Escape to Paradise: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort Awaits in Puerto Galera!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the shimmering waters of Escape to Paradise: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort in Puerto Galera! Let me tell you, it's not just paradise; it's paradise with a tiny bit of grit – and that, my friends, is what makes it real. This isn't your sanitized, corporate travel blog. This is me, unfiltered, telling you the good, the bad, and the slightly sunburned truth.
First Impressions – So, About Getting There…
Listen, accessibility is a thing, right? And let's be honest, sometimes it's a total crapshoot with resorts. Edgewater… well, the website says "facilities for disabled guests." But my gut tells me to call ahead and double-check. That's my honest advice. Because sometimes, "facilities" means "there's a ramp somewhere," and sometimes it means "we'll personally carry you." Call and ask.
But once you are there…
The Vibe: Relaxation Station and a Whole Lotta "Ooooh!"
Okay, the whole "Escape to Paradise" thing? Not a lie. The first thing that hits you is the view. Holy moly, the view. Turquoise water, lush greenery, the whole shebang. They've got a Pool with a view that’ll make you want to throw your phone in the water and just be. Is it better with a Piña Colada? YES. In fact, go get one right now. Don't wait.
And speaking of the pool… it's not just for show. It’s really nice. And while it’s clearly meant for lounging, I did spy some people actually swimming laps in it. (Mad respect, swimmers.) Plus, the swimming pool [outdoor] is strategically located – because when you’re fresh out of a massage, you just need a place to melt into the water.
Pampering Myself (and the Verdict on the Body Wrap)
Now, let's talk spa. Because, hello, vacation! They have the whole shebang: Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom. I’m a sucker for a good body wrap, and this one… well, it was… interesting. Let's just say I was swathed in seaweed, looking like a giant, verdant burrito. My therapist, bless her heart, was very polite about my initial, "Is this… is this supposed to be itchy?" Eventually, though, I felt like a new woman. Smoother than a dolphin's backside. 10/10 would recommend, even if you feel ridiculous during the process.
They’ve also got a Fitness center if you’re into that sort of thing. I’m a big believer in “exercise? I thought this was a vacation.” But hey, it's there if you need to atone for all those cocktails.
Eating & Drinking: Fueling the Paradise
Okay, so, food. This is important. Edgewater doesn't skimp on the eats. They have Restaurants, a Poolside bar, Bar, Coffee shop, Snack bar. They have a Buffet in restaurant for the big feeds, and I definitely took advantage of that one. There’s Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant. And you can get Breakfast [buffet], A la carte in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, Salad in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Bottle of water, and Breakfast service! (They should probably include the price of water more often. Just saying.)
I'm a sucker for a good Asian breakfast and this one really hit the spot. But the real winner? The Poolside Bar. Picture it: the sun setting, a gentle breeze, and a cocktail that tastes like pure joy. Pure. Joy. And the food? It was actually surprisingly good, given the "poolside" label. I had a delicious salad in restaurant one day, and a very tasty soup in restaurant the other day.
One minor ding: the Cashless payment service is convenient, but I'm also a cash-in-hand kind of gal so be prepared to use your credit card.
My Room: Paradise Within Paradise
The rooms! Oh, the rooms! I mean, they offer Additional toilet, 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, and a whole host of other amenities!
My room? Cozy. Clean. And that bed? Like sleeping on a cloud made of marshmallows and good intentions. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! is a definite plus. And the Daily housekeeping was impeccable. They even folded my pajamas! (I’m a sucker for that.)
Cleanliness & Safety: A Little Extra Peace of Mind
Okay, let’s get real about cleanliness. This is a must after what we've been through! Edgewater gets it. They had Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. Plus, all staff are Staff trained in safety protocol. I felt safe and seen, which is always a good thing.
Things to Do (Besides Lounging by the Pool):
Okay, so you’re done lounging. (Impossible, but okay.) What then?
- Diving! Duh. It's Puerto Galera.
