felt less like checking into a hotel and more like arriving somewhere you could genuinely call home, even if only for a night.

The room was spacious, spotless, and incredibly comfortable. Every little detail, from the plush bed to the well-appointed amenities, reflected the hotel's commitment to quality and comfort. It was one of those rare places where you actually look forward to spending time in the room instead of rushing out to explore.

One thing I truly appreciated was the hospitality. Every staff member we met greeted us with genuine warmth and professionalism. Their attentiveness never felt forced—it was natural, sincere, and made the entire experience even more memorable.

Breakfast was another highlight. The selection was generous, offering a good mix of Filipino favorites and international dishes, all served in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. It was the perfect start to a slow, unhurried morning.

If you're looking for a hotel near MOA that offers more than just convenience, Lanson Place Manila is a wonderful choice. Whether it's for a staycation, a celebration, or simply a well-deserved break from the daily grind, this is a place I'd happily recommend.
Some hotels impress you with luxury. Others stay with you because of how they make you feel. Lanson Place Manila managed to do both.


For their rates, visit: https://lansonplace.com/mallofasia

17/06/2026

Chungdam Spa
Chungdam Spa QC
75 Panay Ave., Diliman, QC / Contact No. 0995 574 2688

Chungdam Spa QC is a Korean-inspired wellness establishment located along Panay Avenue in Quezon City. Offering a variety of massage and relaxation treatments, the spa aims to provide guests with a comfortable environment where they can unwind from the stresses of daily life. In this review, we take a closer look at the spa's facilities, ambiance, service quality, treatment experience, and overall value to provide an objective assessment of what guests can expect during their visit.

✍️
Date Visited: 14 June 2026
Service Availed: Foot & Back Massage - 2 hrs.
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Treatment Rating: 4.8/5
Service Rating: 4.5/5
Facilities Rating: 4.3/5
Price: PP

🌸 First Impressions and Ambiance
Chungdam Spa is located at Rosemont Tower along Panay Avenue, a busy commercial area in Quezon City. Despite being situated in a bustling district, the spa manages to create a relaxing atmosphere once guests step inside. The establishment embraces a clean and modern Korean-inspired aesthetic, with warm lighting, calming scents, and soft background music contributing to a sense of relaxation. The reception area is well-maintained, and guests are greeted promptly upon arrival.
The overall environment feels inviting without being overly luxurious, making it approachable for both first-time spa-goers and regular wellness enthusiasts.

🌸 Facilities
The spa appears clean and organized, with treatment rooms designed to provide privacy and comfort. There are VIP rooms which are basically private to semi-private rooms so if you want to converse with your friends/companions, you won't be bothering other guests. Linens, towels, and equipment are well-maintained, and the establishment places noticeable emphasis on cleanliness. The waiting area is comfortable, allowing guests to relax before their scheduled treatment.

One consideration for visitors is parking, which may become limited during peak hours due to the area's commercial activity. Guests arriving by private vehicle may wish to allocate extra time when visiting during busy periods.

🌸 The Treatment Experience
Chungdam Spa offers several massage options, including Swedish, Shiatsu, Combination, Hot Stone, and their signature treatments. Their signature food & back massage treatment already involves dry massage to the head, arms, and quite a bit of the back towards the end of the massage. The quiet atmosphere further enhances the overall experience. We were ushered to the VIP room and instructed to wear loose t-shirt and shorts available in the room. A clothes rack is available inside the room. Once we are settled, they gave us foot soak, massaged our head and arms, and gave us a hot pack for either the shoulders or the lower back. After that, they proceeded to the foot massage. The massage hammer was my favorite part of the massage. The couch was also so comfortable that your body will totally relax. It helped that there was no TV in the rooms (something that's usually available in Chinese foot massage places). Your brain will shut down, provided you don't hold your phone during the service.

