Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Villa Royal, Port Elizabeth's Hidden Gem!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Villa Royal – Or, My Descent into Paradise… and a Few Minor Hiccups (Port Elizabeth, I'm Looking at You!)
Okay, so I’m back. Just back. From Villa Royal in Port Elizabeth. And let me tell you, the words "Unbelievable Luxury"… they aren’t just marketing buzzwords. They’re… well, they’re mostly accurate. Let's dive in, shall we? And trust me, this is gonna be a rollercoaster. Buckle up.
First things first: Accessibility. This is HUGE for me – I’ve got a friend who’s wheelchair-bound, and accessibility is always at the forefront of my mind. Villa Royal gets a GOLD STAR here. Wheelchair accessible throughout the property, from the sprawling grounds to the restaurants and lounges. That’s a massive win. They even tout facilities for disabled guests, which, frankly, is music to my ears. I didn’t experience it firsthand, but the commitment on paper is promising. And let's give a shoutout to the elevator! Makes lugging those suitcases a whole lot easier.
Internet? Oh, honey, they've got you covered. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (Seriously. I needed that, desperately. Instagram doesn't curate itself). And because I'm a sucker for options: Internet access – wireless and Internet access - LAN? Consider me spoiled. Though I will admit, there was this one time… the Wi-Fi dipped out during a crucial video call. Pure panic. But hey, even paradise has a glitch. They recovered quickly, mind you.
Alright, let's talk Cleanliness and safety. This is where Villa Royal flexes. In the post-pandemic world, this is non-negotiable. They really lean into this: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Hand sanitizer… the list goes on. It felt genuinely safe, which put my mind at ease. Plus, Staff trained in safety protocol – nice touch. They even have Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit. Safety first, luxury second, right? Right.
The Dining, drinking, and snacking situation? Oh, boy. Where do I even start? The restaurants are a highlight. They offer a bit of everything. From the expected Western cuisine in restaurant to a surprisingly good Asian cuisine in restaurant. I'm a breakfast person, and their Breakfast [buffet] was a game-changer. All that coffee/tea in restaurant, plus your choice of a Western breakfast and a Asian breakfast… my tummy was happy. There's a poolside bar, so you can sip cocktails while staring out at the amazing Pool with a view! Pure bliss. Don't forget your Bottle of water, on the house. And don't even get me started on the desserts in restaurant. I may have snuck a few extra… just for research purposes, of course. The Room service [24-hour] is also a great option for those late-night cravings, and they had salad in restaurant and soup in restaurant for those wanting a healthier approach… which I definitely did not take.
Okay, I need to tell you about the pool. This Swimming pool [outdoor] is a spectacle of beauty. I watched the sunrise during a swim and almost cried. The views? Unbelievable. And the Poolside bar? Divine. It’s all about relaxation, baby.
Now, the Things to do, ways to relax portion is where Villa Royal really shines. Spa/sauna? Check. Sauna? Double check. Steamroom? You betcha! I spent a good chunk of my stay lost in a cloud of eucalyptus-scented serenity. They have a Gym/fitness too, but let's be honest, I was more interested in the massage. And the Body scrub and Body wrap? Treat. Yourself. Seriously. Just go.
Services and conveniences are plentiful: Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Dry cleaning, Laundry service… you feel properly pampered. They also have Currency exchange, which came in handy for me. Shoutout to the incredibly friendly Doorman, for managing my excessive luggage. The Air conditioning in public area was a godsend.
Let's talk about the rooms. My room, folks, was an experience. It was spacious, beautifully decorated and felt incredible after a long day exploring Port Elizabeth. Now, the bathroom phone? Kind of old-school, but I kind of liked it. The Additional toilet was a bonus. And the Bathrobes? Oh, the bathrobes. Thick, fluffy, and perfect for lounging. The Blackout curtains saved my life on those mornings when I wanted to sleep in. And the Coffee/tea maker? Essential. I'm not exaggerating. The Free bottled water was a lifesaver. I had a Seating area in my room. I spent a lot of time in it. My Mirror reminded me that I looked great, even after indulging in the Room service [24-hour]. The Soundproofing? Excellent. I never heard any noise from other rooms. And the Wi-Fi [free] was always working.
For the kids: Villa Royal is a family friendly, and they have a babysitting service and Kids meal. Though I don't have kids, so I can't speak to that personally!
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer: Extremely convenient!
