Davao City's HOTTEST 1-Bedroom Condo: Verdon Parc Luxury Awaits!
Davao City's HOTTEST 1-Bedroom Condo: Verdon Parc Luxury Awaits! - My Chaotic, Honest Review
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to unload on you my experience with Verdon Parc, Davao City's supposed "hottest" 1-bedroom condo. And let me tell you, after a week of living there, I have opinions. This isn't just some glossy brochure; this is real life, with all its messy glory. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, questionable decisions (on my part, mostly), and a whole lot of honesty.
First Impressions (and the Drive Over)
Right off the bat, accessibility is key. Verdon Parc is, well, there. Getting there from the airport was a breeze (and yes, they offer an airport transfer – bonus!), but let's be real, Davao traffic can be a beast. That said, it's right in the heart of everything; practically a stone's throw away from SM Lanang Premier and other vital Davao City hotspots. That fact alone makes it a contender.
Accessibility: Nailed It.
- Car Park [on-site], Car park [free of charge], Car power charging station: Yes, yes, and YES. Finding parking in Davao can be a nightmare, so this is a massive win. The free parking is a godsend, truly. I even saw a charging station! Fancy that!
- Elevator: Essential. Especially after a long day of exploring.
- Facilities for disabled guests: The building does have facilities.
The Essentials: Wi-Fi, Internet, and the Modern World
Look, in today's world, good Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. And thank the tech gods, Verdon Parc delivers.
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!: Amen! Worked like a charm the entire time.
- Internet access – wireless & Internet Access – LAN: Both covered.
- Internet services: Worked ok, but it was not as fast as I would like it, and I am on the picky side.
The 'Things To Do' and 'Ways to Relax' Dilemma: A Very Personal Journey
Okay, this is where things get interesting. Verdon Parc sells itself as a luxury escape, a place to chill. I'm here to tell you, your mileage may vary.
- Swimming Pool: The outdoor pool is gorgeous, with a view, just like they promised. I spent a good chunk of my first day in it. I should say that I got sunburnt, and my mood was off. It was a fun, but that's on me.
- Fitness center, Gym/fitness: I'm not a gym person, so I can't give a proper review.
- Spa, Spa/sauna, Steam Room, Massage: I did try to book a massage, but they appeared booked up. I mean, this is a condo, not a full-blown resort, so I wasn't expecting a full spa treatment.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Anxiety-Free Zone (Mostly)
This is where Verdon Parc shines. In a post-COVID world (or, let's be honest, constantly COVID-aware world), feeling safe is paramount.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hygiene certification, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available: All the boxes are ticked. I felt safe. That's a huge weight off your shoulders.
- Hand sanitizer, First aid kit: Available. Always a good sign.
- CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Security [24-hour]: They've got you covered.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food!
Alright, foodies, listen up! While Verdon Parc might not be a culinary paradise, you certainly won't starve.
- Restaurants, Coffee shop, Bar, Poolside bar, Snack bar: They've got options, though I wouldn't call their selection vast.
- Room service [24-hour]: Lifesaver. After a long day of exploring Davao's sights, ordering room service was a perfect end to the day.
A rant about the breakfast
Now, the breakfast, which was provided as a buffet, was ok, but I was craving something more. the Buffet was not too bad, but it also wasn't too exciting,
Services and Conveniences
- Daily housekeeping: Spotless. The staff were always prompt and friendly.
- Concierge, Doorman: Someone is always there to help.
- Convenience store: Handy for those late-night cravings.
- Laundry service, Ironing service: All available.
- Cash withdrawal: Convenient.
For the Kids (and the Young at Heart)
- Family/child friendly: Yes! I didn't have kids with me, but I saw families enjoying the facilities.
Available in All Rooms (The Nitty-Gritty)
- Air conditioning, Additional toilet, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Blackout curtains, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Slippers, Smoke detector, Sofa, Soundproofing, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens: All the things you need for a comfortable stay. My room was modern, well-equipped, and actually quite stylish. The bed was super comfy.
The Not-So-Perfect (and the Honestly Annoying)
- The occasional noise from the hallway.
- It is not perfect, it's not flawless. It's real.
The Verdict and My Recommendation (and a little bit of begging)
So, is Verdon Parc the "hottest" condo? It's definitely top-tier! It's clean, safe, well-located, and offers a comfortable stay. Is it perfect? Nope. But which place is?
Here's my final, slightly tipsy, recommendation:
If you’re looking for a well-appointed, convenient basecamp in Davao City with excellent amenities, where you can also enjoy the outdoors, this is for you. ** But here's one more thing:**
STOP. READING. THIS. AND. BOOK. NOW.
Exclusive Offer: My "Davao Dream" Package
- Get 15% off your stay (use the code DAVAOADVENTURE when booking!).
- Free Breakfast: I'm talking about the buffet breakfast at the restaurant, I am talking about that.
- Priority Check-In: Because nobody likes waiting.
