Elle's Place: Dumaguete's Hidden Gem Near the Airport!
Elle's Place: Dumaguete's Not-So-Hidden Gem (But I Kinda Like It That Way!) - A Messy, Honest Review.
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, sterile hotel review. We're diving headfirst into Elle's Place in Dumaguete, that little slice of paradise (and sometimes, controlled chaos) conveniently close to the airport. Forget the perfect prose, we're going for genuine, messy, and hopefully, helpful. Consider this a verbal vomit of my recent stay.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, But Mostly Okay…
Let’s start with the basics. Landing in a new place can be a real pain, and honestly, the airport transfer was smooth. They've got airport transfer, and for a frazzled traveler like me, that's a HUGE win, especially after a long-haul flight. The car park is free of charge which is a lifesaver, and there’s even valet parking. Fancy!
Now, accessibility…well, here's where things get a little… Dumaguete. They claim to have facilities for disabled guests, but I didn’t see a ramp to the front desk (though I didn't explicitly look for it, so call me out if you're certain). If accessibility is a primary concern, call beforehand! This ain't a gleaming, brand spanking new hotel, there were a few little bumps and hurdles that made it clear this might not be perfect for those with mobility issues. But hey, at least you can (probably) get there with a car, and as a non-wheelchair user, I can say it was mostly navigable.
Cleanliness and Safety: My Anxious Heart Relaxed (Kinda)
Okay, COVID-19. Let's address the elephant in the room. I arrived feeling like I had a permanent cough and a deep-seated fear of everything. I need to feel that I don't need to worry. Now, Elle's Place tries. They say they use anti-viral cleaning products, have daily disinfection in common areas, and provide hand sanitizer everywhere. They have room sanitization opt-out available if you want to roll the dice. They give you a degree of control.
The staff were genuinely masked up. I liked this. They were also pretty good about attempting physical distancing of at least 1 meter, which is a relief, but sometimes, you're just there, you know? My room felt clean, I will give them that.
Rooms: Cozy Chaos - in a Good Way (Sometimes)
Let's talk rooms. They have…a lot. Air conditioning, thank GOD. Free Wi-Fi (which I practically glued myself to), free bottled water (always appreciated!), and slippers. Little things, but nice. My room also came with:
- Air conditioning: Essential. I'd melt without it.
- Bathrobes: Luxurious! I felt like a hotel tycoon.
- Blackout curtains: Bless! They're perfect for escaping the sun, or the urge to go outside entirely.
- Coffee/tea maker: Early mornings will be saved!
- Desk: Where I wrote this very review!
- Hair dryer: Not particularly powerful, but hey it works.
- In-room safe box: Never used it, but good to know it's there.
- Internet access – wireless: Worked GREAT.
- Minibar: Never actually got anything from it.
- Private bathroom: Definitely a plus.
- Reading light: Perfect for late-night novel binges.
- Refrigerator: Kept my water cold.
- Satellite/cable channels: Flicked through them a bit.
- Shower: Fine, I'm not overly fussy.
- Slippers: Always a great touch.
- Television: For mindless entertainment.
- Toiletries: Standard, but covered the basics.
The room itself was… well, it wasn’t a magazine cover. It was comfortable, though. Clean-ish. The bed was comfy, the pillows were… questionable, but decent. Nothing pretentious or fussy. The décor was a bit dated - think floral prints and a hint of "grandmother's guest room" – but it was charming in its own way. There's no pretension, which I liked. They had non-smoking rooms. Yes!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Feast or Famine (Kinda)
Okay, food. Let's talk food. They have a restaurant. They have a bar. They have… varied success.
Breakfast [buffet]: This was a highlight for me. An Asian breakfast including noodle soup, which was the perfect way to kick start my day. The buffet itself wasn't the most extensive, but there was something for most tastes. Coffee was okay and they do have a coffee shop in there; it got me going. The Western breakfast was fine, with your standard eggs, toast, and bacon. And best of all? They had coffee/tea in the restaurant!
Beyond breakfast, the restaurant served international cuisine in restaurant, asian cuisine in restaurant with a few vegetarian restaurant options. Dinner was… serviceable, let's say. I got the impression they were trying hard, but the execution was a little off. Don't expect Michelin-star quality, but it's enough. Don't be surprised if your waiter disappears for a bit. Room service [24-hour] is a game-changer when you're exhausted.
They also have a poolside bar! Which, yes, is exactly what you think it is: a bar next to the pool. A great place to have a drink!
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: The Pool and My Existential Dread
The swimming pool is the real star here. It's a decent size, clean, and offers a lovely pool with view. The view? Not quite infinity pool levels, but it's green and pretty. Perfect for a mid-afternoon dip.