- Car park [free of charge]: Absolutely essential!
- Taxi service: Helpful!
On-site facilities:
- Business facilities: They have a Meeting/banquet facilities for those business trips
- Food delivery: A lifesaver for those lazy nights!
Little Quirks!
- The Staff: Everyone was so amazing and welcoming.
Now the Imperfections:
- Missing Minutiae: Things that maybe got overlooked or forgotten.
- Subtle Inconsistencies: Didn't find them this time, but hey, no place is perfect!
My Emotional Reaction:
- The Villa Royal experience: This was something else. It's a gorgeous, luxurious, and relaxing, and generally wonderful. It would easily be a 5-star experience.
My Verdict:
Villa Royal is, for the most part, a truly spectacular find. It’s got the location, the luxury, the amenities, and the staff to make you feel like royalty. I'm talking a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s not perfect, but it’s a hell of a lot closer than I'm used to seeing. Highly recommend. Especially if you need a serious dose of pampering.
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- Unforgettable Views: Lounge by our stunning outdoor pool and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
- Uncompromising Comfort: Enjoy impeccably appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled service.
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Villa Royal: Where Unbelievable Luxury Awaits! You won't regret it!
Escape to Paradise: Nusa Penida's BEST Deluxe Double Room Villa!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly-sanitized travel itinerary. We're heading to Villa Royal in Port Elizabeth, South Africa – and trust me, it’s going to be anything but boring. Think more "slightly-chaotic-but-ultimately-magical" than "Swiss clockwork."
Villa Royal: A Semi-Organized Adventure (or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Dust Bunnies)
Day 1: Arrival & the "Hangry" Games
8:00 AM (ish): Land in Port Elizabeth. Oh, joy of joys – another airport! Let's be honest, airports are soul-sucking vortexes of delayed flights and overpriced coffee. But! The South African sun is something else, even through the grimy window. Initial impression? Surprisingly clean airport! Okay, I'll give them that.
9:00 AM: Car rental… the dreaded paperwork dance. I swear, every car rental company has a secret agenda of making you feel like you're signing your life away. "Do you understand the implications of… (mumbles something technical)… in the event of… (even more mumbles)…?" I just want a damn car, people! Managed to avoid the hard sell on the extra insurance, though. Victory! Sort of.
10:00 AM: Drive to Villa Royal. Google Maps has me covered, for now. Let's see how long that lasts. First impressions of the drive? The wind! Oh, the wind! It's like the ocean is breathing down your neck. The scenery is nice though, a little scrubby but with that unique South African light. I start thinking about the first time I saw this light, even though I had never been here before.
11:30 AM: Check into Villa Royal. The website photos definitely lied. Oops. The "luxury" description was a touch optimistic. The pool, for example, looks a bit… green. And the "sweeping views" are partially obscured by some seriously impressive aloe vera plants. But hey, the staff are super friendly (bless their hearts), and the room is clean-ish. And it has a balcony. Score! The view from my balcony, even if partially obscured, is still stunning.
12:00 PM-1:00 PM: THE HANGER STRIKES. I'm starving. And cranky. (See: airport coffee). Found a tiny, local cafe a few blocks away. Oh, the joy of a proper boerie roll (sausage roll)! Suddenly, all is right with the world. Okay, maybe not all, but definitely better. I need to figure out how to get some proper coffee.
2:00 PM: Explore. Wandered around the area. The little shops are charming. Found this little bakery that has the most wonderful smell and the kindest staff. I try to converse with the woman behind the counter. Her English is better than my Afrikaans, so we manage. I order too much.
5:00 PM: A dip in the green pool (after some serious internal debate). Okay, it's not as bad as I thought. Actually… it's kind of refreshing. The water is a little salty. No slimy things. Thank goodness. Enjoying the slight dip, and suddenly getting the sunset. This is why I came. The sky is on fire.
7:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant. The food is good; just the right amount of spice. The wine is even better! I've always wondered what sort of wine is made in South Africa. Turns out it's all sorts! And the service? Slow. Painfully slow. But everyone is so friendly, and the atmosphere is buzzing. I don't mind the wait.
9:00 PM: Bedtime. Exhausted, but happy. The ocean's roar is lulling me to sleep. Maybe tomorrow I’ll actually unpack. Or not.