🌸 The Service
To be candid, the service is one of the stronger aspects of the Chungdam Spa experience. Staff members are courteous, welcoming, and professional throughout the visit. Reception personnel are responsive to inquiries and assist guests efficiently during check-in and check-out. Therapists maintain a respectful and professional demeanor throughout the treatment and they do not make small talk.
Waiting times are generally manageable, particularly for guests with prior reservations. However, walk-in guests during peak hours may experience slight delays depending on demand.

📝 Verdict
Chungdam Spa QC delivers a relaxing and well-executed wellness experience through its comfortable facilities, attentive staff, and professionally administered treatments. The spa's strongest attributes are its calming ambiance, cleanliness, and customer service, all of which contribute to a pleasant visit.

While parking availability may occasionally present a challenge during peak hours, it is a relatively minor concern compared to the overall quality of the experience.
Overall, Chungdam Spa earns a solid 4.6/5 rating. For individuals seeking a comfortable Korean-inspired spa experience in Quezon City, the establishment is certainly worth a visit.

📝 Additional notes:
- Make sure to lock the comfort room door as the cubicles can be quite confusing. Apparently the comfort room is designed for one person at a time only.
- Expect Timog-style parking, that is, slots are limited and expect to park at the sidewalk if the slots are already full. If your car is lowered or has a low clearance, opt to park in the sides as the front parking is quite steep.
- They accept cash and gcash transactions. Invoice is available upon request.
- They have another branch in BGC as well.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has actually experienced. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

17/06/2026

Paldo
Paldo
33 Scout Santiago, Diliman QC / Contact: +63 905 521 2155 (QC Branch)

Paldo Fine Dining is a restaurant that offers a contemporary dining experience centered on carefully prepared dishes, attentive service, and a thoughtfully designed atmosphere. With a menu that showcases a variety of flavors and culinary techniques, the restaurant aims to provide guests with a refined setting for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

In this review, we take a closer look at Paldo Fine Dining’s food, service, ambiance, and overall dining experience to provide an objective assessment of what guests can expect during their visit.

✍️
Date we went: 14 June 2026, Lunch
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Food Rating: 4.8/5
Service Rating: 4.3/5
Price: PPP


🍕Food we tasted:
- 12 Types of Banchan
- Haemul Pajeon
- Bibimbap
- Kimchi Mandu
- Kimchi Bokkeum-Bap (Kimchi Fried Rice)

Paldo's place is in an inconspicuous building in Sct. Santiago. The place was recommended by a workmate for their good Kimchi Fried Rice, plus the place is apparently owned by a celebrity.
Upon entering, we were pleasantly surprised by the modern Korean design of the entrance and the restaurant area in the ground floor. It's giving black, sleek, and modern. AC is running well (and this writer is a sucker for a well-ventilated and cool place), and courteous staff.

📝 The Food:
Despite the term "Fine Dining" in Paldo's name, the menu selection is reasonably priced and it is not overwhelming in the budget. Menus are shown in the pictures, courtesy of this reviewer. Taste profile of the food are Korean, yet not too overwhelming for a non-Korean food eater. The Banchan is a good side dish to take a break from the heavy spices, and is already filling for 3-4 persons. The selections include picked cucumber, beansprouts in fish sauce, kimchi, among many others. The bibimbap is Filipino-friendly and they serve the Gochujang separately.

The Kimchi Fried rice is delicious, true to its reputation. Highly recommended, including the Kimchi Mandu.

📝 The Service:
To be candid, the service was good, but the serving time could be improved. We waited more than 30 minutes for our food to arrive. Fortunately, we had a few hours before our next appointment, so the delay was not a major issue. The comfortable air-conditioning also helped make the wait more tolerable.

We were informed that a private event was being held upstairs, which may have contributed to the longer wait time. However, this reviewer believes that ongoing events should have minimal impact on the service provided to regular restaurant patrons.

That being said, the receptionists, chefs, and the waiters are all appropriately dressed and professional. Plates are almost immediately cleared once you are done. Everybody were courteous and smiling as they serve.

