Boracay's Hidden Gem: The Piccolo Hotel—Unbelievable Luxury Awaits!
Boracay's Hidden Gem: The Piccolo Hotel - Unbelievable Luxury Awaits! (Honest Review)
Okay, folks, let's be real. I've seen my share of "luxury" hotels. Some deliver, some… well, they over-promise and under-deliver faster than you can say "resort fees." But The Piccolo Hotel in Boracay? This place… this place actually blew my socks off. And trust me, I’m picky.
Accessibility - The Good (and a Tiny Grumble)
Getting to Boracay is a whole other story (those airport transfers are a marathon in themselves) BUT once you are there, The Piccolo generally gets a thumbs up for accessibility. The elevators are a godsend, and navigating the common areas felt pretty smooth. HOWEVER (and this is a small asterisk), I didn't specifically test the wheelchair access fully, but Facilities for disabled guests were listed, so I'd recommend contacting the hotel directly for detailed specifics to ensure a perfect fit.
Staying Connected: Internet, Internet Everywhere!
Let's cut to the chase: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And it actually works! This alone is a massive win. No agonizing buffering while trying to upload that Insta-worthy sunset shot. The Internet access – wireless was strong and reliable throughout my stay. They also offered Internet access – LAN, which is a throwback for some of us, but appreciated nonetheless. They’ve got the Internet services covered, and offer Wi-Fi for special events so if you're planning a big bash, you are set. I mean, who needs to function without the internet?
Cleanliness & Safety - Breathe Easy, Folks!
This is where The Piccolo really shines. Post-pandemic, cleanliness is a major factor, and the Piccolo clearly gets it. They're all over it with the Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, and Professional-grade sanitizing services. You can even Room sanitization opt-out available, if you so choose. Felt safe? Absolutely. Like, "I-can-actually-relax-and-not-constantly-worry-about-germs" safe. They have the Hand sanitizer readily available. They even have Hygiene certification. Honestly, it was comforting to see their commitment to Cleanliness and safety.
The staff is trained in Staff trained in safety protocol. They even have a Doctor/nurse on call – which is a plus, and a First aid kit - you never know.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – Oh My!
Okay, this is where things get seriously delicious. The Piccolo isn’t just about fancy rooms; it's about a full-blown culinary adventure.
- Restaurants: They have multiple restaurants. I lost count. My waistline did. You can indulge in A la carte in the restaurant, Asian cuisine in the restaurant, International cuisine in the restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, and if you want something familiar, Western cuisine in the restaurant.
- Breakfast: Breakfast [buffet] was an absolute feast. I'm not a buffet person, but WOW. From the Western breakfast to the Asian breakfast, to the freshly brewed coffee, I almost didn't leave my table. Honestly, I could have stayed there all day. They offer the Breakfast service, or you can even grab the Breakfast takeaway service.
- Drinks: Poolside bar, Happy hour? Sign me up! And the Poolside bar had me. I'm talking delicious cocktails, breathtaking views, and that feeling of pure bliss.
- Snacks: They have a Coffee shop, Snack bar, and Desserts in restaurant.
- Room service [24-hour]: After a long day, what is better than ordering food?
I will tell you, one night I ordered room service (because honestly, sometimes you just want to eat in your robe), and the food was genuinely restaurant-quality good. The staff, bless their hearts, were so accommodating, even when I was indecisive. Truly and utterly loved the experience!
For those with dietary requirements, I'd say ask up front about the Alternative meal arrangement.
In terms of safety, the Sanitized kitchen and tableware items were a major plus, and they offer a Safe dining setup.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax - Pure Bliss. (This is where I got lost, in a good way.)
Let's get this straight: This is not your average hotel. This is a full-blown escape.
- Spa & Wellness: This is where I decided to "switch off" and was truly pleased. The Spa/sauna, Sauna, Steamroom, and Spa area is a sanctuary. I got a Body scrub, and a Massage, and honestly, I think I floated out. They also offer a Foot bath. Pure, unadulterated relaxation. They also have a Gym/fitness for those who want to remain active.
- Pools: They have Pool with view, and Swimming pool [outdoor], which are spectacular.
- Experiences: Getting to witness the sunset and enjoying the view was wonderful.
The Room (My Happy Place!)
