Escape to the Clouds: Unforgettable Stay at Orangewood B&B, Baguio
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea on Orangewood B&B in Baguio – "Escape to the Clouds," they call it. And honestly? After my trip, I can see why. This ain’t your cookie-cutter hotel review; this is me, unfiltered, sifting through the pine needles of my memory to give you the REAL deal.
First off, let's talk about Accessibility. This is where things get… complicated. They say they have Facilities for disabled guests, but I didn’t delve into specifics. Baguio itself is notoriously hilly, so it's worth contacting them directly if accessibility is a major concern. The Elevator is a plus, though!
Internet access: Okay, so this is important, right? We’re all glued to our phones. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yes! And it actually worked – mostly. I did try a bit of Internet [LAN] but didn’t seem to get the results. I'd say, for the average person, the Wi-Fi in public areas was fine.
Oh, the things to do, the ways to relax… Okay, this is where Orangewood starts to shine. I'm not a spa person, unless you count a long, hot shower as "spa." But they have a Spa, a Sauna, and other options like the Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath and Massage. I didn't partake, but I peeked! The spa area looked pretty darned tempting. I should have gone, in hindsight. Note to self: Next time, book the massage!
Now, the real crown jewel, the thing I went absolutely giddy over? The Swimming pool [outdoor]! Forget the city view; look into the clouds! The Pool with view wasn’t just a pool; it was an experience. This whole experience - I kid you not - had me feeling like I was actually escaping something. The crisp Baguio air, the way the sun hit the water, the way it felt after a mountain hike… it was blissful! I actually sat there for an hour just staring at the sky, just floating. And yes, I even tried to do some form of meditation… I do recommend.
We also have a Gym/fitness, which, again, I didn’t use (see "pizza and mountains of potato chips" below).
Cleanliness and safety: This is where Orangewood really impressed me. They’re taking this COVID stuff seriously. They have all the buzzwords: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, Rooms sanitized between stays. They even had Individually-wrapped food options and Safe dining setup. The staff were masked up and obviously trained in safety protocol. I felt safe, which is HUGE right now.
Dining, drinking, and snacking: Okay, let's talk food. This is where my experience gets a little… inconsistent. They have Restaurants and a Bar, which is great. They offer Asian breakfast and Western breakfast. The Breakfast [buffet] was pretty standard, the coffee was good (essential!), but the service was a little…slow at times. I did love the Coffee shop! So good, so needed. I could also order meals such as A la carte in restaurant, and choose from Salad in restaurant, Soup in restaurant. I also had a few Bottle of water and loved it.
There's also Poolside bar – perfect for those post-swim cocktails. They offer Room service [24-hour]: ideal for late-night snack attacks.
However, I had a weird experience with the Snack bar. Let’s just say, sometimes you just crave chips after a hike, and my requests were forgotten a few times. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but a minor blip in an otherwise lovely stay. Still, they also had Desserts in restaurant, so they have food!
Services and conveniences: Okay, Orangewood has a LOT of services. Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes. Seriously, they thought of everything. Which is great because the Front desk [24-hour] always had a helpful hand when I needed one.
They’re also a Hotel chain, so they likely have processes in place. The Car park [free of charge] was a HUGE bonus, as parking in Baguio can be a nightmare.
For the kids: While I didn't travel with kids, the fact they have Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids meal and Kids facilities is great. This is good knowledge for future trips.
Getting around: Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, Valet parking. I came in a car and was able to stay at the Car park [on-site], but it's worth knowing what’s available.
Available in all rooms: Now, down to the room details. The rooms? Comfortable. Clean. Air conditioning. Air conditioning, essential in the Philippine heat! They have the usual suspects: Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathtub, 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, Mirror, Non-smoking, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. My big thing was the Blackout curtains (essential for sleeping in after a day of hiking), and the hot water in the Separate shower/bathtub, which was a godsend.
