Villa Maria Luisa Hotel

I haven’t stayed at the hotel yet, but I’ve used the pool. It’s a basic, spacious pool with a kiddie section, and the staff are great. It’s enjoyable, though not the place for you if you don’t like being around kids.

I expected more from a hotel that’s quite expensive for a small town. At check-in I thought the basic amenities most hotels provide would be included, or at least available on request without extra fees. Instead, even bedroom slippers, a toothbrush, and a kettle cost extra. That was disappointing for VML, which is considered a luxury hotel locally. The experience felt more focused on making money than on looking after guests.

The staff were the sweetest and friendliest I’ve ever experienced, always smiling and laughing. The pool was clean, and although the rooms were old, they were spotless. I felt at home. I tried to book online for three weeks, but every app said it was fully booked. I emailed to request a booking and got no reply. Then I arrived and found so many vacant rooms. It’s losing business because booking a room seems almost impossible.

The view is great, but I can’t say much else in its favor. The furniture is old and dingy, the room isn’t cleaned properly, the shower’s hot water doesn’t work right, and the AC doesn’t cool the room. At P2000, those issues might be forgivable, but rooms with a double bed cost P4000-P7000. For that kind of price, it should be a 5-star hotel, and it definitely isn’t. There are much better-value hotels nearby.