Uncover the Hidden Gem: Mija Casita, Ilocos Sur's Best-Kept Secret!
Mija Casita: My Ilocos Sur Secret is Out (and I'm Okay With It!) - A Gut-Check Review
Okay, listen up. I'm about to spill the beans on Mija Casita, Ilocos Sur's "best-kept secret," and honestly? I'm kinda bummed. But also thrilled. Because this place… this place gets it. This isn't your cookie-cutter hotel experience. This is… well, let's just dive in, shall we? Buckle up, because this review is gonna be as messy and glorious as a perfectly-fried bagnet (which, by the way, they nail here).
First Impressions: The Road Less Traveled (and Worth Every Bump)
Finding Mija Casita is part of the adventure. Forget the big, flashing signs. You're looking for a whisper of a place, tucked away. Accessibility? It’s… getting there is an adventure. The roads getting there are a bit rough, so if you have mobility issues, plan ahead and call ahead to check with the hotel on the best route. This isn't a bustling city hotel; it's a hidden pocket of paradise. But trust me, that feeling of discovery, of uncovering something special, is worth the slightly-less-than-smooth ride.
(Rant Alert: I'm not a fan of the over-the-top paved road, I'm a fan of the adventure!)
The Room: My Fortress of Solitude (and Comfort!)
My room? Oh, my room. Let's just say I could have easily stayed holed up there for a week. Available in all rooms: Air conditioning, thank goodness! Alarm clock (old school, I love it). Bathrobes (yes, please!). Blackout curtains (essential for my sleep schedule). Coffee/tea maker (early morning ritual, CHECK!). Free bottled water (always appreciated). Hair dryer (a lifesaver!). In-room safe box (peace of mind). Internet access – wireless (thank you, sweet WiFi gods!). Laptop workspace (got some work done, but mostly just enjoyed the view). Non-smoking (thank you, universe!). Private bathroom (a must!). Refrigerator (for those midnight snack raids). Seating area (perfect for reading, staring out the window, or just generally being). Shower (powerful water pressure, bliss!). Slippers (luxury!). Soundproofing (ah, silence!). Toiletries (decent quality). Towels (fluffy!). Wake-up service (reliable). Wi-Fi [free] (essential!). And the window that opens – fresh air and the sounds of the Ilocos countryside, perfection.
My room even had an extra-long bed. I'm 5'10" and I didn't even come close to the end of the bed.
The Little Things That Matter (and the Ones That Don't!)
Let's talk about the details, shall we? Cleanliness and safety are clearly a priority. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocol – all reassuring in the current climate. They've also got hand sanitizer readily available. I didn't see any shared stationery cluttering things up, and the rooms are sanitized between stays. They even offer room sanitization opt-out available if you prefer. They're taking it seriously, which I appreciate.
Food, Glorious Food (and the Occasional Hiccup)
Okay, the food. This is where Mija Casita really shines. Asian breakfast is a must-try. The Asian cuisine in restaurant is top-notch, and the Western cuisine in restaurant is also pretty darn good. The buffet in restaurant is a great way to start the day. The A la carte in restaurant menu had a lot of options and I ate at the restaurants every night. They've got a poolside bar, which is perfect for sunset cocktails. The Happy hour is a steal. I didn't try the soup in restaurant, but I heard it was delicious. The Coffee/tea in restaurant is always available. The Desserts in restaurant are worth the calories. The Bottle of water is always available. The Snack bar is a lifesaver.
Anecdote Time: I’m usually a breakfast skeptic, but their buffet? Forget about it. The longganisa was perfectly seasoned, the eggs were fluffy, and the tuyo (dried fish) had just the right amount of salty kick. I ate so much I nearly burst. The only downside? I was so full I almost didn’t make it to the pool.
The only minor hiccup? Breakfast in room isn't always available, and sometimes the room service can take a while. But honestly, who cares when you're surrounded by this much beauty?
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: A Spa Day to Remember (and a Pool with a View!)
This is where Mija Casita really, really gets it right. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is stunning, with a Pool with view that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy. The Spa is a haven of tranquility. I indulged in a massage – a deep tissue, to work out all the travel kinks. Pure bliss. They offer a Body scrub and a Body wrap, which I didn't get to try, but now I regret it. The Sauna and Steamroom add to the experience. The Foot bath was also very relaxing.
Anecdote Time #2: Okay, so I’m lying there, face down during my massage, and the masseuse starts talking about the local herbs they use. I’m half-asleep, trying to remember the name of the plant she’s describing. I get the feeling of "I'm on vacation, I'm relaxed" and it took me a while to get back into the real world. It was so good I booked one for the next day and then the next.