📝 The Verdict:
The highlights of our visit were undoubtedly the Kimchi Fried Rice, Kimchi Mandu, and the generous selection of banchan, all of which showcased well-executed flavors without being overwhelming to those less familiar with Korean cuisine. The ambiance is stylish yet welcoming, and the staff consistently demonstrated professionalism and attentiveness throughout our meal.

The primary area for improvement would be the food serving time. Although the delay may have been influenced by a private event being held simultaneously, maintaining efficient service for regular diners would further enhance the overall experience.

Overall, Paldo Fine Dining earns its 4.5/5 rating and is a restaurant we would gladly revisit. For those seeking authentic yet approachable Korean cuisine in a comfortable setting, Paldo is well worth considering.

📑 Additional notes:
- If you are noise-sensitive, request to be seated away from the bar area. Their blenders are quite noisy when used.
- Tables are quite clean and spacious. Perfect for big spreads and you do not have to be huddled close together to fit.
- Comfort rooms are separated between Male and Female. While clean, expect the style of the bathroom to be quite outdated.
- Expect Timog-style parking, that is, slots are limited and expect to park at the sidewalk if the slots are already full.
- They accept cash, gcash, and card transactions.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has actually experienced. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

11/12/2025

Summit Ridge Tagaytay
Summit Hotels and Resorts
Address: Km 58 General Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Maharlika West, Tagaytay City, Philippines / +63 282406888
Date of Stay: 8-9 December 2025
Room Booked: Superior Twin - Lake View
Rating: 7/10
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has experienced during her stay. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

Summit Ridge Tagaytay offers a comfortable and well-located accommodation option in the heart of Tagaytay City. The property features spacious rooms with balconies that provide unobstructed views of Taal Lake, which many guests consider a highlight of their stay. Service is courteous and consistent, and essential amenities are maintained to a satisfactory standard. Its proximity to dining establishments, retail outlets, and popular attractions adds to its convenience. While the hotel focuses on practicality over luxury, it delivers a calm and pleasant environment suitable for both leisure and business travelers.

📝 The Pros:
- Excellent Taal Lake view, provided that your rooms are place in the upper floors. Our room was in the 3rd floor and it's obstructed by some buildings and trees.
- The rooms are more spacious than typical hotel standards. Plenty of space for extra beds if you will bring in extra people.
- Location is convenient, as it is beside and across restaurants, cafes, tourist spots, etc. like Starbucks in the Robinsons Summit Ridge and Sky Ranch, to name a few.
- The staff are courteous and helpful, and it is easy to request for toiletries, or luggage assistance.
- There are big function rooms fit for events like weddings, seminars, and conferences.
- Toilets in the ground floor are nice.
- Wifi and data are present. Both have good signals as of this writing.
- Fridge and safe are available in the room.
- They have an elevator, albeit the one of two is not working.
- They have a fitness center as well.

📝 The Cons:
- Building and facilities show age. Lobby is nice and looks renovated along with other rooms, but ours show signs of being dated. TV was outdated (although it's already flat screen), the plants in the corridor leading to our room need some TLC.
- Breakfast variety can be limited. While acceptable, the breakfast buffet selection could be improved for the price. This reviewer liked the bibingka and p**o bumbong selection, though. (not free)
- Pool Area can be windy/cold. Because of Tagaytay’s climate and the hotel’s open layout, the pool is often too cold or windy for comfortable swimming. Heated pool might help. This reviewer noticed that the pool was not heated as of this writing.
- Parking Space are available, but they can get full quickly, if there is a big event in the hotel.
- The room is at the edge and near the highway, expect noise from cars at some point.
- While our room did have a balcony, it did not have a small table or chair to lounge around while admiring the Taal lake view. Expect this if you plan to have a drink or two while admiring the scenery.

