Uncover Paradise: The Ridge at Coron, Palawan - Your Dream Getaway Awaits!
Uncover Paradise: The Ridge at Coron, Palawan - My Honestly Messy, Beautiful Review!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn’t going to be your typical hotel review. Forget the perfectly polished prose. Forget the robotic descriptions. We're diving headfirst into The Ridge at Coron, Palawan, and honestly, I'm still buzzing from the experience – and maybe a little sunburnt. So, here we go!
Accessibility & Getting There:
First things first: accessibility. Listen, I'm not mobility-impaired, but I appreciate a place that thinks about everyone. The Ridge, thankfully, has some good options. It boasts, "Facilities for disabled guests," but honestly, I couldn't find a ton of specifics online before I went. A bit more info there would be awesome. Getting there? Palawan is a dream, but the flights can be a bit…unpredictable. Consider that. Airport transfer is offered, which is a lifesaver after a long flight. Taxi service is an option too, but plan ahead. And finally, free Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], and Car power charging station – a big plus for anyone renting or bringing their own car.
Internet – The Lifeline… Mostly:
Okay, let's be real: Internet in the Philippines can be… a journey. The Ridge promises, and delivers on "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" and "Internet access – wireless," and "Internet access – LAN." Which is good, especially if you’re working remotely or like me, need to post that perfect sunset pic on Instagram. But temper your expectations. It’s Palawan. Connection can be spotty at times. During my stay, I needed to get some work done, and I realized I really needed the LAN for a stable connection. I made a quick trip to the front desk, and they were happy to provide it. They also provide Wi-Fi for special events.
Rooms That Actually Let You Breathe!
Now, the actual room, my friends… chef's kiss. My room had Air conditioning, (thank GOD), a ridiculously comfy bed, and blackout curtains that were a lifesaver for sleeping in. Seriously, the room was a sanctuary. They offer Non-smoking rooms, but they don’t list "Pets allowed". The shower was fantastic, with Separate shower/bathtub and they stock it with toiletries. They even had a scale because apparently, I always need to know how heavy I am, even on vacation. Other great features include Bathrobes Hair dryer, Coffee/tea maker, (essential for me), a desk to work at, in-room safe box, and they even provide Complimentary tea (they know the way to my heart!) The Soundproofing was also a huge plus, considering the ahem lively karaoke scene nearby sometimes.
I’m not going to lie, there was a small glitch. My alarm clock didn’t work. It was a tiny thing, but for someone who needed to wake up early for a boat trip the next day, it was a bit of a panic. Thankfully, the wake-up service was a charm. Minor detail, but I’m being honest here! I felt well-rested.
Dining, Drinking, & Snacking – Oh My!
Alright, food. Let's talk food! The Ridge has you covered, and this is where I got really excited! They advertise a TON of options.
- Restaurants: Yes! Plural! Restaurants.
- Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant: Good start. They claim to have Vegetarian restaurant on-site.
- A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant: Options!
- Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Breakfast in room, Breakfast takeaway service: Even better!
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Thank you, sweet baby Jesus.
- Desserts in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant: I love food!
- Poolside bar, Bar, Happy hour: Yes, yes, and YES.
- Snack bar: Midnight cravings sorted!
- Room service [24-hour]: Because sometimes, you just need pizza in your pajamas.
- Bottle of water: Always appreciated.
- Alternative meal arrangement: For any special dietary needs.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: It made me feel safe!
One day specifically, I decided to go to the poolside bar. It was around 3 PM. I was feeling lazy in the sun. I wanted to order a margarita. But I was a little hungry. I saw that they have A la carte in restaurant, and a buffet. Perfect! I ordered some calamari and a perfectly crafted margarita. Talk about a relaxing afternoon! The food wasn't Michelin star, but it was perfectly good, and definitely hit the spot.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Paradise Found!
Okay, this is where The Ridge truly shines. They have a boatload of options:
- Swimming pool [outdoor], Pool with view: Need I say more?
- Gym/fitness, Fitness center: Good for those who hate feeling guilty after a week of eating.
- Spa, Spa/sauna, Sauna, Steamroom: Yes! Yes! Yes! And yes!
- Massage, Body scrub, Body wrap: Ah, the good life!
- Foot bath: Never tried it, but excited to do so next time.
- For the kids, Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: Okay, for parents who need a break, this should be a deal-breaker!
- Things to do: You’re in Coron! Scuba diving, island hopping, kayaking… the list is endless. Just ask the concierge (more on them later).
During my stay, I spent a whole afternoon at the spa. I had a massage, and it was utterly blissful. The masseuse was incredibly skilled, and the atmosphere was pure zen. The sun was streaming through the windows, and I could hear the gentle sounds of the ocean. It was the perfect escape, and I highly recommend it.
