Uncover Siquijor's Secrets: TwilightNest's Island Paradise Awaits!
Uncover Siquijor's Secrets: TwilightNest's Island Paradise Awaits! - A Review Straight from the Heart (and Beach!), Plus a Booking Blitz!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, 'cause this ain't your run-of-the-mill, dry-as-sandpaper hotel review. I've just clawed my way back from TwilightNest in Siquijor, and let me tell you, my soul feels like it's been through a deep tissue massage with a margarita chaser. This review? It’s gonna be less "objective analysis" and more "gushing fan girl with a tan line."
First things first: Getting There & Getting Around (The "Help, I'm Lost!" Phase)
Okay, Siquijor itself? A bloody dream. Tiny, lush, and so chill it’s practically horizontal. Getting to TwilightNest was a breeze, thanks to their airport transfer. (And let's be honest, after a long flight, breeze is the only acceptable velocity.) The roads are a bit… bumpy in places, a testament to Siquijor's rustic charm. Forget your fancy sports car; a comfortable van or a scooter (which you can rent nearby, the hotel doesn’t offer rentals directly but can hook you up) is the way to go. They've got car parking on-site, thankfully. Phew. Thank goodness!
Accessibility? Uh, I didn't personally need it, but I did spot an elevator and I believe they have "facilities for disabled guests", but you'd best double check with them, as I didn't actually see a room.
The Digital Den: Internet, Oh Glorious Internet!
Look, let's be real. We are all slaves to the Wi-Fi gods. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? Yes, please! And it actually worked! I mean, I could happily upload all my envy-inducing sunset pics on Instagram without buffering. But, here’s the kicker: Internet access – LAN. Seriously? They got a dedicated LAN? Why, if you’re working remotely from paradise, this is a godsend. Forget slow connections, this is a digital runway straight to your inbox! They also offered Wi-Fi in public areas, so you're covered everywhere. I think they even had Wi-Fi for special events? I’m not sure what’s they could be, but you'll be able to broadcast your wedding to the world in style!
Eating, Drinking, and General Gluttony (My Favorite Part!)
Okay, the food at TwilightNest… O.M.G. I'm still dreaming of that Asian breakfast. Think fluffy pancakes, exotic fruits, and enough strong coffee to kickstart a zombie apocalypse. Breakfast buffet? Yep. Breakfast service, YES. A la carte? You got it. I tried almost everything. And that poolside bar? Pure bliss. Sinking my toes in the sand, sipping a cocktail while watching the sunset? That's what I call a life. They have restaurants which served international cuisine and Asian cuisine. They even have something called a Vegetarian restaurant, but I didn’t manage to visit this one!
The Cleanliness & Safety Dance:
In these post-pandemic times, safety matters, right? TwilightNest gets it. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocols. They have a doctor/nurse on call, if needed. I found Hand sanitizer everywhere and all the staff wear masks. I thought the hot water linen and laundry washing, daily room sanitization, and individually wrapped food options were a good touch, although I didn't really check them out. They go beyond the usual. They even have a sanitized kitchen and tableware items, so you don't have to worry about sharing a fork with the last guest. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter? Check. They have an Express Check-in/out. Thank god!
Spa-tastic! (Because You Need a Spa Day!)
Alright, folks, let's talk about the spa. I spent an entire afternoon getting pampered and it was heavenly. They have massage, a Body scrub, a Body wrap, a Sauna, a Spa, and a steamroom. All the usual suspects for maximum relaxation. I almost fell asleep getting that massage, and I swear, my muscles were singing the Hallelujah chorus when I finally emerged.
Rooms & Resting Your Weary Head (aka, the Actual Hotel Bits)
The rooms at TwilightNest are gorgeous! They've got air conditioning, bathrobes, a coffee/tea maker, a hair dryer, an in-room safe box, a refrigerator, and gorgeous linens. The Blackout curtains saved my life, especially after those cocktail-fueled evenings. My room had a private bathroom with a separate shower/bathtub (which is, let's be honest, a luxury). The Wi-Fi [free] worked perfectly, obvs. The only thing missing was me! The Non-smoking rooms are a huge plus, they have soundproof rooms available.
Things to Do, or, "How to Avoid Getting Bored in Paradise"
Okay, so besides lounging by the pool and stuffing my face, what else is there? A fitness center, for those of you who are more virtuous than I am. Things to do in Siquijor! There's so much! Waterfalls, historical sites, even a Shrine. Do some diving, visit the local market, or just stare at the stars. TwilightNest also provides audio-visual equipment for special events, so you can host your own party in style. They have an indoor venue for special events and an outdoor venue for special events!
