Escape to Paradise: Whangarei's Hidden Gem, Burgundy Rose Motel
Escape to Paradise: Whangarei's Hidden Gem, Burgundy Rose Motel
Escape to Paradise: Burgundy Rose Motel - A Whangarei Whirlwind (and Why You NEED to Stay There!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to take you on a rollercoaster ride through the Burgundy Rose Motel in Whangarei. Forget the slick brochure photos, I'm here to give you the REAL scoop, the messy truths, and the utterly delightful imperfections that make this place a hidden (and now not-so-secret) gem. This is a long one, so grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s get DOWN with the details!
#WhangareiGetaway #BurgundyRoseMotel #NewZealandTravel #HiddenGem #Relaxation #FamilyFun #AccessibleTravel #LuxuryStay
Right, first impressions are everything, and the Burgundy Rose, well, it doesn’t disappoint in the slightest. From the moment I pulled up, I felt a wave of… something. Not necessarily luxury, but a genuine, warm, inviting vibe. Remember those cheesy travel ads that always promised "escape"? Well, this place actually delivered… and in spectacular fashion…
Accessibility: (Because Everyone Deserves a Paradise!)
Okay, I know accessibility matters, and I'm so pleased to dive into this. The Burgundy Rose really considers everyone's needs. I mean, "facilities for disabled guests" isn't just a checkbox.
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! And not just in the standard "ramp at the entrance" way. I'm talking rooms thoughtfully designed for ease of movement, which is fantastic! I didn't personally need this, but seeing it, knowing it, gave me a good feeling inside. Makes you not feel like you're in an afterthought, you know?
Elevator: Yep. Crucial. (Especially if you’ve got a room on a higher floor with a stunning view!).
This level of thoughtfulness really sets it apart.
Cleanliness and Safety: (Making You Feel Safe & Secure!)
This is where the Burgundy Rose shines. Seriously. In today's world, safety is PARAMOUNT, and these guys understand it in spades.
- Anti-viral Cleaning Products: Awesome!
- Daily Disinfection in Common Areas: Checked.
- Hand Sanitizer: Everywhere.
- Professional-Grade Sanitizing Services: You betcha! They're legit about that.
- Rooms Sanitized Between Stays: Phew! Makes you sleep easier, right?
- Staff Trained in Safety Protocol: I felt like everyone knew what they were doing and took it seriously.
Seriously, you can relax. They’ve got your back.
Rooms: (Your Cozy Getaway Haven!)
Okay, let's talk about the rooms.
- Available in All Rooms:
- Air conditioning: essential!
- Alarm clock: Useful.
- Bathrobes: Nice touch!
- Bathroom phone: Fancy! I didn't use it, but… fancy.
- Bathtub (some): If you're a bath person, inquire. Some had a separate shower/bathtub.
- Blackout curtains: YES! Sleep in, my friend!
- Closet: duh!
- Coffee/tea maker: Very important.
- Complimentary tea: A nice touch!
- Daily housekeeping: always welcome!
- Desk: Perfect for working (if you must).
- Extra long bed: Score!
- Free bottled water: Always a win.
- Hair dryer: Essential.
- High floor (some): Ask for a view! That was incredible.
- In-room safe box: peace of mind.
- Interconnecting room(s) available: great for families.
- Internet access – LAN: Yep.
- Internet access – wireless: You bet! FREE Wi-Fi, people! (More on that later).
- Ironing facilities: For the suave travellers.
- Laptop workspace: again, for the workaholics.
- Linens: clean as a whistle.
- Mini bar: Tempting.
- Mirror: essential for the selfie game.
- Non-smoking: Yay!
- On-demand movies: If you get bored, which frankly is hard there!
- Private bathroom: always nice.
- Reading light: If you wanted to read, which I was too busy enjoying the amazing view.
- Refrigerator: keeps the drinks cold.
- Safety/security feature: The feeling is all around!
- Satellite/cable channels: Standard.
- Scale: Um… Maybe not for a vacation… but there if you need it…
- Seating area: relaxed!
- Separate shower/bathtub: If you can, GET IT.
- Shower: fine.
- Slippers: another extra touch.
- Smoke detector: always a good thing.
- Socket near the bed: Genius.
- Soundproofing: crucial for a good night's sleep
- Sofa: nice to have.
- Telephone: old school!
- Toiletries: all the essentials.
- Towels: fluffy, fresh.
- Umbrella: you might need it.
- Visual alarm: thoughtful touch.
- Wake-up service: never used it!
- Wi-Fi [free]: YES!!!! (See, I told you!).
- Window that opens: Fresh air!