Things they could improve? The snack bar service (as I mentioned) and maybe some more vegetarian/vegan options. But honestly, these are minor gripes.
Now, the Emotional Rollercoaster (aka, the honest bits):
My first thought upon arriving at Orangewood was, "Oh, this is nice." Then, after a hike and some pizza and mountains of potato chips, the pool. It was pure bliss. The stress of life melted away in the Baguio breeze. I actually took a deep breath and felt… relaxed. That’s something I haven’t felt in… well, a while. In a world of constant hustle, Orangewood offered a rare commodity: peace.
Is it perfect? No. But is it a beautiful place, a worthwhile place for an escape, and a clean and safe place to go? Most definitely.
Here’s my offer, for YOU:
Escape to the Clouds: Claim Your Unforgettable Orangewood B&B Baguio Experience!
Tired of the same old routine? Crave a getaway that rejuvenates your soul? Then Orangewood B&B in Baguio is calling your name!
Here’s what awaits you:
- Breathe easy knowing your health is prioritized: Enjoy peace of mind with stringent cleanliness protocols.
- The Pool with a View: Escape to the sky
- Unwind and Rejuvenate: From soothing spa treatments to the perfect hot shower.
- Comfortable Rooms, Endless Amenities: Stay pampered.
Book your escape now and receive:
- Exclusive early-bird discounts!
- Complimentary breakfast for two!
- Free Wi-Fi to stay connected (or disconnect and just relax)!
But hurry! This offer won't last!
Click here to book your unforgettable Orangewood B&B experience and rediscover the art of relaxation!
Limited spots available – book now before they're gone!
(Don't forget to mention the "Cloud Escape" promo code when you book.)
Escape to Paradise: Kuganipi Beachside Inn Awaits in Iriomote, Japan
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your polished, pre-packaged travel brochure. This is ME, about to bleed all over the digital page with my unfiltered Old Orangewood Bed & Breakfast Baguio adventure. Consider this less a schedule, more a… psychological profile of my time there. Pray for me.
DAY 1: Arrival & The Case of the Missing Luggage (and My Sanity)
Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): The usual pre-flight chaos. "Did I pack socks? Do I need socks? Is this passport even real?" Turns out, yes, I do need socks. And yes, my passport is (thankfully) a legit document. Flight to Manila. The usual: crying baby, someone hogging the armrest, and the lingering fear that the plane might just, you know, not stay in the air.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Arrive Manila. Baguio-bound bus. The drive is… well, let's just say it's an experience. Imagine a roller coaster built by a committee of caffeinated monkeys. Scenic, yes. Stomach-churning, also yes.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): OH MY GOD, WELCOME TO ORANGEWOOD! Finally, a sight for sore eyes. The B&B is… charming. Old, sure. But undeniably charming. Check-in is smooth. Except for the part where I realize MY LUGGAGE IS MIA. Gone. Poof. Vanished into the void. This is when the emotional rollercoaster goes STRAIGHT UP. Panic sets in. Mild hysteria follows. I have a toothbrush, a phone, and the clothes on my back. That’s it. My carefully curated travel wardrobe? Reduced to… well, nothing.
Evening (5:00 PM to Late): The B&B staff, bless their hearts, are amazing. They help me file a missing luggage report. I'm a mess. The irony isn't lost on me: I'm in the most charming place, and I feel like I want to curl up under some of the old-school quilt and cry. But, hey, survival mode activate! The B&B offers some basic toiletries (thank the heavens), and I end up borrowing a pair of oversized pajamas from the front desk. Dinner is simple: some local food and hot chocolate I find at a nearby cafe, and it feels like the most comforting thing I've ever tasted. Feeling a tiny bit better (and definitely a little ridiculous in the borrowed pajamas).
