Planet Dive Resort — Hotel in Mabini

PLANET DIVE: Constructive Review

I've been here twice, and my review will only be dependent on the experience I had with Planet Dive. The first and the second time.

I came back for 2nd time chiefly because of the serenity I had the first time I visited. The food were so great that the 500 php per buffet meal was worthy there were beef, some seafood, veggies and pork. The staff who accomodated us was also very friendly. Everything was so great. That time was around January of 2018 and promised myself to go back.

Not less than a year, the second time we visited was really unworthy of the penny. Here's why.

(1) BOOKING: We got a booking online and when we came in, the room wasnt prepared yet considering that we came on exact time and not on the peak season so there was no one who used it before us most probably a hotel would prepare it before guest arrives. Still it was fine.

(2) SECURITY: We got the Green 2 room. There was a good view. While we are looking at window, both of us realized that the window's lock was broken and it is really easy for someone to get in. Of course, we were loaded with valuable materials and for us, security comes first. Then we immediately requested the staff to change rooms, it took some time so I went to the front desk again, then the staff immediately rebutted "Maam pumunta na inaayos na" (irritated voice). Thumbs down already since customer service for me is always a priority and the basis for giving tip. Most of us does the same. We changed room to Green 1, ALSO, this time, the DOOR KNOB was also broken. So we just gave up and left our valuable materials on the front desk which is also uncomfortable since we need to go back and forth. No apologies heard, not even a proactive accomodation of transferring us again. NOTHING.

(3) FOOD: We were shocked that the price of the food changed from 500php to 750php PER MEAL. We said its fine but lets check the menu first. Upon checking, the food was really a NO! No! A sautéd shrimp, some veggies, soup, and pasta and thats all for a buffet lunch. So we just decided to get a set meal which is the same option. Dinner, a chicken bbq, veggies, pasta and soup. Also, unworthy so again we just had a set meal for 350php. Each set meal per pax is 350php.

(4) THE SERENITY THAT I LONGED FOR-- Also failure. The time we visited, not a peak season. There were some people, undisciplined people. There are some resting chair on the facade but we couldn't use it because the stuff of the guests were placed on the beach chairs and tables. The hotel staff couldn't do anything about it and just ignored. So did we. Pool was dirty notwithstanding the scenic view. Sobrang sayang!!

(5) PRICE: I would say that the price of the hotel is cheap but the food was so expensive considering they are so-so. The activities became more expensive as well, there was even a Foreigner complaining that she was billed way too high comparing her stay in Hawaii and couldn't give more tip to her tour guide anymore. We also inquired about the diving price and shocked to hear 550$ which is really more expensive than other resorts. We rather looked for another one next time.

THE ONLY BEAUTIFUL THING IS THE SUNSET AND THE DIVING SPOT. So its up to you if u stsy here. Book at...

NEVER AGAIN!!!!!! My family and I booked 4 rooms for two nights for about 12 people last month and disappointed would be an understatement to describe our experience. Four of us in the group were balikbayans, 1 tourist who visited the Philippines for the first time and the rest are locals. We arrived around lunchtime. Our druver could not find the place because the sign at the entrance is just a writing on the gate which looked nothing like an entrance to any of the resorts I've been to. We should have taken that as a sign. Because of the driveway being too steep, we all had to get out of the van abd walk down to the parking lot. Except for my 80 year old mom who would have not been able to walk down a 60° angled driveway. One of my sisters and I were shocked to find out that one of the rooms assigned to us had an uncovered/unfinished bathroom!!!! Luckily, after insisting that they gave us a different room, they did. The bathroom in ine if the other rooms had a leak from the bidet which was reported but never fixed. We then learned that the pool was under maintenance, which was not stated on the website when we made our booking just over a week before our visit. The beach was very rocky and unsafe to swim in especially for the three kids that we had with us. If you wanted to go diving or snorkelling, there was a P5k/US$100 fee for the gear rental, a boat ride and snorkelling. We asked for lunch and was told that they had to prepare a secobd set of buffet for us as lunch had already been served. At around 3pm we were called to the dining area and were told that the buffet lunch fee was P500 per person. We checked out the food and found four dishes. FOUR DISHES!!! THEY CALL THAT A BUFFET???!!!! There were about 30 pcs of mini spring rolls, a vegetable dish that looked bland, four or five pcs of crumbed meat of some sort cut into strips, about 30 pcs of shrimps, soup and rice. NOT WILLING TO BE RIPPED OFF, three of us went to town to buy food Btw, if you don't bring your own car, you'll have to wait fir about 15 mins for a tricycle to be booked to go anywhere. Without spending maybe more than P200 per person, we got dozens of street food (isaw, tenga ng baboy,chicken & pork bbq), lechong manoks and a a couple kilos of pork for grilling and rice. After having lunch/dinner, we decided to do some karaoke (we brought our own mics) while drinking just to amuse ourselves. Early the next day, we decided to pack up and not stay another night. We told their staff how disappointed we were and have decided to leave and asked for a refund for the second night but were told that they couldn't give us any of the money paid. WANTING TO JUST GET OUT OF THE PLACE, we didn't bother arguing and just called our hired driver to pick us up. THE NAME OF THIS "RESORT (???!!!)" SAYS A LOT...

In the realm of budget-friendly getaways, finding a resort that excels in both accommodation and service can be akin to discovering a rare treasure. This particular establishment, with its harmonious blend of affordability and excellence, emerges as a delightful surprise in the world of hospitality.

Starting with the accommodations, the resort's rooms stand as a testament to the notion that one need not break the bank to experience comfort and elegance. The rooms are not merely functional spaces but have been thoughtfully designed to provide a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. Immaculately maintained, they boast an impressive level of comfort, proving that luxury need not be synonymous with exorbitant prices. A solid 5/5 for the outstanding value offered.

The resort staff effortlessly embodies the essence of hospitality, proving that genuine warmth and attentiveness are not reserved for high-end establishments alone. From the moment of arrival, the attentive and accommodating demeanor of the staff is evident, making every guest feel like a valued member of the resort's family. Their dedication to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience is nothing short of commendable, earning them another 5/5.

Dining at the resort is a journey of culinary delight that surpasses the expectations one might have for a budget-friendly getaway. The well-prepared meals, infused with flavors that tantalize the taste buds, elevate the dining experience above the average fare typically encountered in this price range. While not reaching the heights of gourmet cuisine, the food still manages to leave a lasting impression that complements the overall stay.

For those with an affinity for underwater exploration, the resort's offering takes a unique twist. With a stunning reef just steps away from the resort's doorstep, freedivers are in for a treat that sets this establishment apart from its peers. The opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the underwater world, right at the resort's front, is an undeniably captivating proposition that adds a layer of allure to the entire experience.

In sum, this resort emerges as a beacon of excellence within its affordability spectrum. With accommodations that rival those of higher-priced options, a staff that embodies the spirit of genuine hospitality, and cuisine that transcends the ordinary, it's an excellent choice for those seeking value without compromise. Add to this the underwater wonderland that awaits freedivers, and you have a winning combination that truly sets this...