Cebu's Hidden Gem: Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101 - Unbelievable Views!
Cebu's Hidden Gem: Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101 - Unbelievable Views! - A Review That's Actually Honest (and Maybe a Little Over the Top)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans – and maybe a little of the coffee I spilled on myself while trying to write this review. We're talking about Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101 in Cebu City, that supposed slice of paradise. Is it worth the hype? Is it a budget buster? More importantly, does it actually have those "unbelievable views" they keep blabbering about? Let's dive in, shall we? This is gonna be a long one.
First Impressions & Accessibility (Or How I Almost Broke a Nail (and My Ankle))
Okay, so getting to Horizons 101… that's a mini-adventure in itself. Cebu traffic is legendary. Allow extra time. Seriously. The building itself is… tall. Like, seriously, my neck hurt from looking up. Accessibility is a mixed bag. The lobby seemed fine, the elevators are actually pretty efficient (which is a godsend in a building this size!), and there are facilities for disabled guests. However, I didn't see any clear signage for wheelchair access everywhere (which is always good). The location isn't exactly "walk to everything" – you'll be relying on taxis or Grab (and they're readily available – Taxi service is a definite plus.) – so keep that in mind. Car park [free of charge] and car park [on-site] options are available, which is convenient, but finding a spot in the evening could take some trial and error.
Checking In & The First Glimpse (View-gasms Aplenty!)
The check-in process was surprisingly slick. Shoutout to the staff, super friendly and efficient. Contactless check-in/out is available (thank goodness!), and they even offer private check-in/out, which is a nice touch if you're feeling fancy or just want to be left alone. My room? Well, let’s just say the photos don’t lie. The view? Unbelievable is an understatement. I actually let out a little "whoa" when I walked in. It's skyscraper-city views with the ocean stretching out to the horizon. Seriously, a major perk. The high floor definitely lived up to the promise . The rooms are equipped with Air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, and free Wi-Fi (Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! - phew! - and even Internet access – LAN! – for the tech-heads.) Plus, Air conditioning in public area made up for the humidity outside.
Living the Luxe Life (or, What Did I Actually Use?)
Let's be real, I wasn’t exactly lounging in a robe all day. While the bathrobes and slippers are a lovely touch, I was more focused on… well, stuff. The mini bar? I used it for my own snacks. Free bottled water is appreciated. The in-room safe box is always a win (because, paranoid traveler). And the desk was actually usable for working even in such a gorgeous room, so Laptop workspace is a plus. The satellite/cable channels were standard fare, I didn't need the on-demand movies feature because the view was the entertainment.
Food, Glorious Food (and the Occasional Hiccup)
Okay, let’s talk food. Dining, drinking, and snacking are pretty well-covered. There are Restaurants on-site, including an Asian cuisine in restaurant option (bonus!). Breakfast [buffet] is available, which is, you know, standard… eggs, bacon, the usual suspects. However, I did manage to snag a Breakfast in room one day which was a treat. The Poolside bar looked nice (and a good spot for Happy hour), though I didn't spend much time there. I saw a Desserts in restaurant and almost passed out from delight after a long day. The Room service [24-hour] is a huge plus (especially if you're a night owl like yours truly). I also ordered a bottle of water because I kept forgetting to go get it. The menu was pretty global with International cuisine in restaurant on offer. I just wished there was a Vegetarian restaurant nearby…
Relaxation Station (or, Did I Actually Relax?)
This is where Horizons 101 really shines. Swimming pool? Check. Swimming pool [outdoor]? Double-check! The Pool with view? Yes, and it’s phenomenal. You’re essentially swimming in the sky, overlooking the city. Bliss. There's a Spa/sauna and a Fitness center (of which I only looked at the existence of, and promptly went back to the pool). There's also a Gym/fitness center, just in case you are truly a fitness fanatic and want to spend some of your vacation actually exercising. I skipped the Body scrub and Body wrap, but hey, options are good, right?
Cleanliness & Safety (aka, Did I Catch Anything?)
Okay, so this is a major concern these days, and I'm happy to report that Quigle's Nook seems to be taking it seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays are all music to my germaphobe ears. They've got Hand sanitizer stations everywhere, and the staff seemed to be following protocols. There are Smoke alarms, Fire extinguisher, and Security [24-hour]. CCTV in common areas, and CCTV outside property is provided. They also have Doctor/nurse on call (just in case). They also have Hygiene certification. The only option that feels a little overkill is Sterilizing equipment. Not complaining, just observing.
