Unbelievable Siquijor Island Escape: CASA JAMES's Stunning Upstairs Apartment!
Unbelievable Siquijor Island Escape: CASA JAMES's Stunning Upstairs Apartment!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this is not your average hotel review. We're diving headfirst into the Unbelievable Siquijor Island Escape at CASA JAMES's Stunning Upstairs Apartment, and I'm pretty sure I'm still seeing the turquoise water in my dreams.
First things first: the Unbelievable-ness Factor of Siquijor.
Listen, I've been around the block (and the world, frankly) a few times. I thought I was jaded. I thought I'd seen it all. But Siquijor? This island is a vibe. It’s like someone took the best bits of a Caribbean island, a Balinese retreat, and a Filipino fishing village, then threw in a healthy dose of magic and chill. Seriously, my brain melted within hours. You need Siquijor. And CASA JAMES's apartment? Well, that's the cherry on top of the already incredible sundae.
The Apartment Itself: A Nest Above the Noise (in the Best Way)
Okay, let's get down to brass tacks. The "Stunning Upstairs Apartment" truly lives up to its name. It’s spacious, airy, and the kind of place that makes you immediately want to stop rushing around and just be.
Accessibility: While I didn't specifically scope out wheelchair accessibility, the upstairs location might pose a challenge. Check with CASA JAMES directly for specifics and possibly alternative options. I’m going to give them the benefit of the doubt and say they are likely happy to accommodate.
Rooms: Okay, let's run through the room amenities. You've got your air conditioning (lifesaver!), alarm clock (needed the first day, because my sleep schedule was completely shot from the jet lag, and the next, because I was so relaxed I slept through all my alarms!), bathrobes (YES!), bathroom phone (???), bathtub (luxury!), blackout curtains (essential!), carpeting (nice and clean), a closet (for all your island-wear), coffee/tea maker (crucial!), complimentary tea (a lovely touch), daily housekeeping (thank you!), a desk (I actually did some work gasp), extra long bed (I'm tall so this was a dream!), free bottled water (hydration is key!), hairdryer (useful, although island hair is a wild affair!), high floor (views!), in-room safe box (peace of mind), interconnecting room(s) available (for groups, I imagine), Internet access – LAN (if you're a LAN person), internet access – wireless (more versatile), ironing facilities (haven't touched the iron in years!), laptop workspace (see desk), linens (fresh and crisp), a mini bar (temptation!), mirror (to check if you have sand in your hair), non-smoking (YES!), on-demand movies (tempting, but I was too busy enjoying the natural ones!), private bathroom (essential!), reading light (for those late-night book sessions), refrigerator (chilled drinks!), safety/security feature (always welcome!), satellite/cable channels (I didn't even turn it on!), scale (if you dare!), seating area (to chill with a book), separate shower/bathtub (nice!), shower (clean!), slippers (comfy!), smoke detector (safety first!), socket near the bed (bliss!), sofa (very comfy), soundproofing (appreciated!), telephone (important!), toiletries (a nice touch!), towels (essential!), umbrella (rainy season is a thing!), visual alarm (for emergencies), wake-up service (see alarm clock), Wi-Fi free, and a window that opens (ahhh, the breeze!).
The Vibe: The apartment feels homey, yet chic. It seems like someone just cares about the details. The huge windows that let in the light are great.
So, Let's Talk About the Good Stuff: Relaxing and Unwinding
This is where CASA JAMES absolutely nails it. They get that you're there to chill.
- Things to do, ways to relax: This is where the real magic happens. They offer something for basically everyone. You can find the perfect way to relax: beach, pool, hammock, book. Siquijor itself is your playground. I highly highly suggest exploring the island.
- Spa & More: I didn't get a chance to try a lot. I was too busy just being. But the options are there: body scrubs and wraps and massages and maybe even that foot bath.
- Pool with a View The pool! This is one of those "must dos". This, is what took the cake for me. The pool, it's just what you want. You're in the pool looking at the view. Amazing!
- Fitness Center: I'd be lying if I said I went to the gym. It's Siquijor. Who wants to work out when you could be… not?
- Sauna, Spa, Steamroom: All those little luxuries that say, "You deserve this."
Cleanliness and Safety: Because, Let's Be Real, That's Important
I'm a bit of a germaphobe (don't tell anyone). So, the cleanliness of a place is crucial for me.
- Security: I felt safe and secure the entire time too. The staff is professional and they clearly take safety seriously.
