Monaliza Surf Resort: Philippines' Paradise Awaits (Your Dream Vacation Starts Now!)
Monaliza Surf Resort: Philippines' Paradise Awaits - A Review That's Messy, Honest, and Totally Worth It (Probably)
Okay, folks, buckle up. This isn't your sterile, corporate hotel review. This is me, spilling my guts (and maybe a little sand) about Monaliza Surf Resort. "Philippines' Paradise Awaits," they say. Let's see if paradise actually showed up, and if it did, did it wear a decent pair of sandals?
First Impressions: Getting There (Accessibility - Kind Of)
Right off the bat, let's be real. Getting to Monaliza isn't exactly a hop, skip, and a jump. "Airport transfer" is offered, thank goodness, and I'd strongly recommend taking it. Because, let's be honest, navigating Philippine roads in a rental car, especially if you're jet-lagged and still trying to sort out the time difference? Not my idea of fun. I’m not an expert on wheelchair accessibility, but I noticed an elevator, so that's a plus. But I seriously doubt the paths to the beach are designed with smooth rolling in mind. So, maybe, just maybe, that's something to check on before you go.
The Vibe: Cleanliness, Safety, and Peace of Mind (Mostly)
Look, I'm a germaphobe. No shame in that. And in today's world, "cleanliness and safety" is a non-negotiable. Monaliza, thankfully, seems to get it. They’ve got all the buzzwords: "anti-viral cleaning products," "daily disinfection," "individually-wrapped food options." I definitely saw the staff wiping down surfaces like their lives depended on it. There’s even "professional-grade sanitizing services." Feeling safe? Check.
More importantly, the staff seemed generally well-trained in safety protocols. I saw them wearing masks and social distancing. The “doctor/nurse on call” thing is reassuring too, though I didn't have occasion to use them (thank goodness!).
My Room: A Beachy Sanctuary (Wi-Fi FTW!)
Okay, let's talk about the rooms. Mine had "air conditioning" (a must!), "free Wi-Fi" (praise the internet gods!), and a killer ocean view. Seriously, waking up to that view was almost worth the flight alone. The room was spacious, with a “seating area”, and “extra-long bed” (because, hey, I need space!), and a "window that opens." A nice touch. Though, to be completely honest, the "bathrobes" felt a little… scratchy. And the "hair dryer"? Let's just say it didn't do my hair any favors. But hey, complaining about a hotel hair dryer is a first-world problem.
The "Internet access – wireless" was generally reliable (a lifesaver for checking emails and posting envy-inducing pictures on Instagram). The "Internet access – LAN" I didn’t try but was available. Also, the "Coffee/tea maker" and "complimentary tea" were clutch for those early morning wake-ups.
Dining and Drinking: Food, Glorious Food (and Drinks!)
Okay, now we're talking. The food at Monaliza was actually pretty good. They've got "Asian cuisine in restaurant" and "International cuisine in restaurant," and you're bound to find something you like. They offer “A la carte in restaurant” and “Buffet in restaurant” which varies. The "Breakfast [buffet]" was a solid spread with all the usual suspects: eggs, bacon, fruit, pastries. But you might want to avoid getting there too late, because I witnessed a stampede for the last of the croissants.
The “Poolside bar” was a real highlight. Sipping a cold beer while overlooking the ocean? Pure bliss. They had a "Happy hour" too, which I may or may not have taken full advantage of. The "Snack bar" was perfect for a quick bite between swims. The "Coffee shop" was a welcome sight for my early mornings. I saw they have a "Vegetarian restaurant", but I’m not vegetarian so I didn't check it out.
I did, however, have a fantastic dinner at one of the restaurants. I remember the sunset, the feel the breeze on my face, and a plate of grilled fish that was cooked to perfection… Seriously, order the grilled fish. You won't regret it. I thought the "bottle of water" was a nice touch.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Paradise Found (Almost) - My Obsession with the Sauna.
This is where Monaliza really shines, in my opinion. They have a "Swimming pool" (duh!), and a "Swimming pool [outdoor]" (double duh!). The pool with view is incredible! If you’re looking for ways to relax, the place is a goldmine. I got a "Massage" and it was heavenly. They also have a "Body scrub" and a "Body wrap," but I didn't try those. I also didn’t try the "Foot bath”, the “Sauna”, the “Steamroom” – but man. I wish I had.
But, guys, I found my paradise at Monaliza: The Sauna. One of my favorite experiences in the world is sitting in a sauna and sweating it out. I love the feeling the "Sauna" offered. After a long day of surfing, or doing nothing, I couldn't recommend it enough.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Monaliza offers a ton of services, like "Air conditioning in public area," "Concierge," "Daily housekeeping," "Doorman," "Dry cleaning,” "Laundry service” "Luggage storage," and "Safety deposit boxes." There is a "Convenience store." I used the "Cash withdrawal" machine and, to my great relief, it worked. The "Front desk [24-hour]" was super helpful.