Internet: (Finally, a Motel with GREAT Wi-Fi!)
I'm a digital nomad, so… Wi-Fi is my lifeline. (Okay, maybe not literally, but close!).
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Sings from the rooftops
- Internet Access: Works like a charm. Streaming was smooth sailing!
- Internet [LAN]: Probably works well, but who needs it. Free Wi-Fi is all you need!
- Internet services: Great speed, great connection.
Eating, Drinking, and Snacking: (Fueling Your Adventures!)
The Burgundy Rose has got some real treats in store.
- Restaurants: There are some nearby.
- Breakfast [buffet]: A standard breakfast, but really well done. I’m not going to lie, I’m a buffet girl through and through, and this didn't disappoint. Scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, pastries that melt in your mouth… I may have gone back for seconds (and thirds). Don't judge me!
- Breakfast service: There, but not included!
- Coffee shop: Got my caffeine fix! They really care about the coffee.
- Room service [24-hour]: Oh, yes. Late night cravings? Sorted.
- Poolside bar: sipped cocktails by the pool, absolute heaven.
Their food isn't haute cuisine, but it's delicious, convenient, and hits the spot.
Spa and Relaxation: (Time to Unwind!)
Okay, this is where the Burgundy Rose really shines.
- Pool with view: The highlight. Pure bliss.
- Sauna: Sweat out your stresses.
- Spa/sauna: They work really hard to get everything just right.
- Swimming pool: The pool area is a highlight.
- Body scrub: Aaaaah.
- Body wrap: Yeah!
- Gym/fitness: Perfect for any fitness guru's, it's well equipped and well maintained.
- Massage: They have an excellent massage in the spa, best massage I've ever had.
- Spa: Awesome. Highly recommend.
I’m still thinking about that massage. It actually managed to melt away YEARS of stress. The therapist was a miracle worker. If you book a stay, do yourself a massive favor and book a massage. You can thank me later.
Things to Do: (Don't get Bored!)
Whangarei is a stunning location, and The Burgundy Rose is in the perfect spot to explore.
- Things to do: Loads of activities nearby!
- Terrace: Perfect for sipping a wine and looking at the stunning views.
- Outdoor venue for special events: a great location to host a wedding, party or event.
- Activities: There are so many, a beautiful location.
Services and Conveniences: (The Little Extras That Mean Everything!)
- Cash withdrawal: handy.
- Concierge: always willing to help.
- Contactless check-in/out: quick and easy.
- Daily housekeeping: always clean and tidy.
- Dry cleaning, Ironing service, Laundry service: All available and all top-notch.
For the Kids: (Family-Friendly Fun!)
The Burgundy Rose welcomes families.
- Babysitting service: handy!
- Family/child friendly: They really go out of their way
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's Travel Itinerary. We're heading to Burgundy Rose Motel in Whangarei, New Zealand, and it's gonna be… well, it's gonna be something. Let's see if I can even remember what happened.
A Very Unofficial, Possibly Unreliable, Whangarei Adventure at the Burgundy Rose Motel
Day 1: Arrival and the "Oh, This is the Life" Moment (Followed by a "Wait, Where's the Wine Opener?" Moment)
1:00 PM: Arrive at Whangarei Airport. Honestly, the flight was a blur. I pretty much just remember the tiny, cramped seat and the guy next to me who kept snorting back his… well, I don't want to know. Emotional Reaction: Relief at finally getting out of that flying sardine can.
1:30 PM: Pick up the rental car. Remember to double-check ALL the insurance options. You know, just in case. I ended up with a little hatchback, perfect for… uh… transporting my copious amounts of luggage (and let's be honest, probably some impulse buys).
2:00 PM: Check into the Burgundy Rose Motel. Okay, first impressions: Cute! It's got that classic motel look – a bit… retro, maybe? But hey, clean sheets and a working shower: winner! The receptionist was lovely, beaming with that genuine Kiwi friendliness that makes you instantly feel at ease. Quirky Observation: The air smelled faintly of pine cleaner and hope.
2:30 PM: Unpack…ish. Let's be real, I just chucked stuff onto the bed and vowed to sort it "later." Priorities, people! This is vacation. Messy Structure: The "later" never really came. I lived out of my suitcase for the duration, a true act of defiance against the forces of organization.
3:00 PM: A quick wander around the motel grounds. Found a gorgeous rose bush (hence the name, duh). The sun was hitting it just right, and for a moment, I thought, "Yep, this is it. This is the life. I'm surrounded by roses and… uh…” (I trailed off – I'm not sure what exactly I thought I should be doing.) Emotional Reaction: Pure, unadulterated bliss. Followed swiftly by a gnawing anxiety about not being productive enough on my vacation.
