Escape to Paradise: Kurma Yoga Dive & Beach Resort, Camiguin
Escape to Paradise: Kurma Yoga Dive & Beach Resort, Camiguin
Escape to Paradise: My Kurma Yoga Dive & Beach Resort Adventure (It's a Vibe, Folks!)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! I just got back from a trip to Camiguin, and the star of the show was undoubtedly Escape to Paradise: Kurma Yoga Dive & Beach Resort. Now, I'm no travel blogger – more like a slightly-disorganized, coffee-fueled enthusiast – so bear with me as I try to unpack this whole experience. And trust me, unpacking it is an adventure in itself…
Accessibility: Not Quite Smooth Sailing, But They Tried
Let's be real, accessible travel is still a work in progress, and Kurma, bless their hearts, felt like they were trying. The resort’s layout is a bit of a sprawl, and while they do have an elevator, navigating the grounds in a wheelchair would… well, require some grit and maybe a sherpa. They had facilities for disabled guests, which is a great start, but those usually mean ramps and handrails, and you kinda need more than that. The exterior corridors were open to the elements, which, in Camiguin's tropical climate, translates to wet and potentially slippery… and that’s something to consider if you need to scoot around. Still, they had it on their brochure–so I take it on faith that a disabled guest would be provided with a room on the lower levels. They got points for effort, less for execution, but hey, improvement is the name of the game, right?
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe…ish
Okay, so post-pandemic, safety is now paramount. Kurma gets a solid thumbs-up for its commitment. They were all about the cleaning. Yes, they use anti-viral cleaning products. The staff was always busy disinfecting the common areas. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check! They even had individually-wrapped food options and a safe-dining setup. A lot of the staff spoke English, so good on 'em. You could even opt-out of room sanitization, which is nice if you have your own cleaning routine or just want to be eco-friendly (I opted in BTW, didn't want to take any chances).
They also emphasized distancing -- maybe the staff wasn't the best at it, but the patrons did. There were hand sanitizers everywhere. Now, while the hygiene certification was a big plus, let's just say the physical distancing of at least a meter was more of a… suggestion. It certainly wasn’t enforced. The one thing that really comforted me was the doctor/nurse on call. That said, having a first aid kit is more essential to making me feel safe (and hopefully, I wouldn't need the nurse). Staff trained in safety protocol? Fantastic!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Feast for the Senses – and Sometimes the Stomach
Oh boy, the food! This is where Kurma really shines. Let's start with the basics: restaurants (plural!), a coffee shop, and a snack bar. They had a poolside bar, happy hour, and they even offered alternative meal arrangements. Score! They offer Asian cuisine, International cuisine, Western cuisine, and even a vegetarian restaurant.
I’m a sucker for the classics… and let me tell you, their breakfast buffet was a thing of beauty. Fresh fruits, pastries, the works. I may or may not have indulged in multiple rounds of the Asian breakfast, which was delicious. And the coffee? Coffee and tea in the restaurant was strong and plentiful. It was nice.
Now, the a la carte options were good, but sometimes, let’s just say the service was a bit leisurely. One time, I ordered soup, and it took… well, let's just say I had ample time to contemplate the meaning of life. But hey, island time, right? It's better in Camiguin than the busy life in Makati, I was thankful they offered it. I had a bottle of water to drink too.
The poolside bar was a lifesaver. Cocktails, snacks, and a killer view. I highly recommend their version of a Mojito. The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the soup, it was bland. Still, I enjoyed their desserts in the restaurant and the whole experience.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Paradise Found (Mostly)
Okay, this is where Kurma truly earns its “Escape to Paradise” moniker. The swimming pool [outdoor], and the pool with a view were absolutely stunning. Imagine yourself lounging by the pool, overlooking the sparkling ocean – pure bliss!
They had a fitness center (I peeped, didn't use it), a spa, and the promise of a sauna and a steamroom. I tried the massage and… oh. My. Goodness. It was so good, I nearly floated away. Their body scrub and body wrap? Highly recommended.
They had a shrine, which was a nice touch of a quiet place. They have things for special events, but I didn’t go to any.
The Room: My Little Paradise… with a Few Quirks
Now, the room itself… let’s be honest, it wasn’t perfect. But it was definitely comfortable. I had air conditioning (essential!), a desk, a safe box, free wifi, a refrigerator, and a coffee/tea maker. The bed was comfy, and I had a mirror above my desk as well.