Services and Conveniences: The Good, the Great, and the "Meh"
Concierge service was helpful, though sometimes a bit slow. The Daily housekeeping keeps things spotless. They have Laundry service (thank goodness!). The Air conditioning in public area is essential, especially after a day in the sun. Cash withdrawal is available, which is handy. Currency exchange is offered. They offer Car park [free of charge]. I saw a Car park [on-site] for guests. They offer a Terrace.
Getting Around: Exploring the Beauty of Ilocos Sur
Airport transfer is available, which is convenient. They also offer Taxi service. While I didn’t use the Valet parking, it’s an option.
For the Kids & The Family: A Place for Everyone
I didn't travel with kids, but I saw families there and the hotel seemed well-equipped. Babysitting service is offered. They have Family/child friendly amenities.
Accessibility & Safety: Important Considerations
Wheelchair accessible is a question to be asked as the roads are not paved. The hotel has CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, First aid kit, and Smoke alarms. They have Security [24-hour] which is reassuring.
The Verdict: Book It. Now.
Okay, so Mija Casita isn't perfect. It has its quirks, its minor imperfections. But that's what makes it so damn charming. It's authentic, it's beautiful, it's relaxing, and the food is incredible. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and reconnect with yourself.
Here's the deal: If you're looking for a sterile, corporate experience, this isn't it. If you're looking for a place to be pampered, to eat amazing food, and to soak up the beauty of Ilocos Sur, then BOOK MIJA CASITA NOW. Before everyone else finds out.
My Offer: Unforgettable Ilocos Sur Escape Awaits!
Book your stay at Mija Casita within the next week and receive:
- A complimentary welcome drink – a refreshing local concoction to kick off your vacation.
- A 15% discount on all spa treatments – because you deserve to be pampered.
- A free upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability) – so you can enjoy the stunning views even more.
- Free access to the sauna, steam room, and gym
Don't miss out on this chance to experience the magic of Mija Casita. Click the link below and book your escape today!
(Insert Booking Link Here)
P.S. Tell them I sent you. Maybe, just maybe, they'll give me a discount on my next stay. 😉
Jaipur Jewel: Your Dreamy Downtown Studio Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned travel itinerary. This is me, stumbling through the cobblestone streets of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, and you're coming along for the ride. Prepare for a hot mess, a few tears (probably from laughter), and a whole lot of adobo.
Mija Casita: Ilocos Sur - A Love Letter (and a Few Swear Words) to the North
Day 1: Arrival & Instant Adobo Craving (and Existential Dread)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Arrive at Laoag International Airport. Ugh, that airport! It's like stepping back in time, in a charming, kinda-falling-apart way. The heat hits you like a brick wall. Immediately, I'm sweating. I'm also already craving adobo. Is that normal? Probably not. But hey, it's me.
- (9:30 AM): Grab a tricycle to the pre-booked Mija Casita. The tricycle driver, bless his heart, drives like he's auditioning for a Fast & Furious movie. I clutch my bag for dear life. I hope the driver doesn't get lost in the way.
- (10:30 AM): Check-in at Mija Casita. The place is adorable! It's like a hug in the form of a guesthouse. The staff are genuinely lovely, and the courtyard is just… chef's kiss. I feel a wave of calm, which is quickly replaced by the overwhelming urge to nap.
- (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Settle in, unpack, and immediately regret packing too many clothes. I mean, who needs five pairs of jeans in this humidity? This is followed by a frantic search for the mosquito repellent. This is my life now.
- Lunch (12:30 PM): Find a carinderia (small, local eatery) near Mija Casita. Adobo Time! I mean, I'm not even exaggerating, I think I'm actually addicted to adobo. This stuff is the food of the gods, and I'm pretty sure I could eat it three times a day. This is the first adobo, and it's everything. The perfect balance of salty, savory, and a hint of sweetness. The rice is fluffy, and I literally want to cry happy tears.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Stroll around Vigan Heritage Village. Okay, this is when the magic really starts. The cobblestone streets, the ancestral houses, the kalesas (horse-drawn carriages) – it's like stepping into a time warp. It's beautiful, but also… damn, it's hot. I'm dripping sweat, and my hair is a frizzy mess.
- (3:00 PM): Get a kalesa ride. It's a total tourist trap, but I don't care. It's romantic, and the horse, bless his heart, is probably as tired as I am. The driver tells me stories about the houses, and I try to pay attention, but mostly I'm just admiring the scenery and hoping I don't fall off the darn thing.
