Paradise Found: Mackie's Place Unit A, Palawan's Modern Oasis
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because after this review, you're either going to be booking a flight to El Nido, or you're going to be utterly, irrevocably over me. I'm aiming for the first one, naturally. This is about Paradise Found: Mackie's Place Unit A, Palawan's Modern Oasis. Let's get messy. Let's get real. And, let's try not to accidentally manifest a vacation for ourselves in the process.
First Impressions: The Glamour & the Glitch (Spoiler Alert: It's Human!)
Right off the bat, "Modern Oasis" is a bold claim. And honestly? Mackie's Place leans into it. The first thing that hits you, assuming you arrive amidst the glorious chaos of El Nido, is the… well, the air conditioning in the lobby. Bless the engineers of the world. It's a blessed relief. The check-in was…look, let's be honest. I am a disaster at remembering things. I had lost my wallet (again!), which meant frantic calls to the front desk! The staff were so incredibly patient (and bless them all for the extra help!). Contactless check-in is a godsend, but I still needed a human to help (more proof that humans are inherently messy).
Rooms: A Sanctuary, or Just Another Hotel Room? (It Depends)
Okay, the rooms. They're… good. Really good. The "Modern Oasis" vibe holds up. Think clean lines, a calming color palette, and enough space to actually breathe - not just exist. I’m talking about the additional toilet. You can't underestimate that! The blackout curtains were my best friend (hello, post-beach nap!), and the high floor meant stunning views.
Let me tell you about the shower. Oh, the shower. It was glorious. The water pressure was divine. Plus, it had some very good toiletries . I swear, the shampoo smelled like a tropical island, and I am absolutely going back if just for the shampoo!
There’s also Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, which, let’s be real, is a necessity. Also, Internet access – wireless, Internet access – LAN…they’ve got you covered, tech-nerds. The rooms are non-smoking, which is excellent (I'm a reformed smoker but still appreciate the space to breathe) and have smoke detectors. I found the robes and complimentary tea and coffee/tea maker in the room to be incredibly nice as well.
BUT - and there's always a but, right? - my room had a slight "hum" that I couldn't quite pinpoint. Apparently, it needed a repair. I can't entirely blame the hotel for what happens. The staff were quick to offer a room change, but honestly, I was too lazy to pack after a long travel day. It just goes to show that even in paradise, things aren't always perfect.
Dining: Food, Glorious Food (And Maybe a Little Bit of "Where's the Chili?")
The restaurant! Oh, the restaurant. They had Asian, International, and Vegetarian cuisine. I’m obsessed with the Desserts in restaurant! The bar had a very good happy hour.
The breakfast [buffet] was… well, a buffet. Which is, of course, a beautiful thing. The asian breakfast, which included rice congee and dim sum, was great. They had a A la carte in restaurant option, if you don’t do buffets. I love the Coffee/tea in restaurant, but don't forget the bottle of water! The Snack bar and Poolside bar were also available.
However (again with the buts!), sometimes the service was a little slow, and I, as a devoted chili-head, was disappointed by the lack of any readily available chili sauce. A tragedy, I know. The other offerings were great: salad in restaurant, soup in restaurant.
Relaxation & Pampering: Spa Dreams (and maybe a little bit of a sunburn)
The Swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous, trust me! The Pool with view is the best part! But let's talk about the spa. The spa is where it's at. I absolutely enjoyed the Body scrub . I was tempted to get a Body wrap, but the sun was already making me golden. The Massage was heavenly. Then again, like half the world, me going to the sauna, then going the steamroom and then straight into the Fitness center? Not my cup of tea. However! I did enjoy the Foot bath!
Cleanliness & Safety: Sanitized and Sensible (and Maybe a Little Overkill)
Alright, let's get real about the safety stuff. They've really thought about it. Daily disinfection in common areas. Rooms sanitized between stays. Professional-grade sanitizing services. Hand sanitizer everywhere. Anti-viral cleaning products. Sterilizing equipment. Safe dining setup. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. They're taking it seriously, which, in the modern world, is reassuring. They even have Individually-wrapped food options. It's a little bit overwhelming, honestly. But I can't fault them for trying to keep everyone safe because they also had a Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit. Bonus points for the Hygiene certification!