Things to Do (Beyond Gazing Out the Window)
Cebu City has a ton to offer, but you might need to arrange a Airport transfer. There is also Car power charging station to keep your car running. They also have a Bicycle parking if for some reason you rode a bike here. The hotel has access to a Concierge to help you with booking tours. The Luggage storage is handy.
The Little Annoyances (Because Nothing's Perfect)
No review is complete without a few gripes. The Wi-Fi in public areas could be a little spotty at times. I also ran out of coffee pods in my room. And finding a reliable place to eat outside the hotel could be an adventure.
The Verdict (and a shameless plug)
Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101 isn't perfect. But for the views alone? ABSOLUTELY worth it. The location is good. Accessibility has its flaws. But the staff is friendly, the rooms are well-appointed, and that view… wow. If you're looking for a memorable stay in Cebu, with a dash of luxury and a healthy dose of "wow," book this place.
And now, for the shameless plug:
Ready to experience the "Unbelievable Views" for yourself? Book your stay at Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101 today!
- Unbeatable Views: Wake up to breathtaking panoramic cityscapes and shimmering ocean vistas.
- Modern Comfort: Enjoy well-appointed rooms with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
- Convenient Location: Explore Cebu City with ease, with convenient access to taxis and Grab.
- Relax & Rejuvenate: Take a dip in the stunning outdoor pool, pamper yourself at the spa, or work out at the fitness center.
- Safety First: Rest easy knowing Quigle's Nook prioritizes your health and safety with rigorous cleaning protocols.
- Unite & Celebrate: If you are looking for a Proposal spot or if you're on a date and want to elevate it, this is the right location to go!
Click here to book your escape now! Seriously, do it. You won't regret it. (And tell them the crazy reviewer sent you!)
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Quigle's Nook & Cebu Shenanigans: A Messy Itinerary (Because Real Life Isn't Pinterest-Perfect)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your typical "sun-kissed itinerary." This is a raw, unfiltered account of my Cebu adventure, starting right here in the glorious (and slightly cramped) Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101. Prepare for whining, wonderment, and probably a near-miss involving a rogue mango.
Day 1: Arrival and the Quest for Essentials (and Maybe some Sinful Delight)
Morning (Because who actually wakes up early on vacation?): Landed in Cebu! The airport was a delightful chaos of lost luggage and overly enthusiastic taxi drivers. Finally, after a negotiation that felt like a high-stakes poker game, I arrived at Horizons 101. Quigle's Nook… cute, but smaller than the pictures implied. First impression? Cozy. Second impression? Where's the coffee?
Afternoon: The immediate priority: survival. Finding a decent coffee shop (success!), a grocery store (mission: accomplished! Found some weird, fascinating fruit I'll probably regret), and, most importantly, snacks. Because a hangry traveler is a dangerous traveler. This process involved a mildly terrifying jeepney ride (I swear, they're held together with hope and duct tape). Almost got flattened by a stray motorbike, which, let's be honest, would've been a fitting end to this already-chaotic day.
Evening: Dinner at a local carinderia (small, informal eatery) I found. The food was amazing! Spicy, rich, and definitely not something I'd be able to replicate in my kitchen. Had a great time there, enjoying the meal, chatting with the locals, hearing their stories about the places to go to on the island. After dinner, indulged. Let's just say "sinful delight" involved a pastry and a very large serving of mango sticky rice. No regrets.
Night: Trying to sleep, but between the aircon's incessant hum and the street noise (a symphony of honking and karaoke), it's not easy. Also, I think my brain is still recovering from the flight. This is going to be a long week.
Day 2: The Waterfall Fiasco (and an Ode to Resilience)
Morning (Feeling more human…ish): Breakfast in the nook, staring out the window with a cup of coffee, planning a trip to Kawasan Falls. The internet promised turquoise waters and Instagram-worthy moments. I'm nothing if not easily swayed by pretty pictures and promises of adventure.
Daytime: So, the Kawasan Falls trip. Here's the lowdown: picturesque? Yes. Crowded? Absolutely. The trek to the falls was a sweaty, slippery, uphill battle. I swear, I saw my life flash before my eyes when I almost slipped off a rock. But the water! Oh, the water! It was cold, refreshing, and everything the internet promised. Spent the day swimming in the turquoise water, taking pictures, and enjoying that breathtaking scenery.