Cleanliness & Safety – My Peace of Mind:
In the current climate, safety is everything. I was genuinely impressed with their hygiene protocols:
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Excellent.
- Cashless payment service Awesome!
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Reassuring.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere.
- Hot water linen and laundry washing: Necessary.
- Hygiene certification: They're taking this seriously.
- Individually-wrapped food options: Smart.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: Much appreciated.
- Professional-grade sanitizing services: Good to know.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Nice option.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Standard.
- Safe dining setup: Makes me feel safe to eat.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Important.
- Sterilizing equipment: A must.
- CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property: Makes you feel slightly more secure.
- Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, Smoke detector: Yay for safety!
- Safe dining setup: They made an effort.
- Doctor/nurse on call, First aid kit: Always good to have.
Services & Conveniences – The Little Things That Matter:
The Ridge did a great job of handling all those little things that make a stay easier:
- Cash withdrawal, Currency exchange: Convenient.
- Concierge, Front desk [24-hour], Doorman: Helpful staff.
- Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, Ironing service, Dry cleaning: Score!
- Elevator: Helpful (if you're not in the mood for stairs).
- Luggage storage: Always needed.
- Facilities for disabled guests: Important.
- Food delivery: Awesome (if you feel lazy).
- Gift/souvenir shop: Impulse buys, get ready for it!
- Invoice provided: So, you can get you business trip expenses reimbursed.
- Safety deposit boxes: Always a must.
- Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, Seminars: Good for business travelers.
- Business facilities, Xerox/fax in business center: Great.
- Car park [on-site] Is a huge relief.
- Convenience store: A must when the late night snack urge strikes.
- Contactless check-in/out, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private]: This made the process so easy.
- Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: Perfect for family holidays.
- Smoking area: If you smoke, you're definitely in luck!
- Terrace: I really enjoyed spending time on my
The Ridge & The Rustle of Reality: A Coron, Palawan Diary (Definitely Not Perfect)
Okay, so, let's be honest. This trip to The Ridge in Coron, Palawan? Hoped for paradise. Expected Instagram glory. Probably gonna end up looking more like a lost puppy in a Speedo at some point. Here we go…
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (and Sipping Calamansi Juice)
- 8:00 AM: The alarm screams, a brutal reminder of the pre-dawn taxi to the airport in Manila. I swore I’d packed! Did I? Panic ensues. Turns out, yes. Whew. Crisis averted. (See, I’m already messing up the schedule. Note to self: pack the day before.)
- 11:00 AM: Touchdown in Coron. The humidity hits you like a warm, sticky hug. Or maybe it’s more like a sweaty handshake from a stranger. Either way, it’s intense. The airport? Small, but overflowing with that vacation-y, "I'm finally away from my emails!" energy. I spot a guy in a Hawaiian shirt practically vibrating with excitement. I get it. We’re all escaping something.
- 12:00 PM: Transferred to The Ridge. The road - a bumpy, dusty affair. You'd swear you were on a roller coaster, and honestly, I was starting to feel a little queasy. But hey, the scenery? Jaw-dropping. Lush green mountains, sapphire waters peeking through… Okay, I can handle some bumps.
- 1:00 PM: Checked into The Ridge. The view from my room… Lord have mercy. Like a postcard, but real. My jaw actually dropped. I need to soak this in. But first… lunch! The restaurant staff greeted me with a smile, offering the best tables to sit at.
- 2:00 PM: Calamansi juice. Pure, citrusy heaven. I think I ordered three. I'm already forgetting all my work stress. Maybe this paradise thing is working.
- 3:00 PM: The pool. Okay, picture it: me, a human-sized sloth, slowly lowering myself into the infinity pool, overlooking the Coron Bay. Pure bliss. Except… someone started loudly playing Pitbull on their phone. Really? Instant buzzkill. (Note to self: invest in noise-cancelling headphones. And maybe a taser for obnoxious poolside DJ's. Just kidding… mostly.)
- 4:00 PM: Wandering around the area of The Ridge. Realizing the climb up some stairs I did earlier was a mistake: I feel like my lungs are trying to escape my body. Must. Pace. Myself. This is not the kind of "exercise” I signed up for. Also, noticed some of the locals and how friendly they are. It's all so… peaceful. And yet, I’m still wondering if I packed enough sunscreen.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the resort restaurant. Grilled fish, rice, a local beer. Simple, perfect perfection. Watched the sunset. It painted the sky in fiery hues. Seriously, the sunsets here? Worth the entire trip. I feel my cynicism… melting. Maybe this trip is going to be good after all.