Ok, let's talk rooms. The Piccolo knows what it’s doing. My room was a haven. The Air conditioning worked like a dream (crucial in that Boracay heat!), the Blackout curtains were perfect for a good night's sleep, and the Free bottled water was a lifesaver. Bathrobes and Slippers. The Seating area was perfect. The Separate shower/bathtub was amazing. The In-room safe box let you relax.
- The Bed: The Extra long bed. The most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in. I'm serious. And the Linens were so soft and luxurious.
- Tech: Satellite/cable channels, On-demand movies, and Free Wi-Fi. So much to watch!
- Amenities: Coffee/tea maker, Refrigerator, Mini bar meant you could sip whatever you wanted, whenever you wanted. Desk, Laptop workspace - even though I really did not use it!
The Air conditioning, the Soundproofing, the Non-smoking policy (thank goodness!), was wonderful. I felt like I was in a bubble of peace.
Services & Conveniences - They Thought of EVERYTHING!
Honestly, the level of service was incredible. The Piccolo anticipates your needs before you even realize you have them. Talk about luxury!
- Front Desk: they have a Front desk [24-hour]
- Concierge they have a Concierge
- Food Delivery Food delivery is available.
- Laundry & Dry Cleaning: They have a Dry cleaning, and Laundry service, and even Ironing service
For the Kids (and the Big Kids Too!)
While I traveled solo, I noticed they're super Family/child friendly. I saw a Babysitting service, and Kids meal. They also have Kids facilities so it works well for all.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer, Taxi service
Final Verdict: Go. Just Go.
The Piccolo Hotel isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. From the luxurious rooms to the incredible service, the amazing food, and the sheer feeling of relaxation, it's a place you won't want to leave. Sure, there are a few tiny imperfections (everything isn't always perfectly perfect!), but in terms of delivering a genuinely luxurious and unforgettable stay, The Piccolo Hotel in Boracay absolutely nails it.
Book Now! (Seriously, Before I Do!)
Offer for The Piccolo Hotel:
Headline: Escape to Paradise: Unbelievable Luxury Awaits at The Piccolo Hotel, Boracay!
Body:
Tired of the same old routine? Dreaming of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and pure, unadulterated relaxation? Then look no further than The Piccolo Hotel in Boracay, a hidden gem ready to pamper you like never before.
Imagine:
- Waking up in a stunning, air-conditioned room with an extra-long, supremely comfortable bed.
- Indulging in a delicious buffet breakfast with both Asian and Western options.
- Sipping cocktails at the Poolside bar, with Happy Hour, while soaking up the breathtaking views.
- Unwinding with a rejuvenating massage at our luxurious Spa.
We're offering a special package for a limited time! Book your stay at The Piccolo Hotel and you'll receive:
- Complimentary Free Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- A bottle of chilled wine upon arrival
- 10% off any spa treatment
Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the ultimate luxury escape! Click here to book your stay at The Piccolo Hotel today! (link to booking website)
Limited Availability - Book Now!
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Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is a Boracay trip schedule, Piccolo Hotel edition, filtered through the chaotic sieve of my brain. Let's dive in… and pray for wifi.
Boracay Blunders & Bliss: A Stream-of-Consciousness Itinerary (Probably)
Day 1: Arrival & Arrival Anxiety? (Probably)
Morning (ish - let's be real): Flight lands in Caticlan. Anticipation bubbling, mixed with the gut-wrenching dread of, "Did I pack enough sunscreen? Did I leave the stove on?" The airport's a sweaty, glorious mess. Baggage claim… a test of faith. I'm usually the last one with a bag, so it's a spiritual journey.
Late Morning: Ferry to Boracay. Waves crashing, the salty air… ugh, beautiful. The boat is a tiny, wobbly thing that I SWEAR is going to capsize. My inner monologue: "Don't think about the sharks; don't think about the sharks; OH GOD ARE THOSE SHARKS?!"
Afternoon: Check-in at The Piccolo Hotel. First impressions: SO cute! Breezy, minimalist, and the air conditioning is a godsend. The staff is ridiculously friendly, like, too friendly, which means I'm immediately suspicious of a hidden timeshare. Maybe they'll be nice enough that they'll find my lost suitcase.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: White Beach Wanderlust. Okay, I have to be honest. The pristine sand? Stunning. The turquoise water? Instagram-worthy. The sheer number of people? Slightly overwhelming. I attempt a leisurely stroll, dodging selfie sticks and persistent beach vendors. I’m not sure if I want to be that person or not, buying all of those items, but the temptation is there.
