Will I recommend it? Will I come back?
I was looking for somewhere where Bub and I can spend our weekend when my friend recommended this place. Checked their Facebook page and there were many positive reviews so despite of a minor misunderstanding during my booking inquiry, immediately paid the 50% and voila! Here we were.
Getting to La VeryOl’s was easy. We used Waze and aside from us missing the turn, it was a smooth drive. It was a normal weekend so the traffic was expected.
Check in was supposed to be 2 PM but we got there a little after 5 so it was just the right time for us not to experience the humid afternoon. Upon arrival, you might think there’s not enough space for parking, but they had a decent space. Would probably fit 7 cars inside the vicinity then the street parking.
I was expecting that somebody will “welcome” us since we were in constant communication that we were on our way or that we were just minutes away, but there wasn’t. This wasn’t supposed to be an issue, of course all staff may be busy attending to other guests, but I don’t think they had a reception table either. I found myself looking for someone I can approach regarding our reservation.
Fast forward, while filling out the guest form I was asked what dinner we’d like to order from their menu. Guests were not allowed to bring outside food (explicitly mentioned on their FB page) otherwise you’d pay a corkage fee of Php 150/person. Because my friend also recommended the Buttered Chicken, that’s what we got which was to be served later that night.
From the parking area, I didn’t expect that the space would be as little as it was. We passed by the bigger huts on both sides then in the middle was where guests would experience the Kawa bath.
Getting to our hut, our first impression was “Ay ang cute…”. It was intended for 2 but it could actually fit up to 3 people. There was a small fan by the door, had a small window at the back and an outlet for your charger. The light was by the roof which was covered with a thick sarong like cloth. There was also a space where you could leave your bags.
The hut was small where it would be impossible for an adult to stand up – hence the name “Mini Hut”. So, us being normal tourists, we took advantage of the afternoon light and got us some pictures!
After awhile we had nothing to do so we just asked for our dinner. Wooden chairs and a table were available just outside our hut so we didn’t have to go to their resto anymore. Now, let’s talk about their Buttered Chicken. For Php 248, I didn’t think it was worth that amount. We were served a plate with (I think) 8 cuts of chicken but most of them were white meat and were small portions. The parts were dry and tasted like it was cooked 2x. Probably because they had to fry them then fry it again in butter and garlic. Nonetheless, I wish they would’ve served 2 decent quarter cuts instead and made sure they were juicy and delicious.
We were told there was free wifi but the signal was weak from where we were so we just had to wait for the movie to be set up. We also ordered a bucket of beer which costs Php 340 and a plate of fries with cheese sticks for Php 120.
While waiting, we noticed that across us was a family who brought a dog! This made us disappointed. A day before our check in, I reached out to them and kindly asked if we can bring our furbaby. They said no – respect to other guests and that dogs are only allowed for day tours. So, in respect to their house rules, we had to leave Chuck. But seeing this family with their furbaby was immediately a turn off.
Moving on, the movie was set up and they played Robin Hood. Another couple had just finished their Kawa bath (they were staying beside us) and there were 2 more couples who walked in. To be fair, the Kawa looks inviting despite of the humid weather. But I also think that experiencing this during the BER months would have been different.
It was past 10 PM when we decided to go to bed.
The morning was still colder compared to Manila so around 8 AM we decided to get ourselves a Kawa bath. This experience was worth Php 359 (overnight accommodation rate and Php 399 for walk in) which took about 45 minutes.
So, how did it go? At first, we checked the water temperature to see if it’s already bearable. They have the faucet on the side ready if we want it colder. As we stepped in, we can just feel the heat under our feet. I have high tolerance to heat so it was perfect for me.
We had to make sure we’re seated away from where the fire was burning. The staff stayed until we’re settled in making sure we don’t hurt ourselves. We sat slowly and the smell of the flowers made it more inviting. It was a calming experience. Together with the background music, it felt like we were in an open spa.
After about 15 minutes we noticed that we were already sweating. It felt good. The staff told us that we had the option to order but we didn’t bother anymore since we just want to sit there and relax. So, with our heads on the edge of the Kawa, we laughed, talked and bonded. Of course we took photos too! Lots of them. Such a memorable quality time.
They provided us towels and robes, also gave us a flower we can use as a prop for our photos and the staff were also kind enough to volunteer in taking them. In fairness, one of the positive things I will remember from La VeryOl’s is their friendly staff.
Kawa bath was a new experience. It was unique. It was calming. I would recommend this to our family and friends.
So after about an hour we were told time was up. We also noticed several guests were arriving so we decided to pack up. Despite of the shower room being outside (it’s in the parking area), I think they still had decent comfort and shower rooms. They were clean and spacious. They had bidet and some might think this wasn’t a big deal, but I was glad they had rods where we can hang our clothes.
Coming to the end of this trip, I was thinking, will I recommend it? Absolutely. BUT I will not recommend an overnight stay. For Php 2,000, the only thing you’re getting out of your money is the experience to sleep in a mini hut. Though the Kawa bath was discounted if you get an overnight accommodation, I wish the owners considered including something to Php 2,000 to make it worth it. Perhaps a breakfast for 2? Or include the Kawa bath for 2? Anything that would add value to this amount. Will I come back? I’d say yes, but it will just be a side trip and might probably happen in 2021.
To conclude this review, my suggestion is really think about whether you’d be willing to spend Php 2,000 for an overnight stay. On the other hand, the Kawa bath was a highly recommended experience. If you’re in Tagaytay and have nothing to do anymore, before heading home, take about 1.5 hours to spend here and experience the Kawa. You’d like it!
- Value for Money – 2/5
- Service – 3/5 (based on the house rules and how guests were welcomed)
- Ambiance – 4/5 (based on the cleanliness and space)
- Food – 2/5
- Overall Rating: 2.75 / 5
Thanks for reading all the way to the end. This year I’ve decided to write reviews again about anything and I hope you’d spare some of your time to read my next reviews – may it be about another place, about food, road trip, work, friendship or really about anything under the sun. 🙂
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