Bohol's BEST Backpacker Pad: A's Azotea Apt - Unbeatable Views!
Bohol's BEST Backpacker Pad: A's Azotea Apt - Unbeatable Views! - A Rambling, Honest Review
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Bohol and… drumroll please … I think I found paradise. Or at least, a really, REALLY good basecamp to explore it from: A's Azotea Apt - Unbeatable Views! The name, let me tell you, ain’t kidding. But before I get ahead of myself, let's dive into this messy, glorious experience.
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Okay, first things first: Accessibility. Look, I’m not a wheelchair user, so I can’t speak from personal experience. The listing doesn't explicitly state "wheelchair accessible," or whether they have facilities but I did use the "elevator" once and I saw enough ramps to make a guess some parts, at least, would be manageable, but I strongly recommend calling ahead and asking VERY specific questions if this is a necessity. Don't just rely on me, yeah?
Getting Around: They offer Airport transfer – definitely use it! The roads in Bohol can be… exciting. And the car park [free of charge] is a lifesaver if you rent a scooter (which you totally should!).
My Initial Impression/The "Unbeatable Views" Truth Bomb:
Picture this: You arrive after a long flight, a bit dusty and travel-weary. You're expecting… well, sometimes the reality of a hotel is disappointing. Not here. The terrace is the star, and the pool with a view? Forget it. Literal insta-worthy, postcard-ready vista. Sunrise? Jaw-dropping. Sunset? Prepare to weep (happy tears, hopefully). The only downside? You might find yourself glued to that terrace and never actually leaving to see the Bohol you came for! I spent a whole afternoon just… staring at the ocean. No regrets. Actually, maybe a little regret for not getting out and exploring, but still, mostly no regrets. Damn that view!
The Room Itself (Available in all rooms - Detailed):
Right, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. My room had:
- Air conditioning: Thank the heavens! Bohol heat is no joke.
- Free Wi-Fi: More on that later, but it was good!
- Air conditioning: Essential. Repeat.
- Desk: I actually used it! (Shocking, I know.)
- Free bottled water: Nice touch.
- Hair dryer: Saved me a packing space.
- In-room safe box: Peace of mind for my valuables.
- Mini bar: Temptation, pure temptation. I mostly ignored it.
- Private bathroom and Separate shower/bathtub: Standard but appreciated.
- Satellite/cable channels: I forgot the TV was there but I was happy it was and working.
- Smoke detector: (Thank God!) Safety is key.
- Slippers: Very comfortable.
- Wake-up service: Used it once, worked like a charm.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Did I mention the Wi-Fi? Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Crucial for sharing those breathtaking photos of the view. More on connectivity later.
- Window that opens: Fresh air! Always a good thing.
- Linens: Nice and fresh.
- Towels: Provided! I like that. Sometimes, hotels… don't.
- Coffee/tea maker, complimentary tea: Big up! I could start my day with coffee from my terrace!
- Additional toilet and Daily housekeeping for the win.
- Bathrobes and Mirror: All the things!
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, let's be real, it matters):
Okay, this is important. I was pleasantly surprised. They seem to take hygiene seriously. I could see the Daily disinfection in common areas, and the Staff trained in safety protocol. There was hand sanitizer everywhere. They also had first aid kits. It felt reassuring, especially considering the current… climate.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking:
Here’s where things get a little messy, and I loved it in how it was.
- Breakfast: There are Breakfast in room and Buffet in restaurant options! The Asian breakfast was amazing. I'm not a "buffet" person, but here, it's worth it. Fresh fruit, delicious pastries, and killer coffee. Breakfast takeaway service, perfect for early morning adventures. They also were ready to provide alternative meal arrangements for any dietary requests.
- Restaurant: The restaurants are great. Options for Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and Vegetarian restaurant menus mean you'll find something you like.
- Bar and Poolside bar: Happy hour! Need I say more? The bar had a decent selection and prices were reasonable.
- Snack bar: Convenient for a quick bite.
- Room service [24-hour]: Very handy after a night out and before the morning swim.
Internet Access:
Okay, the crucial question for digital nomads, Instagram addicts, and anyone who likes to, you know, actually use the internet: Internet access – wireless. Good news! There’s Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And it's pretty decent. I was able to upload photos, watch videos, and even do a few Zoom calls without too much trouble. More importantly to me was Internet access – LAN which made it easy to get my work done.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax:
- Swimming pool: Obviously.
- Spa: They have a Spa/sauna and Massage. I indulged in a massage (go on, treat yourself!) and it was heavenly. The Body scrub and Body wrap looked tempting too.