Accessibility:
This is where things get a little murky. The website advertises Facilities for disabled guests and elevator, but the specifics weren't readily available. I would strongly recommend contacting the hotel directly if this is a priority.
Value for Money:
Look, El Nido isn't cheap. But compared to some of the other places, Mackie's Place felt like decent value. You're paying for the modern comfort, the location, the spa, and the peace of mind.
Things to Do (Beyond Lounging):
This is El Nido, people! It's about island hopping, snorkeling, and getting utterly lost in the turquoise water. Mackie's Place, with its airport transfer and bicycle parking, made it easy to get out there and explore.
Services & Conveniences (The Boring, But Important Stuff):
They have all the usual things: Concierge, Doorman, Luggage storage, Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Daily housekeeping. Cash withdrawal. Currency exchange. The non-smoking rooms are a plus.
For the Kids:
I don't have kids, so I can't speak to this from personal experience, but they have Babysitting service.
Getting Around:
You can easily catch a Taxi service or ask them for car park [free of charge].
The Pitch (My Honest, Slightly Imperfect Recommendation):
Are you ready for a slice of paradise that’s both stylish and sensible? Do you dream of waking up in a room where you can finally breathe after a long flight, sinking into a cloud-soft bed, and then heading down for a breakfast that's a true delight? (Or perhaps you want an alternative meal arrangement after your first big indulgence?)
Mackie’s Place Unit A is not just a hotel; it's a modern oasis in the heart of El Nido. But, I’ll be honest: it’s not perfect. And it’s probably better that way. Life doesn't come perfectly packaged. Be prepared for a few small hiccups (like a slightly "humming" room). But, what you gain are gorgeous rooms, a delightful pool, excellent spa, a team that genuinely cares, and a perfect launchpad to explore the breathtaking beauty of Palawan.
They are definitely trying, and they have many things to offer!
Here’s the deal: Book your stay at Mackie's Place Unit A today. Get ready to be pampered, rejuvenated, and maybe even a little bit changed.
I give Mackie's Place a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Go. Just go.
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Pomorie Seaside Apartments Await!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's pre-packaged vacation itinerary. We're going to MACKIE'S PLACE UNIT A (Modern House) in Palawan, Philippines. It's going to be less "smooth sailing" and more "slightly-unhinged-but-loving-every-second-of-it-and-constantly-questioning-my-life-choices." Ready? Let's get messy.
Day 1: Arrival & The Island Shuffle (aka, "Did I pack enough sunscreen?")
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Fly into Puerto Princesa (PPS). You know, the usual. But hold up, the usual involves that weird pre-flight anxiety where you're convinced you forgot your passport, even though you checked it five times. This time, I almost DID. Thank GOD for my obsessive-compulsive packing. Airport chaos. The smell of duty-free perfume and the general air of "everyone's pretending to be relaxed." Finally, we land!!! Hurray for not being late!
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM): The great transport hunt begins. Arranging transport from the airport to Mackie's Place is an ordeal. The driver… well, let's just say his driving style was "aggressive optimism." We weave in and out of traffic, dodging motorbikes and stray chickens (seriously, the chickens). After a journey that lasted approximately forever, we reach Mackie's Place. It’s a modern house, so sleek and minimalist that I instinctively worry I’ll knock something over. "Oh, is that a design feature?" "No, you just bumped it." Realization sinks in: I forgot to change my money! Panic induced.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Unpack. Or, "attempt to unpack while battling jet lag and a crippling fear of spiders." Found a cute little gecko on the wall! He's kind of a friend. I'm sure he's judging my questionable clothing choices, but he's silent about it. Thank goodness.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Sunset stroll. This is what I came here for. Pure, unadulterated, jaw-dropping beauty. The sky explodes with color. Seriously. The ocean is glittering. My phone's camera simply cannot capture this. I'm going to be staring at the sunset every day. And I'm going to miss it when I leave. My first night feeling in the modern house: safe and sound with no one to bother - a luxurious treat.
- Evening (8:00 PM onwards): Dinner. Local food market. So exciting! My stomach, however, is in a state of cautious optimism. Trying everything. Everything is delicious, but I'm already feeling the effects of too much sunshine and food. "Maybe this is what paradise feels like?", I think, before practically collapsing into bed.