For the Kids & Family/Child Friendly:
Don’t worry if you are looking for family-friendly. They have "Babysitting service," "Family/child friendly," and "Kids facilities," I'm not a parent, so I didn't really explore these, but I saw kids having a blast, so that’s a good sign!
Getting Around:
They've got "Airport transfer," "Car park [free of charge]" (THANK YOU!), and "Taxi service," making it pretty easy to get around. I didn't see any "Car power charging station" but I don't own an electronic car either.
Things that could be better:
- More Shade: Some areas, especially around the pool, could use more shade. I felt a bit like a rotisserie chicken at times.
- The Beach is Nice, but…: The beach itself, while beautiful, isn't the best for swimming. The waves can be a bit strong.
- Some Minor Repairs: I spotted a few things, like a loose tile or two, that could use a little TLC.
The Verdict: Book It (But Know What You're Getting)
So, should you book Monaliza Surf Resort? Yeah, probably. If you're looking for a relaxing getaway with stunning views, decent food, and a lot of opportunities to unwind, it's a solid choice. The staff are friendly, the rooms are comfortable enough, and the amenities are plentiful.
However, don't go expecting perfection. There are a few imperfections – the slightly rough edges. The beach is great. But it's the experience, the vibe, the chance to unplug (mostly) and just be that makes Monaliza worth it. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, your sense of humor, and maybe a little patience. And seriously, try the grilled fish. You won't regret it.
The Offer You Can't Refuse (Well, Maybe You Can, But You Shouldn't):
Escape to Paradise with Monaliza Surf Resort!
Ready for a vacation that's pure bliss? Monaliza Surf Resort is calling your name! Book your stay within the next month and receive:
- A complimentary ocean-view upgrade (subject to availability). Picture yourself waking up to that view every morning!
- A free 30-minute massage at our relaxing spa to melt away all the stress.
- A delicious welcome drink at our poolside bar.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi so you can share your paradise photos with the world (or just binge-watch your favorite shows).
But hurry! This incredible offer is only valid for a limited time. Don't miss out on your chance to experience the magic of Monaliza Surf Resort. Book your dream vacation now! Visit our website or call us today. Philippines' Paradise Awaits!
(And PS: Tell them the messy reviewer sent you. Maybe they'll give you a free beer!)
Logan's BEST Hotel? Holiday Inn Express Review (You Won't Believe This!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your sanitised, Instagram-perfect travelogue. This is the REAL DEAL. My attempt at an itinerary for Monaliza Surf Resort in the Philippines? More like a chaotic, joyous, sun-kissed descent into glorious mayhem. Prepare for a rollercoaster.
Monaliza Surf Resort: My Brain Dump of a Plan (or, the Art of Winging It and Loving It)
(Disclaimer: Subject to Change. May involve copious amounts of sun, sand, and questionable decisions.)
Day 1: Arrival - Paradise Found (or, the Great Luggage Debacle)
- Morning: Touchdown in Manila. Oh god, the humidity hits you like a damp, warm, loving slap in the face. My hair instantly turns into a frizzy, untamed beast. Sigh. Passport control. Breathe. I swear I saw a guy trying to smuggle a whole durian in his backpack. Seriously.
- Afternoon: The real adventure begins! Domestic flight to Siargao… or, at least, it should. My luggage, naturally, is MIA. Cue deep, soul-crushing sigh. The airline agent, bless her heart, looks like she's seen this a million times. "Ma'am, don't worry. Happens all the time." That statement did nothing to soothe my frayed nerves.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Finally, finally, FINALLY! Arrive at Monaliza Surf Resort. Oh. My. GOD. The view. Forget the luggage drama. This. Is. It. Turquoise water, palm trees swaying in the breeze, a vibe so chill it could induce a coma. I'm pretty sure a choir of angels just burst into song.
- Evening: Check-in. The staff are ridiculously friendly. The bungalows are…rustic. Okay, charming is more accurate. My luggage is still gallivanting around somewhere but, hey, I have a mosquito net, a cold beer (thank goodness!), and the damn ocean at my doorstep. Dinner is a buffet of deliciousness. My first sunburn is starting to form. It's going to be a long trip
Day 2: Surf's Up (and, the Day I Ate Sand)
- Morning: Surf lesson! I've always wanted to hang ten, or at least, vaguely attempt it. My instructor, a local legend named Rico, is basically a living embodiment of zen and effortless cool. He shows me the basics. I fall. A LOT. I swallow a mouthful of salt water. Then, another mouthful of salt water. The sand gets in my mouth. It's a delicious and a horrible experience.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a beachfront cafe. Seriously, the food here is insane. Fresh mango everything, grilled fish, rice, and coconut water. I need this like air. I'm already starting to forget the stresses of "real life."