Evening: Post-waterfall, post-trek, I was exhausted. Decided on a quiet meal, because all the day's activities had filled me up!
Day 3: City Scrape and The Basilica's Mystique
Morning: Decided to check out the city. The Heritage of Cebu Monument, and the Basilica del Santo Niño. The basilica was powerful. The history, devotion felt tangible. There was this moment, standing amidst the quiet intensity of the place, where I felt something shift within me - a sense of groundedness, of peace. (Don't worry, I'm not turning into a saint overnight. Just acknowledging a powerful experience).
Afternoon: Street food! (Because, duh). This involved chowing down on Lechon (roast pig) and a whole bunch of other delicious, greasy, and questionable delights.
Evening: Back at Quigle's Nook! This meant some reading, some planning for the next day, some soul-searching (mostly about why I'm so terrible at packing), some reminiscing about the trip so far, and preparing to sleep.
Day 4: Drowning in Snorkeling (and My Own Anxiety)
Morning: Snorkeling trip booked! This time, I'm going to Oslob to see the whale sharks! I was excited and, let's be honest, slightly terrified. Sharks, you know?
Lunchtime: The boat ride out to the reef was exhilarating, even the rough sea was like a rollercoaster ride. The snorkeling was incredible! The coral reefs were beautiful, colored and teeming with all kinds of fish. Then came the whale sharks. These gentle giants were incredible. But here comes the messy part: I had this moment, the one where the enormity of nature and my own insignificance slammed into me. I could feel the fear and the euphoria at the same time and I realized I needed a deep breath.
Evening: Absolutely wrecked, in the best possible way. Ate some food, chatted with some locals, and got back to the nook, ready for some sleep.
Day 5: The Mango Meltdown (and Lessons in Serendipity)
Morning: Woke up feeling the effects of all this adventure! My muscles were sore, and my spirit was bruised. This is when I discovered I had a serious mango problem. I'd bought a mountain of the things and, well…it was time.
Afternoon: Stumbling around the local market. Found a hidden gem – a tiny stall selling the best fresh juice I've ever had. The owner, a woman with eyes that crinkled when she smiled, poured me a glass of something vibrant and delicious. We chatted for ages, and she told me her stories. That was the kind of experience that makes travel magic.
Evening: Some quiet time in the nook. Writing, reflecting. Thinking about how a single mango (or a whole mountain of them) can be a catalyst for a total mood change. Then… bed!
Day 6: The Farewell Feast (and the Unspoken Sighs of Departure)
Morning: Packing (a disaster, naturally). Reluctantly eating my last mango. Trying not to think about leaving.
Afternoon: A final Cebuano lunch. This time, I went someplace that offered a combination of local dishes. The taste was like saying farewell to the country itself.
Evening: A last look at the city, a quiet acknowledgement among the noise, a final drink from the local store, and back to the Nook. I had to stop myself starting the packing all over again, and just let it be. This journey wasn't just about the sights; it was about how those sights made me feel.
Day 7: Departure and Lingering Thoughts
Morning: Leaving. That bittersweet moment of departure. Looking back, I'm not sure what I expected, but I know I got more than I bargained for. More laughs, more moments of awe, more mangoes than I care to admit, and a whole collection of memories and stories.
Afternoon: Heading back home. Already planning my return!
This is just a glimpse of my Cebu adventure. The messy, glorious, imperfect truth. And you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way.
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Quigle's Nook @ Horizons 101: Expect The Unexpected (And Mostly Amazing!) - An FAQ (Because, Let's Be Real, I Was Confused Too!)
Okay, So Where *Exactly* Is This "Quigle's Nook" Thing? I'm Not Exactly Proficient in Finding Hidden Gems.
Alright, look, I'm terrible with directions. I'm the kind of person who gets lost in a parking lot. But... Quigle's Nook is supposedly nestled in Horizons 101, which, in Cebu City, is a HUGE, skyscraper-y thing. Think... *up*. You want to find the building first. It's pretty hard to miss. After that, it's a bit of a treasure hunt. I'd recommend asking for "Quigle's Nook" specifically – sometimes the receptionists give you a *look*, like you're asking for unicorn tears. But persist! It's worth it. Just try to get their before sunset.
What's the Big Deal with the "Unbelievable Views?" Is It Overhyped? Because I've Seen Some Instagram Swindles Before...