- Fitness center and Gym/fitness: For those who like to work off all that yummy food and drink!
- Sauna and Steamroom: I'm not a sauna person, but hey, choices!
Services and Conveniences:
- Concierge: Helpful and friendly.
- Daily housekeeping: Room always spotless.
- Laundry service and Dry cleaning: Useful for longer stays.
- Gift/souvenir shop: For those last-minute presents.
- Cash withdrawal: Super convenient.
- Doorman: Nice touch.
- Front desk [24-hour]: Always helpful.
For the Kids:
I didn’t travel with kids, but the listing mentions Family/child friendly and Babysitting service.
The Quirks & Imperfections:
Look, this isn't a five-star luxury resort. There are a few minor imperfections, but honestly, that's part of the charm.
- The occasional tiny gecko on my terrace (they're harmless, and kinda cute).
- The Wi-Fi wasn't blazing fast, but it was sufficient.
- I missed my wake-up call, but it taught me to set two!
- One of the light switches in the room was kind of sticky.
The Real Deal - A's Azotea Apt, Is It Worth It?:
YES. Absolutely, unequivocally yes. For the price, you get incredible value: stunning views, great service, a solid room, and a convenient location. It's perfect for solo travelers, couples, and backpackers looking for a comfortable, budget-friendly base to explore Bohol.
My Emotional Takeaway:
This isn't just a hotel. It's a vibe. It's that feeling of escaping to a tropical paradise, waking up to the sound of the ocean, and feeling utterly relaxed. I left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and already planning my return.
Final Verdict:
A's Azotea Apt - Unbeatable Views! is a gem. Book it. Seriously. (8.5/10 – would definitely stay again!)
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Okay, buckle up buttercup, 'cause this won't be your clean-cut, perfectly polished itinerary. This is my Azotea de Bohol adventure, and frankly, it's gonna be a glorious mess. Let's dive in, shall we?
A's Azotea de Bohol - Backpackers Apt-2 1-Bedroom Chaos: The Bohol Bonanza (Plus, a healthy dose of my usual overthinking)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Bed Hunt
- Time: ~1:00 PM: Arrive at Tagbilaran Airport (TAG) – after a flight that felt suspiciously like a budget airline horror movie. Pray for no crying babies, and for my luggage to actually appear. (Spoiler alert: It did! Miracle!)
- Time: ~2:00 PM: Transfer to A's Azotea. Finding the place… well, let's just say Google Maps and I had a strained relationship. I had to flag down a tricycle driver who looked vaguely sympathetic to my lost-tourist woes. He probably charged me extra for the pity.
- Time: ~2:30 PM: Check into Apt-2! Holy moly, the room! Okay, cozy is a generous word, tiny might be more accurate. But hey, it's got a bed, and a… a fan, which is crucial because the heat! (Oh, the heat!) Actually, the bed's the main thing. It's got to be comfortable. I'm a princess. And if I fall asleep with a crick in my neck, it's all downhill from there.
- Time: ~3:30 PM: Attempt to unpack. Realize I overpacked. Panic slightly because I always overpack.
- Time: ~4:00 PM: Wander around, get my bearings in the area. First impressions: scooters everywhere! And the smell… there's a faint, sweet smell in the air. Don't know what it is, but seems like a good sign. Maybe… frangipani? I hope. It’s either that or… something else entirely.
- Time: ~5:00 PM: Grocery run! Grab water, snacks, maybe some… something. I am starving. My stomach is currently staging a protest. Also, learn to say "salamat" (thank you) repeatedly. Expect to butcher the pronounciation and embarrass myself. Embrace the awkwardness.
- Time: ~6:00 PM: Sunset at a nearby beach? (Or at least, that's the plan). I am betting I'll lose my mind. I forgot sunglasses. I also… need to brush my teeth.
- Time: ~7:00 PM: Dinner! Find a "local" eatery. Try something I can't pronounce, and almost certainly spill something on myself. Document the experience carefully. Hope it's delicious. Hope it's not too spicy. Pray for no food poisoning.
- Time: ~8:00 PM: Settle back to the apartment. Journal, which means, vent about the day. Realize I forgot to buy snacks. Doh. Pass out from exhaustion.
Day 2: The Chocolate Hills and A Whole Lotta Humbling
- Time: ~7:00 AM: Wake up feeling vaguely human, somehow. Breakfast: instant coffee and the regret of last night's decision, whatever it may have been.
