Cagayan de Oro's Hidden Gem: Unforgettable Stay at Our Story Boutique Hotel!
Cagayan de Oro's Hidden Gem: Unforgettable Stay at Our Story Boutique Hotel! - A Messy, Wonderful Review
Okay, buckle up, because I'm about to gush (and maybe grumble a little) about Our Story Boutique Hotel in Cagayan de Oro. They call it a "Hidden Gem," and… well, they're not wrong. Finding it felt like stumbling upon a secret oasis after a long, dusty day. This review? It's going to be as real and unfiltered as that first sip of cold water when you're parched.
First Impressions & Accessibility - A Tale of Two Sides (and a Bit of a Climb!)
Right off the bat, let's talk access. Getting to CDO? Easy peasy. The airport transfer was arranged flawlessly (major kudos!), and the hotel itself is… well, here's where things get a bit interesting.
- Accessibility: Okay, so it's not a completely level playing field. This isn't a fully wheelchair-accessible paradise. There are steps. Seriously, prepare for stairs. And a fair few of 'em leading toward the lobby, which might give some travelers a bit of a challenge.
- Getting Around: They did arrange a car park for us, which made our arrival easier. They have car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site]. On-site parking is a big bonus, and the airport transfer made us feel extra taken care of.
But… Once You're In, Oh Boy! It's a Different Story.
The lobby? Stunning. The staff? SO friendly. They even whisked away my bags (major win, because I overpacked, obviously). And the check-in/out [express] was super-efficient. Also, Check-in/out [private] - how posh!
Rooms: My Little Sanctuary (with a Few Quirks)
My room? Available in all rooms is an understatement! It was a haven. It had Air conditioning, blessedly so. Blackout curtains were my best friend (I need my beauty sleep!). Let me list off the things that made it comfortable: Internet access - wireless, complimentary Tea, coffee/tea maker, free bottled water, Hair dryer, Slippers, bathrobes, and towels - a definite plus!
- The View (and the Window That Opens!): My room was a high floor room. The window opened! I could breath fresh air! That was one of the things that put it over the top!
- Amenities Galore: The In-room safe box was a lifesaver for valuables. Loved the Refrigerator. Yes, there was a Desk to work on. And let me tell you about the Seating area – perfect for collapsing after a day of exploring.
- The Minor Gripes (Because We're Real People): Okay, here's where I confess to being a tiny bit nitpicky. The Alarm Clock was a bit finicky. And I'm a fiend for a good internet connection. Internet Access - Wireless was great. However, I needed to access the internet for work - I found that the Internet [LAN] was unavailable. But hey that is it, and for a great stay, it's not a big point.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure (and Sanitized!)
This is where Our Story really shines. They are serious about cleanliness.
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily Disinfection in common areas, hygiene certification, rooms sanitized between stays, professional-grade sanitizing services, staff trained in safety protocol – I felt SO safe, even with all the COVID jitters. They even have hand sanitizer readily available everywhere.
- First Aid Kit? Check. Doctor/nurse on call? Check. Safety/security feature? CHECK!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Feast Your Eyes (and Your Belly!)
Okay, let's talk food, because, let's be honest, it's a HUGE part of any travel experience.
- The Breakfast (A Dream): The Breakfast [buffet] was a highlight!! This wasn't your sad, lukewarm continental breakfast. Nope. This was a spread! And you could order breakfast [in room] also.
- Restaurants: The Restaurant offers a beautiful mix of local and international cuisine.
- Snacks and Drinks: I loved the Poolside bar where I grabbed a cocktail.
Ways to Relax: Pools, Pampering, and Bliss
This is where Our Story truly transforms into an escape.
- The Pool with a View: The Swimming pool [outdoor] was amazing! It was the perfect way to cool off after a day of sightseeing.
- Massage, Sauna, and Spa: I got a fantastic massage at the Spa! The sauna and steamroom were a welcome way to relax.
- Fitness Center: I did manage to drag myself to the Fitness center once or twice – the gym was well-equipped.
Services and Conveniences: They've Thought of Everything!
- Essential Condiments - I loved this.
- Concierge: They were awesome! Got me everything I needed.
- Laundry service, dry cleaning and Ironing service? Yes, yes, and yes, for the traveler who doesn't want to do chores!
