Portfolio Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay: Hotel Review 6:56 AM Mövenpick Resort and Spa Boracay: Hotel Review I've been to Boracay multiple times—single, engaged, married, before and after its temporary closure—and extensively explored Stations 1 and 2. Yet, nothing compares to my recent stay at Station Zero, specifically in Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay. Here's my honest hotel review of this Green Globe-certified, family-friendly paradise.But first...Why Visit BoracayBoracay is a tropical paradise renowned for its powdery white sand, breathtaking sunsets, and warm, hospitable locals. Over the years, this island has transformed into a vibrant, tourist-friendly destination, offering accommodations that range from luxurious 5-star hotels to charming boutique inns. Its bustling malls, supermarkets stocked with local and imported products, and diverse restaurants cater to every palate.Choosing Where to Stay in BoracayBoracay's main beach is divided into three key areas:Station 1: Known for its upscale resorts and quieter ambiance.Station 2: The heart of the action with bustling nightlife and restaurants.Station 3: Ideal for budget travelers.Station Zero, however, stands apart for its exclusivity, tranquility, and sophistication. If you're looking for a more relaxing and secluded experience, Mövenpick Resort & Spa is the perfect choice.Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay: Review and Our Memorable ExperienceSeamless TransitMövenpick Boracay ensures a hassle-free transfer experience, making arrivals and departures smooth and stress-free.Key features of the transit service:Punctuality: The staff was on time for the airport pickup. (We didn't get the transfer to the airport, as we stayed in a different hotel before our trip back.)Efficient Coordination: We were warmly greeted and guided to the exclusive Mövenpick van upon arrival at the airport. The transition to the speedboat was seamless, with staff handling our luggage every step of the way. There was no waiting.Warm Welcome: At the resort, a welcoming staff greeted us with Mövenpick's signature iced tea and cold towels, setting the tone for a luxurious stay.Comfortable Journey:The van was clean and air-conditioned, offering ample space for our party of two couples during the pickup.The speedboat ride was swifter than when you were taking the public boat.This well-orchestrated process made travel to and from the resort effortless, allowing us to focus on enjoying our vacation from the very start. We're glad we paid extra for this service; it was worth it. Free Shuttle ServiceConvenient free shuttle service makes exploring the island easy and hassle-free.Schedules are regular and well-managed, ensuring guests can comfortably visit nearby attractions or the D'Mall shopping area.If you want to explore other parts of the island or go outside the scheduled activities, please inform the concierge, and they will arrange for an Etrike driver to pick you up from the main road. Expect a fare of 200-300 pesos, although some drivers may request a higher amount. It's best to negotiate the price.Here's their current schedule (as of December 2024):There is also a free shuttle around the resort, which makes it easier to move between buildings.5-Star Service & ExperienceOur arrival wasn't without hiccups, as the first room we were assigned had an issue. However, the management resolved it swiftly, upgrading us to a Junior Master Suite. The room's spectacular view and luxurious amenities more than made up for the initial mishap.Stunning ViewI love that, whether grabbing breakfast at The Market, having dinner at Brezza, or partying at Sol Marina Beach Club, you can always enjoy a great view of the vast pool and the beach. Additionally, our suite's balcony offers a stunning view of both.Enjoying this romantic view with my husbandThe Junior Master SuiteThe suite was a harmonious blend of modern elegance and cozy charm. Here's what stood out for me:Design: The room featured warm wooden flooring, soft ambient lighting, and a plush panel-style headboard that exuded understated luxury.Bathroom: A frosted glass partition added a contemporary flair while maintaining an open and airy feel. The dual vanity and massive bathtub were perfect for couples.Balcony: Sheer curtains provided privacy without obstructing the view of lush greenery and sky. Blackout curtains were a lifesaver for those who needed to sleep in.Amenities: Every detail was thoughtfully curated, from the sustainable comb and brush to a variety of teas and toiletries.The suite was a sanctuary, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. We didn't mind that it was stormy during our first three days in Boracay because we were cozy in our room.Dining OptionsMövenpick offers four dining establishments, each with its own unique appeal:1. The Market: Specializes in Filipino cuisine.Serves an extensive breakfast buffet, which we enjoyed every morning.Breakfast includes fresh juices, pastries, and options for meat lovers and vegetarians.Limited choices for strict vegans during lunch and dinner.2. Sol Marina Beach Club: Beachfront bar with a view.Ideal for cocktails, dinner, or enjoying the sunset.3. The Café: Located near reception.Serves desserts and café-style food overlooking a