The bathroom was… functional, but not luxurious. The shower was fine, but the water pressure was a bit weak at times. The hair dryer worked, but the towels were a little… thin. Still, everything worked, which is the main thing. The slippers were a welcome addition and the bathrobes were divine.
Oh, and I was in a non-smoking room! Although there was a smoking area, I appreciated them thinking about the non-smokers as well.
Services and Conveniences: Hit or Miss, Like Life
The basics were there, thankfully. They had daily housekeeping, a concierge, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. The dry cleaning and laundry service were a godsend, especially after getting my clothes soaked from adventuring.
Internet access was… okay. They had free Wi-Fi in all rooms (yay!), but it could be a bit spotty at times. I did appreciate the Internet access, but the LAN option for the room was a nice gesture.
I don't know if the wifi for special events was on par, as I had no special event there.
They had currency exchange, which was useful, and a gift/souvenir shop. The cash withdrawal was essential (did notice that the ATMs were pretty unreliable).
For the Kids: Family-Friendly, But Not Over-The-Top
Kurma seems like it’s kid-friendly, with family/child-friendly rooms and the promise of kids facilities. They offered a babysitting service, which would be handy for parents who want a little "me" time. I did see kids there, so they seem to offer a kids meal.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy (Mostly)
They had airport transfer, which was a lifesaver, and car park [free of charge]. They had a taxi service, which was helpful, and I’m pretty sure they had car park [on-site] too. The free car park was a plus, and the bicycle parking option was great for those wanting to exercise and see the sights.
Overall Vibe: Quirky, Relaxing, and Worth It
Look, Kurma Yoga Dive & Beach Resort isn't perfect. It's got some quirks, some minor flaws, and it's not exactly the lap of luxury. But you know what? That's part of its charm. It's a place where you can truly unwind, disconnect, and soak up the Camiguin magic. The food is fantastic, the views are breathtaking, and the staff are friendly and helpful (even if the service is a little relaxed at times).
I'd recommend it if you're looking for a chill, laid-back getaway. Just be prepared to embrace the island life, go with the flow, and maybe pack a little patience… and a good book!
Final Verdict: 4 out of 5 stars. Definitely escaping to paradise.
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is Kurma Yoga Dive and Beach Resort Camiguin: The Unfiltered Version. We're talking sunscreen smudges, existential dread over a dropped mango, and the unvarnished truth about my yoga practice. Let's GO!
Days 1-3: Arrival and the Great Bungalow Hunt (aka, "Where's My Damn Room?")
Morning (Day 1): Arrive at Camiguin Airport. OMG, the humidity hits you like a warm, sweaty hug. It's beautiful, in a "melting-your-face-off-slowly" kind of way. The airport's tiny, basically a hut with a fan, and the baggage claim is… well, it's the guy with the little luggage cart. After a nerve-wracking, bumpy ride in the tricycle from the airport to the resort, which felt like a rollercoaster run by a squirrel. Check-in at Kurma Yoga Dive and Beach Resort. The reception is cute, bamboo-y. But wait, the bungalow…it was a slight letdown when I first saw it gulp. It was cute, but needed some renovations.
Afternoon (Day 1): Unpack. Struggle with the mosquito net. Swear mildly. Explore the resort. It's GORGEOUS. Palm trees everywhere, the beach is a postcard, and the yoga shala looks so peaceful. But also, where is the promised wifi? I am addicted to it, it is so difficult to find an internet connection on the island, that's what makes the Camiguin is more special! Take a deep breath, maybe accept my digital detox destiny. Start to feel the vacation take place. Try the local mangoes. Seriously, the best mangoes of my life. Almost cried when one slipped out of my hand and exploded on the concrete. (Emotional reaction: Pure, unadulterated despair.)
Evening (Day 1): Sunset! Drinks on the beach. The waves are so soft and it is hard to walk straight without stumbling. The other guests are doing yoga. I tried a headstand. Briefly considered the meaning of life. Then, I toppled over. Dinner at the resort restaurant. The food is great, everything is fresh and good. But I ordered the fish and it looked like it was staring at me. (Quirky observation: "The fish judged my life choices.")
Morning (Day 2): Yoga! (More on that disaster later). Breakfast. Fresh fruit, coffee. Actually, the coffee is surprisingly good. I feel awake now. That feeling goes away when I enter ocean. Dive in water. It's crystal clear. Start to see the amazing world Camiguin has to offer.