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Business Facilities
- Audio-visual equipment for special events, Meeting/banquet facilities, meetings, and seminars - if you need it!
For the Kids: Family Friendly? Absolutely!
- Babysitting service
- Family/child friendly
- Kids meal,
Things to do:
- Cagayan de Oro's attractions
- Meeting/banquet facilities, meetings, and seminars
- Outdoor venue for special events
- Indoor venue for special events
The Quirks, the Imperfections, and Why I'm Still In Love
Okay, it wasn't perfect. But that's what made it real. The charm of Our Story Boutique Hotel lies not just in its amenities, but in its personality. It's not a sterile, cookie-cutter hotel. It's got character. It's got heart. And it's got staff who genuinely care about your experience.
Final Verdict: Book It! (But Be Prepared for a Bit of a Climb!)
This "Hidden Gem" is worth seeking out. If you are good climbing a few stairs, Our Story Boutique Hotel is an absolute must-stay if you're visiting Cagayan de Oro. The service is impeccable, the rooms are cozy, the food is delicious, and the whole experience is just… wonderful.
Here's My Unforgettable Hotel Stay Offer: Book Now!
Our Story Boutique Hotel: Your Cagayan de Oro Adventure Awaits!
Escape to paradise! Book your stay at Our Story Boutique Hotel and experience the ultimate blend of comfort, style, and personalized service.
Here's what you get:
- Unforgettable Comfort: Luxurious rooms with air conditioning, blackout curtains, free Wi-Fi, and all the amenities to make you feel at home.
- Delicious Dining: Indulge in a delightful breakfast buffet, savor local and international cuisine, and enjoy refreshing drinks at the poolside bar.
- Ultimate Relaxation: Relax by the pool with a view, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or work up a sweat in the fitness center.
- Safety First: Experience peace of mind with our rigorous cleanliness and safety protocols, including anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection, and trained staff.
- Convenience at Your Fingertips: Enjoy our seamless airport transfer, on-site parking, and attentive concierge service.
Limited Time Offer:
- 10% Discount: Book your stay within the next 7 days and receive a 10% discount on your room rate!
- Free Upgrade: Enjoy a complimentary upgrade to a higher room category (based on availability).
- Complimentary Welcome Drink: Sip on a refreshing welcome drink upon arrival.
Book now and create memories that will last a lifetime! [Link to booking website] (Don't forget to mention this review to receive your exclusive offers!)
Himeji Castle's Secret: The Grandvrio Hotel's Unbelievable Luxury!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, 'cause we're diving headfirst into a Cagayan de Oro adventure at Our Story Boutique Hotel. This isn't your sterile, perfectly curated travel blog – this is the raw, unfiltered, slightly-manic travel log of yours truly. Let's GO!
Day 1: Arrival and "Oh my GOD, This AC is LIFE-GIVING!"
- (1:00 PM) Arrival at Laguindingan Airport (CGY). Okay, first things first: the humidity hits you like a wet blanket the second you step outside the plane. No joke, I instantly regretted my stupidly stylish, but clearly impractical, linen pants. The airport itself? Let's just say character-building. Finding a cab was a contact sport, a sweaty, frenzied scramble of waving arms and shouted destinations. But hey, we made it!
- (2:30 PM) Check-in at Our Story Boutique Hotel. Honestly, the hotel is gorgeous. Like, Pinterest-worthy gorgeous. So, when they showed us to our room, I was half expecting a tiny broom closet. Pleasantly surprised! The room was spacious, the décor was on point (lots of reclaimed wood and local art), and the air conditioning was a gift from the gods. I literally stood in front of the vent for five minutes, just letting it wash over me.
- (3:00 PM) Post-travel Nap, or Attempt Thereof. After that arduous journey, my brain turned to mush. I crashed on the bed and slept for a bit but then I spent half an hour trying to make the internet work, ugh. I gave up and grabbed a book instead.
- (5:00 PM) Poolside Relaxation (and Existential Dread). There's a charming little pool at the hotel. I thought I'd chill with a book, but a couple were making out in the next cabana and the silence was deafening. I ended up just ordering a San Miguel Light and contemplating the meaning of life in a slightly tipsy haze. Turns out the meaning is: More San Mig Light.
