Escape to Paradise: Canary Islands Resort & Spa, Lonavala Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Canary Islands Resort & Spa, Lonavala Awaits! - A Whirlwind Review (with maybe a few too many opinions)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into a review of the Escape to Paradise: Canary Islands Resort & Spa in Lonavala. Forget those perfectly polished brochures; you're getting the raw, unfiltered truth, sprinkled with a healthy dose of "maybe-I-had-one-too-many-cocktails-last-night" honesty. This is for you, the weary traveler, the stressed-out soul looking for a little… well, escape.
First Impressions & the "Getting There" Gamble - Accessibility (and a little bit of chaos)
Lonavala. Ah, Lonavala. The journey? Let's just say it's an adventure. Whether you're bravely tackling the roads yourself (car park [free of charge] and [on-site] exist, bless 'em) or opting for the airport transfer – which, by the way, is a godsend – anticipate a healthy dose of traffic and the occasional pothole that'll make you question your life choices. Accessibility is… a mixed bag. While they say they have facilities for disabled guests like an elevator, and wheelchair accessible bits, I didn't personally test it, and sometimes those claims are… well, optimistic. So call ahead, ask specific questions, and don't be afraid to double-check. Because disappointment at arrival sucks.
Safety First (Especially These Days)
Okay, I'm a worrier. So, the fact that they've got CCTV in common areas and outside the property put my mind at ease. They also boast 24-hour front desk and security, which is always a plus. Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are the standard, thankfully. They are following Anti-viral cleaning products which is great. And they have Staff trained in safety protocol
The Rooms: Your Personal Oasis (If You Get the Right One)
Alright, the heart of the matter: the rooms. Mine? (Let’s be real, it wasn't just mine; I was sharing it.) I’m gonna level with you, it was pretty decent. Air conditioning? Check. Free Wi-Fi? Double check (and THANK GOD, because I need to be connected). Air conditioning and the blackout curtains were life savers. The bed? Comfortable. I've seen worse. Now, a word of warning. Some rooms might be… a little less "paradise" and a little more "slightly-dated-but-clean." Don't be afraid to ask for a different room if you're not happy! Non-smoking rooms are available. You will have Additional toilet if you book the right one. They've also got nice touches like bathrobes, complimentary tea, and a mini bar. Plus, Wi-Fi [free] !
The Food: A Culinary Journey (With Some Bumps Along the Road)
Food, glorious food! Where do we begin?
Restaurants: They definitely have restaurants. Multiple! From A la carte in restaurant to Buffet in restaurant, it all depends on which one you're in the mood for
Dining, drinking, and snacking: They had a Bar, and Poolside bar which is amazing.
Asian Cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant.
Coffee/tea in restaurant, and Coffee shop.
Breakfast: Okay, let’s get to the most important meal, breakfast. They have Breakfast [buffet], Asian breakfast, and Western breakfast. The breakfast? Buffet style. The coffee? Drinkable. The salad was surprisingly good. The soup always hit the spot.
The Spa & Relaxation Zone: Where You Shed Your Stress (Hopefully)
This is where Escape to Paradise really shines. They have a Spa, and a Spa/sauna! I was all about the spa experience.
- Body scrub: Yeah, they do Body scrub.
- Massage: Heavenly. Seriously. Get the massage. Book it now. I got one, I was a limp noodle afterwards, in the BEST way.
- Foot bath: Ahhh, the foot bath. The perfect way to let your feet soak after a long day.
- Sauna, Steamroom - Perfect after the massage.
Things to Do (Besides Just Lounging Around – But That's Okay Too!)
Okay, so not everyone wants to spend their vacation as a human potato.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: They've got a pool, and it's pretty good. Good for chilling in.
- Gym/fitness: For all the fitness fanatics out there.
- Couple's room - They have Couple's room and Proposal spot.
Internet & Connectivity: Staying Connected (Mostly)
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise be! Okay, let's talk Internet. The Internet access – wireless was very important. They also have Internet access – LAN, if you're into that sort of thing.