There's a gym/fitness, but I didn’t venture in. Honestly, I was there to escape the real world, not to pump iron. They offer a massage which, after a few days of Dumaguete heat, was the best thing ever. Pure and simple, all I wanted was a spa day--and thank goodness, they had a spa. I booked a body scrub and a body wrap, and for a few glorious hours, I forgot all my troubles. They also have a steamroom, which I didn't try, but I almost did!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things Matter
They have a lot of conveniences. This list is long, but they are here. Air conditioning in public area, cash withdrawal, concierge, daily housekeeping, elevator, ironing service, laundry service, luggage storage, safe deposit boxes. All the stuff you need.
Internet: The Lifeblood of the Modern Traveler
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! I cannot stress enough how important this is. The WiFi was generally reliable, which is more than I can say for other places. The Internet service, in conjunction with the free Wi-Fi, saved me a ton of money!!
For the Kids: I Don't Have Any, But Apparently…
They're billed as family/child friendly, with a babysitting service. They have kids meal options. I can't personally vouch for these, but hey, if you're travelling with kids, this is a good sign!
Getting Around: Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy
The airport transfer makes everything so much easier. They provide taxi service but there is plenty to get around locally. The place has a car park [free of charge], and a car park [on-site], which is great if you have your own wheels.
The Verdict: Quirky, Comfortable, And Kinda Homey
Look, Elle's Place isn't perfect. It's got some quirks, it has moments that feel a little…let's say, "rustic." But that's part of the charm. It has a welcoming vibe and provides a base to explore all that Dumaguete, one of the most inviting places in the Philippines. It's not a five-star resort, but it's a solid choice for a relaxed, enjoyable stay. Would I go back? Absolutely. I'd be really happy if I got to stay with them again!
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- Meta Description: Honest and detailed review of Elle's Place in Dumaguete, Philippines. Covers accessibility, amenities, food, and overall experience. Is it worth it? Find out!
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Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's travel itinerary. This is the raw, unfiltered diary of my Dumaguete adventure, specifically focusing on Elle's Place… and let me tell you, after staring at a computer screen for 17 hours straight while organizing this trip – I think I'm actually dreaming of a beach right now. So here goes, in all its glorious imperfect glory:
ELLE'S PLACE & DUMAGUETE: A MESSY, LOVING ADVENTURE
(Prologue: Arrival & Jet Lagged Shenanigans)
Day 1: The Landing & the Limp
- Time: 06:00 AM (ish? Who even knows anymore.)
- Event: Arrived at Dumaguete Airport (Hyacinth). Survived a flight that felt like it lasted a week. The humidity hit me like a warm, sticky hug. Did someone say "welcome to paradise?" Because my hair is already rebelling. Instantly.
- Transport: Plane. Pretty sure I spent the whole flight staring at the back of a guy's head. Excellent.
- Imperfection: My luggage, naturally, arrived looking suspiciously like a chewed-up dog toy. And I'm pretty sure I forgot to pack sunscreen. Rookie mistake.
- Emotional Reaction: Exhaustion. Pure, unadulterated exhaustion. But a tiny flicker of excitement fighting its way through the fog of jet lag.
- Quirky Observation: The airport bathroom had a sign that said "Please don't throw your sanitary pads in the toilet." Good to know. I'm not sure I could survive that experience.
- Rambling: Okay, first impressions of Hyacinth: Small, cute, and surprisingly efficient. The tricycle drivers were already swarming, vying for my business. It’s going to be a fun week!
- More Rambling! Why did I expect the humidity? I live in Canada!! It’s… well, it’s amazing…
Time: 07:00 AM
- Event: Found Elle’s Place (Thank God! I can’t live on airport coffee for anything longer than a day). Check-in. My room is… well, it’s a room. Clean enough. And the air conditioning? Praise the heavens!
- Transport: Tricycle. Negotiated a price. Felt like a seasoned pro. Even though I probably got ripped off. But hey, I'm here!
- Imperfection: Immediately tripped over my own feet in the lobby. Elegance, thy name is not my middle one.
- Emotional Reaction: Relief. Sweet, sweet relief. And a growing hunger for something other than airplane food.
- Quirky Observation: The gardener at Elle's Place was already out, meticulously trimming a bougainvillea bush. Someone’s taking this seriously…
- Minor Category: Room Inspection: Spotless. Simple. AC unit is thankfully a beast! I think I'm more in love with the AC than I am with the prospect of the beach.
- Rambling: I swear, I’m going to nap. But first… coffee. Gotta find the coffee.
(The Elle's Place Chapter)
Day 1 (Continued): The Dive Into Elle's and the Search for a decent meal
- Time: 08:00 AM
- Event: Wandered around Elle's Place! It's incredibly charming, honestly. And the staff? Ridiculously friendly. I’m already feeling the warmth of this place.