- (4:00 PM): Visit the Syquia Mansion. This place is amazing. It's like a time capsule, and I can practically feel the history oozing from the walls. The furniture, the paintings, the stories… it's all incredibly fascinating. I pretend I'm a rich, elegant lady from the 1800s.
- (5:00 PM): Find a shady spot. I'm starting to feel the heat. I need to sit down. I buy a halo-halo (shaved ice dessert) from a street vendor. It's a glorious, messy, sugary explosion of goodness.
- Dinner (7:00 PM): Eat at Hidden Garden. Another restaurant. I'm basically eating my way through Ilocos. The food is delicious, and the ambiance is lovely. I manage to spill some sauce on my shirt. I'm a classy lady, I tell you.
- Evening (8:30 PM): Stroll around Vigan Plaza. It's even more magical at night. The lights, the music, the people… it's alive! I buy some longganisa (sausage) from a street vendor and eat it while I walk. Life is good.
- (9:30 PM): Back to Mija Casita. I crash. I'm exhausted but happy. I have a serious adobo craving, but I resist. (For now.)
Day 2: The Cape, Pottery, and the Art of Doing Nothing (Well, Mostly)
- Morning (7:00 AM): Wake up ridiculously early, thanks to the sunlight blasting through my window. I should probably get used to this.
- Breakfast (8:00 AM): Breakfast at Mija Casita. It's a simple, delicious breakfast, but I forget to take a picture of it. I'm still working on the whole "travel blogger" thing.
- (9:00 AM): Road trip to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. It's a long drive, but the views are stunning. The lighthouse itself is impressive, and the wind is whipping my hair around like a crazy person. I pose for some pictures, and then I get a bad sunburn.
- (11:00 AM): Visit a pottery shop in Vigan. This is a highlight. I get to try my hand at pottery. I fail miserably. I make a lopsided, misshapen pot that looks like a sad little mushroom. But it's fun, and the instructor is incredibly patient. I have a new respect for potters.
- Lunch (12:30 PM): Eat at a local restaurant. I discover another dish that I love: Pinakbet. It's a vegetable stew, and it's absolutely delicious. I try to eat it slowly, to savor every bite.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Nap Time. I go back to Mija Casita and collapse in bed. This is the best part of the day. I sleep like a baby.
- (4:00 PM): Wake up, feeling refreshed. I decide to explore the streets of Vigan. I find a small shop selling local crafts. I buy a few souvenirs.
- (5:00 PM): Chill at Mija Casita. Sit in the courtyard and read a book. I finally have some downtime, and I'm enjoying it. The staff are so friendly. I decide to have a conversation with the staff and ask them about the place.
- Dinner (7:00 PM): Eat dinner again. I eat at Cafe Leona. The food is okay, but the ambiance is great. I sit outside and people-watch.
- Evening (8:30 PM): Back to Mija Casita. I pack my bags, feeling a little sad that my trip is almost over. I enjoy one last night in this place. I get a good night's sleep.
Day 3: Departure & Adobo Withdrawal (The Real Struggle)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Wake up, have breakfast. One last adobo craving.
- (9:00 AM): Check out of Mija Casita. Say goodbye to the lovely staff. I'm already missing this place.
- (9:30 AM): Buy some last-minute souvenirs. I buy a few more bags of longganisa. I'm going to need it.
- (10:00 AM): Head to the airport. The tricycle ride is just as crazy as the first one. I hold on tight.
- (11:00 AM): Arrive at the airport. The airport is just as small as I remember.
- (12:00 PM): Flight. I spend the whole flight thinking about adobo. I'm going to miss it so much.
- (4:00 PM): Land. I am sad. I want to go back.
Final Thoughts:
Ilocos Sur is a place that gets under your skin. It's beautiful, chaotic, delicious, and full of heart. It's a place where you can get lost in the past, eat your weight in adobo, and make memories that will last a lifetime. I can't wait to go back. And next time, I'm bringing an extra suitcase just for adobo.
Montenegro's Hidden Gem: Stunning Apartments in Risan, Kotor Bay!
Mija Casita: You THINK You're Ready? (Spoiler: You Probably Aren't)
Okay, so you've heard the whispers. "Hidden Gem." "Best-Kept Secret." Blah, blah, blah. Let's cut the crap. Mija Casita. I've been. I've *survived*. Here's the lowdown, warts and all. Prepare yourselves.
So, is Mija Casita *actually* a hidden gem? Or just, you know, a regular place with nice photos?