Services, Conveniences, and Those Little Extras (Which Matter!)
They have things like concierge, laundry service, daily housekeeping, luggage storage, dry cleaning, even cash withdrawal. They got basic "stuff" like essential condiments. They will also get you Invoice provided.
For the Kids (Bless Their Little Hearts)
They are Family/child friendly, so families can enjoy all the fun and amenities.
- Babysitting service: They have a Babysitting service
The Vibe: Overall Impression
Look, Escape to Paradise isn’t perfect. It's got quirks. It's got its flaws. But it is attempting to offer a real escape. It’s a solid choice for a weekend getaway, especially if you need to melt your stress away in the spa.
The Verdict: Should You Book It?
If you're looking for a luxurious, all-out five-star experience, maybe look elsewhere. But if you're open to a bit of imperfection, want some decent food, killer massage, and the chance to truly disconnect and recharge… then YES. Absolutely.
Final Plea: My Personal Recommendation, and an Unofficial Offer for the Resort
And finally, I would personally like to recommend Escape to Paradise resort and spa. I hope they have many happy guests.
Milan's HOTTEST Hostel: City Center Luxury on a Budget!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're heading to the Canary Islands Resort & Spa in Lonavala, India. Forget your perfectly curated Instagram feeds, because this is going to be a glorious, messy, and possibly slightly chaotic trip report. Expect less "sun-drenched perfection" and more "sunburn and questionable decisions," alright? Here we go…
Day 1: Arrival, Disorientation, and the Great Pool Debacle
Morning (Sort of… More like Mid-Afternoon): Landed at the resort. The brochures promised "tranquility." What I found was… well, a lot of lush greenery and about a million screaming monkeys outside the window of the reception area. I was immediately charmed. The check-in was a bit wonky. The guy kept calling me "Madam." Okay, whatever. I'm on vacation, I'll take the Madam-ing.
Afternoon (Post-Lunch Nap - Mandatory): Finally got to my room. Pretty decent, actually. Nice balcony. The view was… trees. Lots and lots of trees. And the occasional, judgmental monkey. I unpacked, or at least, I attempted to unpack. Let's just say I haven't seen organized luggage since 2008. Nap time! Jet lag is a beast.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: The pool. Oh, the pool. This was supposed to be pure bliss. Picture perfect azure water, cocktails… you know the drill. Wrong. First, the water was a bit… cloudy? Second, the pool bar staff looked like they’d been held hostage by a bunch of rowdy tourists (maybe they had?). Third, and this is the kicker, a rogue inflatable swan – yes, an actual swan - was basically blocking access to the shallow end. I took a selfie with the swan anyhow, felt bad, now I hate swans. I tried to sneak in a swim anyway, but the water felt… strangely warm. And then I saw it: a small, slimy, green… thing. Okay, time to abandon ship. I retreated, defeated, to my balcony and ordered a desperately needed Kingfisher.
Evening: Dinner at the resort restaurant. The vibe was… well, it was "resort restaurant." The food wasn't bad, but it wasn't mind-blowing either. I went for the butter chicken. It tasted… butter-y. Okay. A slight tinge of disappointment, but the view was pretty nice. Decided to call it a night. Jet lag still looming, and the memories of the pool… still haunts me.
Day 2: The Waterfall Fiasco, Spa Bliss, and the Chai Obsession
Morning: The best part of this whole thing. Woke up feeling refreshed, a rarity. My early bird, slightly ambitious side, kicked in. I decided to conquer the resort's waterfall trek. They promised "breathtaking views."
- The Waterfall Fiasco: The "trek" started pretty easy. A gentle stroll… for about 10 minutes. Then it became a muddy, slippery scramble. My sneakers were not prepared. I kept slipping. Twice I almost face-planted. The "breathtaking views" were occasionally obscured by the monsoon air. The waterfall itself was… okay. Nice. Wet. I took a few photos, slipped again, and decided to cut my losses and head back. Turns out, it's not my thing.