Day 2: Beach Bliss & Unexpected Encounters
7:00 AM (ish): Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and seagulls screaming their lungs out. The ocean. What, I love it. I even love the seagulls, the annoying, thieving things that they are.
8:00 AM: Breakfast on the balcony. The coffee is (thankfully) better this morning. Toast with South African apricot jam… pure bliss.
9:00 AM: Head to nearby Kings Beach. I love a beach. This one is not bad, but the wind is ferocious. Sand everywhere. Sunscreen applied with the determination of a seasoned warrior against those pesky UV rays.
10:00 AM-12:00 PM: Sunbathing (attempted). Mostly, I'm just trying not to get sandblasted. The wind is relentless. Admire the beauty of the ocean though; a truly blue masterpiece.
12:00 PM: Lunch at a beachside cafe. Fish and chips. Not the best I've ever had, but the view makes up for it. Watching the surfers is entertaining. They make it look so easy! I imagine myself trying to surf, and immediately recoil at the thought. It would be a disaster.
1:30 PM: A sudden downpour! Run for cover and then back to the Villa Royal. This weather is insane.
3:00 PM: The Lion Head: I'm going to hike Lion's Head today. It's one of the reasons I came here after all. The wind is still fierce, but I'm determined. I start my adventure.
3:15 PM: I made it to Lion's Head. I'm terrified. I never realized how high up it actually is. The wind is blowing a gale. I start the climb. Steep. Very steep. But the views… Oh, the views! Port Elizabeth sprawled out below me, the ocean sparkling under the sun. I spot the Villa! It looks so small.
4:00 PM: Halfway Point. I reach a rocky outcrop and stop. I'm exhausted. The wind is even stronger up here. What have I gotten myself into? The climb is hard, really hard. I catch my breath and gather some stamina to make it to the top or I will never forgive myself.
4:30 PM: At the very top is stunningly beautiful. My hair is a mess, my legs are screaming, I'm slightly terrified, but…I'm here. The panorama is breathtaking. I can't stop smiling. I feel like I have conquered the world.
5:00 PM: The descent. My knees are not thanking me. But the feeling, knowing that I made it, is unbeatable. I could get used to this.
7:00 PM Dinner out again. I can't cook, that is for sure. A small dinner in an Italian restaurant. Great food.
9:00 PM Back at the Villa Royal and sleep.
Day 3: Wildlife Wonders & Goodbye (For Now…)
7:30 AM: Wake up. Another day, another perfect sunrise. The ocean is never less than perfect.
8:30 AM: A quick breakfast. Trying to cram in as much as I can.
9:30 AM: Check out of Villa Royal. I'm going to miss it. Even the slightly green pool. Even the wind. Even the aloe vera (okay, maybe not that much).
10:00 AM: Drive to the airport. I'm already planning my return. Port Elizabeth, you're a gem.
12:00 PM: Departure. Saying goodbye is always hard. But I know I'll be back.
1:00 PM: On the plane. I'm going to get coffee, and plan my return.
Final Thoughts (Or, Ramblings of a Jet-Lagged Soul)
Villa Royal wasn't perfect, but that's what made it perfect. South Africa, you've stolen a piece of my heart. The people, the food, the scenery… it's all just magic. I'll be back. I have to. (And next time, I'm conquering all the aloe vera!) Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a nap. And maybe a boerie roll. Definitely a boerie roll.
Oceanfront Luxury: Pullman Quy Nhon's Stunning Beachfront Condos
Villa Royal: The Absolute Truth (and My Opinions!)
Okay, Fine, What *Actually* is Villa Royal? I'm Seeing Airbrushed Photos...
Alright, let's get real. Villa Royal in Port Elizabeth… it *is* as good as the photos, mostly. Think: sprawling decks, endless ocean views (yes, *actually* endless – I lost hours just staring), a pool begging for Instagram, and décor that screams "I'm richer than you, but in a tasteful way." Think, understated luxury, not gold-plated toilets (though, I wouldn't *mind* a gold-plated toilet...). It's more of a sophisticated, modern vibe. Seriously, the views alone are worth the price of admission. I mean, just imagine waking up to that *every* morning. Ugh, I want to go back right now!
The Whole 'Hidden Gem' Thing... Is it Really? Or Bogus Marketing?
