Escape to Paradise: Your Dream New Plymouth Getaway Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream New Plymouth Getaway Awaits! – A Brutally Honest (But Mostly Positive!) Review
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to launch you headfirst into a review of "Escape to Paradise: Your Dream New Plymouth Getaway Awaits!" And trust me, after spending a week there (yes, a WHOLE WEEK!), I've got opinions. Glorious, messy, slightly-unhinged opinions. Prepare for some real talk – the good, the bad, and the "why did they put the coffee maker THERE?!"
First Impressions (and a near-disaster with the elevator):
Okay, let's get this out of the way: "Escape to Paradise" is slick. Seriously slick. You arrive, and the views… they're the kind that make you go "Whoa." (More on that later). The lobby is all gleaming surfaces and smiling faces. Thankfully, this place is designed with accessibility in mind. The elevator is HUGE, and has braille, but let me tell you, I almost got stuck in it! (Okay, maybe it was a user error. Okay, it was a user error!). Anyway, once I figured it out (read: stopped panicking), I was transported to my room. Whew.
Accessibility, Accessibility, Accessibility! (And a Few Grumbles):
The good news? This place is seriously trying in the Accessibility department. The elevator (once you master it, of course) reaches every floor. There are facilities for disabled guests, which is HUGE. The car park [on-site] is easy to get around. Kudos to the hotel for that. The walkways are wide, easy to navigate. The accessible restaurants/lounges are a major plus. They've clearly thought about it. The wheelchair accessible rooms (I assume!) are probably top-notch.
Okay, here’s where my inner-grumbler makes a brief appearance. While the elevators are accessible, the ramps could be slightly steeper. Still, it's genuinely thoughtful.
Rooms, Rooms, Glorious Rooms (and the Mystery of the Missing Sock):
My room? It was great! The Air conditioning was a lifesaver. Thank god for it! The bed was comfy, though I’m still trying to figure out where my favorite sock vanished to. The blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping in (because, vacation!). Free bottled water and complimentary tea were nice touches. Internet access was great, too. Wi-Fi [free] in the room! I'm good with that!
There was an in-room safe box and a mini bar. I even had an extra long bed which was nice for us tall people. Non-smoking rooms were available.
They really had thought of everything. However, I'm not a fan of the carpet. In any case, all the basic elements are present and accounted for.
Cleanliness and Safety: Breathing Easy (Literally):
Okay, this is where "Escape to Paradise" really shines. In the post-pandemic hotel world, cleanliness is king, and these guys are wearing the crown. The anti-viral cleaning products are no joke. You could practically eat off the floors (though, you know, probably don't). Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. The hand sanitizer stations were everywhere. They even give you the option to room sanitization opt-out available, which is a big plus. I saw staff meticulously cleaning. The staff are trained in safety protocol, and it shows. The place feels safe. Very safe.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Where My Stomach Really Rejoiced):
This is where things get REALLY interesting. “Escape to Paradise” has got a serious culinary game.
- Restaurants: There are multiple restaurants, each with its own vibe. From the fancy, white-tablecloth international cuisine place to the more casual coffee shop.
- Food, glorious food: I indulged in the Asian cuisine one night. The chefs also cater for those looking for vegetarian. The desserts are to die for (seriously, bring your stretchy pants). There is also a breakfast [buffet] with so many options, you'll need a map. They even have Asian breakfast as well.
- Drinking: My favorite part? The poolside bar. Sipping cocktails while looking at the view? Pure bliss. The happy hour is definitely worth it. They also have a bar.
- Other Options: You can also get room service [24-hour]. Breakfast takeaway service is available, too. The snack bar, too, is awesome.
The Pool with a View: My Personal Paradise (and My Perfect Imperfection):
Alright, confession time: I’m not a spa person. Massages? Meh. Saunas? Pass. But the pool with a view? That's my jam. This pool is the stuff dreams are made of. Seriously. Turquoise water, infinity edge, and a vista that will make your jaw drop. I spent hours lounging there, reading, sipping cocktails, and generally feeling like I was living a travel magazine ad. (I may have even worn a ridiculous floral robe. Don't judge me.)