Afternoon: Spa Time! This redeemed everything. The spa was AMAZING. I got a deep tissue massage, and every knot, every tiny muscle ache, vanished. Pure, unadulterated bliss. The masseuse was a small woman with the strength of a thousand tigers. I think I even snored. Don't judge. It was that good.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: The Chai Obsession Takes Hold (and I'm Not Mad About It): I am obsessed with Indian chai. Obsessed. The resort had a little tea stall, and I basically camped out there. That sweet, spicy, milky concoction became my lifeblood. I ordered at least five cups, and might have even snuck some extra cardamom to go. The staff was probably judging me. They’re probably right. (I now have a small, slightly neurotic tea habit. Thanks, Canary Islands!)
Evening: Tried to find a new restaurant, but got utterly lost in the maze of the resort. Gave up and re-visited the "resort restaurant." I got the butter chicken again. Yes, I did. I’m not ashamed. And I had at least three cups of chai.
Day 3: Exploring Lonavala, and the Dessert Downfall
Morning: I decided to venture outside the resort. I hired a driver and we drove towards the Karla Caves. The drive? Beautiful. The caves? Pretty cool. The crowds? Intense. But the history was fascinating… even if I didn't understand a single word of my over enthusiastic tour guide.
Afternoon: Exploring the local Lonavala market. I wanted a souvenir, but then I realized I'm the worst shopper in the world. I came back with… well, nothing actually.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: The Dessert Downfall: The resort boasts a "dessert buffet." (This is the part I was looking forward to the most) I went in with a plan: sample everything. I failed. Miserably. Overly enthusiastic, I loaded my plate with sweets, from gulab jamun to rasgulla. It was a sugar-fueled descent into sweet despair. My stomach was begging for mercy. I had to quietly retreat to my room, swearing to myself, and the empty room, that I would never eat a dessert ever again. (Yeah, right!)
Evening: I was so full from the dessert I couldn't get out of bed. I spent the evening watching bad Bollywood movies on the TV. I felt defeated, yet strangely content.
Day 4: Departure and the Monkey Farewell
Morning: Last-minute packing. My luggage is now an unholy mess. Headed to the reception to check-out . "Madam." Right. Paid for the spa treatments, the chai addiction, and the questionable meal choices.
Midday: Saying goodbye to the resort. Okay, I was ready to leave. It was a fun experience, in the end. As I walked towards the car, I saw one last monkey. Staring, judging, probably plotting world domination. As I drove away, I felt something almost… affectionate for these chaotic, beautiful few days.
Afternoon: Got back to the city. I'm tired; I'm slightly sunburnt; and my stomach still hurt. And you know what? It was perfect, in its own, gloriously imperfect way. Would I go back? Absolutely. Once the memories of the swan have faded, of course.
Escape to Paradise: Canary Islands Resort & Spa, Lonavala - Your Questions (and My Ramblings!)
Okay, spill. Is this place *actually* paradise, or just another Instagram filter dream?
Alright, let's be real, yeah? "Paradise" is thrown around like confetti these days. And honestly? Parts of this place? Yeah, they come pretty darn close. Imagine waking up to that Lonavala fog swirling around your balcony... like a giant, fluffy cotton candy beast. Then, BAM! Sunshine! Seriously, the views? Spectacular. I’m talking "jaw-drop open" spectacular.
But, and this is a big BUT, it's not perfect. Nowhere ever is, right? One time, I was trying to be all zen on the balcony, soaking in the morning sun. Suddenly, a rogue flock of... *something* (I’m not a bird person, okay?!) decided to stage a full-on avian assault on my breakfast. Eggs EVERYWHERE. It was less "serene sunrise" and more "battle of the breakfast buffet". The staff were incredibly apologetic, bless their hearts. They offered to replace my breakfast, but honestly, the visual was imprinted on my brain. So, paradise? Mostly. But pack your hawk-like instincts, just in case.
The food – is it edible? Or just… pretty on a plate?