DAY 2: The Baguio Embrace (Finally, a Glimmer of Sunshine)
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Woke up feeling…surprisingly okay. Maybe it's the fresh mountain air? Maybe it's the fact that I'm still alive despite the luggage apocalypse. Breakfast at the B&B is a revelation. They're using some local coffee. I feel instantly better. I start to appreciate the little touches: the vintage furniture is so quaint, the wooden floors creaky in the best way. A quick walk around the B&B and surrounding area, I can also find some nice local shops and establishments to visit.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Okay, time to experience Baguio. I'm going to try to take it all in. Visited Burnham Park! It's beautiful, even with the crowds of people. The lake is serene, and even I, a confirmed city dweller, feel a tiny pang of… peace? Rode a boat--I almost fell in. (Okay, I thought I almost fell in). Checked out Session Road. The energy of the vibrant vendors and shops is infectious.
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - Late): Spent a few hours wandering, soaking in the atmosphere and even found some local shops. The city is actually beautiful, the air is cool and crisp, and the people are friendly. I made a friend! (I'm terrible at making friends) Called a girl from the front desk and asked her to come with me and explore the city a little bit. She said yes! We walked around most of the famous landmarks in the city. Ended up trying the food and having dinner together. Had a great night.
DAY 3: The Art of the Blow-Up (and Finding Serenity in a Bowl of Soup)
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Okay, the luggage hasn't materialized. I'm officially in crisis mode. I’ve been running on pure adrenaline. I've been wearing the same borrowed pajamas. Did I mention the mild hysteria returned overnight? The B&B staff, again, are beyond lovely. They offer to drive me to a local market for some emergency clothing. We end up in a hilarious "shopping therapy" session. I buy a ridiculous oversized sweater. It's a sartorial crime, but it's mine.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): I NEED SOME ALONE TIME. Found a quiet little cafe and ordered a bowl of the most comforting soup imaginable. The feeling is as close to actual peace as I think I'll get. And honestly? It’s what I needed. Took a relaxing stroll through the market, trying some local snacks and just…existing.
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - Late): Back at the B&B. Wrote a letter. Read a book. Actually enjoyed just…being. The simple rhythm of the place is starting to sink in. The creaky floors, the slightly wonky door frames, the feeling of being cocooned in a place that understands the art of… imperfection. Dinner consists of a bowl of noodles I got at a local stall and a cup of tea and enjoyed the quiet atmosphere of my room.
DAY 4: Farewell, But Also, Goodbye (Sort Of, And a Few More Tears)
Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Surprise, surprise, still no luggage! (I am certain it has abandoned the world and is now living a life of luxury in a foreign country). Breakfast at the B&B—the coffee is still amazing. I decide to check out early.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Okay, it is time to head home. The drive back is less horrific this time.
Ending Thoughts (and a Few Tears): This trip to Baguio wasn't what I expected. I went wanting a polished experience, and instead, I got… well, a whole lot of chaos. I lost my luggage, I wore pajamas four days straight, and I spent way too much time having mini-meltdowns. But somewhere in the middle of all that, I also found something I wasn’t looking for. Perspective. A reminder that life rarely goes according to plan, and that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that force you to embrace the messy, the imperfect, the gloriously human. And, weirdly, I'm pretty sure I'll actually miss the creaky floors and charm of Old Orangewood. And, you know what? I think I'll be okay. Because, in the end, I wouldn't have traded this experience for the world.
Okay, so, what *is* this thing anyway? This whole FAQ, I mean.
Ugh, good question. Honestly? Beats me! Just kidding… mostly. This here is supposed to be a Frequently Asked Questions page. But, you know me, I can’t do *anything* the normal way. So, expect a chaotic mix of actual helpful stuff, rambling tangents, and probably a few existential crises thrown in for good measure. Think of it as a conversation with a caffeine-fueled, slightly-unhinged friend.
Is this going to be, like, *useful*? Or am I wasting my time?
Look, I can't *promise* anything. I mean, I *hope* it’ll be useful. But honestly, if you’re looking for perfectly polished, corporate-approved answers, you are in the WRONG PLACE. But hey, at the very least, it’ll be… entertaining? Maybe? (Please say yes. I need validation.) I'm gonna try to answer what I *think* people might ask, but my train of thought tends to wander. A *lot*.
