Herbie's Mansion Subic: Your Zambales Paradise Awaits!
Herbie's Mansion Subic: Is This Zambales Paradise REALLY Your Dream? A Brutally Honest Review (and Why You Might Just Love It)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to unload on Herbie's Mansion Subic. I'm not going to give you some sanitized, PR-approved review. I'm going to give you the TRUTH, messy bits and all. Because let's be honest, isn't that what we REALLY want? A real person's, slightly unhinged, take on the place? So, here goes…
First Impressions: The Arrival (and the Minor Panic)
Getting to Herbie's? Easy peasy. Accessibility is generally good, unlike some remote Zambales spots. The website says it's got airport transfer, which is a huge plus, especially after a long flight. Though, I was a little worried. The car, while clean, had a questionable scent. Let's say it smelled… lived in. (Think, a grandma's perfume mixed with a hint of "old car" and a whisper of hope). No worries at the end, it was a good experience. Check-in/out [private] was thankfully smooth, and I was greeted with a genuinely friendly smile, which helps when you're a hot mess from travel.
Rooms: Your Fortress of Solitude (Mostly)
My room… ah, my room! Okay, let's start with the good. The air conditioning was a GODSEND. Zambales heat is no joke. There was a free Wi-Fi which I immediately jumped on. Internet access – wireless was great, no, it didn't drop out every 5 seconds. Wi-Fi [free] in the rooms, excellent. And the blackout curtains? Absolute genius. Perfect for sleeping off that jetlag and avoiding that searing Zambales sun! The bed? Comfy enough, enough to sprawl out with no guilt.
Now, the less-than-perfect… The bathroom felt a bit… dated. The tiles had seen better days and the water pressure wasn’t exactly a fire hose. But hey, the complimentary toiletries were a nice touch, and the water was hot. So, ya know, swings and roundabouts. The view from the window that opens was… alright. I wouldn't call it stunning. But hey, it was a window! Free bottled water was a lifesaver, which proves a big bonus.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Covid Crucible (and Herbie's Response)
Let's be real, post-pandemic, this is a HUGE deal. Herbie's seems to take it seriously. They had hand sanitizer everywhere, and the staff all seemed to be wearing masks correctly (a true miracle!). They mentioned Daily disinfection in common areas on their brochures, and I saw the staff consistently cleaning. Rooms sanitized between stays, which gives you peace of mind. They have Safety/security feature like CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property plus Security [24-hour], too!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food, Glorious… Food. (And the Occasional Hiccup)
Okay, the food. This is where things get interesting. Let's be clear, Breakfast [buffet] was the highlight for me. They actually have a good selection, with a whole rack of local delights! The Asian breakfast was also a delightful adventure. I am a big fan of Coffee shop where I would grab a quick cup before exploring, and sometimes during the day. The Poolside bar was a must-have for relaxing ways to relax and sipping cocktails, very much needed. Some things that could improve are Desserts in restaurant where they felt that it didn't seem to be their strong suit. There's a Snack bar for those afternoon cravings but for the other meal, Restaurants, overall the quality was decent, the setting was lovely, and the staff were charming. But I had that moments where I did miss the Alternative meal arrangement and Vegetarian restaurant.
Things to Do: Chasing the Sun (and Maybe a Massage)
Herbie's isn't just about chilling in your room (although… tempting). Swimming pool [outdoor] is a must-try, which is beautiful, with a stunning view! The Pool with view is a dream, and it isn't small! There's a Fitness center for the motivated, which I glanced at… from a distance. Sadly, the urge to work out was far away. I also enjoyed the Massage services. And if you are seeking more relaxation, the Spa/sauna might be your best bet.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (Or Don't)
Okay, let's be real. Those little things like Currency exchange and Concierge service, can make a difference. The Daily housekeeping was great, and I loved the Front desk [24-hour] as emergencies can happen any time. Their Laundry service was fast! I was impressed with the Gift/souvenir shop with many treats.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly? (Probably)
I didn't bring any kids, but Herbie's does have Kids facilities. I saw families running around. If you are thinking for a vacation with the family, Herbie's will probably be your best option. The Babysitting service is definitely an advantage.
The Downsides (Because Nothing's Perfect)
Okay, I'm not going to lie. I missed a few things. There's no Pets allowed. I also found the restaurant service slightly slow at times. Also, the Wi-Fi, while good, could occasionally be a little… flaky in certain spots.
The Verdict: Should You Book This Zambales Paradise? ABSOLUTELY!
Here's the thing: Herbie's Mansion Subic isn't "perfect." It has its quirks, its little imperfections. But that's part of its charm. It's authentic. It's real. It's not trying to be something it's not.