- COVID-19 Stuff: In this crazy world, the anti-viral cleaning products and all the health precautions are a definite bonus. It's like they want you to relax, without worrying about catching anything nasty.
Food, Glorious Food! And the Bar!
Oh. My. God. The food. The food is why it's worth it, the food is why you’ll return.
- Dining/Drinking: Look, what more could you want. The restaurant is great, you've got a coffee shop, a bar, poolside bar, happy hour, room service, and the best food you'll have. My favorite was that salad at the restaurant. Oh, and I can't forget the desserts! Seriously, the food and drinks were good.
- Breakfast: Oh, the breakfast! It's a mix of different cuisines. I loved the Western breakfast and the Asian breakfast. I can't forget to mention the bar either!
Overall Dining Experience: I didn't eat at the CASA James restaurant every single meal, of course. But when I did? Pure bliss. I ate the fresh fruit for breakfast every morning, and when I explored the island, I made it a point to come back for lunch. You can also get the food delivered to your room.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make Life Easier
They thought of everything.
- Services and conveniences: Concierge, laundry service, luggage storage, cash withdrawal, and so much more to make your trip easy, effortless and fun.
- Wi-Fi: The free Wi-Fi is FAST, and available in all rooms.
- Staff: The staff were really helpful and so pleasant.
- Business facilities I am not sure about the business facilities, I was very much not working, but the business traveler could probably find something useful.
For the Kids (and the Young at Heart)
Family-friendly? Definitely. I don't have kids, but I saw plenty of happy families enjoying the space.
- Kids facilities, Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids meal: They also offer babysitting services and kids meals, so you're set.
Getting Around & The Fine Print
- Getting around: The island is best explored by scooter, and CASA JAMES can help you arrange that. Airport transfer? Yep. Car parking? Free.
- Check-in/out: Check-in was easy. Check-out was even easier.
- Non-smoking rooms? The rooms are non-smoking.
Here's the Real Deal: The Downsides (Because Perfection Doesn't Exist)
Okay, this is where I get real. There's always something, right?
- The Internet: It wasn't always lightning-fast, but hey, you're on an island! Embrace the slowness.
The Verdict: Book It! Seriously, Just Book It.
Look, I'm not paid to say this. I'm just a travel-obsessed person who wants to share the love. Unbelievable Siquijor Island Escape: CASA JAMES's Stunning Upstairs Apartment isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. It's a place to unwind, de-stress, and fall completely in love with Siquijor.
Here's the deal: If you want to chill, if you love the island, and if you want to feel like you've truly escaped the ordinary, then book CASA JAMES. You won't regret it. Especially if you're craving a real break.
My Crazy, Stream-of-Consciousness Recommendation
Go. Right now. Seriously, what are you waiting for? You’re reading this, get off the page and get there. Your soul will thank you. That said, if you book, can you send me dessert in the Restaurant?
SEO-friendly keywords (because why not?): S
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Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this itinerary for Casa James Upstairs Apartment on Siquijor Island is about to be less "polished travel brochure" and more "drunken journal entry discovered at a bus station." Prepare for chaos!
Casa James Upstairs Apartment, Siquijor - The Somewhat Organized Mayhem
Day 1: Arrival – Coconut Dreams & Mosquito Bites
- Morning (or, like, whenever I wake up after the flight): Arrive at Dumaguete Airport. The flight was fine, except for the guy behind me who kept trying to fold his seat into my spine. First impressions of the Philippines? Hot, humid, and everyone seems genuinely happy. Even the taxi drivers. Which, honestly, makes me suspicious.
- Mid-Morning: Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor. The sea is a shimmering turquoise – seriously, postcard material. I got a little seasick though. Or maybe it was just the questionable street food I devoured at the ferry terminal.
- Lunch: Arrive at Casa James. Find the keys (eventually – I'm notoriously bad at this), and get completely floored by the view from the balcony. Ocean, palm trees, pure bliss. Realize I forgot to buy water. Curses.
- Afternoon: Attempt to walk to the nearest store for water. Get lost. Meet a stray dog who looks at me like I'm the lost one. He's probably right. Finally find somewhere to buy water (and some weird, delicious mango candy).
