Pampanga| Widus Hotel in Clark

happened on October 29-30, 2016

It has been a while since our group of friends bond.  It's hard to regularly meet when all are no longer working in the same company. So, it's a relief to have longer weekends off.

the facade

We took the opportunity of the All Saints' Day celebration with four days off.  We booked in Widus Hotel (should be pronounced as "With-us") in advance and was able to get discounted rates.  My friend also shared her vouchers so we almost got some of the rooms half the price and with breakfast included already.

We first had our lunch in My Lola Nor's before checking in.

Widus Hotel is quite famous for its casino and nice swimming pool and very near Manila so it's a good choice for a weekend getaway.

The reception area is huge.  The only seating area is located beside the casino and I think is quite small for the influx of people coming in.  Checking in is fast and the receptionists are friendly.

huge space 

We were billeted in Tower 1 at 3rd floor. The lobby area in this tower is not also impressive.  The elevator is small and can accommodate 3-4 persons only.

the hallway

the lobby from above

the ceiling with natural sunlight coming in

Unfortunately, we don't have a nice view from our room.  The only nice view you can get here is overlooking the big pool; sadly nothing else.

Amenities of the deluxe room included two single beds (so small for two adults), bathroom with tub, hair dryer, coffee maker, bath robes, slippers and coffee and tea.  The room is spacious enough though the bathroom is too compact.

After checking-in, we proceeded to the duty free shops where we have consumed most of our afternoon (blame it on me hehe).  The only thing we can do when we went back to the hotel is swimming.  Swimming time is till 9:30PM only so we only had 2 hrs in the pool.  The attendants are helpful and always on guard with the swimmers. There are towels being given while inside the pool area.

The night was spent in one of the rooms drinking and chatting.  For a Junior suite, there is a mini kitchen with sink and microwave oven.  You have to request for plates and glasses though.  The room attendant is so patient with our requests.

Breakfast is in Salt Resto.  Since it's a holiday, the queue is long.  The staff were disoriented and in chaos.  We were seated after 30 mins.  They didn't even ask for our breakfast voucher so it's like anyone can enter.

I love the breakfast spread of Intercontinental and Asian breakfast.  I love how soft their breads are and the freshly made noodle soup.

freshly made pancakes and waffles

There is also a shop where you can buy some local and imported items.  There is also a huge event place adjacent to the hotel for special occasions.

Before leaving, we just had a photo ops in the pool area.  The kids were not able to take a dip in the morning since they slept heavily.

I don't know if it is just me since I have been to a numerous of hotels already. I find this hotel too expensive for the amenities and facilities it offers.  I'm not impressed with the interiors and even with the pool.  I think they could do a lot more.  The only advantage is that it's near Manila and there is a Casino inside but for non risk takers like me, I want something more.  The only consolation for me are the duty free shops.  

Anyways, the best part of our weekend is the opportunity to be with our families and closest friends.

the kids are growing up too fast

one fourth of the gang

**S7e shots