Book this spot if:
- You want a relaxing getaway in Zambales.
- You appreciate a place that's trying hard to be safe and clean.
- You enjoy a comfortable and well-equipped atmosphere.
- You love a good breakfast buffet.
- You're not afraid of a few minor imperfections.
Don't book this spot if:
- You demand absolute perfection.
- You don’t like sunshine.
- You despise a relaxing time just for yourself.
The Offer: Your Zambales Escape Awaits!
Tired of the same old routine? Craving sun, sand, and serious relaxation? Herbie's Mansion Subic is waiting! Book your stay now and receive:
- 15% off your stay (limited time only!)
- Complimentary welcome drinks at the poolside bar.
- Free upgrade to a room with a view (subject to availability).
- Extra hour access to the spa on your first visit!
Don't wait! This Zambales paradise could be YOURS! Visit their website [insert website link here] or call now [insert phone number here] and start planning your escape! Don't miss out!
Antalya's Hidden Gem: Dobedan Exclusive Hotel & Spa - Unforgettable Luxury Awaits
Alright, buckle up, Buttercups, because we're diving into the chaotic, beautiful, and slightly sunburned adventure that WAS a trip to Herbies Mansion in Subic. Forget your pristine, color-coded itineraries – this is the REAL DEAL. Consider this more of a "what actually happened" chronicle than a polished plan.
Herbies Mansion: Subic – The Unedited Cut (or, How My Sanity Survived… Mostly)
Day 1: Arrival of the Anxious Tourist (aka, Me)
10:00 AM - Manila to Subic: The Great Escape!
- Started off promising. Packed with all the right anxieties (did I bring enough sunscreen? Will the traffic eat my soul?), but the drive? Oh, the drive. It's always a gamble. This time, the gods of the road were… mildly benevolent. Managed to arrive with only minor existential dread.
- Anecdote: I swear, Filipino drivers are a different breed. Tailgating is an art form. Lane discipline? Optional. But somehow, it mostly works? Baffling and terrifying in equal measure.
1:00 PM - Herbies Arrival: The Mansion's First Impression
- Pull up, and whoa. It’s… bigger than I anticipated. A proper mansion, alright. A slightly tired mansion, perhaps, but still imposing. The faded grandeur is a vibe.
- First thought: "Okay, this could be amazing. Or this could be straight out of a horror movie." (Cue the nervous laughter.)
- Quirky Observation: The staff seemed nice, though, a little, like they're used to some wild antics. Good sign, right?
1:30 PM - Check-in Catastrophe (and a Triumph of Will)
- The rooms were… well, let's just say the phrase "rustic charm" was doing heavy lifting. But hey, at least the aircon worked. Sort of.
- Emotional reaction: I was annoyed, at first. Thought to myself, "Is this how it's going to be?" I had to talk to myself, and calm myself, reminding myself of the goal. Relax, chill dude.
- Messiness: This is where I had a small battle with the showerhead. Let’s just say, it was an experience.
2:30 PM - Lunch at the Mansion's Bistro
- The food? Surprisingly decent. It wasn't Michelin-star dining, but the sisig was a solid 7/10. Comfort food victory.
- Rambling thought: I really could eat sisig all day, everyday.
- Opinion: If you're expecting haute cuisine, you’re in the wrong place. But if you're hungry and want something simple, you'll get by.
4:00 PM - Poolside Bliss (Or My Attempt at It)
- The pool! Finally some relaxation. I spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to look graceful while getting into the water. Failed. Sploshed in.
- Double Down: That pool was seriously a lifesaver. It was warm, it was clean, and it washed away the anxieties of driving and that pesky showerhead issue. I spent hours floating, watching the sky change colors.
- Emotional Reaction: Pure, unadulterated joy.
6:00 PM - Dinner and Drinks: The Social Experiment
Dinner was…okay. The bar, though? That’s where things got interesting. Met some other guests, and conversations ranged from the sublime to the utterly ridiculous.
Opinion: The cocktails were… strong. Maybe a little too strong.
Stream of Consciousness: Wait, did I actually tell that story about the time I fell off a banana boat? Ugh. At least they seemed amused.
Messier: I think I had a bit too much fun at the bar. I woke up the next day with a fuzzy head and the strong feeling of regret.
Day 2: Diving, Disaster, and Deliciousness
9:00 AM - Subic Bay Watersports!
- The adventure began. We went jet-skiing and…
- Disaster! I had managed to turn the jet ski by myself. The staff yelled at me. I'm not sure if it even count as a dive. I think. I'm traumatized.
- Emotional Reaction: My stomach flipped. My heart rate elevated. I wanted to cry.