Okay, the food. This is IMPORTANT. I'm a foodie, a genuine glutton. I LIVE to eat. And the food here? It's… a rollercoaster. Some dishes? Absolutely divine. The butter chicken was melt-in-your-mouth good. The tandoori prawns? I might have actually wept a little. (Don't judge me!)
BUT... and I'm being utterly honest here... there's also that *one* dish. The one that makes you wonder if the chef was having an off day… or maybe just testing the limits of your palate. I won’t name it, but let’s just say… it involved some sort of green, vaguely vegetable-shaped substance that tasted suspiciously like… well, let’s just leave it at that. Overall, though, the food is good. Really, *really* good. And the variety! You could eat there for a week and not get bored. Just… maybe approach the green stuff with caution.
Tell me about the spa! Is it actually relaxing, or just another tourist trap?
Spa? Okay, this is where things get *interesting*. The spa itself is gorgeous - like, seriously Instagram-worthy. Think flowing fabrics, soft lighting, and the aroma of… something vaguely floral and probably very expensive. The treatments themselves? A mixed bag, I'd say. The massage I got? Absolutely divine! The therapist kneaded out all my travel knots like she was a human pretzel maker.
However… and this is a personal observation (and I'm not saying this is universally true!), I got a little… *too* relaxed. During one treatment, I drifted off into a deep, possibly embarrassing, sleep. And I swear, I may or may not have snored. The therapist was incredibly professional, of course (bless her!), but it's just… I'm a snorer, okay? It's a problem. So, yes, relaxing. Very. Just… maybe try not to fall totally asleep. Or maybe just embrace it. Who am I to judge my own inner slumber beast?
What activities are there? Beyond just lounging by the pool?
Okay, so beyond the, *ahem*, pool (which is glorious, by the way!), there are options. You can hike in the nearby hills (I attempted this. Emphasis on *attempted*. Let’s just say my fitness level is… optimistic). There are also treks, and guided tours. The resort can arrange for things - and you might get lucky, and find something interesting.
Honestly? I spent most of my time lounging. And reading books. And eating. But hey, that's *my* ideal vacation. If you're the active type, you'll find things to do. If you're like me, you'll be perfectly content with a good book, a comfy chair, and a never-ending supply of snacks by the pool. No judgement here. We all have our vacations to be had.
Is it kid-friendly? I've got small people in tow.
From what I saw, yes, definitely kid-friendly. There's a kids' play area, and the pool has a shallow end. They seemed to have an excellent staff. The staff are friendly, too. I'm a solo traveler, so I'm more focused on the spa and the books, but I saw lots of happy families.
However, be aware! This is Lonavala, not Disneyland. There's not a ton of organized kids' activities. The focus is more on relaxation and soaking up the scenery. Which, for *me*, is perfect. For the little ones? Well, pack some extra toys and tablets. And maybe earplugs… just in case.
Is it worth the price tag? Be honest!
Okay, the big question. The price. Let's face it, it's not cheap. But… is it worth it? That depends. If you're looking for a budget holiday, probably not. If you're looking for a total escape, a pampering experience, and a chance to recharge your batteries? Then… maybe.
I spent a week there. And, despite the avian attacks and the rogue green vegetables, I left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to face the world. The memories? Priceless. The feeling of finally, *finally* relaxing? Worth every penny. So, yeah. If you can swing it and if you're looking for a luxurious, somewhat imperfect, but ultimately delightful getaway… go. Just go. And bring your own snacks. You know, just in case.
Anything else I should know? Any quirky observations from your stay?
Oh, where do I even begin? Okay, here's a random one: the number of peacocks roaming freely near the pool. They're gorgeous, of course, but also… loud. And they have a certain *presence*. You'll be sipping your perfectly-prepared coffee and suddenly, BAM! Peacock. Glaring at you. Judging you. It's… an experience.
Then there's the service. The staff are lovely. So incredibly accommodating. My room service order one night arrived with a hand-written note that said, "Have a Beautiful Evening." I mean, come on! How can you not feel completely pampered after something like that? So, yeah. Go. And be prepared forTrending Hotels Now
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