IF THERE WERE MORE THAN 5-STARS I WOULD GRANT MAXIMUM, ALWAYS.
I had stayed 4 times previously in 2 years.
I have also stayed in more than 1000 hotel nights in various hotels BUT to be greeted by LEA ( the receptionist ) with a "good afternoon Sir , welcome back - I REMEMBERED TO PUT YOUR CHAIR IN THE SHOWER " MELTED my heart as this has NEVER been done before.
As a physically challenged very regular business traveler, THIS service level is awesome and that from a receptionist (I'm implying that higher graded employees or even management has NOT even practiced this service level).
check-in went smoothly and our requested room was immaculate and well cooled as they do for all guests hence requesting your check-in time.
there were minor staff changes in the restaurant with a new trainee visible who NEVER failed to impress which came with a genuine warm smile.
Vanessa and her squad were faultless as usual.
one morning I decided to watch the sunrise at 05h47 and it was calm and peaceful whilst in the dark a worker was sweeping patterns into the sand whilst around me in a dark restaurant another worker was sweeping in front of each guest bedroom.
Vanessa arrived at 06h00 it was still dark , greeted and said "sir, brewed coffee, 3 sugars with hot milk , ok" MAGIC SERVICE from the get-go.
all the food was well presented, made with the freshest ingredients and there was not one dish I would NOT repeat, all were awesome. some of the servings like the thai-fried rice with chicken topped with poached egg were sufficient for two.
i never had to call for service nor additional condiments as they remembered my request for additional chopped chilli.
to me the BEST brewed coffee in the Philippines and it always taste the same unlike some branded coffees who vary and more expensive.
after the first meal the staff established I was eating only chicken and they recommended accordingly.
intuitive to say the least.
the staff arranged refreshments and ice for the 2 hour boat trip.
every menu item was available and the staff even described the cut of chicken used for the ADOBO.
I've stayed at branded and higher graded establishments and paid more and therefore do not agree with the "pricey" comments.
the current building alterations never interfered with my stay and certainly good news if more rooms become available.
i said to a staff member "I hope you are here when I return in 2 months" and she answered "sir, this is like my HOME, I LOVE IT HERE".
a beautiful statement to complete another beautiful stay !!!