✏️ Additional Tips & Notes:
1. Request for higher floors. The upper floors offer clearer, more impressive views of the Taal Lake.
2. Choose lake-facing rooms. Not all rooms have the same angle of the lake. If the view is a priority, specify a lake-view room to avoid disappointment.
3. Bring a jacket. Tagaytay’s climate, especially at night and early morning, can be chilly especially during December and January. The hotel corridors and balcony areas are particularly breezy.
4. The breakfast area can get full from 8:00–9:30 AM. Arriving earlier typically offers a quieter and more pleasant dining experience.
5. Check event schedules if possible. The hotel frequently hosts weddings, seminars, and corporate events. On such days, expect higher foot traffic, busier elevators, and full parking. Planning around these can help avoid delays.

❗️The Verdict:
Summit Ridge Tagaytay remains a solid and practical choice for travelers who value spacious rooms, courteous service, and excellent views of Taal Lake. While the property shows signs of age and some amenities could benefit from upgrades, its strategic location and overall comfort make it a dependable option for leisure trips, quick getaways, and small events. It may not offer luxury-level features, but it delivers a consistent and pleasant Tagaytay experience.

For their rates, visit:
https://summithotels.ph/hotels/summit-ridge-tagaytay

04/11/2025

04/11/2025

Avior Hotel Gensan
Avior Hotel
Address: 23 Santiago Blvd, General Santos City, 9500 South Cotabato
Date of Stay: 8-11 September 2025
Room Booked: Premier Room
Rating: 7.5/10

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has experienced during her stay. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

Tucked in the heart of General Santos City, Avior Hotel offers a refreshing mix of modern comfort and local hospitality. With its stylish interiors, warm service, and convenient location close to the city’s key spots, it’s an ideal stay for both business and leisure travelers looking for a relaxing yet accessible getaway.

📝 The Pros:
- Located at the heart of Gensan. Everything is accessible via walking or tricycle. SM Gensan is walking distance away.
- Lobby is spacious and their restaurant and cafe' are accessible in the second floor, especially if you arrived early and you want to kill time until check-in.
- Room is at the far end of the floor for extra privacy. Bed was comfortable and soft, there are enough pillows, and the room had a sofa and coffee table, aside from the desk and phone. It's easy to binge watch your favorite shows on the TV.
- Wifi and data are present. Both have good signals as of this writing.
- Fridge is available in the room.
- Their toiletries have improved since this reviewer's last visit. They now have Algotherm for their shampoo, conditioner, body wash and boy cream.
- They have an elevator. Great for Seniors, PWDs, and those who have a lot of baggage.
- They have a mini-gym, that is a room converted to a gym. Used their treadmill to get some steps in.
- Courteous staff, Tagalog is not their primary language, but they try their best. When in doubt, communicate in English.

📝 The Cons:
- Since the room is at the edge and near the highway, expect noise (especially at night, when the night market is set up.)
- As Avior Hotel it a business hotel, it does not have a swimming pool.
- It's near a government agency, hence the area around the hotel can be quite crowded. This can be an advantage, though, as there are a lot of tricycles waiting around because of the high traffic in the area.

✏️ Additional Tips & Notes:
1. Airport shuttle service is available to those who will check in for convenience. Notify the staff in advance so they can book you.
2. While QR payments are already popular in Gensan, it would not hurt to have cash especially if you intend to use trikes to get around the city.
3. If you plan to go during Tuna Festival, make sure you book weeks, or even months in advance.
4. Some tuna stores offer styro packaging for airport check-in in case you plan to take home some frozen tuna with you.
5. Grab is already available in Gensan.
6. Gensan is Gensun. Bring your cap and shades, and put on a strong sunblock.
7. Try out the Manny Pacquiao tour as part of your itinerary.

❗️The Verdict:
The Avior Hotel definitely has improved in their customer service and amenities since the last time this reviewer visited way back in 2022. While there are noise issues on the room, it does not discount the fact that the rooms are cool, clean, comfortable, and more than enough. Definitely one of the best business hotels around the city.

