Bicol: Misibis Bay Raintree Resort

                I've heard a lot about Bicol Region, about its famous volcano with a perfect-cone and the dare-devil adventure in Camsur Water-Sports Complex, the spectacular beauty of Caramoan Peninsula and the tongue-scorching cuisine.  Oh, must I mention that this is the home of our local barbie-doll Bb. Pilipinas winner and 1st runner up Ms. Universe 2010 Venus Raj?

                  The highlight of our second day trip in Bicol was in Misibis Bay Raintree Resort. I am sure, most of beach bummers and travelers like us have heard about this world class resort.  Who wouldn't when not just Kris Aquino and Manny 'Pacman' Paquiao who stayed here but Zac Efron too.  The place was huge you need an ATV, mountain bike, dune buggies, a kayak, jet-ski to explore it. the place less travelled and far from the city of Legazpi.    

                     It is not easy to reach this paradise, but hey! like what they always say - nicest places are not easy to access, right?  First thing we did is to get in touch with their Manila office, as normal procedure - they will be sending you email re method of payment and policy.  Once you have deposited the 50% reservation fee, they will now pencil book your names.  The introductions are clear, our only problem was to reach them. Unfortunately for us, the resort don't have a local office to call to when we were in Legazpi.  We need to go through Hotel Venezia's and Ellis Eco-tel reception officers (sister-companies of Misibis Bay) to finally speak with Misibis receptionist.  The procedure was worth it though - we are absolutely satisfied!

    On the day of the tour, we are fetched by the resort's private van. Offered some drinks and chocolate bars while on our way (sign of a good customer service!).  The travel time will take about 45 minutes to an hour but that day, the rain was so heavy and continues it took us more than an hour to reach the resort.  You may think it dampened our exciting mood but you are wrong. It excites us more to see how beautiful this paradise is despite the rain and heavy clouds blocking the view of rice fields and fish ponds we are passing by.

                 Upon arrival, we are greeted by a group of staff dancing to the tune of a native song I don't understand - complete with colorful costumes.:) I was grinning ear to ear. What a way to greet your guest, I am feeling like a royalty now.  We are ushered to the reception area where you can see the pool from the sliding door, the well-landscape gardens and the guests roaming around in their board shorts and bikinis. Forget about the rain, from the looks of it - we are going to enjoy this! Lockers and towels are free of charge for both day tour and overnight guest.  Anyone registered can also use the sauna, gym equipment, billiard, library and children's playground.  Did I mention its free even for day trip visitors? Cool, right? :D

               What we enjoyed a lot was their floating bar: Sula Bar and Spice Market.  We spent most of our stay swimming right next to this bar that serves us cocktail and drinks that can also be perfect for a night out with friends.  In our case, its an afternoon-swimming-even-its-raining with friends.  Ont he other hand, the Spice Market offers cuisine inspired by Southeast Asian herbs, flavor and spices.  I also notice another bar and grill site right next to the beach and found out it is the resort's DeLa Playa beach Grill and Tapas Bar.  It serves seafood and night entertainment - music and booze by the sea at sunset. Wooah, exactly what I wish to experience!

                When it comes to the rate, I will not sugar-coat it - it was expensive.  Spending a night is wallet-threatening but its well-compensated.  Even day tour is kind of high rate - P3,400.00 per person but its worth it. Overnight stay ranges from $470 - $1,489.  The rate includes several things though: luxurious accommodation, breakfast, airport transfer, non-motorized water-sports activities, use of resort's facilities and shower amenities and a superb customer service. They also cater weddings, team buildings, meetings and conferences  and special events.  

              From my point of view, a resort such as Misibis Bay has the right to charge the customer based on the quality of the place and the service they get.  It was simply superb!

           It was dusk and dark when we decided to go home and call it a night.  It was a trip worth remembering.  For inquiries and reservation, you may visit their website: www.misibisbay.com