- (7:00 PM) Dinner at a restaurant: The first place was completely booked, so we wandered around a bit until we found a place with an empty table, which was more than good enough, some local dishes such as seafood soup, fresh fish, and some grilled meat.
- (9:00 PM) Bedtime: Too full to do anything else
Day 2: The River of Dreams (and a Few Minor Disasters)
- (7:00 AM) Wake up! I woke up feeling happy and excited.
- (8:00 AM) Breakfast at the Hotel. Breakfast was amazing!
- (9:30 AM) White Water Rafting Adventure: This. Was. EPIC. Okay, so I'm terrified of water, especially fast-moving water. But the Cagayan de Oro River is supposed to be the best for whitewater rafting in the Philippines, so, you know, YOLO. Our guide, a guy named Jojo who looked like he could wrestle a crocodile, was amazing. He was really encouraging and, at times, shouted instructions so clearly that I was able to understand what I was doing! There were moments of pure terror – the rapids were insane – but also moments of sheer, unadulterated joy. We ended up flipping the raft at one point. I briefly questioned all my life choices. Then, we were laughing and paddling. The best part? Conquering my fear (small victory, but important).
- (12:00 PM) Post-Rafting Exhaustion and Food: Back at the hotel, I was a soggy, shivering mess. Thankfully, the hotel staff had a special and delicious lunch waiting.
- (2:00 PM) Trying to Relax: I lay by the pool again to dry out.
- (4:00 PM) The Misery Continues: We drove to a waterfall, but I forgot to bring my swimming suit, so I stayed on the car to be alone with myself.
- (7:00 PM) Dinner at a local place: I was hungry and I was ready to eat! I tried the local food and they were delicious. I wanted to order more but I was too shy.
- (9:00 PM) Back to the Hotel: Straight to bed.
Day 3: City Exploration and Tourist Traps (with a Side of Regret)
- (8:00 AM) Breakfast at the Hotel. Breakfast was amazing!
- (9:30 AM) Museo de Oro: Okay, this was a mistake. Not the museum itself – it's actually quite interesting (local history, indigenous artifacts). No, the mistake was my own lack of planning and general impatience.
- (11:00 AM) City Exploration As I said, I felt a little bit bad after my mistake, so I decided to go to the City. It was crowded and noisy. I wanted to leave so bad.
- (1:00 PM) Lunch at a local Cafe: I went to a simple restaurant and the Food there was good, I really loved it!
- (3:00 PM) Back to the hotel I wanted to take a rest.
- (5:00 PM) Dinner: I went to a nice restaurant. It was so good! I should have gone there the first day.
- (8:00 PM) Back to the hotel and went to bed
Day 4: Saying Goodbye (and Plotting My Return)
- (7:00 AM) Breakfast at the Hotel. Breakfast was amazing!
- (9:00 AM) Last minute shopping for souvenirs. I bought a lot, I mean a LOT.
- (11:00 AM) Check out of the Hotel. The day came and I was a bit sad.
- (12:00 PM) Travel to the airport. I was sad to leave.
- (2:00 PM) Bye, Cagayan de Oro: As the plane took off, I found myself already thinking about my next visit. In closing, Cagayan de Oro, you're a place of beauty, chaos, and unforgettable adventures. And Our Story Boutique Hotel? Well, you've got yourself a loyal customer. Now, where's my next San Miguel Light?
Our Story Boutique Hotel: Spill Your Guts Edition – FAQs (Because You Need the *Real* Deal)
Okay, spill it. Is this place *really* as charming as the photos? They're usually lying, you know?
Alright, alright, let's get real. The photos? Yeah, they're pretty. But here's the thing: **They undersell it.** Seriously. I walked in, and my jaw *actually* dropped. It's that old-world charm, you know? Think exposed brick, whimsical art, and this... this *vibe* that just wraps you in a cozy hug. I saw a photo of a room with a four-poster bed, and I’m thinking, “Yeah, whatever.” But the actual room? I wanted to *live* there. Like, consider moving in. And then tell the landlord to buzz off.
There's a tiny imperfection though... it's a charming imperfection. I am a bit sensitive in my sleep, so I can hear outside, not a huge deal but still worth noting.