What I loved? The poolside bar, for obvious reasons. What could be improved? Maybe a few more, slightly oversized, pool chairs (for those of us who like to really spread out). And perhaps, a little more shade. But honestly? The view? It's worth it.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Beyond the Pool):
Okay, so maybe the spa isn't my thing, but "Escape to Paradise" has plenty to keep you busy.
- Ways to Relax: The Spa/sauna is there. The gym/fitness centre looked great (I, uh, saw it from the outside). There is also steam room and a sauna.
- For the Kids: I don’t have kids, but the kids facilities looked impressive. So did the babysitting service.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Things That Make a Big Difference):
This place has thought of everything.
- Essentials: Daily housekeeping (Daily housekeeping!), laundry service, dry cleaning.
- Conveniences: Concierge service, cash withdrawal, currency exchange, and a convenience store. A gift/souvenir shop is also a big plus. They also offer things like car park [free of charge].
- Events There are meeting rooms ( Meeting/banquet facilities) and outdoor venue for special events.
Getting Around (Easy Breezy):
Navigating New Plymouth is a breeze from here. Car park [on-site]. Taxi service, airport transfer, bicycle parking.
The Verdict?
"Escape to Paradise" is not perfect. No place is. But it's damn close. The pros far outweigh the cons. The views are spectacular. The staff are friendly and helpful. The food is delicious. The cleanliness is top-notch. The accessibility is excellent. The pool is…well, you get the idea.
My Quibbles: There is no pets allowed. The ramps could be slightly steeper.
Would I go back? Absolutely. In a heartbeat. This is a place where you can actually escape from the day-to-day grind and just…breathe.
Final Score: 9.5/10 (minus points for the rogue sock!)
SEO-Optimized Offer to Book:
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream New Plymouth Getaway Awaits! Book Now & Discover Paradise!
Tired of the ordinary? Craving an unforgettable escape? Then look no further than Escape to Paradise in New Plymouth. Experience breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and a truly memorable vacation.
Why Choose Escape to Paradise?
- Unparalleled Accessibility: Enjoy a stress-free stay with wheelchair-accessible rooms, facilities for disabled guests, and convenient access throughout the hotel.
- Unwind & Rejuvenate: Take a dip in our sparkling swimming pool [outdoor] with a stunning pool with view, indulge in a massage at our Spa, or invigorate your senses in the Sauna.
- Culinary Delights: Savor exquisite cuisine at our diverse restaurants, from Asian feasts to Western classics. Enjoy cocktails at our poolside bar and start your day with a delicious breakfast [buffet]
- Unbeatable Comfort & Convenience: Experience ultimate relaxation in our luxurious rooms with Air conditioning, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, and thoughtful amenities. Benefit from our comprehensive services, including laundry service, daily housekeeping, and a convenience store.
- Unwavering Safety & Cleanliness: Rest assured with our commitment to your well-being, featuring Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocols.
- Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of New Plymouth, with easy access to local attractions like Taxi service and car park [free of charge].
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this itinerary isn't your perfectly-pressed, color-coded travel brochure. This is the real deal, Auto Lodge Motor Inn edition. And let me tell you, after this trip, you'll be craving a flat white with a side of existential dread, just like yours truly.
Auto Lodge Motor Inn Misadventures: A New Plymouth Extravaganza (or, "How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Plastic Cutlery")
Day 1: Arrival…and a Mild Panic
1:00 PM: Touchdown at New Plymouth Airport. Okay, so the flight was delayed. Again. I swear, airlines are testing my patience. Trying to get the rental car, and they tell me something about "the booking isn't showing up" and my blood pressure jumps. (This is where I start questioning all my life choices, naturally.) Eventually, sorted. Breathe.
2:00 PM: Arrive at Auto Lodge Motor Inn. The reception is friendly. "Charming" is a word that might have been thrown around. My room is… well, it's functional. Think "beige." Think "slightly damp smelling." But hey, the bed looks comfy, so I'm not complaining too much. (Yet.)
2:30 PM: Unpack. Realize I've forgotten my toothbrush. Groan. Commence the "Where's the nearest pharmacy?" search.