Evening: Dinner at a beachside restaurant. Ordered a grilled mango salad with a side of crippling indecision. The sunset… is the real MVP. Honestly, pure magic. I get teary-eyed. Okay? Sometimes sunsets get me. I also get teary-eyed when I can't figure out how to pay the bill.
Night: Drinks at a beach bar. I swear I saw the bartender wink at me. Or maybe it was a nervous twitch? Either way, the cocktails are strong, the music is loud, and I’m starting to think maybe Boracay isn’t so bad after all.
Day 2: Watery Woes? (Maybe)
Morning: Sleep in! (if possible, the beach party next door was LOUD). Breakfast at the Piccolo is a must. I ate pancakes, maybe two servings.
Late Morning: Island hopping trip. This is where things get interesting. The boat ride is slightly terrifying. The waves start to slap me in the face, and I realize my fear of open water is far grander than I thought. Snorkeling? I try. Mostly, I swallow a lot of saltwater and panic. Saw some fish though. They were judging me.
Afternoon: Relax on a secluded beach (found my peace with a deserted spot). It’s idyllic, until I try to reapply sunscreen and end up looking like a lobster.
Late Afternoon: Back to White Beach. Another attempt at a beach stroll. This time, a vendor tries to sell me a "genuine" pearl necklace. I know it's fake, but it’s pretty. I almost buy it. But I don't, so I go for ice cream instead.
Evening: Dinner at a recommended restaurant. The food is amazing. I eat so much… I'm pretty sure I've gained five pounds since I landed. But you only live once (or, at least until the next meal).
Night: More drinks. This time, with the added bonus of karaoke. Dear God, why. But, hey, at least I'm brave enough to sing a duet of "Bohemian Rhapsody" (badly). People applauded, so I think it went well.
Day 3: Relaxation & Regrets (Possibly Both)
Morning: Sleep in. Because, well, karaoke. Ordered room service, which was a mistake. The food was cold, the coffee was weak, but I was too hungover to care.
Late Morning: Massage at a spa. I chose the "deep tissue" option. It was intense. My muscles now feel like they've been through a blender. But I’m relaxed.
Afternoon: Lounging by the pool. I make friends with a stray puppy. I consider taking him home. Then I remember I can barely take care of myself.
Late Afternoon: Final beach stroll. Trying to soak up every last drop of sunshine. I’m slightly sad to leave. I've gotten used to the chaos.
Evening: Dinner at a restaurant. The food is fine. I'm now a pro at dodging vendors now. I celebrate my victory with a final cocktail (or two).
Night: Packing. I am absolutely terrible at packing. It looks like a bomb went off in my suitcase. I'm pretty sure I'll forget something vital.
Day 4: Departure & The Emotional Hangover
Morning: Check out of The Piccolo. Saying goodbye is bittersweet. I had a fun time. I would recommend it to a friend.
Late Morning: Ferry ride back to Caticlan. Waving goodbye.
Afternoon: Flight home. The airport feels even more chaotic this time. I’m tired, sunburnt, and already missing the beach. The emotional hangover has begun.
Evening: Arrival home. I'm both exhausted and strangely rejuvenated. Did I eat a whole pizza after arriving? Maybe.
Final Thoughts:
This itinerary is a lie. It's a collection of hopes, dreams, and probably-failed attempts. Boracay is messy, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable. I'm already planning my return. And next time, I'm definitely buying that "genuine" pearl necklace. Don't tell anyone.
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Boracay's Piccolo Hotel: Ask Me Anything (Because I've Been There, Done That, and Almost Got Arrested for Taking Too Many Pictures)
Okay, spill the beans! Is the Piccolo Hotel *really* as ridiculously luxurious as it looks online?
Alright, alright, settle down. Yes. Absolutely, unequivocally, positively YES. Think: you walk in, and you *feel* like you should be in a movie. The lobby is this airy, light-filled space, and the staff? Seriously, they're practically psychic. Before you even *think* about wanting a mango shake, poof! There it is, garnished with a tiny, perfect orchid. It's a little… overwhelming at first. I almost started apologizing for existing. Actually, scratch that, I *did* apologize – to the air conditioning. It was just that good.
My Take: Look, I’ve stayed in some 'nice' places, you know, the ones with the complimentary shampoo that smells suspiciously like old socks. The Piccolo? It's like… ascended hotel-dom. It's less 'luxury,' and more 'being swaddled in pure, unadulterated bliss.' Prepare to feel like royalty. Or, like I did, a slightly awkward peasant who accidentally wandered into the palace.