And the staff? They're not just "staff." They're like these incredibly kind, genuine people who actually *care*. They're not faking it; you can tell. One of them, this lovely woman named Maria, saw I was struggling to open a water bottle (embarrassing, I know), and practically sprinted over to help. It's little things like that, you know? That's what makes a place feel like home.
The food… is it any good, or just hotel-breakfast levels of bland? Because I have standards.
Oh. My. GOD. The food. Forget your bland hotel breakfast nightmares. Prepare to have your taste buds *worship* at the altar of culinary deliciousness. Seriously. I'm a foodie, I take my food seriously. The breakfast? It was included mind you. So, I assumed, "Oh, this will be fine, but maybe a bit meh." I was *wrong*. So, so wrong. There's this *ube* pancake thing, and it was a revelation. I'm not even a pancake person, but I *dream* about that pancake. And their coffee? Forget Starbucks. Forget everything. It's so good, I asked for a second, and then a *third* cup. The cook came out and asked if I could be happy with it, which I felt was a bit much but hey, I understand lol.
Honestly, the food alone is worth the trip. I’d go back just for the breakfast, even if I had to sleep on the floor.
How's the location? Is it noisy? Far from everything? I need my peace, but also, you know, access.
Location-wise? Perfect. Seriously. It’s in a quiet, charming part of Cagayan de Oro, away from the utter chaos of the city center (which, trust me, you'll appreciate). But here’s the kicker: it's *close* enough to everything you need. Walkable to some great restaurants, coffee shops, and, vitally, a good *kalan* spot (because Filipino food is life). You can hop in a cab or grab a *habal-habal* easily (the local motorcycle taxis - be prepared for a bumpy but fun ride! though I do not recommend if you aren't ready) to get to the main areas of the city. No noise at night, and it was pretty much a perfect combo of accessibility and tranquility.
However, and this is just a personal thing because I am a light sleeper, one or two times I heard loud, short bursts of what sounded like a rooster and it was terrifying while I struggled to sleep, other than that, all good.
What's the Wi-Fi like? Because, you know, work. And Instagram. Priorities, people!
Okay, let's be honest. Wi-Fi is a dealbreaker. Especially when you're trying to, you know, *function*. The Wi-Fi at Our Story? Solid. Not blazing-fast, mind you. But reliably good. I was able to work, stream videos (guilty!), and, most importantly, update my Instagram feed with envy-inducing photos of my amazing breakfast. No major drop-offs, no agonizing buffering screens. It was a total win.
I will say sometimes if the whole hotel is online, it can take awhile, but not a major deal.
What about the rooms? Are they clean? Modern? Or are we talking dusty doilies and questionable plumbing?
The rooms are immaculate. Spotless. Sparkling. They're not overly modern – which is part of their charm, in my opinion. They have a classic elegance, but they're clearly well-maintained. The plumbing? No issues whatsoever. The bed? OMG, the bed. Cloud-like! I could have stayed in bed all day, honestly. I honestly considered hiding under the bed to stay a bit longer.
I also want to add, I'm such a germaphobe, and every nook and cranny was sparkling clean. I looked everywhere!
Okay, but what's the price like? Is this a place for budget travelers, or should I start saving my pennies now?
The price? Honestly, it's a steal. Seriously! For the quality, the service, the *vibe*... I was expecting to pay way more. It's definitely not a backpacker hostel price, but it's also not some ridiculously overpriced luxury hotel. It's that perfect sweet spot: affordable luxury. You're getting way more than you're paying for. I’d pay double, happily. (Don't tell them I said that.)
Anything else I *need* to know? Anything that surprised you (good or bad)?
Okay, a few random thoughts…
**The Surprise:** The *genuine* friendliness of the staff. They're not trained robots, they're just seriously lovely people. They remembered my name. They asked about my day. It felt like I was staying with friends. It was a lovely feeling.
**The Tiny Thing:** Oh! There was a little balcony on my room, and it was perfect for sipping coffee in the morning and watching the world wake up. I loved those moments.
**The Thing to Remember:** Book in advance! This place is popular, and for good reason. Don't wait until the last minute and miss out on this gem. Seriously. Do it now. You won't regret it.