Day 2: Island Hopping & My Existential Crisis in a Kayak (aka, "Is this what freedom feels like, or just sunburn?")
- Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Wake up. Stare at the ceiling. Wonder if I dreamed all of yesterday. Breakfast on the balcony with a view of the ocean. Bliss. Now the real adventure begins.
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM): Island hopping tour! We're talking hidden lagoons, secret beaches, and snorkeling that might actually change your life. The coral is vibrant! The fish are… judging my flailing attempts to snorkel. I swallowed some seawater. It was salty.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM): Lunch on a deserted beach. This is what it's all about. Freshly grilled seafood, the sound of the waves, and the feeling of sand between your toes. Then, the existential crisis. Sitting in a kayak, paddling through the most stunning turquoise water I've ever seen, it hits me. "What am I ARE DOING WITH MY LIFE?" Is this all there is? Is this everything? Of course not. It’s the best part.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): More snorkeling, more sun. More sunburn. Note to self: Reapply sunscreen. Religiously. The sea is clear, I can see the fish, the water is calm and soothing. I don't want to leave.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Dinner. This time, I'm braver and I order the local delicacies. More delicious food. More questionable decisions. Another amazing sunset. The cycle of sunsets are mesmerizing. The days become hours, and the hours, minutes. It's like time has stopped.
Day 3: The Underground River & Questioning Modern Comforts (aka, "Is it worth it? Yes, absolutely yes!")
- Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Head to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. We're talking UNESCO World Heritage site, people. The ride there is LONG. The roads are bumpy. The driver is, bless his heart, trying.
- Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Wow. Just wow. I was worried it would be a tourist trap. I was wrong. The boat ride through the underground river is eerie and breathtaking. The rock formations are stunning. The silence is profound. My inner voice is shouting, "This is why you travel!"
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Lunch near the park. Decided on some fresh coconut water. It was so good! I feel like a changed person.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Back to the modern house. The journey is again long. The thought of some proper rest is all that keeps me happy.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Back at Mackie’s, I'm starting to appreciate the modern comforts. Hot showers, running water, clean sheets. A true contrast to the raw, natural beauty.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Last dinner. I am slightly sad that my adventure is nearly over, but I know this won't be the last. Another beautiful sunset to send me off to sleep, full of gratitude.
Day 4: Departure & The Post-Vacation Blues (aka, "Did it all really happen?")
- Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Wake up. Pack. Wonder where all the clean clothes went. Say goodbye to the gecko. Promise to visit again.
- Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Transport to the airport. The driver is late. Stress levels are rising. Remember to breathe.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM onward): Depart from Puerto Princesa. The plane takes off. The reality of life settles in. But the memories! The sunrises, the sunsets, the fish, the food, the existential crisis in a kayak…
- Note: I will be back.
Okay, so, *Paradise Found: Mackie's Place Unit A*... sounds a bit... ambitious. Is it *actually* paradise? Because, let's be real, that's usually a lie, right?
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because I'm about to get REAL with you. Paradise? Look, Palawan in general? Friggin' gorgeous. Mackie's Place Unit A? Well... it's *part* of paradise. Let's just say it's like paradise's slightly eccentric, chill cousin. You're not going to find perfect. You're going to find... well, let me put it this way. Remember that time your GPS told you to drive straight into a lake? Things were like that, initially. Finding Mackie's place after a 12-hour travel day was like a treasure hunt curated by a mischievous toddler. But! And this is a BIG but... the moment I stepped onto that little balcony, overlooking the almost comically turquoise water... Yeah, there's something *close* to heavenly about that. Not perfect, but definitely… a ‘hell, yeah, I made the right choice’ kind of moment.
The pictures online... they look *pristine*. Is it all staged perfection, or is there some actual ‘lived-in’ vibe? Because I'm allergic to overly-styled places.