Services & Conveniences: Because Life is Easier When Someone Does the Hard Stuff
TwilightNest is full-on pampering! They offer Air conditioning in public area, concierge service, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning, laundry service, luggage storage. They've got safety deposit boxes, although I didn't really check these out. They also have a convenience store for your late-night snack cravings. Heck, you can even get room service [24-hour]. Seriously, they thought of everything!
For the Kids and Families
While I traveled solo (because, let's be honest, sometimes you need to escape the chaos), TwilightNest seemed super family-friendly. They have babysitting service, Kids facilities. I saw a family/child friendly area, and a Kids meal at the restaurant.
The Quirky Bits & Bobs (The Stuff They Don't Tell You in the Brochure)
One of my favorite things about TwilightNest? The staff. They're genuinely friendly, helpful, and they all seem to genuinely love Siquijor. I had a chat with a local in the lobby, and she mentioned they hire almost exclusively from around the island. They really care. The location is superb, close to the Shrine.
The One Tiny, Tiny, TINY Thing (Because Perfection is Boring)
Okay, I'm reaching here, but… the walk from my room to the bar felt a little long after a few of those sunset cocktails. Seriously, that's the worst I can come up with.
The Verdict: Book It. Now.
TwilightNest isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. It's a place where you can truly unwind, reconnect with yourself (and your Wi-Fi!), and create memories that will last a lifetime. I honestly can't recommend it enough. It was so good that I am already planning a second trip!
And Now, For the Booking Blitz! (aka, My Attempt to Get You to DO Something)
Okay, here's the deal. I want you to experience this slice of paradise. I'm gonna lay it all out for you.
Why You MUST Book TwilightNest, RIGHT NOW:
- Unbeatable Value: Amazing amenities, stunning location, and incredible service – all at a price that won’t make your bank account weep.
- Stress-Free Travel: Airport transfers, hassle-free check-in/out, and a staff that anticipates your every need. Less stress means more fun!
- The "Wow" Factor: Prepare to be blown away. This place is a visual masterpiece, from the rooms to the pool.
Offer You CAN'T Refuse! (Because Let's Face It, You Deserve This!)
- Use code "SIQUIJORLOVE" during checkout for a 15% discount on all bookings made within the next 7 days.
- FREE upgrade to a room with a pool view (subject to availability, of course) for bookings made within the next three days!
- Complimentary welcome cocktail upon arrival! Cheers to
Okay, buckle up, Buttercup, because we're diving headfirst into my chaotic, imperfect, and deeply personal Siquijor Island adventure. Prepare for… a whole lot of rambling. Seriously, I'm notorious for getting sidetracked by a particularly photogenic gecko.
TwilightNest Siquijor: My Island Symphony of Sunburn and Soul-Searching (and Probably Mosquito Bites)
Days 1-2: The Arrival (and Immediate Existential Dread at the Port)
Morning 1: The Flight of the Winged Stress-Ball. Arrived in Dumaguete, air-conditioned bliss quickly evaporated as the Philippine heat hit me like a… well, like the Philippine heat. Ferry to Siquijor – I'd booked a fast craft, but the port felt more like a chaotic, humid fish market. Vendors shouting, tricycle drivers hawking like hungry seagulls, and me, clutching my backpack like it contained the meaning of life. I swear, I almost choked on my own anxiety. The actual ferry ride? Mostly just me staring at turquoise water, silently praying my seasickness didn't kick in. Success! Mostly.
Afternoon 1: TwilightNest Check-In & Beach Staring Contest. Found the TwilightNest. Oh. My. God. Pictures do not do it justice. It's a collection of rustic bungalows nestled among palm trees, with the ocean practically lapping at your doorstep. The owner, a gruff but lovable Aussie named Ben, greeted me with a beer. Instant karma. The first few hours were spent in a beach staring contest. Me vs The Ocean. The ocean won every time. Staring at it while drinking cheap beer helped.
Evening 1: Food, Fireflies, and First Impressions Decided to eat at the resort restaurant. The food was decent, nothing to write home about, but watching fireflies dance around the palm trees while eating it was something else. The gentle rustling of the palm trees was really a soothing soundtrack, and I am starting to fall in love with the place. It's early, but my first inkling of love for this place is starting to blossom in my chest,
Morning 2: The Search For My Soul (and Breakfast). I woke up before sunrise, and I went to the beach to ponder my existence and attempt to find my soul, which at the moment felt like it had been misplaced somewhere between my passport and my sunscreen. After watching the sunrise (stunning, cliché, but true) and doing some yoga (badly), I headed back to the resort. Breakfast was, shall we say, a journey. It included the best mango I'd ever tasted. I spent the rest of the morning working a bit from my bungalow, and feeling my own stress start to melt.