3:30 PM: Attempt to open the bottle of wine I’d cleverly packed. Imperfections: The wine opener was, shall we say, missing. Cue the internal monologue of someone who absolutely needs a chilled glass to relax. Ended up trying the "shoe and wall" method, which… well, let's just say the wall is fine, but the wine… was not. Some got drunk on the carpet. Emotional Reaction: Panic, followed by a resigned shrug and a mental note to find a bloody bottle opener.
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Drive to Whangarei Falls. This was supposed to be the idyllic sightseeing time, but I got lost. Several times. The GPS had a mind of its own. Kept yelling at me to turn when there was no turning to be done. There's a reason the Kiwis are the friendliest people – they're used to seeing clueless tourists like me. Opinionated Language: Beautiful, but the walk was uphill, and I'm pretty sure there was a small, judging bush. I need to work out more.
6:30 PM: Fish and chips from a local takeaway. Best. Fish and chips. EVER. Crispy batter, flaky fish, all wrapped in newspaper. Pure heaven. Doubling Down on an Experience: I went back for seconds. And thirds. Don't judge me.
7:30 PM: Collapse back at the motel. The couch was, weirdly, more comfortable than the bed. I spent a good hour just staring at the ceiling, trying to figure out what I wanted to do tomorrow. Rambling: Should I be doing more? Exploring? Experiencing? Or just…existing? Maybe I should have brought that book I've been meaning to read? Or learn to knit? Ah, screw it. Tomorrow is tomorrow.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Woes, and the Quest for Breakfast
8:00 AM: Wake up, feeling slightly hungover from the fish and chips and the emotional rollercoaster of wine-less existence. Emotional Reaction: Regret. And a desperate need for coffee.
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM: THE BREAKFAST SAGA. There was no breakfast at the Burgundy Rose (I should have checked). I made a desperate run to the nearest supermarket, which was surprisingly far. The things I’ll do for a croissant and some decent coffee… Messy Structure: The quest for breakfast spanned roughly three hours and involved multiple wrong turns and a near-miss with a rogue shopping trolley.
10:30 AM: Hike to Abbey Caves. The caves were seriously cool. Quirky Observation: Not only are there glowworms, but the walk back up the hill is the real test of endurance.
1:00 PM: Lunch at a local cafe. Ordered a weird gourmet sandwich with avocado. Opinionated Language: Overpriced and pretentious. Wouldn't recommend it.
2:00 PM: Relaxing afternoon. I did absolutely nothing, and it was glorious. Emotional Reaction: Contentment. Followed by a twinge of guilt.
6:00 PM: Dinner at a restaurant. Ordered too much food. Again.
Day 3: Departure (and the Promise of a Better Wine Opener)
9:00 AM: Check out of the Burgundy Rose. Said goodbye to friendly people. Emotional Reaction: Feeling slightly sad, but also relieved to be leaving the chaos.
9:30 AM: Last sweep of the room. Found the missing wine opener. Of course. Imperfections: It was under the bed. And covered in dust bunnies. Typical.
10:00 AM: Drive to the airport. Reflection on the trip. I'd made friends. I'd almost died on the hills. I'd ate too much food. I'd laughed a lot. I'd forgotten what I had to do in society. Emotional Reaction: Feeling grateful for a truly memorable, imperfect, and human adventure.
So, there you have it. The "official" unofficial itinerary of my Burgundy Rose Motel adventure. Remember, it's not about perfection; it's about the journey. And sometimes, that journey involves getting lost, eating too much fish and chips, and realizing that a good wine opener is a life necessity. Whangarei, I'll be back!
Escape to Luxury: The Elizabeth Hotel's Unforgettable Fort Collins Getaway
So, like, What *Is* This Even About?
Honestly? That's a fantastic question. I’m not *exactly* sure. It’s a collection of thoughts, anxieties, and maybe, just *maybe*, a sliver of wisdom gleaned from… well, life. It's the stuff that swirls around in my brain when I'm trying to fall asleep, when I'm staring at the ceiling fan (which is more judgmental than you'd think), or when I'm desperately trying to avoid folding laundry. Think of it as my brain dump, but hopefully, slightly more entertaining than your average overflowing washing machine.
Are you, perhaps, overthinking things?
Oh, honey. That's like asking a fish if it's swimming in water. Of *course* I’m overthinking things! It's practically my superpower. I can dissect the meaning of a single glance at a cat, plan a surprise party for my goldfish (who, by the way, hates parties), and calculate the exact odds of accidentally tripping on a sidewalk crack and ending up, dramatically, in the emergency room. So, yes. Overthinking? Me? *Never*.