- Evening: Sunset cocktails on the balcony. The absolute BEST way to end what was actually quite a good day. Except for the mosquito attack. I swear, those little vampires are relentless. So, slather myself head-to-toe in mosquito repellent, feeling like a walking biohazard. But hey, beautiful sunset and delicious cocktails, so WORTH IT.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Motorcycles, and Existential Dread
- Morning: Rent a motorcycle. "Easy," the rental guy says. Famous last words. I've never ridden a motorcycle before, but how hard can it be? (Spoiler alert: It's harder than it looks.)
- Mid-Morning: Visit Cambugahay Falls. This is the postcard stuff; the photos don't do it JUSTICE. The water is ridiculously clear, the rope swings are terrifyingly fun. Spend way too long here, jumping, swimming, and trying (and failing) to look graceful.
- Lunch: Eat at a local "carinderia" near the falls. This is where the food is at its REAL best. Try a dish that's a vague combination of meat and vegetables in a delicious sauce, with some rice. Then question my life choices.
- Afternoon (and then into the evening): Riding the motorcycle around the island. It became my new religion. I am Queen of the Road! See the old balete tree (yep, it's as impressive as they say). Drive along the coastline, stopping to take photos every five seconds.
- Evening: Attempt to cook dinner back at the apartment. Fail miserably. Give up and order pizza. Watch the stars from the balcony. Feel profoundly content, and also utterly exhausted. Contemplate the nature of existence and the best way to enjoy a mango.
Day 3: Beach Bumming and Snorkelling
- Morning: Wake up. Spend an hour just staring at the view. Breakfast on the balcony.
- Mid-Morning: Head to Paliton Beach. White sand, turquoise water, the whole shebang. My tan is looking a little worse for wear. Try to snorkel. Get tangled in the coral (who knew coral was so sharp). Realize I'm not cut out for underwater acrobatics.
- Lunch: Another Beachside meal. Fresh seafood, perfectly cooked. The simplest meal, and yet, so satisfying.
- Afternoon: Sunbathe. Read a book. Fall asleep. Repeat. Honestly, this is what a vacation is supposed to be.
- Evening: Sunset again, again. Dinner at a restaurant overlooking the ocean. Talk with some other travelers. Realize that everyone is just as messed up as I am. And that's okay. Get home late. The mosquito situation is now a nightly battle. Another night of head-to-toe defense!
Day 4: Spas, Serendipity, and Departure Regrets
- Morning: Treat myself to a massage. It felt like pure bliss. This is a must.
- Mid-Morning: Browse the local market. Buy WAY too many souvenirs (including a seashell that probably has a sea creature living in it, but whatever).
- Lunch: Eat at the local market.
- Afternoon: Spend time at the beach and reflect on this trip.
- Evening: Packing, the worst part of traveling. Dinner at a restaurant on the beach. Seriously, everything is so beautiful here. The kind of place that makes you consider a life change.
- Late Evening: Back to Dumaguete. Back to reality.
Day 5: Farewell, Siquijor
- Morning: Wake up sad. Board the ferry. Look back at Siquijor as the island fades into the horizon. Realize, I'm already planning my return trip.
Important Imperfections & Considerations:
- Mosquito Repellent is Essential: Seriously. Bring the strongest stuff you can find. And then bring more.
- Embrace the Pace: Things happen at their own speed on Siquijor. Don't expect rapid service. You're on island time, baby! And honestly, it's a beautiful thing.
- Learn a Few Basic Tagalog Phrases: Even a simple "Salamat" (thank you) goes a long way.
- Be Ready for the Unexpected: Motorcycles might break down. Rain might arrive. You might get utterly lost. Roll with it. That's part of the adventure.
- Embrace Discomfort: Every place will present some discomforts. Embrace these.
This itinerary, as you can see, is a living, breathing thing. It's subject to change, whims, and the ever-present allure of another cocktail on the beach. Have fun, get lost, and remember to embrace the chaos!
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Unbelievable Siquijor Island Escape: CASA JAMES's Stunning Upstairs Apartment! - FAQ (But Let's Be Honest, It's More Like a Rambling Confession)
Okay, Okay, Spill the Tea: Is CASA JAMES's Upstairs Apartment *Really* That Good?
Good? Honey, it's a freakin' addiction. Before I went, I was all, "Siquijor? Sounds like a sneeze I can't pronounce." Now? I'm seriously contemplating selling my kidney and moving in *permanently*. Okay, that's a slight exaggeration—maybe. But picture this: waking up to that *view*. The turquoise water, the swaying palm trees... it’s like the island itself is personally serenading you with a morning song. The apartment is spotless, spacious... and honestly, escaping reality is my favourite kind of reality, so yes. Yes, it's that good. Just... don't read this and go steal my booking.