3:00 PM: Explore New Plymouth along the Coastal Walkway, beautiful location but there are some annoying little kids, so I had to walk away.
4:30 PM: Okay, I found a cafe and got a strong dose of coffee, the smell is so nice.
6:00 PM: Dinner at Ms White, very classy restaurant and the food is so tasty, the restaurant is quite expensive.
8:00 PM: Back to the room. Shower. Wonder why the water pressure is so low. Decide to blame it on the lingering dampness. Curl up in bed with a book and a desperate hope that the night will bring no more floral-patterned nightmares.
Day 2: Taranaki's Thrills (and a Near-Disaster)
7:00 AM: Wake up. Breakfast… It's the classic continental spread. (More "stale" than "spread," if I'm honest.) But hey, caffeine. It's a lifeline.
8:00 AM: Today is all about Mount Taranaki, that majestic volcano. The drive is stunning, even through the intermittent rain. The scenery is spectacular and I feel so small in a good way. This is why I travel.
9:00 AM: Decide to do one of the shorter hikes. Get about halfway and realize I'm severely out of shape. And it's muddy. Very muddy. And I’m wearing the wrong shoes.
10:00 AM: Near-disaster moment. Slip. Twist ankle. Swear loudly. Briefly consider becoming a mountain recluse. (Thankfully, someone helps me)
10:30 AM: Back to the car. Back into Auto Lodge to rest and bandage my ankle.
12:00 AM: Lunch at a small cafe, fish and chips taste better after the mountain incident.
2:00 PM: Stroll around the Len Lye Centre, it's all vibrant and colorful.
4:00 PM: Drink coffee by the beach, watching the waves
6:00 PM: Dinner, the restaurant is pretty crowded and noisy, I enjoyed the food.
8:00 PM: Back to the room. Watch TV. Get a good night's sleep.
Day 3: Art, Ice Cream, and a Farewell (Probably)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast (I have to say this time the stale bread seems better), ready for another day.
- 9:00 AM: Visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. Some art is so good that I can stare at it for a while. Some is… less so. But that's art, right? It's all subjective, I suppose.
- 11:00 AM: Mandatory ice cream stop. Because calories don't count in New Zealand. The Hokey Pokey flavor is a religious experience, I swear.
- 12:00 PM: Explore the Puke Ariki Museum, a very interesting place.
- 2:00 PM: Visit the local shops, I got a souvenir.
- 3:00 PM: Drive to the airport. Try to maintain a semblance of composure.
- 4:00 PM: Wait for the flight. Realize I've forgotten to buy postcards. Again.
- 7:00 PM: On the plane. Reflect on the trip. The good. The bad. The slightly damp room. I feel the emotional relief of the trip ending and the physical relief of leaving that darn bed.
- 7:30 PM: The wheels are up. Goodbye, Auto Lodge. Goodbye, New Plymouth. And goodbye, to the last vestige of my sanity. (Kidding… mostly.)
Reflection:
I'm not going to lie, there were times when I wanted to chuck my phone into the Tasman Sea. The rental car was a menace. The floral wallpaper in the motel gave me nightmares. But you know what? I met some friendly people. I ate some amazing food. And I stood in awe of a mountain. And that, my friends, is what it's all about. (Even if I do limp for a week.) Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a stiff drink and a long nap.
Escape to Paradise: 2-Bed Bungalow in Sapa, Vietnam - Unbeatable Price!
So, what even *is* this whole "being alive" thing, anyway? Don't tell me it's complicated, I already *know* it is!
Ugh. Deep breath. Okay, look, if I had a nickel for every time I asked that question... I'd probably have enough to buy, like, a really, REALLY good coffee. And believe me, I’ve needed a lot of those. Honestly? It's a giant, confusing, messy, rollercoaster of emotions, caffeine crashes, and questionable life choices. And that's just *my* experience! Some days you feel like you’re winning the lottery (even though you didn't play), other days you trip over your own feet… metaphorically AND literally.
Here's a secret: Nobody *really* knows the answer. We just bumble through, trying not to mess things up *too* badly. Which, in my case, is a work in progress... always.
What's the best way to deal with... you know... *everything*? Like, all the overwhelming-ness of it all?