- Boat trips! Explore the nearby islands!
- Explore the town! Go out and dance!
The Small Stuff That Matters
- Internet Access: The Internet [LAN], Internet services, Wi-Fi in public areas are available, thankfully.
- Services & Conveniences: They offer Air conditioning in public area, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes.
- For the Kids: They have Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal.
Okay, Now For The Bad Stuff…
Every place has its quirks, right? Edgewater is no exception.
- Could Use a Little More Pizzazz: I'm not gonna lie, some areas could use a little… more. A slightly larger selection of books in the library. A few more quirky decorations in the restaurant. Just little things to elevate it from good to great.
- The Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site] is a bit cramped.
The Verdict: Should You Go?
YES! Absolutely yes. Escape to Paradise: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort is a solid bet. It's got the beauty, the relaxation, the spa treatments (yes, the body wrap!), and enough convenience to make your vacation feel, well, like a vacation.
My Final, Unedited, Stream-of-Consciousness Thoughts:
I’m already trying to figure out when I can go back. I'm dreaming of that pool. I'm craving that breakfast. I miss the smell of the ocean. Is this paradise? Damn right it is. Just pack a little patience, be ready to ask the important questions, and get ready to have your soul recharged.
The Offer: Book Now and Get [Insert a Compelling Offer Here]!
Tired of the daily grind? Yearning for turquoise waters, pampering spa treatments, and sunsets that take your breath away? Escape to Paradise: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort in Puerto Galera is calling your name!
Book now and receive:
- A complimentary spa voucher for a relaxing massage! (Because you deserve it!)
- A free welcome cocktail at the Poolside Bar! (Because, hello vacation!)
- A special discount on all diving packages! (Explore the underwater wonders!)
- Free room upgrade! (subject to availability)
Don't wait! Paradise awaits. Book your escape today and experience the magic of Edgewater!
Farmington Escape: Home2 Suites Luxury & Comfort Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. This is Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort, Puerto Galera, Philippine style. Prepare for messy, glorious, unfiltered travel chaos.
Subject: Project: Paradise (May Contain Mild Panic & Excessive Seafood Consumption)
Day 1: Arrival. (Maybe Chaos Begins? Probably.)
- 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Arrive at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Pray to the transportation gods (or, you know, just the Grab app) that we actually get a ride to the bus terminal. Anecdote: Last time in the Philippines, I swear I spent an hour arguing with a taxi driver over the concept of "traffic." He thought I was the traffic. We went nowhere.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Travel from Manila to Batangas Pier. Pray to be sure.
- 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Quick lunch at Batangas Pier. I’m craving something… not airplane food. Maybe some street food? Or, the best option, a proper meal will be included with the boat to Puerto Galera,
- 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Travel from Batangas Pier to Puerto Galera.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Check into Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort. God, I hope the room has air conditioning. Sweating is my superpower, and I don’t want to deploy it indoors. I'm also really hoping the view is as good as the pictures. False advertising is the enemy!
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: EXPLORE THE RESORT! This is crucial recon time. Where's the bar? Where’s the best place to watch the sunset? (Emotional Reaction: Giddy with anticipation!) Also, how many speed boats can I steal to get to the next island?
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Dinner at the resort restaurant. "Seafood, Seafood, SEAFOOD!" I'm talking overflowing plates of fresh, local goodness. I'm envisioning grilled marlin, garlicky prawns the size of my fist, and maybe, just maybe, a tiny bit of mango sticky rice to fuel the sugar rush. (Quirky Observation: I have a feeling I’ll be eating the same thing every day. I am absolutely fine with that.)
- 8:00 PM onwards: Evening drinks at the resort bar, maybe a cheeky karaoke session. Let's find out if my singing voice is as beautiful as I think it is. (Spoiler alert: it’s not.) Meet some fellow travelers, swap stories, and attempt to maintain a shred of dignity.
Day 2: Diving…Or, You Know, Mostly Panic and Floaty Things
- 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Wake up. Ugh. Coffee is essential. A massive dose of caffeine, stat.