Day 2: Island Hopping & The Great Snorkel Debacle (or, How I Almost Drowned Myself in Beauty)
- 8:00 AM: Woke up feeling… surprisingly decent. Breakfast: mangoes, pancakes, and coffee. Fuel for adventure! Today, ISLAND HOPPING! Excitement levels are… medium. I'm secretly a bit of a homebody, and the thought of boat rides and crowds… well, it's a push.
- 9:00 AM: Island hopping tour. First stop: Kayangan Lake. The photos online don't do it justice. It’s breathtaking. Crystal-clear water, hidden lagoons… a scene from a movie. I keep thinking, "Is this real life?" But then… I put my mask on.
- 9:30 AM: Snorkeling. And this is where things get… interesting. I'm not a natural. I'm more of a "spluttering-and-panicking-in-the-middle-of-the-ocean" kind of swimmer. My mask kept fogging up. My snorkel kept filling with water. I may or may not have swallowed half the ocean in a desperate attempt to breathe. I surfaced gasping and clinging to the boat for dear life. Humiliating. But the fish! The coral! The sheer beauty… it was worth it. (Even the panicked gulping of saltwater. Maybe.)
- 11:00 AM: Twin Lagoons. Another wow moment. Swimming through a narrow crevice and emerging into… another lagoon. Magical. I even managed to snorkel (relatively) confidently! Small victories!
- 12:00 PM: Lunch on a beach. BBQ fish, rice, more beer. Chatting with the other tourists. A very loud family from New Jersey. A couple on their honeymoon, gazing into each other's eyes (gag). Suddenly the New Jersey family is running around. Turns out the mom got stung on her leg by a jellyfish. Now there's a story.
- 1:00 PM: Skei Beach. Okay, the sand is white and the waters are blue. I'm so glad that there is a beach rest area that has all amenities I need!
- 3:00 PM: Back to The Ridge. Exhausted but exhilarated. Scrubbing off the sunscreen, the salt, the… existential dread? (It's still there, lurking in the shadows.) Contemplating a nap. Definitely need a nap.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. More seafood. More beer. Talking with the lovely staff at The Ridge. They are so warm and welcoming. It's amazing how much a little kindness can do.
- 9:00 PM: Passed out. Absolutely, completely, gloriously passed out. Woke up to the sound of the waves. Now the sun is rising. Now the day begins!
Day 3: The Great Volcano Hike & Existential Dread, Revisited (and Mango Shakes: My New Addiction)
- 8:00 AM: Woke up! Getting really used to the sunrises.
- 9:00 AM: Decided to go to Mount Tapyas. This is where the itinerary hits the wall. I thought it would be a good idea to hike to the top for the sunset. 721 steps! The weather is warm, but the climb isn't. After just 100 steps my legs are burning. But the view is worth it.
- 11:00 AM: We're staying at The Ridge, so we decided to go find some nice restaurants. The staff at the resort are very helpful; we find some great places.
- 1:00 PM: Now we're on this ferry boat heading to the airport. I can see our lovely view up there. I swear, it will be in my memory forever.
- 2:00 PM: We just arrived at the airport. Now we're patiently waiting for our turn to board our flight. I was so excited, but now I am feeling sad.
- 3:00 PM: Okay, we're at the plane. And now the journey ends. This is so beautiful. I would do it all over again.
Final Thoughts (and a Plea for More Mango Shakes):
Was this trip perfect? Absolutely not. Was it life-altering? Maybe. It certainly scratched away at my usual cynicism, reminding me to actually look at the world.
Lessons learned:
- Pack the day before. Seriously.
- Invest in decent snorkeling gear.
- Embrace the bumps in the road (literally and figuratively).
- Mango shakes. They are a cure for everything. Seriously consider making them a food group.
- The people matter. The staff at The Ridge – they made the trip. Their smiles, their warmth… they made me feel welcome.
- Remember to look around and enjoy the moment, enjoy the view. This life is beautiful.
I’m leaving Coron with a tan, a slightly sunburned nose, a pocket full of happy memories and a renewed appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. And already dreaming of the next visit. Because, let's be honest, I need more mango shakes. And maybe another shot at that snorkeling thing… Wish me luck. And, more importantly, remember that it's okay to be a mess. That's part of the fun.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Your Dream Stay at Best Western San Benedetto, Cholet!
Uncover Paradise: The Ridge at Coron FAQs - Because Let's Face It, You Need This!
Seriously, Where *IS* This Place? And Can I Actually Get There?
Alright, picture this: you're Googling "unspoiled beaches," right? And BAM! Coron, Palawan pops up. The Ridge at Coron? It's nestled, and I mean *nestled*, in the heart of this gorgeous part of the Philippines. Think lush greenery, turquoise water... basically, Instagram heaven. Getting there? Well, it's an adventure! Fly into Busuanga Airport (USU), which is surprisingly modern, by the way – way better than I was expecting! From there, it’s a land transfer to the resort. I had a driver who was a *character*! He kept pointing out all the "secret corners"! Roads aren't exactly paved with gold (more like... dirt and dreams), so be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride. But honestly? Part of the charm! And the views during the drive? Worth every jarring pothole.