serene garden pond.4. Brezza: An Italian gem and our favorite!The truffle pasta stood out, and the decadent chocolate mousse was unforgettable. They also serve scrumptious pizza.The ambiance, with Italian music and a stunning sunset view, made for a perfect dining experience.Staff ExperienceBiancaLet's talk about our favorite server for a hot minute.Bianca, one of the servers at Mövenpick Boracay's Brezza restaurant, elevated our dining experience.Bianca exuded a natural charm that made us feel welcomed and cared for. She remembered our preferences, checked in with perfect timing, and ensured every meal detail was spot on. Her radiant smile and friendly attitude were infectious.You don't often encounter this level of service. It's rare to meet someone who loves their job so visibly, and Bianca is a testament to the top-tier staff Mövenpick employs. Her dedication to creating a delightful guest experience deserves recognition. If Mövenpick is looking for a benchmark in customer relations, Bianca sets the bar high.The Other Guy 😏That Market server should learn from her, too. When we asked why our reserved dinner table was already occupied, he simply said, "I'll let our captain know of your concern," brushing us off.First of all, this is a wrong response. We don't need to talk to their "captain." They should have just informed the other guests that the table was reserved.Second, that didn't even address our question. He didn't bother checking the system to see if there was indeed an oversight. Honestly, we weren't upset; we were just surprised and wondered why someone was sitting there. It's no biggie—mix-ups happen, and we get that. But that response was frustrating.Fortunately, the female server who had personally reserved the table for us spoke to the manager. From then on, they made sure the table was reserved for us every day we were there. They didn't have to go that extra mile. The manager did top-notch customer service, and we truly appreciated their effort to make things right. Everyone else did a great job during our stay. Maybe that guy was just having a bad day. Let's give him that. Signature Chocolate HourEvery afternoon from 3:00 to 4:00 PM, guests are treated to an array of FREE chocolates: brownies, chocolate fondue, cookies, and more. It's a delightful indulgence for both kids and adults. Let's just say we didn't hold back!Seasonal Events & ProgramsWe stayed there during the week of Halloween. The resort organized family-friendly events, including games and activities for children. The staff also encouraged us to return during the holidays as they prepared fun programs for Christmas and New Year.These thoughtful touches reflect Mövenpick's commitment to creating memorable experiences for every guest. Private BeachOne of the biggest perks of staying at Mövenpick is access to its private beach. This beach, accessible only to guests of Mövenpick, Crimson, and Shangri-La, offers a peaceful retreat from the busier main beach.Here's what stands out:Tranquility: No constant interruptions from vendors. Those present at the far edges respect boundaries and approach only if called.Sheltered Location: Nestled between Crimson and Shangri-La, the beach is naturally shielded from strong winds, even on stormy days.Safe and Comfortable: Lifeguards are on duty, with clear swimming condition flags. I recommend wearing water shoes due to some coral along the shoreline (it's not the signature powdery sand of Boracay in this area).Extra Touches: Towels are provided after a swim. Tip: Ask for towels fresh from the laundry, as they are warmer.The soft white sand, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets make this private beach a slice of paradise. The yellow lines mark where turtle eggs are buried in the sand.Multi-Level PoolThe resort boasts one of the most beautiful pools I've seen, with:Multiple levels spanning a vast area.A safe 4-ft depth, suitable for kids and non-swimmers.Water volleyball, jacuzzis (blower only, no heater), and a dedicated shallow section for toddlers.The pool offers breathtaking views of the beach, creating a stunning backdrop for relaxation. It's only a few steps from the restaurants, so you can quickly get snacks and drinks.Sagay SpaAs spa enthusiasts and self-proclaimed spa critics (lol), my husband and I were impressed with the treatments at Sagay Spa:Exceptional Therapists: Jenny (?), my husband's therapist and my own, MJ, and Sun were highly skilled and attentive. High-quality oils: I love that they used premium oils that absorbed beautifully, leaving skin soft and subtly scented. (They don't have to wipe you with hot towels after the session like in other spas.) I believe lavender, floral, and peppermint are the scents available. A serene ambiance complete with soothing scents and music.Although pricier than other spas (2,500 Php or $43 for 60 minutes), overall, it was a pleasant experience.Note: I pride myself on sharing only honest reviews on my blog, so I'd like to add that I've had just as good massages at cheaper prices in Dumaguete (350 PHP or $6) and Punta Bulata (less than 1,000 PHP or $17). There are also massage places outside the resort that offer good services for a cheaper price.Suggestions for MövenpickWhile Mövenpick Boracay delivers an overall fantastic experience, a few areas of improvement could make a significant difference:Enforcing the No-Smoking Policy: Smoking outside the designated area was a recurring issue during our stay. Some guests were smoking in spaces like the sunbeds near The Market and behind Brezza, both of which are just steps away from the designated smoking zone. 