- 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Breakfast. Prepare for another seafood feast.
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Diving! (Or, for me, "Attempting to Look Graceful Underwater While Panicking a Little."). I'm a certified diver, but let's be honest, my underwater swagger is more "flailing fish" than "aquatic explorer." I envision myself taking a course to dive, I hope no one sees me.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch. More Seafood.
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Return to diving or snorkeling. I'll probably be too exhausted to do much more than float around.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Relax. I'm going to need a massage after all that "exercise". (Emotional Reaction: YES! Deep tissue, please. Get all the knots out of my travel-weary body.)
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Another dinner, maybe at a different restaurant in town. Explore the local food scene. I heard there’s a place that does amazing adobo…
- 8:00 PM onwards: Stargazing on the beach! Or passing out in my room from sheer exhaustion. It's a toss-up. (Messy Structure: I'm already exhausted just thinking about it.)
Day 3: Island Hopping & Existential Dread (Just Kidding… Mostly)
- 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Wake up. Breakfast. Gotta fuel the island-hopping adventure!
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Ferry or boat to the nearby islands. White Beach! (Stronger emotional reaction: WHITE SAND! Turquoise water! Actual paradise!)
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch on the beach. The best kind of lunch. Imagine yourself on a beautiful beach while eating.
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and embrace the sheer laziness of it all.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Shopping for souvenirs, or maybe just wander around taking photos and feeling like a tourist.
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Sunset cocktails. (Quirky Observation: Every sunset is a masterpiece, but some are better than others. This, I’m willing to bet, will be amazing.)
- 8:00 PM onwards: Farewell dinner. I'm going to try, for once, to not overeat. (Opinionated Language: Yeah, right. Like that's going to happen.)
Day 4: Spa, Relaxation, and Departure (Maybe Some Regret?)
- 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Coffee. Again. (Rambling: I'm starting to think coffee is the key to life.)
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Spa time. The ultimate self-care. I'm talking massage, facial, maybe even a wrap. (Emotional reaction: pure bliss.)
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: One last, delicious lunch. Must. Have. More. Seafood.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Pack. Dread.
- 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Last-minute swim in the ocean. Just one more dip.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Check out.
- 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Transfer to Batangas Pier. Travel to Manila Airport.
- 8:00 PM - onwards: Depart from Manila. Saying goodbye to my dream.
Extra Notes:
- This itinerary is subject to change. (Read: It will change. I'm a terrible planner.)
- Embrace the chaos.
- Don't forget sunscreen. Seriously.
- Tip generously.
- Try some local beer!
- Be prepared for the unexpected.
- And most importantly: HAVE FUN!
Okay, that's it. Now, wish me luck. I'm gonna need it.
Lethbridge's BEST Hotel? Hampton Inn & Suites Review!
Escape to Paradise: Edgewater Dive & Spa Resort - Before You Book (and After You've Cried)
Okay, so you're thinking Edgewater in Puerto Galera? Smart choice, maybe. Let's be honest, planning a trip is a rollercoaster. I'm still recovering from the last one, mentally, financially… you get the picture. These FAQs are less "expert advice" and more "surviving the experience." Buckle up, buttercup.
1. Wait, What *IS* Edgewater? Sounds fancy. Am I gonna need a trust fund?
Edgewater is, in short, a resort in Puerto Galera. They advertise "diving" and "spa", which instantly made me think, "Oooh, expensive." And it is... kinda. It's not *ridiculously* overpriced but hey, you're in paradise. Drinks are a thing. Those little massages are... addictive. And you'll *want* them. Trust me.
My first thought was, "Am I gonna fit in?" I'm more of a t-shirt-and-shorts kinda gal. And you know what? Mostly I did! There were definitely some polished types, but the vibe is chill enough that you don't have to be a yacht owner to enjoy it. Though, wouldn't that be nice?