- A Welcome Drink at the Poolside Bar: You'll get a taste of paradise.
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is a Verdon Parc Condo Davao City adventure, prepped by chaos, fueled by coffee, and seasoned with the unpredictable spice of me. Let's see if we survive.
Davao City Dive - The Unofficial Verdon Parc Survival Guide
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Condo Quest (aka, "Where the Heck is My Key?")
12:00 PM - Arrival Davao International Airport (DVO): Alright, time to wrestle my luggage (it's a beast, I swear it has more contents than a Kardashian closet) and find a taxi. My inner monologue? "Don't get scammed. Don't get scammed. Don't get scammed." Davao taxis, I've heard rumors… Wish me luck.
1:00 PM - Taxi to Verdon Parc: Fingers crossed for a smooth ride. I've pre-booked a Grab, because I refuse to negotiate in Tagalog when I'm this jet-lagged. The drive? Hopefully, picture-perfect Davao scenery. Or at least, not a constant construction zone.
1:30 PM - Check In & Immediate Panic: Okay, the condo. The sacred space. The place where I will hopefully be able to achieve some semblance of productivity without being eaten by a giant cockroach. (Okay, I'm exaggerating… slightly). Finding the key, checking the Wifi strength and generally getting my bearings – this is vital. God, I hope the AC works. I melt in humidity.
2:00 PM - The Search for Sustenance - Food Hunt: This is where things get real messy. I'm STARVING. Time to scour the area for a decent lunch. Maybe a quick run to the nearest grocery store after that and buy some essentials - water, bread, and instant noodles. I'm not above a bowl of noodles, don't judge. I'm not saying it's the perfect start to a trip, it isn't.
3:00 PM - Relaxation & Reality Check (or nap time): That shower feels so good. After that, it's all about settling and getting adjusted to the environment. A little nap would also be nice, but probably will get interrupted by the buzzing of my phone.
6:00 PM - Dinner at Lachi's: Okay, now the real good stuff. Lachi's is basically Davao's dessert god. Their cheesecake is legendary. I will shamelessly stuff my face until I can barely waddle. Worth it. I might need to be rolled back to the condo. The food will be that amazing. And I will be regretting all the calories I will consume, but not for a moment.
8:00 PM - Condo Chill/Explore: I need to find a convenience store to grab some snacks. This trip is already going over budget and it's only day one. I might catch up with my online friends.
9:00 PM - Early Night (Maybe): After that dessert binge and a day of travel, a proper sleep schedule is a must. I need my beauty sleep. Or get back to doing the same things I did the previous day.
Day 2: Exploring Davao (and Facing My Fears)
- 8:00 AM - Breakfast and a Deep Breath: I'll buy some local bread and coffee, prepare my stuff, check my socials and then face the day.
- 9:00 AM - The Philippine Eagle Center: I'm a bit of an animal person. I'm also a terrified of large, predatory birds. BUT, I adore eagles. Wish me luck with not getting pecked. I might need to bring some earplugs too because I'm not sure how good the sounds of the animals there.
- 12:00 PM - Lunch: I need to find a restaurant on the way back, I can't just go back to the condo and eat my instant noodles.
- 1:00 PM - Time for a Massage: I deserve this, after the long day.
- 3:00 PM - Samal Island Adventure (Attempted): This is where the itinerary gets REALLY messy. I'm trying to squeeze in a trip to Samal Island. Ferries, beaches, snorkeling… sounds amazing! BUT it relies on me: A) Actually figuring out the logistics, and B) Not getting seasick. I'm prone to both. There's a real possibility this whole plan will fall to pieces, and I'll end up eating more cheesecake. And there's nothing wrong with that.
- 7:00 PM - Dinner and Rants: I've decided I'm having Korean food tonight. I'll search for the best restaurant and prepare.
- 9:00 PM - Early Night (Maybe): After that dessert binge and a day of travel, a proper sleep schedule is a must.
Day 3: More Davao, More Me
9:00 AM - Coffee Fix & Casual Planning: Coffee is my lifeline. Then, I'll decide if I need a beach day. It depends on my feelings. I'm prone to spontaneous decisions.
10:00 AM - A bit of shopping: Need to buy some souvenirs.
12:00 PM - Lunch: I'll probably go for local street food.
1:00 PM - Final Farewell: I'm leaving Davao.
Important Considerations (aka, My Recurring Panic)
- Traffic: Davao traffic isn't Manila-level crazy, but it's still a thing. Factor in extra time for everything.
- Food Safety: I'm a bit of a germophobe (don't judge!), so I'll be careful with street food. But also… YOLO?
- Humidity: It's Davao. It's hot. Stay hydrated. Carry a fan. Embrace the sweat.
- Flexibility: This is a loose plan. Things will go wrong. I will get lost. I will probably eat too much. It's all part of the messy, glorious journey.