Okay, deep breaths. It's... complicated. The photos? LIES! (Okay, maybe not lies, but *highly* curated.) It's definitely not a 'regular place'. Think less polished Instagram feed, more "Grandma's house, but in a really beautiful part of the world." Is it a gem? Yeah, probably. But it's a *rough* gem. You gotta be okay with a little dust on your perfectly manicured expectations. I'll admit, arriving and seeing the place in person made me feel a little... disappointed. Then, a few minutes later, it was overwhelming. That's just how it is.
What's the vibe like? Is it romantic? Family-friendly? Party-central?
Romantic? Potentially. If you're into rustic charm and the constant threat of a rogue gecko. Family-friendly? Yes, but maybe with older kids. Little kids? Prepare for a lot of "Mommy! There's a bug!" Party-central? Absolutely *not*. This is the kind of place where 'party' means having a quiet conversation on the balcony with a bottle of Tanduay Ice, and maybe, *maybe*, a few of the other guests. Trust me, you'll appreciate the peace. I loved the peace. It was almost too peaceful. I got bored. Then I remembered I was on vacation and it was fine.
The food! What's the food situation? I'm a picky eater, can I handle it?
Okay, the food... This is where it gets REALLY interesting. They have a set menu. No choices. It's what they make. And it's... *Ilocano*. Which means, if you're not a fan of adobo, and bagnet, and longganisa, and basically anything involving pork and deliciousness... you might be in trouble. I am a picky eater. I survived. Mostly. Some dishes were heavenly. Others, let's just say, I learned to appreciate the artistry of plating. There were times I wished I had brought my own peanut butter and jelly. But honestly? The experience of trying new things, and the sheer *authenticity* of it all... it's part of the charm. Just, maybe pack a snack. Just in case. Seriously. Do it.
Okay, so the rooms. What are they *really* like? Are they clean? Air-conditioned?
Clean? Yes. But, and this is important, it's *rustic* clean. Think less "sterile hotel room," more "your cool aunt's beach house." There might be a stray gecko. Or two. Or five. Embrace it. It's part of the experience. Air-conditioned? Yes! Thank goodness. The Ilocos sun is no joke. The rooms are charming, with a lot of character. But I had some trouble with the shower. The water pressure was weak, and the water temperature was not always consistent. And the toilet. Oh, the toilet. It flushed, eventually. But it took some work. I'm not complaining, mind you. It just added to the whole "adventure" vibe. And, you know, character.
What activities are there? Do I just sit around and stare at the ocean? (Which, honestly, sounds amazing...)
Yes. You can absolutely just sit around and stare at the ocean. And it *is* amazing. But if you get antsy, there are things to do. They can arrange tours. You can explore the nearby beaches. You can wander around the town. One day, I went to a waterfall. It was beautiful. But the hike was intense. I was sweating buckets and complaining the whole time. Then, I got there, and it was so worth it. I'm so glad I did it. But I'm not doing it again. Ever. Also, if you like photography, the sunsets are unbelievable. Bring extra batteries. And a wide-angle lens. Trust me.
Okay, spill the tea. What was your BEST experience?
The best experience? Oh man... It wasn't a single event. It was a moment. It was probably on the second day. I was sitting on the balcony of my room, just staring out at the ocean. The sun was setting, painting the sky in these insane colors. Pink, orange, purple... It was like a painting. I was sipping a beer (a San Miguel, if you must know), and I was just... still. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I wasn't *doing* anything. I wasn't checking my phone. I wasn't worrying about work. I wasn't trying to impress anyone. I was just... *there*. And it was amazing.
And then, a gecko ran across the railing. And I totally jumped and spilled half my beer. But even that was okay. Because in that moment, I realized I was *actually* on vacation. I was actually *relaxing*. I was *alive*. And that, my friends, is the hidden gem of Mija Casita. Not the perfect rooms, or the amazing food (although that was good too!), but the feeling of being completely, utterly, and wonderfully present. Damn, I miss that beer.
And the WORST? Don't be shy.
Okay, fine. The worst? The roosters. Oh, the roosters. They start their infernal crowing at, like, 4 AM. And they don't stop. Ever. I'm a light sleeper. I lost sleep. I wanted to strangle a rooster. I thought about it. A lot. I'm not a violent person, but those roosters… I swear, they were mocking me. It's a minor thing, really. But it's a *major* thing when you're trying to sleep. Bring earplugs. Seriously. Or maybe a really good rooster-repellent. If you find one, let me know.
