Escape to Paradise: Unbelievable Green Residences in Manila!
Escape to Paradise: Unbelievable Green Residences in Manila! - My Unfiltered, Totally Honest Review (And Why You NEED to Book Now!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on Escape to Paradise: Unbelievable Green Residences in Manila! And trust me, this ain't your average, boring hotel review. We're talking real talk, folks. The good, the bad (maybe), and the gloriously green.
First things first: The Hype!
They call it Unbelievable Green Residences, and honestly? The name mostly lives up to the promise. We're talking lush greenery, a vibe that whispers "chill," and a definite escape from the manic Manila concrete jungle. But did it really earn its "Paradise" stripes? Let's dive in.
Accessibility - Did My Wheelchair Survive? (Mostly)
Look, I’m not in a wheelchair myself, but I’ve been around enough folks who are to know the good, the bad, and the incredibly frustrating when it comes to accessibility. Escape to Paradise mostly nails it. The website says "Facilities for disabled guests," and they definitely try. Elevators are a must (and thankfully, present!), wide doorways, and ramps abound. The lobby itself is spacious, which is a HUGE win.
The "But…"
Okay, here's where it gets a little…messy. While they have put in the effort, I got the sense that true accessibility wasn't fully baked in everywhere. I’d recommend checking if they have a fully accessible room and getting confirmation ahead of time. It's always better to be safe than sorry. But the effort is there, and that's a good starting point, people!
Online & In-Room Shenanigans - Wi-Fi: My Digital Lifeblood
Alright, so internet access. Crucial, right? Escape to Paradise understands. They boast Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (Hallelujah!). And it was pretty darn good. Streaming movies, uploading those envy-inducing vacation photos, stalking your ex on social media…all flawlessly executed. They also have Internet [LAN]. I didn’t bother with the LAN, but hey, options! Internet services are clearly a priority.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax - Spa Days, Gym Rats, and Poolside Bliss
This is where Escape to Paradise REALLY steps up its game. Let's talk swimming pool and swimming pool [outdoor] - YES! The pool is gorgeous, a bit of a showstopper, actually. And the pool with view? Oh, baby. Picture this: You, a cocktail, and the Manila skyline shimmering in the sunset. Pure. Bliss.
And don't even get me started on the Spa/sauna, Spa, Sauna, and Steamroom. I'm not a huge spa person, but even I was tempted. They offer Body scrub, Body wrap, and Massage, all designed to melt away the stress of…well, life. I’m a fitness freak, so the Gym/fitness center, and the Fitness center are what drew me in. Okay, maybe the Foot bath got me more excited.
But here's the REAL confession: I spent a whole afternoon just lounging by the pool, ordering snacks (Poolside bar – a godsend!) and judging people’s swimsuits. Don't judge me. It was research!
Cleanliness & Safety - Sanitized Sanctuaries?
In these crazy times, cleanliness is KEY. Escape to Paradise seems to be taking it seriously. They advertise Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services, and Staff trained in safety protocol. They also have Hand sanitizer dispensers everywhere, and First aid kit on hand. I didn't see anyone actually break out in the pool (thank goodness), and the whole place felt… well, clean!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - A Foodie's Playground?
Food is my love language, and Escape to Paradise definitely speaks it! They have Restaurants (plural!), a Coffee shop, a Snack bar, and a Poolside bar. Breakfast [buffet] is on offer, with that glorious Asian breakfast thing going on. I'm not the biggest fan, but the International cuisine in restaurant was a winner. They even do Room service [24-hour] (thank you, sweet baby Jesus!). They are serious here. They offer for Alternative meal arrangement, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, and Soup in restaurant.
My Random Food Anecdote: There was this amazing soup in a restaurant, and I was so good. I went back for seconds!
Services and Conveniences - Beyond the Basics
They do a pretty good job of providing the basics. You've got Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Ironing service, and Laundry service. Lots of the usual suspects. They even have a Convenience store, which came in handy when I realized I'd forgotten deodorant (oops!).
The Quirky Bits & Pieces
- Air conditioning in public area - Thank God for that! Manila heat is brutal.