Afternoon (Day 2): Island hoping! Get to know the island. The locals are nice. The roads are bumpy. The White Island is breathtaking. The sand is like walking on powdered sugar. The snorkeling is great. The water is clear. But the boat ride back was…rough. Seriously, I thought I was going to lose my lunch. (Emotional reaction: waves of nausea and mild terror)
Evening (Day 2): Sunset again. Realizing that every sunset here will be amazing. The air is so clean, I think i could sleep. Dinner. Start to feel the bliss of island life.
Morning (Day 3): More yoga! (Or, attempted yoga. Mostly flopping around. More on that saga later.) Breakfast, a bit more organized this time. This is a tropical paradise, after all.
Afternoon (Day 3): Volcano hike! Mount Hibok-Hibok, here I come. (Cue dramatic music). The hike is challenging, but the views are worth it. The rainforest is alive with sounds, sweat is glistening on my brow. The locals are very eager to help and are very proud of their island. The peak is rewarding. I may or may not have cried. (Emotional reaction: a mix of triumph and pure, unadulterated exhaustion)
Evening (Day 3): Relax. Dinner. Trying not to think about having to leave.
Days 4-6: Yoga, Diving, and Existential Crises on the Beach (The Really Messy Bits)
Morning (Day 4): Yoga. Okay, let's be honest. My yoga practice is a work in progress. A VERY slow work in progress. Picture this: I'm attempting a warrior pose… and ending up looking more like a confused flamingo. My balance is… well, let's just say I have a deep and intimate relationship with gravity. The instructor, bless her heart, is super patient. She gives me this look – a combination of "Bless your heart" and "You're gonna need a LOT more practice." But, hey, I keep showing up. And the view from the shala? Unbelievable. It's impossible to be completely stressed when you're staring at the turquoise ocean. (Opinionated Language: "My yoga is terrible, but the view is divine. I'll fake it till I make it.")
Afternoon (Day 4): Diving! I'm a beginner, so I started with a discovery dive. OMG, the underwater world is… wow. Seriously, words fail me. The colors, the fish, the silence… it's like you're in another planet. (Emotional reaction: pure, unadulterated awe and the sudden realization that I'm tiny and insignificant in the grand scheme of things… in a good way.) I saw a sea turtle! And a clownfish! I want to live there forever! Also, swallowed a bit of saltwater, not the greatest taste, but worth it.
Evening (Day 4): Drinks on the beach. Watching the stars. Thinking about everything, nothing, and the sheer absurdity of life. (Messy structure: rambles about life, love, the universe, and whether I should order another mango smoothie.)
Morning (Day 5): Actually attempting a decent yoga session and improving every day. I am feeling it!
Afternoon (Day 5): Snorkeling at the sunken cemetery and the Giant Clam Sanctuary. The sunken cemetery is spooky and beautiful. (Quirky Observation: "Undead tourists? Probably not, but you never know…") The Giant Clams are AMAZING! I'd never seen anything like it.
Evening (Day 5): Local dinner. Trying to learn a little Filipino phrases. The food is amazing!
Morning (Day 6): The last day and taking another yoga class! I'm still a yoga newbie, but I'm starting to get the hang of it, I think.
Afternoon (Day 6): Last chance to visit the beach one last time. The day ends. Time to go.
Evening (Day 6): Packing. Saying goodbye to the resort. The feeling is bittersweet. I enjoyed the place. The locals. The yoga. The diving. The mangoes. Everything there is just too perfect. Leaving a piece of me behind… (Emotional reaction: extreme sadness and promise to return soon).
Day 7: Departure (The Aftermath)
- Morning (Day 7): Early flight back. The farewell to the island is tough. Airport. Bye Camiguin.
- Afternoon (Day 7): Back home. Dreaming of mangoes. Planning my next vacation.
- Evening (Day 7): Wishing I was back in Camiguin.
Final Thoughts:
Kurma Yoga Dive and Beach Resort Camiguin is not perfect – the wifi can be spotty, the bungalows could use some renovations, and my yoga practice is a work in progress. But it's also incredibly special. It's about the people you meet, the experiences you have, and the moments that make you stop and think: "Wow, this is amazing." And that, my friends, is what makes a trip unforgettable. So, go. Go to Camiguin. Go to Kurma. Get messy. Get lost. And let the island work its magic. You won't regret it.
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Escape to Paradise: Kurma Yoga Dive & Beach Resort - You Asked, I Answered (and Probably Over-Shared)
Okay, let's cut the fluff. Is Kurma REALLY paradise? Because I've seen Instagram...
Alright, real talk. Paradise? Well, it's complicated. Instagram photos are *glorious*, I will admit. Sunsets that make you sob (in a good way!). Turquoise water that looks Photoshopped (it isn't, mostly!). But... paradise with a few sandy bits stuck to your feet, a mosquito or two, and the occasional power outage. It's authentic paradise, not a curated movie set.