What's the *real* difference between the rooms? I keep seeing "Deluxe," "Premier," blah blah blah… is it just the view?
Okay, let's be honest. I only stayed in the "Deluxe" room. (My bank account doesn't stretch to the "Presidential Suite," unfortunately. Maybe next lifetime!). BUT, here’s the tea: Even the basic rooms are *insane*. Think: massive beds you could get lost in (and I almost did, repeatedly), balconies with views that made me gasp (and also nearly trip over a stray towel), and bathrooms that are bigger than my entire apartment back home. The "Premier" rooms probably have their own personal massage therapists living in the closet. I’m guessing that the higher you go, the more ridiculous it gets.
My Imperfect Advice: Honestly? Unless you're a trust fund baby or a Kardashian, the Deluxe is probably amazing enough. Focus on enjoying the *hotel* itself, not just the room. Seriously, I could have stayed in a broom closet and still been happy, because the *everything else* was so amazing. Though, I did keep eyeing the Premier rooms… just in case.
The Instagram photos show an Infinity Pool that looks… phenomenal. Is it as good as it seems? And is it always packed?
Oh. My. God. The pool. Let's just say, I'm pretty sure it's where mermaids go to sunbathe. The infinity edge is *mesmerizing*. You’re basically swimming out over the ocean. And the sunsets? Forget about it. Prepare to become a cliché and take about a million photos. (I might have been tempted to jump the pool and just live there.)
The Real Dirt: Here's the thing: It *can* get a little crowded. But, because the Piccolo is a boutique hotel, it’s not like a spring break free-for-all. I found that if you go early or late (sunrise or sunset), you practically have the place to yourself. Also, the cocktails poolside are… dangerous. In a good way. You'll be relaxed, sun-kissed, and possibly plotting to move to Boracay and open a tiny beach shack.
Is the food as good as the rest of the experience? Any restaurant recommendations?
Okay, so the food… I have to confess, I was almost *too* relaxed to be properly critical of the culinary offerings. It's that kind of place. But, yes, the food is *fantastic*. Breakfast alone is worth the price of admission, with everything from fresh pastries (OMG, the croissants!) to made-to-order omelets. The in-house restaurant, Icarus, is excellent. Try the seafood. Seriously, just try *everything*. It's all good. I was basically eating to make sure I didn't miss anything! Icarus, it was seriously good. I may have had dinner there every night. (Okay, I *did*.)
Minor category - Random Rambles: One evening at Icarus, there was this *amazing* band playing, and I swear, I almost broke down and started singing along. (Luckily, I stopped myself. My singing voice is known to scare small children.) The point is, the atmosphere is perfect.
What about the service? Is it genuinely attentive, or just pretend?
The service at the Piccolo is *impeccable*. I want to emphasize that. Seriously, these people are wizards. They anticipate your needs before you even know you have them. They're friendly, helpful, and genuinely seem to care about your experience. One time, I dropped my phone in the pool (don't ask!), and before I could even panic, someone had fished it out, dried it off, and was already on their way to get me a replacement. (Okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration, but it felt like it!) They even remembered my (admittedly weird) coffee order after the first day. That is dedication!
Emotional Reactions: I was genuinely impressed. I’ve stayed in places where the staff seem to actively *resent* you being there. Not the Piccolo. They actually *smile*! My stay at the Piccolo was genuinely one of the best experiences I've ever had at a hotel. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
Location, location, location! How easy is it to get around from the Piccolo? Is it right on the beach?
The Piccolo is in a prime location on Boracay. It's not *directly* on White Beach (that's actually kinda nice; it gives it a bit of privacy), but it's close enough to walk. You're also a short tricycle ride from D'Mall, where you'll find everything from restaurants and shops to… well, more restaurants and shops. I spent approximately 40 percent of my time exploring the beach and another 30 percent shopping. The other 30 percent? Trying to figure out how to legally emigrate to Boracay.
Messy Structure and Occasional Rambles: Speaking of which, the tricycles are *an experience*! Imagine a souped-up golf cart with a driver who seems determined to achieve warp speed. It's chaotic, it's loud, it's exhilarating. And it's definitely part of the Boracay charm. Be prepared to haggle a little bit, but don't be afraid to get around. It's an essential part of the Boracay experience.