- Cashless payment service - A lifesaver. No fumbling for pesos!
- Luggage storage - Always a plus.
- Meeting/banquet facilities - For the business travelers out there.
- Smoking area - If you must.
For the Kids - Family Time? (Maybe)
They advertise Family/child friendly, Babysitting service, and Kids meal, so this place could work for families.
The Rooms: Your Personal Paradise (Hopefully)
Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the rooms. They're listed as: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
The description is everything you would expect.
The Emotional Verdict - Would I Book Again?
Honestly? YES. Flaws and all, Escape to Paradise is a solid choice. It’s a beautiful place with a fantastic pool, decent food, and a real attempt at accessibility. It might not be perfect paradise, but it gets pretty darn close.
My Unsolicited Advice:
- Book a room with a view: Just do it. Trust me.
- Pack your swimsuit: Obvious, but crucial.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions: About accessibility, or anything else. The staff is generally helpful.
- Embrace the imperfections: This isn’t a sterile chain hotel. It's got character. And that's a good thing.
Now, for the Sweetest Deal Ever!
Book your stay at Escape to Paradise: Unbelievable Green Residences in Manila! today and receive a complimentary spa treatment AND a bottle of champagne upon arrival! But hurry, this offer is only valid for the next 72 hours! Use code EARTH to get 15% off your stay, and get ready to Escape!
Escape to Paradise: Greystone Villa's Breathtaking Mulshi Views!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. We're diving headfirst into the Green Residences Stays by PBYY Manila experience, and trust me, it’s gonna be a wild ride. Prepare for less "perfectly planned" and more "organized chaos with a healthy dose of existential dread."
GREEN RESIDENCES MANILA: A Messy-But-Hopeful Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Dread (Mostly the Dread)
- 1:00 PM: Landed in Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Ugh, always a mess. The air is thick with humidity and the vague smell of despair (just kidding… mostly). Finding a Grab car felt like navigating a minefield, and I swear, I met every opportunistic taxi driver ever. Finally, in the glorious air-conditioned embrace of my ride.
- 2:00 PM: Arrival at Green Residences. Okay, apartment vibes. The lobby is surprisingly chic, a little too polished for my current caffeine-deprived state. Check-in was a breeze, thank the travel gods.
- 2:30 PM: Unpacking. Or, more accurately, attempting to unpack while battling a sudden wave of crippling self-doubt. Did I pack enough socks? Am I even meant to be here? The usual. The view from my window is… a lot of other buildings. Manila, you dramatic queen.
- 3:00 PM: Discovering the "kitchenette." I feel a spark of hope. Time to check the contents.
- 3:30 PM: Realize that finding a grocery store will be a project. Commence the research. Commence the deep sighs.
- 4:00 PM: Decide to explore. Actually, the exploration starts to become a quest to grab a coffee. Stumbling around aimlessly, completely disoriented, I just need caffeine.
- 5:00 PM: Found a Starbucks! Bless the frappe gods. Watching the people bustle by. I am not sure I will be able to take the chaos just yet…
- 6:00 PM: Back at the apartment. Order in. (Because cooking, right now, is a bridge too far.) Trying to muster up the energy to watch something.
Day 2: Embrace the Chaos (and the Balut)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up to the glorious sound of Manila's alarm clock: a chorus of honking horns. Okay, I am awake.
- 9:00 AM: Attempt to cook something small. Failed.
- 9:30 AM: Exploring the neighborhood. Heading towards the hustle and bustle of the street.
- 10:00 AM: Finally find a real grocery store! I mean, it was the size of a small aircraft carrier, so I was slightly intimidated, but let's go. Staring at the selection in utter bewilderment. So many things I've never seen before! The price of mangoes is shocking.
- 11:30 AM: Armed with groceries, I feel slightly more prepared for life. Feel the hope welling up again!
- 12:00 PM: Meal prep takes about two hours. Actually, it's more like an hour and a half of me staring blankly into the fridge, contemplating the meaning of life. Food is ready!
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. It's edible! Victory.
- 2:00 PM: Decided to walk. I've been told, I found "food trips."