- Late Afternoon: More surfing. This time, I actually manage to stand for a whole three seconds! Victory! I celebrate by awkwardly paddling out to catch another wave and promptly faceplanting. "At least you're trying," Rico tells me, laughing. I think he's just being nice. But the sun. The waves. I'm addicted.
- Evening: Sunset beers on the beach. The sky explodes with color. I befriend a couple from Germany. We laugh, we swap travel stories, and we talk about what we want for lunch. It's that simple. It's perfect. The luggage fairy (or, the airline) strikes again, still no luggage. I decide if I'm not given something by the end of the trip, then that is fine.
Day 3: Cloud 9 and Island Hopping - (and, the time I question my sanity)
- Morning: Trip to Cloud 9, the surfing mecca. The waves are ridiculous. I'm content just watching the pros. I might be terrified, but mostly amazed. I wish I'd been here longer.
- Afternoon: Island hopping! We take a boat to a few different islands: Naked Island (naturally), Daku Island (lunch!), and Guyam Island (the island of dreams). The water is the clearest blue I've ever seen. I take approximately 10,000 photos. I also get a little seasick. Damn you, motion sickness! But it's worth it.
- Late Afternoon: Back to the resort for a massage. Pure bliss! The masseuse uses coconut oil and somehow manages to undo all the surfing-induced knots in my aching muscles. I consider staying in the spa forever
- Evening: BBQ on the beach, surrounded by new friends, and the sound of the crashing waves. I am unbelievably happy. I realize I haven't even thought about work for a whole day. That's what I call a win.
Day 4: The Search for Happiness (and, the realization that I might be a masochist)
- Morning: Another surf lesson. I'm starting to think about giving up. Maybe surfing isn't for me. That's a lie, it totally is.
- Afternoon: I decide to just keep trying, and I do. But, as I keep trying, I keep falling. And falling. And falling. I can't stand up for more than a second before I'm eating another mouthful of the salty Pacific ocean. My arms ache, my legs ache, my pride is bruised. But, I don't give up. Because maybe pain doesn't matter if you are having fun.
- Late Afternoon: Happy hour! I watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. I watch how everyone else is having fun. I decided I will, too.
- Evening: Dinner in the resort . The food is delicious, the company is amazing. I'll never forget this. I'm already planning my return.
Day 5: Departure - (and, the bittersweet goodbye)
- Morning: One last sunrise over the ocean. I walk the beach, breathing in the salty air, trying to etch every last detail into my memory. I pack my bags. Not my luggage yet. I'm still waiting. It's ok.
- Afternoon: The plane. I look back as we take off. Goodbye, Monaliza. Goodbye, paradise. Goodbye, my brief, beautiful, and completely chaotic love affair with the surf.
- Evening: Back in Manila. Back to reality. But I'm changed. I'm sunburned, sandy, and exhausted, but I'm also exhilarated and happy. I'll be back, Monaliza. You haven't seen the last of me.
Quirky Observations/Ramblings/Emotional Reactions:
- The sheer variety of dogs on Siargao is stunning. They are every shape, size, and breed, and they all seem to be living their best lives.
- I will never, ever, get used to using a squat toilet. No. Just no.
- I left like I am a completely different person.
- I genuinely think my new friends are some of the best people.
- I'm already dreaming of that mango smoothie.
- I'm already missing everything.
Imperfections/Messier Structure/Honesty:
- I completely forgot to factor in time to do laundry. Disaster.
- I spent way too much money on beer. Oops.
- I didn't try any of the "authentic" Filipino cuisine. I was too scared of potential stomach issues. Regrets.
- I wish I had brought more sunscreen.
Opinionated Language:
- The food in Siargao? Absolutely phenomenal. Seriously, the best I've ever had.
- The people? Warm, welcoming, and unbelievably kind. They make you feel like you're family.
- Monaliza Surf Resort? Do it. Just go. You won't regret it.
So, there you have it. My Monaliza Surf Resort itinerary. A glorious mess, a testament to the fact that travel should be lived, not just planned. Now, go get lost!
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Monaliza Surf Resort: FAQs (Because Let's Be Real, You Need Answers!)
Okay, Spill the Beans: Is Monaliza Surf Resort REALLY Paradise?
Alright, alright, let's get this straight. "Paradise?" That's a loaded word, isn't it? Monaliza… it's got *elements* of paradise. Imagine: turquoise water, the kind that makes you want to chuck your phone in and just *be*. Palm trees swaying like they're gossiping about you. Sunsets that'll make you weep (in a good way).
