Escape to Paradise: Avida Tower 2's Stunning Esplanade Views!
Escape to Paradise: Avida Tower 2's Stunning Esplanade Views! - A Review So Honest, It Might Scare You (But You Should Still Book!)
Alright folks, let's be real. You're looking for a getaway. You're tired. And scrolling through endless hotel reviews just makes you want to curl up and… well, I don't know, not read another review. But trust me, this one's different. We're diving deep into Escape to Paradise: Avida Tower 2's Stunning Esplanade Views! and I'm not holding back. This is the real deal, the messy, imperfect, sometimes-gossipy truth. Buckle up.
First, the basics. Let’s call them the “must-knows” for the search engines – so we can get this review out there for you:
SEO Essentials (Because let's be honest, you found this through Google, didn’t you?) :
- Key Words: Avida Tower 2, Esplanade Views, Manila Hotel, Accessible Accommodation, Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool, Spa, Restaurant, 24-Hour Room Service, COVID-Friendly.
Okay, SEO done. Now, the fun part.
Accessibility, Because, Well, It Matters (and I'm Not Always Perfect Here, but I Appreciate the Effort):
I’m not a wheelchair user, but from what I saw, accessibility seemed pretty good. Elevators are a must (duh!), and I noticed ramps in several areas. The elevator and the availability of a car park [free of charge] means one less obstacle. I would be more confident if I were in a wheelchair because of the facilities for disabled guests (hopefully) and want to note the availability of facilities for disabled guests but I didn't have a chance to check more thoroughly.
The Online World: Internet, Internet, Internet (And Whether It Actually Works):
This is where things get…interesting. They brag about Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Which is fantastic, right? Well, sometimes. I had moments of blazing speed where I could stream Netflix like nobody's business. Other times? It was a digital crawl, a buffering purgatory that made texting a chore. The Internet [LAN] option is there, which is great for the technologically inclined -- but if you are not, you won’t enjoy it.
I should say – Wi-Fi in public areas was generally okay and the fact that they have Internet services is a definite plus. Just, you know…manage your expectations. This isn’t the Four Seasons when it comes to Wi-Fi so don't count on it.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax… and My Personal Obsession with the Pool with a View:
Okay, this is where Avida Tower 2 really shines. The Swimming pool is spectacular. And the Pool with view? Forget about it. Seriously. I could have stayed there all day. Imagine: towering buildings, shimmering water, and the feeling of pure, unadulterated bliss. I actually lost an entire afternoon just staring at the view, thinking deep, complicated thoughts about… well, nothing, really. Just pure, delicious nothing. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is great and that includes the view. Spa and Spa/sauna : while I did not directly encounter these, they looked amazing.
They also have a Fitness center, (Gym/fitness), but I'm much more of a "look at the view with a cocktail" kind of person. But hey, you do you. They also have a sauna and a steamroom
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Because Fueling the Vacation is Mandatory!) :
The Restaurants within Avida Tower 2 are a mixed bag. The Breakfast [buffet] was…well, a buffet. You know what you're getting, and it’s generally fine. Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, and Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant are accessible to you. The selection was decent, but nothing to write home about. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was decent enough (essential!), and the Coffee shop was a lifesaver if you needed a caffeine boost during the afternoon view-staring sessions. The Poolside bar is a must-visit for a sunset cocktail (or two…or three). They have an A la carte in restaurant, with access to soup in restaurant and salad in restaurant and I can also note, there is a vegetarian restaurant for those with dietary preferences. The Bar is also available and the Happy hour is a good feature. Desserts in restaurant are available. The Bottle of water, Breakfast takeaway service are great. Room service [24-hour] is a HUGE plus – especially after a long day of… well, doing nothing. You can also get an Alternative meal arrangement if you need it.
The Rooms: Comfort and the Little Annoyances:
The rooms themselves are comfortable and well-appointed. But here's where the imperfections creep in. My room had that lovely view that lets you breathe. The Blackout curtains are clutch for sleeping in. The Air conditioning was a godsend in the Manila heat. Bathtub and Separate shower/bathtub give a comfortable place for a relaxing evening.
I loved the bathrobes, the slippers, the complimentary tea, the refrigerator and the mini bar. The coffee/tea maker is a must-have.