Okay, listen. I'm a *sucker* for a good view. And I've been burned by filtered Instagram pics more times than I care to admit. But this? This is different. Honestly, the pictures don't *quite* do it justice. You're talking panoramic, sprawling Cebu City. The bay glimmers. The mountains are a hazy, beautiful backdrop. The sunsets… oh, the sunsets! One time, I went with this date – let's just say it wasn't a success. But even *that* was made better by the view. It's cliche, I know, but it genuinely took my breath away. I'll be honest, the first time I went, I was so shocked by the view, I nearly spilled my drink! (Luckily, the person I was with was quick on the uptake.)
What Can You *Actually* DO at Quigle's Nook Besides Stare at the Horizon Like a Dramatic Romantic Lead?
Well, you're *expected* to drink. (I mean, that's the main activity, right?) They have a decent selection of cocktails, reasonably priced. They have snacks, too – nothing fancy, but perfect for nibbling while you contemplate the meaning of life, or just gossip with your friends. You can chat, laugh, take selfies (of course! #ViewsForDays), and generally, unwind. They have a few tables, but it's more of a lounge-y, stand-around-and-chat kind of vibe. You are also free to just take up space and enjoy the view. Try it. You'll be surprised. I once saw a guy there reading a book. Respect.
Is It Crowded? I Hate Crowds. Especially When Trying to Enjoy a Chill View.
It depends. During peak sunset hours on weekends? Yeah, expect a crowd. I'm not going to lie. You might have to hover a bit, eagle-eyed, waiting for someone to leave so you can snag a prime viewing spot. But honestly, the view is amazing enough that it's worth it. Go on a weekday, or get there *early* before sunset. Even if it's busy, it's usually a pretty well-behaved crowd, you know? People are too busy 'gramming to cause much trouble. Just remember to bring a little of your own patience.
The Drinks... Are They Good? I'm a Snob. And I'm Not Afraid to Admit It.
Okay, so I'm not a cocktail *connoisseur*. But the drinks are… fine. They're not *bad*. They're certainly not the reason you're going. You're going for the vibe, the view. They have the classics. They're made with the usual stuff. The price is right. And on a hot Cebu night, with that view? Honestly, even a mediocre margarita tastes incredible. Just don't expect molecular gastronomy. I once spilled my drink there (again, it runs in the family), and it was actually a blessing. It was so hot that I just got to enjoy the view sans drink. And it was still great!
Is It Expensive? I'm on a (Tight) Budget.
Compared to some of the ultra-fancy places in Cebu? No, it's not crazy expensive. It's certainly more affordable than a rooftop bar at a swanky hotel. It's a reasonable price for the location and the experience. You can get a cocktail and a snack without breaking the bank. Obviously, the more you drink (and I'm not judging, I'd consider doing this, but my wallet's weeping), the higher the bill will be. But it's definitely accessible for a casual night out. It's not just for the rich and famous, even if the view makes you *feel* like you're living the high life (temporary, of course). I will warn you, though: it's so good, you'll be tempted to go back *constantly*, and *that* could be bad for your budget.
Okay, So What's The *Worst* Thing About Quigle's Nook? Be Honest!
Alright, brace yourself. Here's the real talk. Sometimes, the service can be... slow. I'm not going to sugarcoat it. It's not a fast-paced place. You might have to flag down a server a couple of times. Ordering a second drink? Patience, young Padawan. And, occasionally, you might get a spot with a less-than-perfect view. It depends on when you go and where you get stuck. One time, I was near the back, and I had to lean around a pillar to get a decent look at the sunset. But honestly? Even with these minor annoyances, the view still wins. I mean, it's a small price to pay for that kind of beauty. It's like... a slightly messy, beautiful painting. You just gotta embrace the imperfections.
Would You Go Back? And More Importantly, *Should* I Go?
Absolutely! Yes! A thousand times yes! Despite my minor quibbles about service and crowds, Quigle's Nook is totally worth it. It's the kind of place that stays with you. You know, that feeling when you find a place, a view, a little slice of escape that you *crave*? That's it. Go for a weeknight sunset. Go with friends. Go solo and just soak it all in. Go with someone you're trying to impress (it’ll work, I guarantee it). Just go. I guarantee you'll leave feeling slightly more... alive. And probably with a ton of Instagram pics. I know I did.