But look, let's be honest, it's not 100% flawless. I mean, the roads getting there are… well, let's just say you'll learn to love the bumpy ride. And the occasional rogue mosquito? They're tiny vampires. You’ll get a good dose of sand between your toes, and probably in your socks (how does that even happen?). And sometimes the Wi-Fi gives up the ghost. But you know what? That imperfection? That’s kind of the *charm* of the place. It’s real. It's raw. It's not some sterile, polished Instagram filter. It’s… *human*.
Surfing – Do I Need to Be Kelly Slater? (Because I’m Definitely Not.)
Nope! Thank goodness. Look, I tried surfing once. ONCE. Picture this: me, looking utterly ridiculous, getting bucked off a surfboard like a rodeo clown. I spent more time swallowing seawater than actually riding a wave. It was… humbling.
Monaliza is GREAT for beginners. They have super patient instructors who’ll actually *laugh with you* as you wipe out (and believe me, you *will* wipe out). They have boards designed to help those of us who are less athletically inclined. And the waves? They’re generally pretty mellow. So, even if you're a complete surf newbie like me, you can still have an amazing time. I'd recommend taking the lessons, it's probably worth the money. And then you can maybe, just maybe, stand up for a few seconds, feel like a god or goddess, and revel in the moment.
What About the Food? My Stomach Demands Answers!
Okay, food. Now we're talking. The food at Monaliza is genuinely delicious. Fresh seafood, local flavors, and more rice than you can possibly imagine (which, let's be honest, is a good thing). I had this...THIS! AMAZING grilled fish one night, with a sauce that I swear was made by angels. I’m still dreaming about it. And the tropical fruit? Oh. My. God. Mangoes that taste like sunshine.🍍
Sometimes, service can be a little... island time. Meaning, don't expect things to happen *immediately*. But the staff are lovely, and the food is worth waiting for. Also, try to order some adobo, and the breakfast! And all of this is probably why I gained weight while there. I have zero regrets.
Accommodation – Is It a Luxury Hotel or Something More Rustic?
It's a bit of a sweet spot. The rooms are comfortable and clean. You're not talking five-star luxury here, but the beds are comfy and there's AC (praise the lord!). Think charming bungalows, often with a balcony or porch. It doesn't have the same minimalist feel some resorts do, but that's good. You don't go to the Philippines for a minimalist experience.
One thing to note: some rooms are closer to the beach than others. Choose wisely! I, personally, wanted to be directly on the beach so I would constantly wake up hearing the waves crashing. You probably don't need it, but I felt that it was an integral part of the experience. And it was magical. You will definitely find yourself lounging in a hammock, with a book in your hand, and just sinking in. You’ll fall asleep to the sound of the ocean. Pure bliss.
What Else Can I Do Besides Surfing? (Because I Can’t Surf All Day, Right?)
Okay, so you're not a surf god. No worries! There's SO much else to do. You can snorkel, and see some gorgeous coral and fish. There's diving, if you have a license (I don't, sadly). You can explore nearby islands, visit waterfalls (the water there is SO refreshing!), or just chill on the beach with a book and a cocktail.
The best part? The laid-back atmosphere. You can truly switch off and relax. One day, I just sat on the beach for hours, doing absolutely nothing. And it was glorious. A whole day of just existing and enjoying the sun. I was probably a little sunburnt, but worth it. It's a place where even the simplest things feel special. Think sunsets, and star-gazing, and just really *living* in the moment.
Is it Good for Families? (My Kids are Little Tornadoes.)
Hmm…depends on the type of family you are and what your little tornadoes generally enjoy. If your kids are into a good time, then maybe. If they enjoy having their parents around them all day, even better! The shallow waters are great for kids to splash around in, but there is little to no activities for the little ones. There aren't really amenities geared specifically towards children (kid's clubs, structured activities, etc.).
However, the safe environment might be good, as you can easily keep an eye on your kids. And if your kids are anything like mine, the idea of spending an entire day on the beach is enough to have them excited all day long. Also, the staff are super friendly with kids. Just be prepared to supervise your little tornadoes and make sure they don't try to surf before they’re ready!
Anything I Should Pack? (Besides My Surfboard, Obviously.)
Definitely pack: Sunscreen (lots of it!), insect repellent (those mosquitos are relentless!), a good book (or two!), and a waterproof phone case. Oh, and a sense of adventure! And a good pair of sunglasses is essential (looking at you, Mr. Sun). Also, bring your own snacks. Why? Because you never know when a craving will hit you, and it might be 10:22 PM...
Oh, and a small first-aid kit is a good idea. You know, for minor scrapes from falling off the surfboard (ahem). Don't forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a portable charger so you don't have to always be near their wifi. And maybe a phrasebook or translation app, because the locals are super friendly and love when you try!