But… the walls were a bit thin. You can count on the Non-smoking rooms and the Soundproof rooms if you are sensitive to sound. They have plenty of Towels and the Toiletries are great. The In-room safe box is a good feature. Let's say, bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. It does have a Desk, Additional toilet, Closet, Sofa, and Seating area. The Hair dryer works fine. The Seating area is comfortable and the extra long bed is something to enjoy.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, You Know, 2024):
Okay, let’s talk COVID and beyond. Avida Tower 2 takes safety seriously. I saw evidence of Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Staff trained in safety protocol, and a general emphasis on cleanliness. The Rooms sanitized between stays are great. Hand sanitizer is everywhere, and they offer Room sanitization opt-out available. Also Individually-wrapped food options are great. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items can bring peace of mind. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter is observable. They offer Safe dining setup including the Cashless payment service. I’m happy to tell they are offering a doctor/nurse on call. And they appear to have First aid kit on-site, and Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms. They also have a CCTV in common areas and Security [24-hour].
Services and Conveniences (The Extras That Make a Stay Easier):
They offer the classics: 24-hour Front desk, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, Ironing service, and Doorman. Luggage storage is a lifesaver. Elevator is a must and their Facilities for disabled guests are there. They have a Cash withdrawal if you need it. The Convenience store is also there if you want it. The Currency exchange is great. The Invoice provided is important. They also offers Air conditioning in public area. Parking is available. Car park [on-site] and Car park [free of charge]. Taxi service is available.
For the Kids:
I didn't have kids with me, but I saw signs for Babysitting service and the mention of Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, and Kids meal. Seems pretty family-oriented.
Things I Didn't Get to Experience, But Noticed…
- Massage: I didn’t indulge, but the menu looked tempting. Maybe next time!
- Business facilities: They have Meeting/banquet facilities, and Meetings.
Things That Could Be Better:
- The Wi-Fi consistency. Seriously, up your game, Avida!
- Noise levels in the hallways.
The Verdict: Should You Book?
YES. Absolutely, YES.
Despite the minor quirks and the occasional Wi-Fi wobble, Escape to Paradise: Avida Tower 2's Stunning Esplanade Views! is a winner. The views are breathtaking, the pool is divine, the staff is friendly, and the location is fantastic. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
Here's My Offer (Just for You, My Fellow Traveler!):
Book your stay at Escape to Paradise: Avida Tower 2's Stunning Esplanade Views! today and use the code **"VIEWBLISS"
Unzen's Hidden Gem: Yuyado Joukiya - Must-See Japan Ryokan!
Okay, strap in, buttercups! This isn't your sterile, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is life, Iloilo style, and we're going to get gloriously, wonderfully messy. Welcome to my mental breakdown… I mean, travel plan… for a short jaunt around Avida Tower 2, Shortwalk SM, Smallville, and Esplanade in Iloilo. Buckle up, it's gonna be a bumpy (and delicious) ride.
Day 1: The Arrival (and the inevitable laundry list of "oops!")
Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Wake up. Okay, try to wake up. My alarm is apparently a suggestion, not a command. Finally drag myself out of bed, cursing the existence of mornings (and the lack of coffee – emergency situation brewing).
- Location: My apartment (pretending to be organized)
- Mission: Pack. (Spoiler alert: I’ll overpack. Always. One dress for every hypothetical occasion, naturally.) Check, re-check, panic a little because I'm pretty sure I forgot something crucial. Probably underwear.
- Emotional State: Hazy, caffeine-deprived, mildly panicked. "Did I lock the door?! Ugh, this trip is going to kill me…"
- Imperfection Alert: Forgot my phone charger. Already. Face palm.
Mid-Morning (9:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Ride to the nearest terminal. This is where I’m going to use a taxi. Pray to the travel gods the traffic isn't too murderous. The sheer thought of rush hour makes me want to crawl back under the covers.
- Location: Taxi, heading towards Avida Tower 2
- Transportation: Taxi (pray to the gods of smooth riding)
- Anecdote: Last time I took a taxi… let's just say the driver was very opinionated about Philippine politics. I just nodded and smiled. Travel tip: never engage in a political debate with a taxi driver. It's a fast track to existential dread.
- Quirky Observation: The taxi driver’s air freshener is shaped like a little, smiling pine tree. That's simultaneously comforting and slightly terrifying.
Late Morning (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM): Check-in at Avida at Avida Tower 2. Hopefully, all the pre-bookings I made are correct.
- Location: Avida Tower 2
- Mission: Check-in and hopefully relax.
- Emotional State: Relieved that I finally arrived in my destination but anxious for my upcoming trip to ShortWalk SM.