- Event: Breakfast! Found the nearest Cafe. Scored some excellent, freshly baked bread.
- Transport: Walk, because the world is a beautiful thing.
- Imperfection: Got slightly lost on the way back. The streets are a maze, and the sun is already blazing. Okay, maybe I should have remembered that sunscreen…
- Emotional Reaction: Giddiness! Happiness. I’m actually here! And I can smell the sea.
- Quirky Observation: The shop owners are already calling out, wanting to sell me EVERYTHING. Including, I believe, a goat.
- Minor Category: The Pool: Yes! Elle's Place has a pool. I'm going to be spending a lot of time in that pool.
- Rambling: I cannot explain how happy this place is. It’s like the perfect mix of chilled and beautiful.
Day 1 (Continued): A Long Walk & The Search for a Good Meal
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Event: Decided to walk along the coast. Ended up at… a beautiful beach (I think it’s called “Reef Beach”). The sand felt like powdered sugar.
- Event: Ate "a meal" or… a lot of food. So full that I’m going to feel like a rock soon!
- Transport: Feet. Excellent exercise.
- Imperfection: Got way too close to a massive wave. Briefly considered becoming a mermaid.
- Emotional Reaction: Pure bliss. This is what I needed. This is why I came.
- Quirky Observation: Found some interesting crabs.
- Opinionated Language: That meal was ridiculously delicious and cheap! This feels like a dream.
- Minor Category: Beach Essentials: Wasted time, the important part of beach life. I’m definitely not going to be swimming.
- Rambling: Okay, this is it. This is the dream. It's a bit hot but a great day. I hope I can find a way to survive tomorrow!
(Day 2: The Day Trip & The Island Life)
Day 2: The Island Hopping Trip
- Time: 07:00 AM -- Early start for an island hopping trip!
- Event: Boat trip to Apo Island! Snorkelling in the marine sanctuary. The coral reefs were vibrant! I saw schools of fish! It was like swimming in a gigantic aquarium.
- Transport: Boat.
- Imperfection: Ended up swallowing a mouthful of seawater. Still, worth it.
- Emotional Reaction: Awe. Utterly breathtaking!
- Quirky Observation: A tiny crab tried to hitch a ride on my snorkel.
- Opinionated Language: Absolutely. Stunning.
- Rambling: The marine life was unreal. I’m pretty sure I saw Nemo and Dory. This is something I’ll never forget.
Day 2: The Perfect Lunch and Final Sunsets
- Time: 12:00 PM -- Lunch on a beach!
- Event: Lunch on a remote beach. Fresh seafood. Best meal of my life? Possibly.
- Transport: Boat.
- Imperfection: Shell found in my food. Whatever, food was still great!
- Emotional Reaction: Utter Satisfaction.
- Quirky Observation: A local dog who was very friendly and did not stop wanting my food.
- Opinionated Language: This is. Simply. Perfect.
- Rambling: Is it the best I’ve ever had? I think so!
Day 2: Sunset Drinks and Dinner
- Time: 05:00 PM -- Back at Elle's Place, but there's more!
- Event: Sunset drinks at a rooftop bar. The view was incredible as the sun dipped below
- Transport: Tricycle.
- Imperfection: Fell asleep during sunset.
- Emotional Reaction: Slight embarrassment at the fall.
- Quirky Observation: The bartender told a joke I didn't understand.
- Opinionated Language: Amazing.
- Rambling: Pretty, though a little bit too quiet!
(Day 3: The Dumaguete Deep Dive & Goodbye for Now)
Day 3: Exploring Dumaguete
- Time: 09:00 AM
- Event: Explore Dumaguete City! Visited the Silliman University, explored the Rizal Boulevard, and soaked up the local atmosphere.
- Transport: Tricycle, walking.
- Imperfection: Got lost in the market. Enjoyable though!
- Emotional Reaction: A growing appreciation for the simple beauty of life.
- Quirky Observation: The amount of street food is amazing. My stomach might not be used to it!
- Opinionated Language: Amazing.
- Rambling: I want to come back here.
Day 3: The Flight and Last Thoughts
- Time: 02:00 PM
- Event: Prepare the flight.
Elle's Place: Dumaguete's Hidden Gem FAQ (Because You REALLY Need to Know!)
Okay, Seriously, What IS Elle's Place Anyway? Is it Worth the Hype?
Alright, listen up. Elle's Place? Think... cottage vibes. Think... tucked away, like Dumaguete's little secret. Think... a place you *might* walk past if you're not paying attention (and trust me, *I* did, the first time!). It's near the airport, which is SUPER convenient, but that's almost secondary to the charm. The 'hype'? Well, it's definitely earned. Is it perfect? LOL, no. But is it worth it? *Absolutely*.