For their rates, visit:
https://aviorhotel.com/

02/11/2025

02/11/2025

Grand Hyatt Singapore
Grand Hyatt Singapore
Address: 10 Scotts Road, Singapore
Date of Stay: 24-28 September 2025
Room Booked: 2 Twin Beds
Rating: 8.8/10

⚠️ Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has experienced during her stay. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

Nestled in the heart of Orchard Road, Grand Hyatt Singapore blends modern sophistication with timeless luxury. From its elegant rooms and world-class dining to its lush, resort-style atmosphere, the hotel offers a relaxing escape right in the city’s bustling center. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, it’s the kind of stay that makes comfort and class feel effortless—setting the tone for an exceptional Singapore experience.

📝 The Pros:
- English-Speaking staff. It was not hard to understand each other at all.
- The room was spacious and luxurious. This reviewer was with a colleague and it did not feel like her space was invaded at all because the room was enough to have areas for each other.
- Toilet has a separate door from the shower, and both fixtures have a common wooden sliding door cover for total bathroom privacy. Toilet is also automated like the ones you see in Japan.
- Twin sinks in the bathroom for the occupants.
- Complete set of amenities, a mini-bar, including flat pods for coffee, different kinds of teas, creamer, sugar, and Splenda for the sugar-conscious. They also have wine glasses in the drawer.
- 2 sets of towels and bathrobes, sturdy slippers, complete set of amenities and good quality of shampoo and body wash. They also have an iron and hair dryer in the room.
- They have an instagrammable bed by the window with a nice view outside (depending where your room is facing).
- Amazing breakfast spread. It reminds this reviewer of Manila Hotel and Sofitel buffets, but with lots of big, fresh fruits.
- They are fast to respond to requests like a bucket of ice, extra utensils or plates, or even hygiene kits.

📝 The Cons:
- Expensive, but you get what you pay for.
- Their lobby seemed cramped for a 5-Star Hotel. It's spacious, but the ceiling is not high, giving the interior a cramped look.
- The hotel can prove to be quite the maze especially if you are to attend an event in their event halls.
- Reception area felt a bit too dark, even for mood lighting.
- There aren't enough couches in the reception area.
- There are no airport shuttle services offered at the hotel.

✏️ Additional Tips & Notes:
1. The Hotel is HUGE. It may take quite a bit of effort to walk to and from your hotel room (for example, you are going to the pool). Make sure to inform the staff to place your room near the elevator if you have children or elderly.
2. At the breakfast area, you can request the barista for Singaporean coffee (not in the menu). and there is also a dispenser for fresh orange juice near the bar (you can literally see the oranges being squeezed).
3. Grand Hyatt is a bit far from the airport and Sentosa, that being it's in the Orchard Road, but it is at the heart of the shopping district. It's also near the MRT train station (Orchard Station), so you can commute easily if you want to.
4. Your credit card is gold. You can even use your credit card directly to tap in the MRT lines and the bus if you don't have an EZ-link card.
5. Singapore is hotter than the Philippines even in the ber-seasons. Dress for warm weather.
6. Although credit cards are widely used by tourists and businesses in Singapore, it is always best to bring SGD with you if you plan to buy in local stores.
7. Have fun and explore around using your feet. You might find it enjoyable to walk, especially at night.

❗️ The Verdict:
Want to travel in style and get instagrammable sosy hotel photos? The Grand Hyatt Hotel Singapore is the place to be. While you may be out most of the day to explore Singapore, you will go home a beautiful hotel and soft linen sheets that will surely give you a good night's sleep. You may dedicate a day to explore and enjoy everything the hotel has to offer aside from touring the city. However, if you are traveling on a budget and still want an Orchard Road hotel, you may want to explore other options as well as this gem of a hotel does not come cheap. Again, you get the quality you pay for.