- Imperfection Alert: The room key isn't working. Mild freakout ensues. Successfully resolved after the third attempt. "This is gonna be a great trip…"
Lunch time (11:30 AM-1:00 PM): Get lunch at ShortWalk SM. I'm thinking of going to one of the fast food chains since I'm always on a tight budget.
- Location: Shortwalk SM
- Mission: Find the best food chain and eat.
- Anecdote: One time I almost ordered a burger but I saw that the line was long. I ended up eating the pizza instead. The pizza was good, however, I think my burger day was ruined.
- Imperfection Alert: I chose the wrong food chain. It was a bit crowded and the service wasn't good.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Nap time (if I can manage it). The ideal scenario is to have a peaceful nap.
- Location: Avida Tower 2
- Mission: Nap and then gather my energy for the night.
- Emotional State: Tired and sleepy
- Quirky Observation: If I could I would probably bring my bed and pillows with me during my trips.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Stroll around Shortwalk SM. Window shopping, people-watching, and generally procrastinating from doing anything productive.
- Location: Shortwalk SM
- Mission: Browse, admire (and secretly covet) everything. Maybe buy something I don't need.
- Anecdote: Once, at the mall I saw a celebrity and I felt embarrassed that I looked unkempt.
- Opinionated Language: I HATE crowds. But… there's a certain energy, a buzz, that I secretly enjoy. Don't tell anyone.
Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Dinner in Smallville. This is gonna be a highlight.
- Location: Smallville
- Mission: Eat, drink, and be merry.
- Anecdote: Heard about this amazing kinilaw place. Gotta find it! I am a sucker for anything seafood.
- Emotional State: Anticipation. Hunger. Possibly a little buzzed.
Night (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Evening stroll at Esplanade.
- Location: Esplanade
- Mission: Admire the view, relax, and contemplate life's mysteries.
- Quirky Observation: The lights along the Esplanade… so pretty! I wonder who installs these things. And how many lightbulbs they go through? Deep thoughts, people. Deep thoughts.
- Imperfection Alert: Trip to the bathroom. It's far. I hate walking in the dark.
Night (9:00 PM onwards): Back to the hotel. Collapse into bed. Pass out.
- Location: Avida Tower 2
- Mission: Sleep.
- Emotional State: Exhausted, but happy. My brain is fried in a good way.
- Imperfection Alert: Realize I forgot to brush my teeth. Decide to deal with it in the morning. (Priorities, people).
Day 2: "Embrace the Chaos!"
Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Attempt to wake up again. Fail miserably. Hit snooze approximately 17 times. (Maybe 18. I'm not counting.) Coffee. Coffee is the answer.
Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Exploring the town (if I can finally gather the energy). Sightseeing (if I can find any).
- Location: Small shops or Avida Tower 2.
- Mission: Find something that catches my eye.
- Anecdote: The last time I went to the town, I got lost. I ended up finding a really good restaurant.
- Emotional State: Relaxing
- Imperfection Alert: The ATM didn't work.
Afternoon (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Lunch in Smallville. Try a different restaurant or go to the same one I had last night.
- Location: Smallville.
- Mission: Eat and relax.
- Anecdote: Last time at the restaurant, the waiter was a bit rude.
- Emotional State: Annoyed but still happy.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Take a rest.
- Location: Avida Tower 2
- Mission: Rest.
- Emotional State: Calm
- Imperfection Alert: The AC is too cold.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Go back to Esplanade for the second time.
- Location: Esplanade
- Mission: To relax
- Anecdote: I have the feeling that I will meet somebody interesting at the Esplanade.
- Emotional State: Excited
- Imperfection Alert: The first time I went, there were many people.
Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Dinner at Smallville.
- Location: Smallville
- Mission: To eat.
- Anecdoctes: I'm always craving for foods.
- Emotional State: Hungry
- Imperfection Alert: The restaurant has no tables.
Night (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Go back to the hotel and pack.
- Location: Avida Tower 2
- Mission: Pack.
- Emotional State: Tired but happy
- Imperfection Alert: I forgot something at the hotel.
Night (9:00 PM onwards):
Okay, spill. Is the view *really* that good? I mean, *really* good? Don't just give me the brochure answer.
What's the best time of day to actually *enjoy* the view? I'm thinking Instagram gold... but tell me the *truth*!
I've heard things about the amenities. The pool, the gym... are they actually usable, or are they just glorified backdrops?
Okay, let's talk about the *rooms*. Are they as cramped as they look in the photos? I need space!
The noise! Is there a lot of it? I'm a light sleeper, and sirens haunt my dreams.
Worth it overall? Would you *actually* recommend it?