What's the Deal with the Kitchen? Can a Girl Get Some Coffee Going in the Morning?
Oh, the kitchen. Blessedly, yes, you can get your caffeine fix. There's a fridge, a stove, all the basic necessities. I managed to whip up a questionable breakfast of instant noodles and overripe mangoes (my fault, not the kitchen's). But it's enough to keep you alive and fueled for island adventures. Just, maybe, pack your own decent coffee. Because instant? Let's just say it’s not exactly the nectar of the gods. I learned the hard way. The hard, slightly bitter, way.
Are There Mosquitos? (Because Mosquitoes and Me Have a Very Passive-Aggressive Relationship)
Okay, real talk. Siquijor's a tropical paradise. Paradise is basically a 24/7 buffet for mosquitos. The apartment has netting, which is a lifesaver (literally). I still got bitten a couple of times, which is a personal record, but I'm a mosquito magnet, so don't judge. Bring spray. Lots of spray. And maybe a citronella candle. And a flamethrower. (Just kidding… mostly.)
What's the Vibe? Is it a Party Pad or a Zen Retreat?
Zen retreat. Glorious, peaceful, "I could spend the rest of my days on this balcony" zen retreat. The area is super quiet, and if you're looking to rage, you're probably in the wrong place. It's all about the ocean breeze, the sounds of nature. Perfect for a couple, or a solo traveler seeking some serious chill time. I did see a couple of playful dogs running around, bringing the silly to an otherwise chill environment.
How Easy is it to Get Around? Do I Need a Jeepney, or Can I Just Walk?
Okay, so the walkability situation? Not ideal. You'll definitely want to rent a scooter. James, the owner, is super helpful with this, by the way. Scooter life is the *only* way to see Siquijor. It’s freedom, it’s wind in your hair (helmet recommended, trust me), it’s the ultimate island experience. You can zip to waterfalls, hidden beaches, little local restaurants. *That* is life. Just… be careful. The roads are a little…rustic. I nearly became one with the asphalt, but hey, it's a great story, and I have a couple of souvenir bruises.
Tell Me About the Wi-Fi. (Because, Real World, Sadly, Still Exists)
The Wi-Fi is… well, let's call it "island-style internet." It works. For basic browsing, checking emails, and posting envy-inducing selfies (which is essential). But don't expect lightning-fast speeds suitable for streaming. Embrace the slow connection; it forces you to actually, you know, *live* and *look around*. I found myself wandering down to the beach, putting the phone down, and… *gasp*… actually looking at the sparkling sea. I nearly forgot what living outside of the internet was like. And it was awesome.
Is the Owner Helpful? Because I'm Clumsy and Ask Stupid Questions.
James? He's a legend. Seriously. Amazing. He's super helpful, friendly, and genuinely cares about making sure you have a great time. He’ll give you tips on where to go, what to see, and how to avoid getting eaten by the local wildlife (mostly kidding…mostly). He's the reason I didn't get stranded on the island forever, so big ups to James!
What About Groceries & Restaurants? Where Do I Eat if I'm Too Lazy to Cook?
The good news: there are a few small shops nearby for basic groceries. The bad news: don't expect a gourmet supermarket. Think more along the lines of eggs, instant noodles, and maybe some local fruit. Restaurants? There are some lovely options. I especially loved the restaurant on the beach, serving up fresh seafood and sunset views. I probably ate there three times. I *may* have even tried to sneak in a fourth time to not get asked what I was doing there again. Just bring some cash. Credit cards aren't always accepted.
The Balcony! Is it Really as Amazing as the Photos? Don't Lie to Me.
The balcony… *breathes dramatically* …is. EVERYTHING. The photos? They don't even do it justice. The space, the views, the constant balmy breeze… I spent hours out there just… existing. Drinking coffee, watching the sunrise, reading, writing, mostly just staring out at the ocean and wondering how I got so lucky. One day, I even saw a dolphin jump. A *dolphin*! It was pure, unadulterated bliss. I almost cried. And you know what? I'm pretty sure I'm still dreaming about that balcony.
Okay, Last Thing: Any MAJOR Downsides?
Well, this is a tricky one. I'm really struggling here, because the truth is... I had a hard time finding any real issues. Ok, ok, one small thing. The stairs to the apartment, which are a bit steep. Not exactly accessible for someone who is physically challenged. On the other hand,Globe Stay Finder
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