- 3:00 PM: Trying new food. The Balut. I decided to take a chance. I don't think I want another one.
- 6:00 PM: Back at the apartment. I am pretty tired. Ordering dinner this time.
Day 3: The University Belt and the Lost (and Found) Heart
- 9:00 AM: Coffee! Actually made coffee in my tiny kitchenette. Success!
- 10:00 AM: Time to explore the University Belt. I am feeling the academic vibes.
- 11:00 AM: Stroll through the vibrant streets, overflowing with students, books, and the general energy of youthful dreams and slightly-too-tight budgets.
- 12:00 PM: Trying lunch somewhere. I'm really hungry.
- 1:00 PM: Getting lost somewhere. I am not sure where.
- 2:00 PM: Found a market. I have to get some new clothes.
- 3:00 PM: More food! I am loving it.
- 6:00 PM: Back in the apartment.
- 7:00 PM: This is going to happen every night for the rest of the stay.
Throughout the Stay (Random Ramblings):
- The Noise: The constant hum of the city. It's a symphony of honking, construction, and chattering voices, and it's oddly comforting.
- The Food: The food! Oh, the food! Noodles, street food, adobo, all the adobo! My taste buds are in heaven. Seriously, I am going to gain all the weight.
- The Kindness: Filipinos are the kindest people I’ve ever met. Seriously, it’s the little things. The friendly smiles, the helpful directions, the way they genuinely seem to care.
- The Impatience: Well, I have to admit, I wasn't prepared but I am slowly getting the hang of it, the traffic, the rush, the crowd.
- The Constant Humidity: If I'm not sweating I'm probably dead.
Day 4-6: (More of the Same, But Different)
- We're talking: More exploring, more food, more existential crises. Possibly a trip to a mall (I'm told that's a Manila thing). Definitely a lot more coffee. The details are hazy, but the general gist is: surviving and thriving.
- Maybe I figure out the public transport. Maybe I attempt karaoke. Maybe I just stay in the apartment and watch Netflix. The beauty of this trip is: anything can happen.
Day 7: Departure (and the Inevitable Disappointment of Leaving)
- 9:00 AM: Wake up. I don't want to leave.
- 10:00 AM: Last brunch in a random place. My heart is aching.
- 12:00 PM: Packing. The dreaded chore. Do I have enough souvenirs? Did I buy enough food to bring back?
- 2:00 PM: Check-out. Saying goodbye to the apartment with a slightly mournful glance.
- 3:00 PM: Heading back to the airport.
- 4:00 PM: Waiting for the flight.
- 5:00 PM: Finally, I am on the flight.
Final Thoughts:
Green Residences Manila… it was messy, chaotic, filled with moments of sheer beauty and utter bewilderment. But, you know what? I wouldn't trade it for anything. Would I book again? Without a doubt. Manila, I'll be back. You're the weirdest place I've ever been. But also: I miss you already.
Disclaimer:
- This itinerary is highly subjective and may not reflect any semblance of "reality."
- Be prepared for unexpected adventures, moments of utter confusion, and a serious addiction to street food.
- Embrace the chaos. It's part of the fun.
Escape to Paradise: Green Residences Manila - The REAL Deal (Probably)! FAQs - Let's Get Messy!
1. So, is Green Residences actually a "paradise" or is that just marketing BS?
Okay, let's be real. Paradise? Depends on your definition, and your tolerance for Manila traffic! Look, "paradise" is a *strong* word. I mean, I don't expect angels to show up with harps and cocktails, you know? But… it's definitely greener than a lot of other places in the city. And honestly, after battling EDSA on a Friday afternoon, the thought of *any* bit of greenery sounds pretty heavenly. I once almost cried from joy seeing a stray *plant* on a balcony. So, maybe "Paradise-Adjacent"? Or "Paradise-Lite"?
But no, let's be real. It's not *actual* paradise. Unless your idea of paradise involves a decent gym and a relatively escape from the sheer madness of the city. Which, for me, is almost the same thing.
