I made a sudden change of trip itinerary when I had my vacation in Ilo-ilo City last March 12-14, 2010, and part of the changes was the inclusion of a side-trip to Guimaras Island.
I have always known Guimaras as the island which produces the sweetest variety of mango in the world. The island is located in the Panay Gulf, between the islands of Panay and Ilo-ilo.
I never have problem getting to Guimaras Island from Ilo-ilo. There is a regular boat ride heading towards Jordan Wharf (Guimaras) that leaves every 15 minutes from Ortiz Port of Ilo-ilo City. From Jordan Wharf, there are several options in getting to your resort of choice: 1) rent a tricycle, 2) rent a mulitcab or 3) ride a a jeepney. Since I am not really in a hurry, I opted to just ride the jeepney and the process saved me some hundreds of pesos.
There are lots of beach resorts in Guimaras Island. Some of the most popular are Raymen Beach Resort and Baras Beach Resort. I decided to check-in in Guisi Clear Water which is more than one (1) hour ride from the Jordan. I selected Guisi Clear Water because of the good review I have read about one of its satisfied visitor. In addition to the review, I am also thrilled to know that the second oldest light house in the Philippines is in Guisi, as a matter of fact it is just some fifteen minutes walk from Guisi Clear Water.
In all honesty, Guisi Clear Water has a very simple accommodation. Their rooms are just similar to those you will see in the provinces of Cavite but the scenery around the resort is spectacular. Their staffs are very accommodating too! I have read complaints with the staffs and management of Raymen Beach Resort & Baras Beach Resort on internet reviews so I avoided both resorts. Between good customer service and outstanding infrastructure, I go for good customer service.
Guisi Clear Water staffs didn’t fail my expectations, when I wanted mangoes they send someone out to go get some for me. When I wanted to eat squids for lunch and it was not available they did their best to get one so I can have it for dinner. Isn’t that amazing?! Guisi Clear Water should consider though to improve their rooms ( putting wallpapers/paint and installing excellent curtains can already do the trick ) and should improve the flow of water in the bathrooms. Other than that Guisi Clear Water could already be a haven for travelers.
Some of the things that one can find enjoyable in Guimaras other than their sweet mangoes are snorkeling and island hopping. A short visit to the Trappist Monastery is also suggested. There you can find some quiet moment and thank God for all your blessings. They also have a souvenir shop that sell varieties of locally produced delicacies. I personally like their mango bars!
I strongly encourage you, guys, to include a side trip in Guimaras Island in your next trip to Ilo-Ilo City. And discover Guimaras … the island that fits your taste!
I was not disappoint when my husband and i arrived in the Philippines to spend our honeymoon..as a newlywed, we wanted to spend it in a nice, not so expensive and comfortable place.
Comment by Maricar delos Santos — April 7, 2010 @ 7:15 am |
do you have pictures of the rooms in guisi clear water resort? i want to know what it looks like b4 i make my reservations. thank you! nice blog.
Comment by gladys santos — December 5, 2010 @ 4:31 pm |