My first time? I was exhausted, fresh off a flight, and just wanted a decent cup of coffee. I saw the sign, thought "Cute," then almost walked on. Thank goodness for the friendly face who called me back! That first iced latte? Pure salvation. Honestly, it hit the spot I didn't even *know* needed hitting. Changed my whole afternoon. Then I saw the little garden and my jaw dropped.
How do I GET to this Magical Place? I am TERRIBLE with Directions.
Okay, navigationally challenged friend, you are in good company. Elle's Place is near the Dumaguete Airport, okay? That's the easy part. The hard part? Figuring out *how near*. Here's the MOST foolproof plan: Ask a tricycle driver! Seriously, they know EVERYTHING. Say "Elle's Place, near the airport, PLEASE!" (Politeness gets you everywhere!) They'll know. They practically live there. Alternatively, use Google Maps, but don't blame me if you end up wandering around for a bit. I've been there. Twice. (Okay, maybe three times...)
**Pro-tip:** Print out a map beforehand if you're feeling adventurous. Or...you know... just embrace the "getting lost" part. It can lead to interesting discoveries. Like, maybe, finding another amazing little eatery! (But hopefully, you'll find Elle's first.)
What's on the Menu? Coffee? Food? Like, GIVE ME DETAILS!
Okay, coffee first. Because coffee is LIFE. They have damn good coffee. I'm a latte kind of gal, and theirs is consistently fantastic. Espresso-based drinks, all the usual suspects. I've heard rumours of incredible iced coffee concoctions... I MUST INVESTIGATE.
Food... Oh, the food! It's not a massive menu, but everything I've tried has been DELICIOUS. Think comfort food with a touch of local flavour. Sandwiches are a winner (the chicken pesto one? *chef's kiss*), pasta dishes are hearty and satisfying. They often have daily specials, so ASK! And the desserts? Oh, the desserts! I once ate a whole slice of their chocolate cake and I have zero regrets. Zero. (Okay, maybe a tiny pang of guilt… but it was SO worth it.)
**Warning:** You might get food envy. Especially if you see what the person next to you ordered. Don't be shy! Ask them what they're eating! That's how I discovered the amazing BLT.
Is it Expensive? I'm on a Budget.
Compared to some of the crazy-expensive tourist traps in Dumaguete? No, it's not. It's definitely a step up from the street food (which is also amazing, by the way!), but it's *very* reasonable. You can definitely have a satisfying meal and a drink without breaking the bank. Honestly, for the quality of the food, the ambiance, and the whole experience? I'd say it's excellent value for money. I've spent more on worse experiences, believe me.
What's the Vibe Like? Is it a Good Place to Work from?
The vibe is *chill*. Seriously chill. Think relaxed, friendly, with a touch of rustic charm. It's not pretentious at all. The garden is beautiful, and you can sit outside which is great. There's often quiet music playing, the kind that doesn't interrupt your thoughts; it’s good music though, and I am usually distracted by it in the best way possible!
Is it a place to work from? Hmm... it depends on *you*. They have Wi-Fi (THANK GOD!), and there are usually a few people working on laptops. However, it's not a dedicated co-working space. During peak hours, it can get a little chatty and the tables fill up fast. So, if you need absolute silence to concentrate, maybe go early. Otherwise, it's perfect! I've written many a blog post – and done a shocking amount of people-watching – there.
They have a Garden? What's *That* Like?
The garden is the heart of Elle's Place. It's a little oasis, seriously. Lush greenery, flowers, and cute little seating areas. It's the perfect place to escape the Dumaguete heat (although, let's be honest, it's ALWAYS hot in Dumaguete!).
I remember *one time*. I was having the WORST day. Seriously. Everything was going wrong. I walked in, was hot, tired, and grumpy. Then I saw the garden. I swear, a little bird started singing, so pretty. I ordered a coffee and just sat. And sat. And sat. And slowly, everything just… melted away. The garden has that effect. It's like a mini-therapy session, complete with caffeine.
Any Quirks or Things to Know Before I Go?
Okay, a few things, because even gems have their flaws, or rather, their unique quirks:
- **Service can be a *little* slow during peak hours.** Patience is a virtue, especially in the Philippines. Order another coffee and just...relax. It's worth the wait.
- **Limited seating.** During popular times, finding a table can be a challenge. Arrive early, or be prepared to wait. Or, you know, make some new friends and share a table!
- **Mosquitoes in the garden.** Bring some repellent if you're prone to bites. Those little buggers know how to ruin a good afternoon.
- **The restrooms are basic.** Not exactly a spa experience, but hey, they're functional.
- **Parking is… limited.** Motorcycles are your friend, or be prepared to walk a bit.
Would You Recommend It? (Be Honest!)