Afternoon 2: Exploration! Or, Attempted Exploration. Decided to rent a scooter. I’d never driven one before. Cue panic. It wasn’t pretty. I stalled it at least twenty times before I cautiously made it down the road. My first stop was the Cambugahay Falls – a series of cascading waterfalls that looked like something from a movie. I tried jumping in (terrified, of course), and ended up doing a pathetic belly flop. The locals were incredibly patient with my clumsy attempts.
Evening 2: The Sunset and the Lost and Found. I made it back to the TwilightNest just in time for sunset. The sky blazed with orange, purple, and every shade in between. I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling that was quickly disrupted when I realised I'd lost my sunglasses at the falls. Sigh. Maybe the universe was telling me to embrace the imperfections? Nope. Still wanted my sunglasses. Eventually, I just accepted there’s beauty in the lost and found.
Days 3-4: Deep Dive (Water and Otherwise)
Morning 3: Snorkeling and Surrealism. Siquijor is known for its marine life, the snorkeling. I went out on a boat and dove into the water, was immediately overwhelmed by the vibrant colours of the coral and the kaleidoscopic array of fish. I saw a sea turtle! It was a truly surreal experience, and I'm still not sure if it was real.
Afternoon 3: The Enchanted Balete Tree & Fish Spa…A Messy Combination. Decided to visit the Balete Tree - a giant, ancient tree with a natural fish spa at its base. The tree itself was impressive, but the fish spa… well, imagine tiny fish nibbling on your feet. It's supposed to be good for you, but I spent half the time giggling and the other half convinced they were plotting my demise. I walked away with feet that felt smoother than a baby's bottom, and still laughing hysterically.
Evening 3: Dinner and the Dreaded Karaoke Attempt. I tried a local restaurant for dinner, which was great, and I found an excellent group of people to spend the evening with. Someone suggested karaoke. I’m tone-deaf. I tried to back out, but peer pressure is a powerful thing. I butchered a classic in a way that earned me both applause and pity laughs. It was terrible. I loved it.
Morning 4: Waterfall-Hopping (Round 2). Went to the falls again. This time I was more confident – or at least I pretended to be. The water was cold, and the currents were stronger than I remembered. I almost lost my courage, but ended up jumping (a little better this time!).
Afternoon 4: The Secret Beach and a Moment of Quiet. I found a secluded cove, a near-private beach. I spent hours just staring. I was watching the waves crash against the shore. I felt a sense of peace I haven't experienced in years.
Evening 4: The TwilightNest Farewell and a Bittersweet Sunset. I had my last dinner at the TwilightNest. I sat on the beach, watched the sunset, and felt a pang of sadness. Leaving this beautiful place felt like leaving a piece of myself behind. I promised myself I'd come back.
Days 5: The Departure (and a Crumpled Sense of Peace)
- Morning 5: One Last Breakfast, One Last Glimpse. Had a final breakfast at TwilightNest… one last glance at the ocean, a final dip in the pool, and said my goodbyes (harder than I expected).
- Afternoon 5: The Ferry, The Ride, The Memories. Ferry back to Dumaguete, and onwards to what awaits. Feeling tired, sun-kissed, and a little heartbroken.
Final Thoughts (and a Few Mosquito Bites):
Siquijor. It's a magical place. It's messy, chaotic, and utterly enchanting. It chewed me up, spat me out, and left me wanting more. The memories? They’re as real as the mosquito bites I earned. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. But next time, I'm bringing extra sunscreen, a better singing voice (maybe), and a whole lot more courage.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to find a cure for these itchy welts. And maybe to start planning my return.
Escape to Paradise: Jalapao Hotel Palmas, Brazil - Your Unforgettable Getaway
Okay, So, What *Is* This "Thing" We're Supposed to Be Asking About?
Why are you so skeptical?
What’s your *favorite* thing, just to lighten the mood a bit?
What's your *least* favorite thing? Let's get that out of the way.
What advice would you give yourself five years ago?
What's something you're really good at? Be honest now.
Ever had a total disaster? Like, a truly epic fail? Spill the beans!
What is a random fact about yourself?
Okay, alright… one last question. Anything else you want to say?