Staged perfection? God, I loathe that! Let me be brutally honest, I went in skeptical. You know how it is, right? Instagram vs. reality. The reality? Well, it's definitely more *lived-in* than the glossy photos suggest. Which is a good thing, in my book. There were seashells on the windowsill. A slightly wonky (but charming) painting of a sunset. And, bless their hearts, they had a little welcome basket with some local snacks. Now, the snacks weren't exactly gourmet. Think along the lines of... well, imagine a bag of chips opened just a *little* too long. But the thought! The effort! It screamed, "We're not pretending to be a five-star resort, we're just happy you're here!" And honestly? That kind of authenticity is priceless. Plus, and this is important, the *bedding* was incredibly comfortable. Like, "could sleep for a week" comfortable. And you know how important that is after a long day of struggling to find the place.
Can I get a decent cup of coffee there? Because I'm a grumpy human without my caffeine.
Okay, coffee is SERIOUS business. I'm with you. Let’s be honest, if you *need* a perfectly crafted latte with oat milk and three different types of syrup, you're probably in the wrong place. Mackie's Place doesn't have a barista. They had a coffee machine, which, let's say, got the job done. It was instant coffee, yeah. And I'll be real: on day ONE, I was a *little* horrified. Like, visions of my own grumpiness danced in my head. But! And here's the thing. You're in Palawan. You're surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The lack of a fancy coffee shop forces you to adjust. To... improvise. I ended up just embracing the instant, and you know what? Watching the sunrise over the water, with a somewhat questionable cup of caffeine in hand? It surprisingly hit the spot. Accept the imperfection. You'll survive. (Though, I did sneak in a few of those instant coffee packet from a local store, just in case.).
How's the Wi-Fi? Because, you know, gotta stay connected (even if I'm trying to disconnect).
Oh, the Wi-Fi. (deep sigh). Look, let's be honest, you're going to Palawan. You need to accept that the Wi-Fi is going to be... well, a *character*. It’s not the blazing-fast, stream-anything-you-want connection of the modern world. More like the "reminds you of the dial-up connection in 1998" variety. I'm not going to lie, I had a few moments where I wanted to hurl my laptop into the sea. Trying to upload a single photo? A minor act of torture. But, and this is the silver lining, it forced me to *actually* disconnect. To put down my phone. To look at the freaking sunset. And, honestly? I probably needed that. So, yeah, the Wi-Fi is a bit… unreliable. But in a weird way, it might be the best part. Just download some Netflix shows beforehand. You’ve been warned.
What's the deal with the location? Easy to get around? Close to stuff? Basically, am I going to be stranded?
Alright, location, location, location! It's not smack in the middle of the "action," which, to be honest, is part of its charm. It's a little tucked away, which, as I mentioned before, made finding it an adventure in itself. Getting around? You’re basically relying on tricycles (those little motorbike sidecars) and that’s what you should get used to. It’s not ideal. You'll have to haggle. You might get a bit sweaty. But it's also part of the experience. The tricycle drivers are usually friendly and the rides are incredibly cheap. The place is close to the beach yeah. and some restaurants. Now, ‘close’ is a relative term – don’t expect to stroll to a Michelin-starred restaurant. But there are decent, reasonably priced eateries within a tricycle ride. The market, some of the popular beaches, and the other tourist attractions are also accessible. It's secluded enough to feel like you've escaped the crowds, but not so remote that you're completely cut off. Think of it like this: you're not stranded, just… encouraged to embrace a slower pace of life and maybe learn a few basic Tagalog phrases.
Any hidden fees or nasty surprises I should be aware of? I hate hidden fees. They’re the bane of my existence.
Amen to avoiding hidden fees! Honestly, on that front, Mackie's Place was pretty transparent. They don't try to nickel-and-dime you. The price you see is pretty much the price you pay, which is a massive relief. No sudden charges for "resort fees" or "cleaning fees" that come out of nowhere. But (and there's always a but, isn't there?) be aware of the tricycle fares if you use them a lot. They can add up. Stock up on water and snacks at the local market to avoid paying inflated prices at tourist spots. Aside from that, they're pretty straightforward. And they also had really nice and caring staff that were not trying to oversell. They genuinely cared about guests feeling great!
Okay, the most important question: Would you go back? Be brutally honest. And what *really* made it memorable?
Post a Comment for "Paradise Found: Mackie's Place Unit A, Palawan's Modern Oasis"