Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Lloyd’s Inn: An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation

ABBEY: Lloyd’s Inn always comes up whenever I check where we can accommodate our visitors. At last the day has come and we booked an overnight stay on their Big Garden and Garden rooms. 

The place is filled with plants and trees. Our rooms are Japanese-inspired wherein the mattresses are in elevated floors. We even had yukata. Toilet and bath are outdoors but still maintain privacy. We’re not able to lounge in the garden as we have to leave early to our next destination. You have to fill your water bottles from the dispensers stationed at every floor. The same goes for vending machine coffee. Don’t worry they are free for the guests. 

A traditional kaya toast set (with soft-boiled egg and hot drink) can be claimed to a nearby Kopitiam with the provided voucher.

Lloyd’s Inn An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation - Pool
Lloyd’s Inn An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation - Pool 

Lloyd’s Inn An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation - Garden Room
Lloyd’s Inn An Honest Review of Our Singapore Staycation - Garden Room


WILL: During the pandemic, Lloyd’s Inn kept appearing in my feed, suggesting it as a staycation option. I initially dismissed the idea, thinking it was too far or not easily accessible. However, when the need arose to book a room for 6 people, Lloyd’s Inn became a strong option.

As I researched more, I discovered that some of the myths I had heard about Lloyd’s Inn were far from true.


Myth 1: It's Too Far from the City
Lloyd’s Inn is actually very well situated, just a 10-minute walk from Singapore’s Orchard Road, the heart of the shopping district. Despite being close to the city, the tranquility of the place is remarkable. There’s no loud music or crowds of pedestrians on the street outside.


Myth 2: It’s Expensive
When you break down the cost, Lloyd’s Inn is surprisingly budget-friendly without compromising on quality.


Myth 3: No Amenities
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Lloyd’s Inn offers a serene pool area and an unlimited coffee supply in their common pantry.

Lloyd’s Inn goes the extra mile to make your stay special. When they learned we were celebrating a special occasion, they surprised our niece with a chocolate bar and a handwritten note.


Overall, our stay was pleasant—until bedtime. I had trouble sleeping due to some itchiness while lying in bed. Since we were only staying for one night and I didn’t have the energy to complain, I slept without the quilt, and the itching subsided.


Another drawback is the lack of a driveway. If it’s raining and you have a lot of luggage, be prepared for it to get a bit wet.


Cost: Starts from SGD200... 



***

Lloyd’s Inn Singapore

(W) https://www.lloydsinn.com/singapore

(A) 2 LLOYD ROAD, SINGAPORE 239091

(T) 65 6737 7309

Monday, August 26, 2024

Best Spa in Bulacan: The Cotton Trees Spa Review Near Guiguinto

ABBEY: When Wilma and I returned to the Philippines for a vacation, she was technically working from abroad. Her workspace was far from ideal, so after a client meeting, we decided to treat ourselves to some relaxation. We headed to Cotton Trees Spa, which is listed as Bulacan’s top spa on TripAdvisor.


The spa has its own building, lot, and parking space, which piqued my curiosity—I wondered if the service would live up to the impressive facade. The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a refreshing minty aroma that set the tone for the experience. We were guided to a foot-washing station where we sipped on ginger tea, a lovely start to what was to come.


The massage was exactly what my aching body needed. The therapist applied just the right amount of pressure and incorporated multiple stretches that soothed all my pain points. It was pure bliss.


A little tip: make sure to book an appointment ahead of time. We got lucky visiting during off-peak hours and didn’t have to wait or getting turned down as they are fully booked. 



Best Spa in Bulacan: The Cotton Trees Spa Review Near Guiguinto
Best Spa in Bulacan: The Cotton Trees Spa Review Near Guiguinto


WILL: Finding a quality massage spa in Bulacan can be a challenge, especially when many are combined with salons that might leave you hesitant to spend your money. However, one spa that stands out from the rest is The Cotton Trees Spa—even though it's a bit of a drive from my father-in-law's house, it was well worth the trip.


We indulged in the 90-minute Cotton Trees Signature Massage (Php 2,080), and it truly delivered a premium spa experience. From the moment we arrived, we were treated to a warm welcome with a hot lemon ginger tea and a relaxing water wash. The ambiance was serene, complemented by a symphony of soothing melodies.


As for the massage, it was exceptional. The masseuse focused on my shoulder area, expertly working out all the tension and knots. The back stretching and the application of hot aromatic herbal balls added to the relaxation, warming my entire body and leaving me feeling rejuvenated.


Would I visit The Cotton Trees Spa again? Absolutely! If you're in the Bulacan area, particularly near Guiguinto, I highly recommend checking it out. The spa is conveniently located just a few steps from the "Welcome to Guiguinto" Arc.


***

Cotton Trees Spa

(F) https://www.facebook.com/cottontreesspa

(H) 10am to 12mn

(A) 189 Santa Cruz, Guiguinto, 3015 Bulacan, Philippines

(T) +63 917 308 7337

Sunday, August 25, 2024

Why Physio Spa Should Be on Your Must-Visit List in the Philippines

ABBEY: Whenever we return to the Philippines, we make it a priority to find a good spa to unwind. This time, our search on Facebook led us to a gem—The PhysioSpa in Banawe, Quezon City. Though the VIP rooms with showers and saunas were fully booked, we opted for the non-VIP ones, and they did not disappoint.

The massage was truly transformative. I’ve struggled with back pain for a while, but after just one session, it felt like a weight was lifted. All my joints, especially in my back, were expertly popped, leaving me feeling refreshed and recharged.


The experience was so good that we ended up going twice, both times with our loved ones. It's safe to say that we’ll definitely be back for more. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and reset, The PhysioSpa is a must-visit.


Why Physio Spa Should Be on Your Must-Visit List in the Quezon City Philippines
Why Physio Spa Should Be on Your Must-Visit List in the Quezon City Philippines

WILL: Every time Abbey and I visit the Philippines, getting a massage is a must. Why? The answer is simple: quality massages here are incredibly affordable. While we always keep an eye out for new spas to try, this time we decided to experience Physio Spa.


Physio Spa offers a clean environment, though it leans more towards a transactional vibe rather than a cozy, homey atmosphere. But when it comes to the massage itself, they are a solid 10/10. We opted for the 90-minute PhysioSpa Signature Massage, and it felt like being lifted onto a cloud of relaxation.


The difference lies in the expertise of their masseuses, who seem to have knowledge of chiropractic techniques. Beyond just a standard massage, they provide a satisfying cracks on my joints releasing tension and adding to the overall sense of relaxation.


For just Php1,300, you get a 90-minute massage with chiropractic elements. Our answer is a resounding yes! If you go, be sure to ask for Cindy—she’s the best!


***

The Physio Spa

(F) https://www.facebook.com/ThePhysioSpa

(H) 10AM - 11:00PM

(A) R Center 89 Banawe St. , Quezon City, Philippines

(T) +63 917 859 0808