Oh, sweet summer child… *everything*. Right. Well, prepare yourself, because here comes the most unhelpful, yet strangely honest, answer: There's no one "best" way. Anyone who tells you there is is probably trying to sell you something. Or, you know, is just delusional.
For me? It fluctuates wildly. Some days, it's a mountain of chocolate and a good cry (don’t judge!), other days it's a frantic cleaning spree (to the point of near-exhaustion), and then another day is getting completely lost in a new video game just to temporarily switch off my brain. I’m not saying it’s healthy, but it works. Mostly. The important thing is to figure out what *you* need, and be okay with the fact that that need will change!
How do you handle those days when you just feel… completely and utterly hopeless? Like, staring into the abyss and it’s staring right back.
Ugh, the abyss. Yeah, I know it. Those days… those are tough. Honestly, I have a whole collection of coping mechanisms, none of which are picture-perfect. Therapy helps a lot. Really, it does. But sometimes, when that feeling hits, when the world seems to be out to get me, and even my brain hates me. I just try to survive.
I have a favorite playlist, you know, those songs that just *get* you. And I sometimes, when the mood strike me, I go to the park, sit on a bench, and just… watch the squirrels. It's bizarre, I'm sure, but there's something grounding about seeing those furry little jerks relentlessly searching for nuts, completely oblivious to the existential dread swirling around inside me. They just *keep going*, you know? And if *they* can do it, maybe I can too. Sometimes. I fail a lot, but I keep trying, I guess.
Okay, fine, what about *relationships*? Like, romantic entanglements? They're supposed to be fun, right?
Fun? Hah! Where's that emoji that's laughing and then crying at the same time? Romance... it's a minefield, my friend. A gorgeous, exciting, heartbreaking, and sometimes hilariously awkward minefield.
I remember this one time, I was on a date. Everything seemed *perfect*: the restaurant, the conversation, even the lighting. I was feeling confident, witty, charismatic! Then I went to the bathroom, went to come back out, and tripped. Right in front of my date! I spilled my glass of water all over *him*. I am STILL mortified when I think about it 10 years later. The date? Ended prematurely. But you know what? We can both *laugh* at that memory, now! A little bit. Maybe. It's all about learning from the mistakes. And trying not to spill water on anyone else you find attractive!
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to someone who’s just… starting out?
Don't compare yourself to anyone else. Ever. And that means, that includes me! Seriously. My journey is messy, your journey is going to be messy. And there’s nothing wrong with that!
Find your own joy, embrace your own weirdness, and forgive yourself. A lot. You’re going to make mistakes. You *have* to. It’s part of the human experience! But try not to dwell on them. Learn from them, then move on. And whatever you do, drink enough water and eat a proper meal. Because an empty stomach isn’t a very good companion when you're staring into the abyss!
What about *work*? It's supposed to make you happy, right? Or at least pay the bills?
Work... ah, the thing that pays for my coffee and the occasional splurge. It's complicated. I, for a long while, was absolutely miserable in my work. I felt trapped, unappreciated, and honestly, a little bit bored to tears.
I spent years working in environments where my voice wasn't heard. Where I was constantly second-guessing myself. That time was *awful*! And then, finally, I took the plunge. I said 'Bye!' It took a while to find a place that fit. And along the way, I failed at so many interviews. The key is to keep searching. And it also helps to figure out what you value, and make sure your work aligns with those values, to some extent. The world is a mess and work is a part of that mess but the mess is often worth it.
What if… what if I’m just not good enough?
That voice, that insidious little *gremlin* that whispers those words? Yeah, I know him well. He's a liar. A manipulative, nasty, little liar! Here's the deal: You are enough. Right now, just as you are. Your imperfections, your quirks, the things you think make you “less than”? Those are the things that make you *you*.
It's a daily battle, believe me. Some days, that gremlin wins, but you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep fighting. Because you are worthy of love, happiness, and all the good things. And you are, without a doubt, good enough, even when you feel like the total opposite. If you are here and reading this, you survived every moment, and that's a HUGE accomplishment! Seriously. Go you!
What are your thoughts on… procrastination?