Are you, like, an expert? And, if so, in what?
Expert? HA! Bless your heart. Expert… in… well, surviving, I guess. And probably overthinking things. I've got mad skills in the art of awkward silences and the ability to trip over absolutely nothing. Honestly, I’m more of a ‘been there, done that, got the t-shirt and a therapy bill’ kind of expert. So, take my advice with a grain of salt. Or maybe the whole shaker. Whatever works.
What if I have a question *not* covered here?
Oh, that’s a goodie! Hit me up! Seriously. Find me. I'm probably somewhere near coffee. Toss a message my way. Just...be warned. I'm not always the fastest replier. The internet is a vast, sparkly distraction vortex.
Let's get *real*. What's the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you related to anything even *vaguely* connected to this process?
Okay, brace yourselves. Deep breath. Okay... So, there was this *one* time. It was a client meeting. A BIG deal. Trying to impress. I’d spent *hours* preparing. I felt, dare I say it, *confident.* Then, the coffee gods decided to hate me. It wasn't *just* spilling coffee. No. It was a full-blown, cinematic *cascade* of hot caffeine directly down my white silk blouse. Right in front of, like, twelve people. Including the CEO. And, to top it off? My phone rang – the ringtone was the Barney the Dinosaur song. I will never, *EVER* forget the look on that CEO's face. It was a delicate mix of pity, horror, and amusement. I wanted the earth to swallow me whole! I mumbled something about "embracing my inner purple dinosaur," covered the stain with my blazer (which, of course, made things look even WORSE!), and somehow, miraculously, salvaged the presentation. I’m still cringing just thinking about it.
Okay, fine. Moving on. What's your favorite thing about this whole… situation?
Honestly? The people. The weirdos, the dreamers, the folks who aren't afraid to be themselves. Even the ones who make me want to scream into a pillow (looking at you, overzealous social media trolls!). It's a roller coaster. Sometimes you're up, sometimes you're down, sometimes you're just hanging on for dear life. But at the end of the day, it's the people that make it worth it. And a good cup of coffee. Can't forget that.
What's the *worst* thing?
The imposter syndrome. Ugh. It's like this little monster whispering in your ear, "You're not good enough. Everyone else knows more than you. You're going to get found out." It haunts me! Because, realistically, there's SO MUCH to learn, and it's difficult to stay current on *everything.* And sometimes, like, you just don't know the answer. And it's *terrifying*. But I'm trying to get better at ignoring that little gremlin. And, you know what? Sometimes I *do* know the answer. And that, my friend, is a good feeling.
Any advice for someone just starting out?
Oh gosh, yes. Three things. First, START. Don't wait for perfection. It doesn't exist. Seriously. Just jump in and do it. Second, embrace the mess. You *will* make mistakes. Learn from them, laugh about them. And finally, find your tribe. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, who encourage you, and who will call you out on your BS when you need it. It makes a world of difference. Oh, and coffee. Don't forget the coffee.
What keeps you going, even when things are tough?
Chocolate. And stubbornness. A healthy dose of both. But, beyond the sugar and the sheer refusal to quit? The feeling of… creation, I guess. Building something from nothing. Seeing an idea come to life. Connecting with people. And the hope that maybe, just maybe, I'm making a tiny bit of difference. Even if it's just making someone crack a smile in the middle of a bad day. That's everything.
Okay, random question: if you were a kitchen appliance, what would you be? And why?
A slow cooker. Definitely a slow cooker. Because I'm a bit slow. I take my time. I love simmering and letting things develop. And ultimately, I hope I can offer something warm, comforting, and satisfying. Plus, I love the smell of things cooking all day. And I might occasionally burn something. Just like life. But, hey, even burnt food has a certain…character, doesn’t it?