For their rates, visit:
https://www.hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/en-US/sinrs-grand-hyatt-singapore

02/11/2025

Room Tour

02/11/2025

The Henry Resort Dumaguete
The Henry Resort Dumaguete
Address: Dumaguete City, 6200 Negros Oriental
Date of Stay: 23-26 October 2025
Room Booked: Villa Suite
Rating: 9/10

⚠️Disclaimer:
This review is based on what the reviewer has experienced during her stay. Experiences may vary. This review is conducted mystery-shopping style and is not sponsored.

The Henry Resort Dumaguete — a boutique hideaway that perfectly blends tropical charm with modern comfort. Just a short drive from the airport and Dumaguete’s lively boulevard, the resort feels like a peaceful retreat tucked amid lush greenery.

From the moment you step in, you’re greeted by a relaxed, homey vibe — think warm wood interiors, local art pieces, and open spaces that let in plenty of natural light. The resort’s villa-style buildings and garden pathways give it a laid-back island feel while still offering all the comforts of a contemporary stay.

Whether you’re here for a quick weekend escape, a dive trip, or simply to slow down, The Henry Resort Dumaguete offers an inviting mix of culture, calm, and character — the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy the gentle pace of Negros Oriental.

📝The Pros:
- From the moment you enter the Henry Hotel, it's like going inside your own little resort compound. There's plenty of space to walk in, 7 mini-restaurants to try, a big space for events, and villas and pool are beyond a locked red door for privacy for the ingress and egress of players.
- Friendly and accommodating staff. If you have luggage it can be quite a challenge to bring it on your villa, but the staff are willing to bring it for you.
- The rooms are very spacious and good for families. The bed and pillows are very comfortable to sleep in and very clean.
- Everything is on brand. Special mention to their flip flops that you get to take home after.
- There are enough plugs for many gadgets.
- The pool is heated which make it nice to take a dip at night.
- Big parking space.
- Spacious bathroom. Hairdryer, complete kits, bathroom tissue, facial tissue, towel sets, and even beach towels are available near the pool area. There is also space for you to hang your wet clothes.

📝 The Cons:
- Breakfast is plated, not buffet; but you may choose to dine either in Cafe Sans Rival or Noelle's Brunch Bar for the free morning breakfast.
- Since there is lush greenery around the resort, expect a few bugs and frogs saying hi to you every now and then.
- Globe and Smart signals are a bit intermittent, but hotel has wifi.
- Quite a bit of waiting time for breakfast. You may want to order in advance the day before to lessen waiting time.
- Pay in cash or card only.

✏️ Additional Tips & Notes:
1. Standard check-in time: 2:00 PM. Check-out time: 12:00 NN. They are nice and allowed this reviewer for late check out when she requested.
2. Bring cash. People still prefer cash, and not all establishments have QR payments.
3. You can leave your luggage at the reception if you arrive too early or your departure time is a little later than your checkout time.
4. There is no Grab car in Dumaguete, but there are Grab Trikes to take you around town. You can also request trikes from the hotel receptionist.
5. If you are travelling with a large group, you may opt to ask for airport pick-up or drop off. As if writing its 750/van. It's more convenient if you have lots of luggage as well.
6. Traveling back with Sans Rival products in hand? The main store has insulated boxes which you can purchase at 150/box and they will gladly pack the products for you. It can hold at least 20 Silvanas inside, and you can check it in. Paper bags are only for hand-carry.
7. Flights in the afternoon or at noon and you have Sans Rival products you have pre-ordered? Arrange for them to have it delivered at your hotel. They start delivering at around 9:30 am.

❗️The Verdict:

This reviewer recommends the Henry Hotel for travelers who want the best hotel resort experience in Dumaguete. There's plenty of space to walk and move around, it's far from the hustle and bustle of the streets, and yet it is so near the port, the nightlife, the restaurants, and that big 'I LOVE DUMAGUETE' sign. It's also a convenient place for travel vans to pick you up and wait for you because of the big parking area plus it is near the Dumaguete City Airport. Highly recommended for tourists who want a mix of luxury in their getaway.

For their rates, and virtual tour:
https://dumaguete.thehenryhotel.com/