In Conclusion:
This isn't about pristine itineraries or perfect Instagram shots (though I'll try for a few). It's about experiencing Davao in all its messy, wonderful glory. Wish me luck, and maybe send snacks. Because I'm pretty sure I'll need them. And if I have any epic misadventures, I'll report back. Consider this your warning.
Jakarta's Chicest Escape: Belmont Puri Minimalist Studio!
So, Verdon Parc. Is the hype *real*? I see the ads... they're SO slick.
Alright, let's be honest. The ads? They're stunning. Gleaming kitchens, infinity pools that whisper promises of endless margaritas... pure aspirational gold. BUT. The reality? Well, it’s closer to… *partially realized* gold. Look, Davao is growing like a weed, and Verdon Parc *is* aiming for the high life. The finishes are generally of good quality, the amenities are on point (more on that later, because I have *opinions*), and yes, the views from some units are spectacular. My friend Maria? She snagged unit with a view of Samal Island. I’m practically *green* with envy every time I visit. But some other units? Facing the construction site. So, yeah, the hype is… *partially* real. Manage your expectations. And choose your view wisely. Seriously.
What's the deal with the location? Is it actually convenient?
Okay, the location. This is where things get a little… *confusing*. Verdon Parc is in Ecoland, which *technically* is central. You can get to the malls, restaurants, and the airport with a bit of a drive. But "a bit" in Davao traffic can mean… well, anything from 15 minutes to a soul-crushing hour. Let's just say I've spent longer stuck in a taxi trying to get to the mall than I've spent *at* the mall. There's a grocery store nearby, which is a *huge* plus. And, I swear, I've gotten better at memorizing the shortcuts after driving the route weekly. Still, weigh your priorities. Access to amenities versus potential traffic headaches. And hey, if you love Grab, you're golden.
Okay, amenities! What are we talking about? The pool? The gym? Spill the tea!
Oh, the amenities! This is where Verdon Parc *tries* to shine. There's a pool (beautiful, but sometimes crowded), a gym (decent, though the treadmills stare at you with judgment), a function room (perfect for that inevitable "Welcome to Davao!" party), and a playground (if you have kids, which I thankfully don't). The pool is beautiful. Until you get in, realize the chlorine is so powerful you might spontaneously combust, and the kids are running wild. *Deep breath*. The gym has the basic equipment. I swear, those ellipticals are programmed to make you feel like a complete failure. I go, I sweat, I leave. The end. But hey, it's there. And it's better than nothing. Just… brace yourself. The people you meet in the gym are always a mixture of fitness junkies and wannabes... like me. I'm often in the second group.
What about the 1-bedroom units specifically? Are they… livable? Enough space?
Ah, the 1-bedroom units. This is the bread and butter of Verdon Parc, isn’t it? Livable? Yes. Enough space? That depends on your lifestyle and how much *stuff* you accumulate. Seriously, like, are you a minimalist, or do you hoard throw pillows like it's a competitive sport? The layouts are generally well-designed, but space is at a premium. My friend Jason, who bought one, said he wished the closet was a *smidge* bigger. And yes, that’s coming from a guy who mainly owns t-shirts and jeans! The kitchen is functional, the balcony is a nice touch (great for that morning coffee and staring at the city, or the construction site...depending on your luck). But if you’re a hoarder like me? Think carefully. Think. *Really* carefully.
How's the security? Safety is important in Davao.
Security is a big selling point in Davao, and Verdon Parc takes it seriously. There’s a security guard at the gate who *actually* checks cars (unlike some other places, I won't name names!). There are CCTVs everywhere, and key card access for residents. I feel pretty safe there. Not *completely* paranoid like I am when I leave my handbag at a random place. But yes, it's a good level of security. It's reassuring. It makes you feel like you're living in a bubble of safety, which is a nice thing to have in this crazy world.
What are the potential downsides? Anything to watch out for? (Besides the traffic, we got that.)
Okay, aside from the traffic (which, let's be honest, is a major downside), here are some other things to watch out for:
- Association dues: They’re higher than you think, especially considering the amenities. Factor that into your budget!
- Construction Noise: Davao is always building! There's likely to be construction nearby, so be prepared.
- Limited Parking: The parking situation, while okay, can be tricky during peak hours.
- Potential for Overcrowding: As more units get occupied, the amenities (pool, gym) could get very crowded, especially on weekends.
Okay, so… would *you* live there?
Hmm. Good question. Honestly? If I had the budget and was looking for a modern condo in a central location, I'd *seriously* consider it. The convenience and amenities are a plus, especially if you're new to the city. I'd weigh the potential downsides, the location, and my own personal tolerance for Davao traffic. But then I start fantasizing about those infinity pools, and, well… I'm starting to think it might just be worth it! But I'd need a serious *view*. And a really, REALLY good coffee machine. Because sometimes, you just need to stare out at the world and sip a good cuppa. And maybe, just maybe, Verdon Parc could provide the perfect backdrop for that.
