Thanksgiving at Paradise (Long overdue)

So this posting is long overdue. In celebration of Thanksgiving and our birthdays, we spent two days and one night at a nearby resort named Paradise Island. We were taken there soon after arriving here when we had some orientation meetings. We are told that of all the resorts here, Paradise is the best for the money. 

So this is where we chose to go.

Upon arriving at the port for our boat ride to Paradise, the guard seemed to know who we were and said that our room was ready. Which was odd as I was told it would be ready at 3:00 pm and it was now only 7:00 am. And once we took the 10 minute boat ride across the gulf to Samal Island (the large island were most of the resorts are located, of which Paradise Island is only one) and checked in at the front desk, we were taken straight to our room. And by the way, they have these large wheelbarrow-like things that a staff person uses to take you luggage to your room for you. Not something I'm used to.

So then to our room. I was told they only had a room with two beds available, but to my surprise we had one double bed! And I thought I paid for a "cold" only shower, but we definitely had hot water. I really wonder if they chose to "upgrade" us since they already knew we were friends with the clinics directors (who are well known at Paradise, since they use it every year with all the incoming girls for orientation). Well, the only bad thing about our room was that the TV was too low for me, as I'm clearly taller than almost every single person here. So the next morning I walked into the TV. I ended up with a streak of blood running down my head and across my forehead. Christina took care of it, but we wanted some iodine, so we asked for the nurse. It all worked out great, but I have a suspicion that I will be recognized the next time I show up there.

So our two days there were great. We relaxed. We swam. We snorkeled. We slept. We had a great time. I had purchased a tripod that week, so I used it to take some portrait shots of us by the water. It was a lot of fun. I'd go there again. The staff is very friendly and helpful. For lunch one day I tried to order something, and the waiter told me, "That is too much for you, sir." I was shocked, but I told him I appreciated him telling me that. And I really meant it. So instead I got a chicken sandwich, which is actually a chicken salad sandwich. Not was I was expecting, but it was really good (I got it the next day for lunch too!).

The bread there is really delicious (Lami kaayo ang pan didto). Almost all of the baked goods we've found here in Davao have left us wanting. But the pan de sal at Paradise is the best we've come across so far. I'd almost pay the boat fare just for the bread!

Here's a link to some photos taken at Paradise Island. (Click on Slideshow to view the photos)