2. How's the "green" part? Are we talking a jungle sanctuary or a few sad potted plants?
Okay, the green aspect is... well, it’s there. Definitely not jungle-level. We're talking strategically placed foliage. Think: Vertical gardens that are, like, *trying* to be impressive. A few trees that seem to have survived the concrete jungle (miracle workers, those!). And lots of… well, plants. Potted plants. I saw a really forlorn-looking fern last week. Kinda made me feel bad for it. Like, "Hang in there, little buddy. You're doing your best."
Honestly, it's more about the *idea* of green. And hey, the air feels slightly less like exhaust fumes, so I'll take it. Plus, the landscaping crew is actually pretty good. They're always pruning and watering. I appreciate the effort. I once saw a guy *carefully* dusting a leaf. That's dedication!
3. The Amenities! What's good, what's a letdown, and did you judge someone at the pool? Spill the tea!
Alright, the amenities... Let's start with the pool. Yep, judged someone. Hard. This guy, bless his heart, decided to do, like, *actual* laps in the pool. In the *middle* of a crowded Saturday afternoon. People were trying to chill, sip their drinks, you know, float around! He was just... *sprinting*. It was a tactical error. You can't *sprint* at Green Residences. It's against the unspoken rules! I swear, I could hear him breathing. It was intense!
Letdowns? The gym is decent, BUT sometimes the air conditioning is set to "Arctic Blast." I almost froze my eyelashes off. And, okay, I'll admit it, the karaoke room... it's tempting. Very tempting. But the last time I tried it, my voice cracked so badly I thought I'd summon a demon. I’m still embarrassed.
The good? The lobby. It's got comfy seating and a surprisingly good coffee shop. That, and the fact that you can have a place to chill out and do your studies near the University belt is an absolute lifesaver. And the convenience store? It's a godsend for those 3 AM snack attacks. Especially after a night of karaoke... (don't judge!)
4. Location, location, location! Is it actually convenient or will you be stuck in traffic hell forever?
Okay, this depends. It's *in* Manila. That's the first thing. So, let's just accept the traffic gods are always, *ALWAYS* testing you. It's near the university belt, so access to the LRT is reasonable. But you know what else is *near*? EVERYTHING. Which is good and bad. It's convenient for getting around, but it's a *magnet* for, like, everything. You'll hear all the usual noises (cars, hawkers, ambulances), but not going to lie, the strategic placement is actually pretty good.
Sometimes I just walk. Not always, because, Manila heat! But if you're up for it and have the willpower, it can be okay. I mean, it's not *perfect*, but compared to some of the places I've been? I'm not entirely sure I can be doing anything else with this proximity to the LRT.
5. Is Green Residences noisy? Do you hear the sirens? The karaoke from across the building? Does it interfere with your sleep?
Yes. Absolutely yes. It's *Manila*. There's a constant background hum of noise. You *will* hear sirens, the occasional dog fight, and, yes, sometimes, I swear I can pick through a cacophony of Karaoke from across the building. They're probably practicing for a singing competition, I wish them luck. I've been there too many times.
Does it interfere with your sleep? Honestly? Yes, sometimes. I've learned to adapt, to embrace the chaos. Earplugs help, but you get used to it. It's part of the Manila experience. It is what it is. And honestly, that's life.
6. What about the people? Are the neighbors… weird? Friendly? Do you have juicy gossip?
The people are… a mixed bag. Like any building in a big city. You've got the students, the young professionals, the older folks, the families... It's a melting pot of humanity. I've met some lovely people. Seriously, I've had some great conversations in the elevator. The elevator is a social experiment, I tell you.
Weird? Define "weird." I mean, I've seen some interesting fashion choices in the lobby. I saw someone walking their *cat* on a leash the other day. That's not something you see every day! But, overall, it's pretty normal. Gossip? I'm a good listener, but my lips are sealed! …mostly. Though, there *was* that incident with the overflowing toilet on the 10th floor… but I’m not here to dish the dirt.
7. The management: Are they responsive? Do they actually fix stuff? Or are you doomed to live with a leaky faucet forever?
Okay, management. This is where things get… well, let's just say it can be a bit of a gamble. Sometimes they're lightning-fast. I swear, one time I reported a flickering lightbulb,Smart Traveller Inns