🤯 This is not the resort's fault (some people just have a hard time following the rules), but it detracts from the resort's otherwise serene environment and compromises the comfort of non-smoking guests. Adding clear signage around the property and reminding guests of this policy during check-in would go a long way in ensuring compliance. A gentle but firm approach to enforcement is essential to maintain the resort's pristine atmosphere.Vegetarian, Vegan, and Pescatarian Dining Options: Although the breakfast buffet offered a great variety, the lunch and dinner menus, particularly at The Market, could benefit from more inclusive options for guests with dietary preferences or restrictions. Expanding the vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian offerings would enhance the experience for a broader audience.Maintenance at the Fun Hub: Certain facilities, including the billiards table and cue sticks, exhibited signs of wear and tear. Ensuring these are well-maintained would keep the Fun Hub an enjoyable retreat for guests.Localized Social Media Presence: Creating dedicated social media accounts for individual Mövenpick locations would improve direct communication. Guests could ask location-specific questions without being redirected to general email or phone contacts.Summary: What to Expect at Mövenpick BoracayOur rating for this hotel resort? ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐This resort checks all the boxes for a luxurious, family-friendly getaway:Exceptional service with staff trained for excellence (except for one).A tranquil and exclusive location, away from the bustling crowds.Gorgeous views, top-notch amenities, and thoughtfully curated activities.How to get to Mövenpick Resort & SpaFrom Caticlan AirportExit the airport: Once you arrive at Caticlan Airport, walk past the vans and look for the tricycles waiting outside.Take a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port: The fare is approximately PHP 75 if traveling alone or PHP 50 per person if traveling in a group. The ride takes about 10 minutes.Pay the fees: At Caticlan Jetty Port, pay the necessary terminal fees and register with the Department of Tourism (DOT) by showing your hotel reservation. Then, board the boat (a pump boat or an Oyster ferry) for a 15-20-minute ride to Boracay Island.Arrival at Cagban Jetty Port: Once you arrive at Cagban Jetty Port, you can take a tricycle or van to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay. The resort is approximately 30 minutes away by road.From Kalibo AirportExit the airport: Upon arrival at Kalibo Airport, look for the local buses or vans heading to Caticlan Jetty Port.Take a bus to Caticlan Jetty Port: This journey takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a local bus to Kalibo town and then transfer to a bus heading to Caticlan.Arrive at Caticlan Jetty Port: Go through the registration and verification process.Pay the fees: There will be a terminal and environmental fee.Board the ferry: Take the Local Bangka Boat from Caticlan Jetty Port to Cagban Jetty Port. Then, board your boat for the 15-20-minute journey to Boracay Island.Arrive at Cagban Jetty Port. Take a tricycle or van to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, about 30 minutes away.The fare from Cagban Jetty Port to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay is about Php160 to Php200 (around $3 to $4), but some transport companies may charge more. Depending on traffic, the trip takes around 8 minutes by taxi or e-trike. You can also arrange a private transfer through the resort for a varying cost.Note: The rates may have changed, so it's best to research and prepare enough cash for transit.FAQs Are the pools in Mövenpick heated?No. But the sun heats the pool water when it gets hot during the day, making it warm.Do they provide warm towels?Some towels are warm when fresh from the laundry, but typically, they are not. Please ask for availability.Can you access the neighboring resorts for free?Yes. You can simply walk from Mövenpick Beach to Shangri-La and Crimson, as they are just a few steps away.Does Mövenpick offer a day pass?Yes, the Mövenpick Resort & Spa allows you to spend the day and experience its luxury without staying overnight. Walk-ins are usually accepted, but reservations are encouraged. The day pass is all-inclusive of:Entry to Boracay's multi-level swimming pool, which covers 3,300 sqm.Access to a 150-meter semi-private beach at Punta Bunga Cove, ideal for stunning sunset views.Receive PHP 1,600 in credits for dining and spa services.Utilize sun beds, towels, and shower amenities.A welcome drink is provided upon arrival.Take advantage of the Happy Hour Promotion at Sol Marina Beach Club from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.Attend DJ sessions, live performances featuring fire dancers, and sunset duo shows at Sol Marina Beach Club (availability depending on schedule).Join daily wellness activities, such as cultural dances like Tinikling, Aqua Aerobics, Zumba, and more (availability depending on schedule).Check out their website for more information.What is the old name of Mövenpick? Mövenpick took over Sheraton Karachi.What is the parent company of Mövenpick? Accor under CEO Olivier Chavy (as of this writing).Would we return to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay? Absolutely! For a serene escape that combines luxury and relaxation, there's truly no place like it.Images Copyright: Internet Marketing Ad
