Hearing the word apsaras readily reminded me of the elegant female figures carved at the Khmer temples in Cambodia. Generally, apsaras are celestial maidens represented in different interpretations depending of the places. As for Apsaras Tribe Siargao, this is the newest seaside hotel in the surfing capital of the country. An appealing container-type style accommodation with direct view of the Pacific Seas.
Location
Conveniently located only 1.3km away from the Cloud 9 surfing area and 3.4 km away from the General Luna town proper, Apsaras Tribe Siargao enjoys accessibility from the popular surfing spot on the island province. The resort also have an unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean yet have an easy entry from the main road.
Design
Apsaras Tribe Siargao enjoys a half hectare land area with a large open space by the beach. There are 39 elevated container type-design accommodations in blue-painted walls which reminds me a lot of Southern California beach vibe. The entire resort has a very modern and industrial design. I like how the air can freely pass through the common areas to take advantage of the natural breeze.
Rooms
The industrial theme translates to the room interiors as well. Wooden wireframes used as ornaments and steel frames utilized as hangers. I love the design of the linens. The sea patterns and colors in contrast to the earth colored walls. Bed cushion and pillows are quite comfortable.
The bathroom is a bit compact though. I am impartial to the use of opaque walls as the light glows through. For me who enjoys sleeping in a pitch black room, a lit bathroom can be disturbing.
The room we stayed in is a Deluxe Ocean View Twin Bed Room. The sliding door opens to a modest balcony with direct access to the beach and the lounging areas. I like the nice touches that each room has umbrellas hanging near the door.
Facilities
I really like the elevated walkways along the rooms. It keeps the sands off your foot wear. The walkways even lead to a sun deck platform at the second floor with more lounge chairs on the platform. A scenic higher view of the beach.
The Pavilion is the central area of activity where guest are received. Internet is also available in this area. At the upper floor is the Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar. The main dining area where breakfast buffet and ala carte meals are served.
At the heart of the resort is the 8-shaped pool. Never had the chance to swim here but it looks nice, though the greenish color is somewhat uninviting. There’s supposed to be an electronic pool wave there but didn’t manage to see it in operation.
Services
Like any other resorts, activities can be booked from the front desk too, from surfing lessons, land tours to island hopping tours. Boards are available for rent. Even mountain bikes too.
One service that really made a mark for me are their massage service. They hire some of the best masseuse I had tried. We had our in-room massage and the therapist I had was very skilled. I asked fellow companions and they thought the same for their therapist.
Another one that I really appreciate was their 24-hour front desk. I woke up in the wee hours of the morning with an upset stomach (from all the eating!) and asked if they had medicines available. And I was glad they do from their first aid kit. They even gave it to me for free even if I insist paying for it.
Apsaras Tribe Resort Experience
We stayed here for two nights for Cebu Pacific Air’s JuanEffect Campaign and it has been nothing but a comfortable stay despite the bleak weather. The rocky beach is not that appealing for a swim but the sight is quite soothing still. Especially just chilling at one of the hammocks or lounge pods watching the stars at night or sunrise in the morning.
I had good experience with the service. The breakfast had a nice variety as well. I especially enjoyed their coffee. The resort is well-designed (except for that bathroom) and location is convenient too. And did I mention they are a pet-friendly resort? Apsaras Tribe Resort is quite new and already have a good showing and there’s still room to improve on. Which should be since their price is quite on the premium side.
Apsaras Tribe Siargao (Book Online)
Contact: 0917.169.8758
IG: @apsaras_siargao
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