- Time: ~8:00 AM: Chocolate Hills Tour! (Pre-booked, because I'm basically a pro.) Excitement levels: HIGH. Photo ops: guaranteed. Potential for motion sickness: Moderate. (I get that a lot.)
- Time: ~9:00 AM: First stop: the Tarsier Sanctuary. This will be both adorable and slightly heartbreaking, I imagine. I mean, those eyes! But also, the thought of these tiny creatures in enclosures kinda bums me out. Try not to think too hard about it. Just… oooh and aaah.
- Time: ~10:00 AM: Onto the Chocolate Hills. Behold. Take a million pictures. Try to capture the actual feeling of being there. Fail miserably because no picture can ever truly do it justice. Get sweaty. Try to dodge the selfie stick brigade. Grumble.
- Time: ~11:00 AM: Lunch with a view! (Hopefully, not too much of a view of the selfie stick people. Seriously. They're everywhere.)
- Time: ~12:00 PM: Optional Activities (because I am flexible): Explore the Man-Made Forest! (Yes, it does sound a little… artificial, but I'm willing to be proven wrong). Or maybe head to the Loboc River Cruise (more food!).
- Time: ~2:00 PM: Slightly overwhelmed from the overwhelming scenery. Feel the sheer scale of nature. Realize how insignificant I am. Embrace it.
- Time: ~4:00 PM: Return to the apartment, tired but buzzing.
- Time: ~5:00 PM: Maybe go for a dip in the pool (if there is one…) or collapse on the bed, because, seriously, all that sightseeing is exhausting.
- Time: ~6:00 PM: Eat some snacks I will inevitable buy at the store.
- Time: ~7:00 PM: Dinner somewhere local. Order something I'd never thought I'd eat. Love it or utterly hate it. Either way, the experience will be one for the storybooks.
- Time: ~8:00 PM: Bed. Sleep. Dream of tarsiers and chocolate hills. Dream of a more comfortable bed.
Day 3: Island Hopping, and the Deepest Dive
- Time: ~7:00 AM: Wake up to the sound of…. something! The roosters? Scooters? The general buzz of Bohol? Start the day with a coffee (hopefully, someone nearby sells a proper coffee).
- Time: ~8:00 AM: Island hopping! (Pre-booked. Again. Organized is my middle name… kinda.) This should be epic. Picture: turquoise water, white sand, maybe a little snorkeling. Potential for sunburn: SIGNIFICANT. (Must pack sunscreen. Must. Must.)
- Time: ~9:00 AM: Boat ride! Try not to get seasick. Say a silent prayer to the gods of calm seas.
- Time: ~10:00 AM: Snorkeling! Expect to see amazing fish, maybe a turtle! (Hope not to have a full-blown panic attack in the middle of the ocean. Wish me luck.)
- Time: ~11:00 AM: Beach time! Sunshine, waves, relaxation. (Or, you know, constantly reapplying sunscreen and swatting away sandflies.)
- Time: ~12:00 PM: Lunch on a pristine beach! (Probably with more selfie stick people, but I'll try to ignore them.)
- Time: ~1:00 PM: More island hopping! Visit another island. Maybe find a starfish. Take a lot of photos and document this experience.
- Time: ~2:00 PM: Back to the apartment. Shower off the salt and sand. Maybe finally sort out that laundry I’ve been ignoring.
- Time: ~3:00 PM: Optional: Explore the local market. Buy souvenirs. Haggle (badly). Get ripped off, but pretend I didn't.
- Time: ~6:00 PM: Dinner! Seek out a restaurant with live music. Embrace the cheesy.
- Time: ~7:00 PM: Write in the daily journal and overthink the experience.
- Time: ~9:00 PM: Bed.
Day 4: Chocolate Hills Redux, and Farewell to Paradise (ish)
- Time: ~7:00 AM: Wake up. Realize I have to leave. Sadness.
- Time: ~8:00 AM: One last breakfast somewhere local, maybe find a breakfast that's memorable.
- Time: ~9:00 AM: One last scenic run or walk
- Time: ~10:00 AM: Time to make the most of the day
- Time: ~11:00 AM: Leave the apartment. Say a fond farewell to the teeny-tiny room.
- Time: ~12:00 PM: Travel to the Airport.
- Time: ~1:00 PM: Plane take-off.
Notes and Random Ramblings:
- Food: I suspect I
Bohol's BEST Backpacker Pad: A's Azotea Apt - Unbeatable Views! (Seriously, What Was I Thinking? A Rambling FAQ)
Okay, spill the beans. Is the view *really* that good? Because “unbeatable” is a bold claim, you know?