The vibe is definitely chill. Think "barefoot-on-the-beach" more than "crystal chandeliers." I saw a guy wearing flip-flops to dinner every night and he looked perfectly in place. And the staff? Absolute gems. I lost my sunglasses (again!) and they actually *knew* where I probably lost them. Turns out, it was under my beach chair during a particularly intense yoga session. They just *know* these things. They're like, psychic beach angels.
So, paradise-adjacent? Yes. Utter perfection? Nah. But the imperfection is part of the charm, ya know?
The diving – is it as good as they say? I'm a serious diver, not just a snorkeler.
Oh. My. God. The diving. Okay, okay, deep breaths. Yes. It's good. REALLY good. I’m a semi-serious diver. I’ve done the whole scuba thing, certified, the works. And the dive sites around Camiguin? Mind-blowing. Seriously, mind-blowing. I saw… I can't even remember the names! "Sunken Cemetery" (insane!), the reefs teeming with life, and the visibility... holy moly, sometimes you felt like you were floating in space. Seriously, best diving I've EVER done.
There was this one dive, though... We were at a site called "White Island Wall" I think. The current was, shall we say, "lively." I almost lost my regulator... which is a huge, "oh crap!" moment. My dive buddy, bless his heart, was laughing so hard through his regulator that he couldn’t help me. Seriously. But, we both made it back up without any issues. But those moment of heart-stopping panic, where I was sure I was going to die... I still remember it so clearly. That's the moment I loved most the trip, I think.
Yoga? I'm not exactly flexible... or zen. Will I feel out of place?
Look, I’m about as flexible as a rusty gate. And zen? My internal mantra is usually something along the lines of "Don't panic, don't panic, don't panic." But the yoga at Kurma? Totally accessible. They have classes for *everyone*. Beginners, stiff-as-a-board people like me, experienced yogis... It's all very welcoming.
The best part? Practicing yoga while watching the sunrise over the ocean. It's cheesy, I know, but it's also incredibly beautiful. And honestly, even *I* started feeling a little bit… centered. For about five minutes, until the mosquitos started biting again
What about the food? I need to know about the food!!!
The food! Alright, here's the deal. It's good. Really good. Fresh seafood, local fruits, and of course, the Filipino staples - adobo, lechon, the works! I was expecting pretty basic resort food, but no! The food at Kurma is seriously amazing. Not the kind you'll write home about, more of the kind that will make you book the return trip, and the food is a big part of it.
My one regret? I didn't eat *enough* of the mangoes. They were unbelievably good, so ripe and sweet you'd swear they were from another planet. I’d find myself staring at them, resisting the urge to buy them all... and I didn't. They have a restaurant on the beach, and I'd spend all day there if I could.
Rooms – what are they actually like? Is it super basic? Luxury? Somewhere in between?
Okay, the rooms. Not *super* basic, definitely not overly luxurious. Somewhere in between. Think comfortable, clean, and with a beautiful view. Some have AC, some don't; check when you book; if heat is your thing, go with AC.
I stayed in a bungalow – cute little place with a porch overlooking the ocean. Waking up to that view every morning? Priceless. I've heard things about the bungalows' neighbors, though. Apparently, roosters are very into the whole "sunrise alarm clock" thing, which can be a little rough for those with sleep-in inclinations. But, overall, a great experience!
Is it good for solo travelers? I’m a bit hesitant...
Absolutely! I met several solo travelers there. It's got a really friendly, social atmosphere. People are genuinely happy to chat and share stories. There was this one woman, name of Martha, who taught me how to snorkel, and we had a fantastic time. She was there solo, and she was loving it. I felt like I was the only one there, even though I was traveling with others.
You can join group activities, or just chill on your own. It’s a great place to recharge and meet some cool people. Plus, the staff are fantastic, always happy to help. I'm very much a solo traveler myself, and I'd absolutely go back there!
What's the Wi-Fi situation? (I need to stay connected, unfortunately…)
Okay, Wi-Fi. Let's be real. It's not the best. It's available in public areas, but it can be a bit spotty, especially during peak hours. Think of it as a forced digital detox. Which, honestly, might be a good thing. I, for one, barely used it! (And I didn’t miss it.)
If you absolutely *need* to be glued to your phone for work, I'd suggest getting a local SIM card. But honestly? Embrace the disconnect. You're in paradise, dammit! Put the phone down and look at the ocean!
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