Because of the mixed reviews that we've read we're not setting our standards high. We were given our welcome drinks (strawberry juice) which took me by surprise because it was not included in the package.
At the recep with our welcome drinks
Going back, we were happy with the location of our room which is near the resto, the pool and the beach (the nearest one is 103 which I think is a staff room, not sure though). We were pretty surprised (good surprise) with our room. Two double beds occupy most of the room, we have a mini-ref which is working and not amoy amag at all (this proved useful for when we order Jonah's shakes to go). We also have a TV and a closet and a veranda overlooking a mini garden. The room was one of the best that I've stayed in so far.
Our room with the view
Our Bathroom
We were expecting the worst because of the reviews so we were pleasantly surprised by the rooms, amenities and all. They even have water station where we refilled our bottles everday (we didn't have to buy one every now and then unlike before so plus points for the tipid factor!)
It can be loud when somebody pass by our room on the way to the beach but I only noticed it once. The staff is trained well - they greet us everytime they pass us on the hallway and when we go back. They are helpful with our questions even if it means not dining in their buffet. The owner was there and he looks friendly and smiled at us when he saw us, not snobbish at all.
Beachbum
Their swimming pool is also clean, the jacuzzi is working but I'm not sure if the water is heated. The pool is not large but that is just for when the sea is not inviting. They also have another pool near the executive wing but that may be the one that is just waist-deep for scuba instructions and kids.
The pools
My only gripe is with the food - which is just so-so. We upgraded our first breakfast to buffet (additional 75php each) and we found nothing special so we just had the set breakfast on the remaining days. There's free wifi at the restaurant but the connection is not very good. They sell wifi cards though if you want to be connected in your room. It would have been better if we had free connection in our rooms but it's not a big miss.
Buffet Breakfast
So to dispel any worries this is a good place to go when you're looking beachfront with pool and great value for money. This one is highly recommended!
Value: +++++
Rooms: ++++
Location: +++
Cleanliness: ++++
Food: ++