Okay, Okay, I'm Convinced. How Do I Actually BOOK This Thing Without, You Know, Screwing It Up?
Booking? Easy! (Famous last words, right?) Check their website, or use your favorite travel booking site. But DO IT EARLY. Seriously. Especially if you want a specific room, or if you're traveling during peak season. I almost missed out entirely because I waited too long! Talk about a near-heart attack! Pay attention to those cancellation policies. Life happens, and you might need to change things. And for the love of all that is holy, double-check your dates and names. Nothing screams "disaster" like arriving and realizing you booked the wrong week. This totally happened to my friend, bless her heart. She ended up sleeping on a bench. Don't be her!
What Kind of Rooms Do They *Actually* Have? And Are They Worth the Hype (and the Price Tag)?
Rooms? Oh, sweet, sweet rooms. They have a variety! From more modest, but still lovely, rooms to those luxurious villas with private pools that'll make your jaw drop. I went for a smaller, more budget-friendly option, and honestly? Couldn’t have been happier! It was super comfortable, clean, and the view from my balcony was… *chef’s kiss*… breathtaking. Think about what kind of vibe you're going for before you book. Do you want pure privacy? Go for the villa. Want to be more sociable, with easier access to the main areas? A standard room might be perfect. They're all well-maintained, and the staff are *amazing* at keeping them tidy. I did have one tiny issue - the internet wifi was patchy at times. But hey, it's paradise. Who needs the internet?
Okay, Spill. What About the Amenities? Pool? Spa? Do They Actually Have Good Coffee?!
Amenities! Alright, buckle up. They've got a fantastic infinity pool overlooking the ocean (cue the dreamy sighs). It's seriously stunning, and that's where I spent a SOLID two hours of my trip. They have a spa. Oh, the spa! I got a massage that was so good, I almost fell asleep mid-rubdown. Definitely book that, trust me. As for coffee… yes! They have decent coffee! Thank goodness! A proper coffee is a must in my life! And the restaurant… the food is fantastic. Local dishes, international options… and everything tastes incredibly fresh. I have to give them credit for the variety. I was seriously surprised by how good it was.
What's There To ACTUALLY *DO* Besides Lie Around Being Lazy (Which I Totally Support)?
Okay, yes, lounging is mandatory. But! Coron is packed with adventure! Island hopping is a MUST. They can arrange boat tours right at the resort. Think crystal-clear water, hidden lagoons, incredible snorkeling spots (I saw the most colorful fish ever!), and sunken shipwrecks that are so cool you'll need a drink afterward. I went snorkeling in a reef - it was *incredible*. I'm no expert, but the guide pointed out a sea turtle! I almost lost it with excitement! They also offer kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water activities. And, if you're feeling ambitious, you can climb Mount Tapyas for a stunning sunset view. (I'd recommend taking some water, because that climb is no joke!)
Tell Me About the Island Hopping Tours! Are They Worth the Money? And Should I Bring My Own Snorkel?
YES! The island hopping tours are 100% worth the money. Don’t even think about skimping! You'll get to see the iconic spots: Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoons, and Skeleton Wreck. It's a full day of pure paradise overload. The guides were super knowledgeable and friendly, pointing out all the cool stuff you'd miss if you went solo. Do they provide snorkeling gear? Yes, but you'll probably be more comfortable bringing your own. Mine was a bit foggy, I'll be honest! And bring loads of sunscreen! I got a *nasty* sunburn on my first day because I underestimated the strength of the sun. So, yeah, learn from my mistake. Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses – the whole shebang!
Let's Talk Food! Is the Restaurant Good? And Are Drinks Expensive? (Asking for a Friend... Okay, It's Me.)
The restaurant? Surprisingly good! Considering it's a resort, I wasn't expecting Michelin star quality, but the food was fresh, flavorful, and they had a great selection. I went for the seafood, obvs! Plenty of fresh fish and local dishes. Breakfast? Included! (Hallelujah!) They do a buffet setup, with things like local fruits, pancakes, eggs, and pastries. They also had an amazing view. The drinks? Well… they weren't *cheap*, but they weren't astronomical. Margaritas by the pool? Worth it. Especially after a long day of snorkeling. The sunset happy hours were a great time - think cocktails, snacks and the most unbelievable sky you can imagine. Seriously, I think I took about a thousand photos of the sunset. No regerts!
Is The Ridge at Coron Worth the Money? Be Honest!
<Where To Stay Now