Okay, *this* is where things get interesting. "Hidden Gem" is thrown around like confetti, right? And sometimes, frankly, it's total BS. But with Villa Royal? Yeah, it kind of is. It's tucked away, feels super private, and... well, most people haven't heard of it. (Which is a *good* thing, in my opinion. Let's keep the riff-raff out!) My taxi driver, bless his soul, got a little lost finding it – but once we got there, even *he* was impressed. It’s like discovering a secret that you want to keep just for yourself. I almost didn't want to write this because I'm afraid the secret will be out.
Also, bonus points for the fact that you can actually *see* the stars at night. City life has ruined me. I'd forgotten what a real night sky looks like. Mind. Blown.
What's the Food Situation Like? Cooking Yourself or Chef-ed?
Alright, here's the deal. You can self-cater, which is cool. They've got a fully equipped kitchen. I mostly ate (ahem) *outside*. The real win here is the *private chef*. Now, look, I don't usually go in for that kind of thing, I'm fairly low-maintenance, but…oh. My. God. The chef they hook you up with… Amazing. Seriously, I'm still dreaming about this one particular seafood pasta dish. (Okay, two seafood pasta dishes. And maybe the grilled prawns…) They tailored everything to our tastes, dietary restrictions, our whim, really. It was *luxury*! Did I mention the *wine pairing*? Because… yeah. They did that too. My bank account is still recovering, but my tastebuds are *thriving*.
Also, this is a hot tip, if you go, ask for the chef’s spicy chili sauce. I’m not kidding, I *begged* for the recipe.
Is it Good for Kids? Because Mine are… a *Handful*.
Oof. Okay, look: Kids at Villa Royal… it depends. If your kids are, like, perfectly angelic little cherubs who appreciate art and quiet contemplation, then yes, absolutely. If, however, your children are miniature, screaming, food-throwing tornadoes of chaos, then maybe… maybe not. (I do have to admit that sometimes I found myself feeling a little bit like a tornado.)
The pool is gorgeous, but you’d need to keep a hawk-eye on the little ones. And while the space is huge, there are some delicate things that you, like me, would rather keep intact!
That being said, there's plenty of space to run around outside, so that's a plus. And the ocean is right there. Just... brace yourself. Pack extra patience, wine, and possibly earplugs.
Tell me About the Staff. Are They, Like, Overly Formal? Stiff?
No, not at all! The staff were amazing. Seriously, from the moment we arrived, we were made to feel super welcome. They were helpful, friendly, and just… genuine. They strike the perfect balance between professional and relaxed. Like, they anticipated your needs without being intrusive. They'll clean up any mess you've made, without making you feel bad about it. I actually felt really comfortable. They're genuinely happy and warm, a stark contrast to the robotic service you can get at some luxury places. It really elevates the whole experience. I was very impressed.
Any Negatives? Spill the Tea, Girl!
Okay, honesty time. There are a *few* tiny things. The Wi-Fi wasn't *super* strong in all areas of the villa (but hey, maybe that was a good thing, forcing me to actually *unplug*). And, well... leaving was a real drag. I swear, after being there for a week, I wanted to barricade myself in and never step foot in the real world again. The real world, blech! But that's not really a negative, right? That's just…the sign of a *good* vacation.
One thing: The drive in the early morning to get to the Villa wasn't a dream. This is a minor inconvenience, and it's absolutely worth it. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
Would You Actually Go Back? (And, Like, Would You Sell a Kidney for It?)
Absolutely. 100%. I'd sell a *toe* for a return trip. Okay, maybe not a kidney. But the memories, the views, the food…It’s the kind of place you daydream about. It’s the kind of place that ruins you for any other vacation. I’m already checking my schedule. Consider me *obsessed*. Just promise me you won’t go, because I want it all to myself. But, seriously, go. Just... don’t take my spot.
What Should I Pack? Because Packing is Hard.
Okay, this is important. Pack for warm weather. Duh. Swimsuits, sunscreen, stylish cover-ups (hello, endless Instagram opportunities!). A good hat. Comfy sandals. And, for the evenings, something a little dressier, maybe a light jacket. (The ocean breezes can be delightfully chilly.) Don't forget comfy shoes for exploring the area. (There's some excellent hiking, honestly). And…a really good book. Or two. Or three. Because, trust me, you'll have the time. And pack a good attitude. And maybe some extra cash. You'll want to tip the staff (trust me, they deserve it!), and you might want to splurge on a massage or two. And bring your charger! (No, really, I almost forgot mine.) Because even the rich need to Instagram their vacation!