2. Okay, Diving. I'm TERRIFIED of fish. Is this a problem?
Look, I'm with you. The ocean is a beautiful yet terrifying enigma. I dipped my toes in the diving experience. They have courses, for beginners included. I'm a pretty decent swimmer, but the idea of strapping on a tank and breathing underwater? Panic attack city. But... they had instructors, friendly, reassuring ones. They will teach you everything thoroughly. So, if fear is your main problem, let that instructor guide you.
The water clarity is SPECTACULAR. Like, you can see everything. The fish are mostly colorful and kinda cute, and they don't chase you (usually). The worst part was my own anxiety. My heart was beating as hard as a hummingbird's wings! But later, with each dive... I slowly learned to relax. And then I saw a sea turtle. And, man...that was it. That's how I *fell in love* with diving! It's a transformative experience. Maybe. Maybe not. It depends on your personality, because I'm still scared of the deep.
3. The Spa? Sounds divine! Is it as good as they say? (Can I bring a friend who snores?)
Okay, the spa... the spa is where dreams are made. The therapists are *magical*. I'm not exaggerating. I had the "Edgewater Signature Massage," which I highly recommend. It's like your muscles are gently being coaxed into submission. The aroma... the music... the gentle lighting… they've mastered the art of relaxation. I almost fell asleep before I even got on the table. It's that good. My friend snored. The therapists were surprisingly polite about it. Maybe bring earplugs for your friend? Or just get a double room and send them elsewhere.
4. The Rooms... Are they clean? Are they noisy? How do I avoid getting a room next to the karaoke bar?!
The rooms *mostly* get cleaned. I went a bit wild during my first stay, but the rooms were fine, the balconies were okay, the beds were comfortable (important!). I'm not going to lie, I found a stray hair on the shower floor once. It was not mine. It was a blonde hair and I have dark hair. So...I'm suspecting. Just kidding! But anyway, the cleanliness is generally okay. They do a good job.
Noise? Depends on where you are. Ask for a room away from the main road and... the aforementioned karaoke. Puerto Galera is known for its vibrant nightlife. Edgewater tries to keep things quiet, but it's not a silent retreat. Earplugs are your friend. Seriously. Pack them. You'll thank me later. Also, ask for a room with a view. The sunsets are *ridiculous*.
5. Food! What's the food situation like? Give me the honest, slightly-picky guide!
The restaurant is good, not Michelin-star good, but definitely solid. Breakfast is a buffet – your standard eggs, bacon, fruit. Lunch and dinner have ala carte options. Try the seafood: fresh from the sea, cooked perfectly. I'm a sucker for anything grilled. The ambiance is casual, you can sit there in your swimsuit with a cover-up if you prefer.
My only real complaint? The prices are a bit touristy. But, hey, you're on vacation. Consider bringing your own snacks for in-between meal times. And a mini-fridge in your room is a godsend for cold drinks! Because, hydration is key! Especially after a day of diving or spa-ing.
6. Diving again. Are the instructors patient? I'm a complete klutz!
Patient isn't the word, they're practically saints! They've probably met a million klutzes before. They have seen it all. The instructors at Edgewater are generally very good. They want you to enjoy yourself (also, they, you know, want to ensure you don't die underwater). They'll walk you through everything slowly, patiently, and with a lot of reassuring smiles. They'll work with you at your own pace. And if you're a bit nervous, they'll stay right with you holding your hand (figuratively… or maybe literally if you ask nicely). Because let's face it: some of us (me!) need a lot more hand-holding than others.
7. What's the best time to go? (Weather-wise, crowd-wise, etc.)
Peak season is… well, it depends. Weekends are always busier. "Dry season" (November to May) is generally best for diving and less rain. But the prices will reflect that! I went during the shoulder season (October) and it was decent weather, fewer crowds, and a bit cheaper. Do your research on the weather, because typhoons are a thing there. No one wants to be trapped inside a hotel room listening to the rain. Trust me on that one.
Explore Hotels