Travels What To Do In Boracay 11:36 PM Boracay is famous for it's powdery white sand, clear pristine water, epic nightlife, and activities that let you explore the island and enjoy your vacation. Thus, this small island has become a favorite summer getaway for foreigners and locals alike. My friends and I went there to experience one of the country's must visit places. We were not disappointed. I personally had a great time. I was also amazed that I was able to enjoy, explore and spend less than I expected. Our Experience We stayed in Boracay Travelodge Beach Resort for 4 days and 3 nights for a whopping 2,759 Php for 5 pax. It's an affiliate of La Carmela de Boracay, so we had our free breakfast buffet at La Carmela, and we were given pool passes to use La Carmela's swimming pool. Jomar, our tour guide whom we just met there, gave us a good price for each activity we tried. Plus he was a good joker, so he really did a great job entertaining us. I'd recommend him to anyone who wants to explore the island. You may call him at 09154072687. Let me recommend activities we tried in Boracay. Note that the rates of the activities change without prior notice, depending on the season, and on how much you negotiate/agree upon. See Random Pictures While Exploring Boracay (Click individual image to view in full size) What To Do In Boracay Island hopping and snorkeling 1,300 Php + 200 equipment fee = 1,500 Php (we paid 300 Php each since there were 5 of us) vendor in the middle of the sea, which according to Jomar has free wifi. ha ha! Enjoy fresh seafood We had seafood "paluto" at D'Talipapa on our second day. Maya-maya - 350 Php/kilo Medium-sized Prawns - 550/2 kilos Paluto fee - 140/kilo ATV + Dream Land + Trick Museum 1,500 Php package (for 5 pax) I personally enjoyed ATV more than anything else while in Boracay. I now understand why men love the speed. It's exhilarating! this cycling activity is the scariest thing i tried on the island. not for the acrophobic. Unli Photo Shoot inside the Trick Art Museum (click here for more Trick Art Photos) Parasailing Solo - 2,000 Php Pair - 1,500 Php you need to sign a waiver before you sail on air We didn't try helmet diving and other island activities anymore, but we definitely enjoyed the food, the water, the laid back feeling, the night life, and the view. Henna Tattoo 100 Php - 250 Php, depending on the size and design of the tattoo. We had our Henna Tattoos done at Tinta Tattoo. Hair Braid 100 Php - 250 Php Jonah's fresh fruit shake Must try these! The night life! There are restaurants and hotels serving buffet from 230 Php - 450 Php. The island is very much alive at sundown. The view is of course reason enough to visit Boracay and to keep coming back to the place. It's simply amazing. I didn't want to leave! I'm definitely coming back. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Travels Random Pictures While Exploring Boracay 8:48 PM Random Pictures While Exploring Boracay. Here's a glimpse of what everyday looks like in this little piece of paradise. What To Do In Boracay Trick Art Museum Inside Happy Dream Land, Boracay (Click individual image to view in full size) waiting for our boat for our island hopping. ahhh, this is the life. accessories sold everywhere Boracay ref magnets low tide enjoying the wet powdery sand on my feet thank you, La Carmela for the buffet and the pool passes waiting for a customer who wants to get a hair braid students going around the island with trash bags, cleaning up. nice! lamps, wallets and other merchandise early morning by the seashore with my friend and former officemate Aileen can't get enough of this fine powdery white sand before we went snorkeling, we passed by this wonder how it feels like to live here on our way to our ATV adventure i love the "downtown" feel of this area stores after stores after stores wind chimes, scented oils, candles, and more he never spread his tail :P Happy Dreamland cutie patootie bee fresh mango juice i think i took this without knowing it. i didn't delete it obviously. i kinda like it. you can go to Bora with only your wallet and your phone. you can find everything you need there. everything. i love these pens this place is called the Hobbit House because the employees here are well, short people. cool, huh? you can have your name written on these cute pens key chains love these native and stylish bags what a girl wants of course i bought something for myself too this looks cuter in person. and i kind of want one on my wall. in the beach, this is more than just an accessory. it's a necessity. my brother would have loved this blockbuster my friend Hannie on our first Boracay sunset walk. can't get enough of the place, she booked another flight this year. can't blame her really. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