Alright, alright, lay off the hyperbole police. Look, I’m gonna be brutally honest here. The first time I clambered up those rickety stairs (more on that later…), I literally gasped. Like a cartoon character who’d just seen a winning lottery ticket. Sea as far as the eye can see, palm trees swaying… it was… *chef's kiss*. Seriously, it's the kind of vista that makes you question your life choices (in a good way!). I was there at sunrise one morning and the colours!! Oh my god, I nearly cried. It's not just "good," it's soul-stirring. And, um… yeah, maybe “unbeatable” is *slightly* dramatic. But mostly accurate. Okay, fine, it's *mostly* amazing.
Tell me more about these "rickety stairs." Are we talking Indiana Jones levels of unsafe?
Okay, deep breath. The stairs. Let's just say they have character. Or rather, they have… *stories*. Each step seems to have a slightly different personality, a history of weathered charm. I'm 90% sure one of them groaned whenever I walked on it. On my first attempt at carrying up a bag of groceries, it literally felt like the entire structure was going to collapse. It made me question everything. I mean, my fitness levels?! The structural integrity of the building?! My life choices again! The good news is, *I* lived to tell the tale. They're safe-ish, definitely add to the charm, and give you a killer leg workout. Consider it a daily dose of adventure… and a potential insurance claim, depending on your coordination. Just take it slow and maybe bring a walking stick… or a rosary. Whatever gets you through the day.
What's the vibe like in the apartment itself? Cluttered? Minimalist? Instagram-worthy?
Okay, truth bomb time. It's… not exactly ready for Architectural Digest. Minimalist? Nope. Instagram-worthy? Depends on your aesthetic. The place is cozy. You've got the essentials, and then some. It has its own kind of charm. It’s lived-in. It reminded me of that cool, quirky aunt who always has the most interesting stories. Stuff laid about. A few souvenirs. It's got a… *personality*. What I love most is the porch. I spent hours out there. The space is great for relaxing after a day's exploration. I wouldn't have it any other way!
Is it actually clean? This is important, people. No one wants cockroach roommates.
Cleanliness is… subjective, right? Okay, I’ll be honest here. It’s not a sterile, hospital-grade environment. You're in the tropics! You are going to see the occasional… let's call them "local residents." I had a close encounter with a tiny gecko who was quite the character. Overall, the apartment is clean enough. Just the kind of clean that makes you feel like you're truly experiencing the local culture... even if that culture includes sharing your space with some six-legged friends. Also, bring bug spray. Trust me on this one.
What kind of amenities are available? Is there Wi-Fi? Air conditioning?
Listen, this is a backpacker pad, not a luxury resort. Wi-Fi existed… but it could be temperamental. Think more "intermittent connection" than "blazing fast." Air conditioning? Nope! It’s the real deal, you know? Embrace the natural breeze! Fan did the trick, and the view more than made up for it. Amenities-wise, you'll get the basics. Don't expect a spa or a Michelin-starred chef. The real luxury is the view and the feeling of being completely off the grid.
Okay, I'm sold on the view. But what about the location? Is it near the tourist traps or more secluded?
Perfectly balanced. It's a bit off the beaten path, which is a serious bonus! You get the peace and quiet you crave. The tourist hub is not a distance that is impossible. You could ride a bike, or take a taxi, but mostly, you'll be away from the crowds. You can go anywhere by scooter, which is awesome, and makes finding the place a breeze.
Any tips for making the most of staying there?
1. **Embrace the stairs.** They are your friend! …Eventually. 2. **Get up for sunrise**. Seriously. Do it. Even if you're not a morning person, the view is worth the pain. 3. **Bring bug spray**, and maybe a mosquito net. 4. **Pack light.** You don't want to haul a giant suitcase up those stairs. Trust me. 5. **Stock up on groceries and snacks**. 6. **Relax**. Soak in the view. Read a book. Just *be*. This is what it's all about! 7. **Breathe.** Seriously. It's a long climb.
Would you stay there again? Honestly.
Yes. Absolutely, emphatically, YES. Despite the stairs (I'm still having nightmares, just kidding, kinda), the occasional insect visitor, and the temperamental internet, I would go back in a heartbeat. The view, the peace, the feeling of being truly *away* from it all… it’s worth it. Just pack light, wear sensible shoes, and prepare to fall in love with Bohol. And maybe, just maybe, bring a friend to help me carry up my luggage next time…