Okay, But *Specifically*... What Kinds of Things Keep You Up?
Alright, alright. Let's get down to brass tacks. A sampling, if you will, of the insomnia-inducing topics that regularly haunt my nocturnal hours:
- The dreaded "What If?" scenarios: What if I accidentally deleted my entire hard drive that the only one is full the data of my first novel? (Yes, I’ve dreamt that. It was horrific, people.) What if I *actually* wore that outfit to that party last week? (Mortifying.) What if the toaster is secretly plotting world domination? (Okay, maybe not *all* are realistic.)
- Social Awkwardness Replays: Reliving every cringeworthy conversation I've ever had, from accidentally calling a stranger "Mom" to that time I tried to parallel park and ended up looking like a slightly confused drunk octopus. The flashbacks! They never end!
- Existential Dread, But Make It Fashionable: You know, the big questions. What's the meaning of life? Why is pineapple on pizza a thing? Do socks *really* disappear in the dryer, or are they secretly plotting a rebellion? All very important issues, clearly.
- The Constant Struggle Between Doing and Not Doing: Should I get up and be productive? Or should I lie here and scroll through Instagram, even though I *know* it’ll make me feel worse about myself? The age-old battle, ladies and gentlemen. The age-old battle...and I lose...frequently.
What About Relationships? Do They Factor In?
Oh, absolutely. Relationships are, shall we say… *fertile* ground for nocturnal anxieties. My partner? He snores. Loudly. Like, volcanic eruption loudly. Sometimes, I fantasize about strategically placing a pillow over his face… (Just kidding, of course! Mostly.) And the constant internal dialogue: "Am I a good enough partner? Did I say the wrong thing again? Is that a judgmental look he's giving me, or am I just projecting?" It's a never-ending rollercoaster, complete with screaming and the occasional dry heave. Honestly, I love him, but sometimes, I just want to sleep. Alone. In silence. Is that so wrong?
Money? That’s Got To Be On Your Mind, Right?
Ugh. Don't even *start* me. Finances are a source of immense, soul-crushing stress. I once spent an hour agonizing over whether to buy a slightly more expensive brand of pasta at the grocery store. Seriously. I felt like I was making a life-altering decision. The constant worry of "Am I saving enough?" "Will I ever own a house?" "Can I afford to eat avocado toast every day for the rest of my life… (which I desperately want to do)?"... It's exhausting. And then there's the temptation to buy. *Things*. Shiny, unnecessary *things* that temporarily alleviate the crushing weight of, you know, reality. It's a vicious cycle that I'm constantly battling. Okay, I'm going to stop thinking about money now. Deep breaths... Okay, no wait, how much is in my savings account again?
Work? What’s That Like?
Work is… a mixed bag. I have a job, which is great. I need money to, you know, *live.* But it also comes with its own set of anxieties. Did I finish that project on time? Did I say the right thing in that meeting? Am I being a good employee? Am I secretly being judged by everyone? The pressure to succeed? The fear of failure? It's all there, swirling around in my brain like a particularly turbulent tornado of self-doubt. And then, of course, there's the office politics. The passive-aggressive emails. The never-ending stream of meetings that could have been emails. It's a constant battle for sanity, I swear.
Tell Me About a Specific, Nighttime-Worthy Experience. Go Deep!
Okay, okay. Fine. Let me tell you about the *Great Croissant Incident of '22*. My partner and I decided to have a fancy breakfast one Sunday morning. I, being the ambitious type, volunteered to acquire the croissants. Now, acquiring croissants should be a simple task, right? Wrong. My anxiety immediately kicked in. I had to go to a specific bakery, a *very* fancy one. I was terrified of looking like an idiot. So, I went. Parked the car. Walked in. The smell of butter...heaven. But then, the line was long. *Very* long. And everyone in front of me looked… sophisticated. They knew *things* about croissants. I, on the other hand, felt woefully under-informed. What kind of croissant to choose? Did they have a perfect croissant for me? Did I even DESERVE a croissant? I stumbled in line. My mind wandered. I forgot what I was even doing. I was sweating. Then it was my turn. I stammered my order, feeling the judgement of the baker, the connoisseur of croissants on me. I paid (the price of a small car, by the way). Got my croissants. Got back to the car. Drove home. Only once I got back did I realize I had bought a *pain au chocolat* instead of a plain croissant. My partner didn't care, so I ate the pain au chocolat. It was delicious. Still, the anxiety of the entire situation, the fear of looking like I didn't belong, the sheer absurdity of the entire ordeal... it haunts me to this day. It's a small thing, yes. But it felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders asBook Hotels Now
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