A DAY off for some may not be enough for a month-long (or even more) of stressful hustle to get things done at work, school, and/or home. But I bet a three-day ultimate escape can do magic to your restless soul.
Days before storming last week -- elections week, we were treated to a summer bliss experience by Acacia Hotel Davao in partnership with Millennial Resorts, the management behind Aqua Water Park and Crusoe Cabins in Samal island.
The experience, dubbed as “City to Island Escape,” is the newest tour package the hotel came up with to offer guests, both locals and tourists, a much-deserved summer vacation.
Who wouldn’t like the idea of spending an overnight stay at Davao’s most modern and elegant haven and an island adventure in Samal’s newest premium resort within Costa Azalea estate - Crusoe Cabins, where guests get access to Aqua Water Park.
Pleasant stay at Acacia Hotel Davao
When I arrived at the hotel early afternoon on a Thursday with some of my colleagues in the media, we were ushered directly to the 10th floor where Acacia’s Executive Floor is located.
Guests staying on this floor have special privileges at the The Club Lounge like express check in and out; continental buffet breakfast; afternoon tea; evening cocktails; and access to the lounge’s boardroom for two hours.
After settling down, we had our special dinner at the Venado Pool Bar where the hotel prepared a Boho-inspired Grill Nights party which is actually available at the hotel every Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. Our tummies were satisfied with its unlimited feast of grilled meats and seafood.
No doubt, I had a pleasant overnight stay at the hotel’s Club Room Deluxe. The room is spacious and has a vantage point to view Mt. Apo in the daytime. It was indeed a good night's sleep in preparation for a fun island escape to Crusoe Cabins and Aqua Water Park.
Summer fun at Crusoe Cabins, Aqua Water Park
From the hotel, a five minute ride will bring guests to the resort’s dock in Lanang where a speedboat is waiting to transfer guests to the resort. What’s good about this package is all your transportation expenses are already included.
The speedboat ride is just 10 minutes away from the mainland.
Upon arriving at the resort’s Jetty Port, we were greeted with a thirst-quenching lemon welcome drink and an inviting clear turquoise waters of Costa Azalea estate in Samal's Barangay Limao where Crusoe Cabins and Aqua Water Park are nestled.
I already heard about Crusoe Cabins in Batangas and I was delighted that they actually brought here in Samal their brand of hospitality. Like in Batangas, Crusoe Cabins Samal are like cruise suites. The resort has a total of 13 cabins and is planning to add a couple of “cocoons” soon.
Its cabins have two types -- two bunk beds; and a bunk bed and queen size bed. Each cabin is equipped with mini living/TV space, dining and kitchen, and Toilet and Bath. It has a minimalist approach, designed well, and all spaces were maximized.
At the center of the resort is a two-story’s Captain Barbozza Bar where guests can dine (especially breakfast) and drink.
Adjacent to the cabins is Aqua Water Park, a water adventure place for the kids and the whole family with a water slide and infinity pool to enjoy. I tried its long water slide and it brings back so many childhood memories. It was super fun, I’m glad I didn’t leave the resort without trying it.
The food here is also something to look forward to. We feasted on a boodle fight lunch at Aqua Water Park's dining hall on the day we arrived.
We also discovered that the resort’s Jetty Port area is also a good spot for stargazing at night. It’s perfect for a chill night over a bottle of beer or wine and good acoustic music. The next day, we explored the Costa Azalea’s white sand beach, it’s perfect for some summer fun shoots!
Aqua sports facilities are also available, including jet skis and snorkeling equipment. Too bad I wasn’t able to try it as I was busy attending a virtual event. I’m sure there’s a next time!
Overall, the “City to Island Escape” package of these two tourism gems is worth sharing to more people. I had a blast and I want to revisit the hotel and resort soon, this time with my family or friends.
For suggestions, comments, and questions, email me at aceperez.manlalakbay@gmail.com. Follow me on social media @acejunerell.