- Messy: I vowed to seek proper lessons.
12:00 PM - Lunch & Chill at the beach
- The beach was nice, even with the jet-ski anxiety still simmering.
3:00 PM - Exploration of the area
- The shops. Did some random purchases.
- Messy: I really thought of buying a new surfboard. But I didn't know how to even use it, so, I didn't
7:00 PM - Final Dinner: The Hangover Cure
- A late dinner. Order some food.
- Emotional reaction: It was delicious. I am so glad.
- Stream of Consciousness: I should have ordered more.
Day 3: Farewell (and a Promise to Return… Maybe)
- 9:00 AM - Check-out: The Escape
- Saying goodbye to Herbies.
- Quirky Observation: Some of the staff were incredibly friendly.
- Emotional Reaction: A bittersweet departure.
- 10:00 AM - The Drive Home: Reflections
- The drive back to Manila was uneventful.
- Final Thought: I probably won't be back.
- Rambling: Maybe with the right kind of preparation, I'd give it another try.
In Conclusion: The Messy Charm of Herbies
Herbies Mansion isn't perfect. It's a bit rough around the edges. It's a little bit noisy. But it has a certain… charm. It's a place where you can relax, have a laugh, and embrace the chaos. If you're looking for a perfectly curated vacation, this isn't it. But if you're looking for an authentic experience, with a healthy dose of imperfection, a bit of adventure, and a whole lot of memories, then Herbies might just be your bag. Just maybe pack extra patience, sunscreen, and a sense of humor. You'll need them.
Delhi's BEST Inn? Nizamuddin Station's Hidden Gem!
Herbie's Mansion: So You Wannabe a Subic Superstar? (Or Just Relax?)
Okay, spill the beans! Is Herbie's Mansion *actually* paradise? (Or just a REALLY good Instagram filter?)
Alright, alright, settle down, Insta-stalkers! Look, "paradise" is a BIG word, right? I’ve seen actual paradises (once, in a dream involving a coconut and a very persistent dolphin). Herbie's isn't THAT. But it's pretty damn close, especially after a week staring at spreadsheets. Picture this: you're lounging by a pool, the sun is beating down, the air smells vaguely of salt and sunscreen... and you're NOT answering emails. That's paradise-adjacent, in my book. Now, I had to deal with a slightly leaky faucet in my room (the horror!). But I fixed it (okay, I *tried* to fix it – the maintenance guy eventually did). But anyway, the pool? SPOT ON. The vibe? Legit chill. The sand? Powdery perfection. So yeah, paradise-ish. Maybe 8/10 on the "Zen-meter."
What's the *real* deal with the rooms? Are they clean? Do they have, like, AC?
Okay, ROOMS. Let’s be real, this is a make-or-break situation for any vacation. My room? Clean. Very clean. Like, "they-vacuumed-under-the-bed-I-swear" clean. And yes, the AC works. Thank GOD. Because Subic gets HOT. Like, "stick-to-everything" hot. The bathroom was a nice surprise - not that depressing, outdated setup you sometimes find. It had the basic necessities, and the water pressure was decent. Although, the shower head, at one point, did a little jig and sprayed water everywhere. Minor inconvenience, though, nothing the extra towels couldn’t solve. I did find one rogue ant in my room, but hey, nature, right? Plus, the view from my room was AMAZING – overlooking the garden area. Woke up to birds chirping every morning. Bliss. Though, the sound of my phone's alarm quickly destroyed it….
Pool time! Anything I should know? Is it overbooked? Are there screaming kids everywhere?
The pool. Oh, the POOL. This is where Herbie's REALLY shines. The pool is beautiful, not some sad, tiny thing. It’s got a good size, so you can actually SWIM. And, blessedly, there were no kids on the week I went! (Okay, maybe a couple, but they seemed well-behaved). No overcrowding. I could ACTUALLY relax. You can even sit at the bar and order a cocktail. It's pure, unadulterated joy. Except... well, okay, this is where my inner drama queen comes out. I swear, one time I was about to take a dip (I am not really good at swimming) and I saw something... floating. I won't go into graphic detail, but let's just say it ended up being dealt with swiftly, and I was back in the water within the hour. Minor setback in paradise, really. I still loved the pool.
Food, glorious food! What's the grub situation like at Herbie's? Any recommendations?
Listen, I am a foodie. A SERIOUS foodie. So the food was a big deal for me. The restaurant at Herbie's? Pretty good! Not Michelin-star amazing, but perfectly acceptable. The breakfast buffet? Solid. They had the usual suspects: eggs, bacon, toast, fruits, coffee (essential!). The lunch and dinners were also good, although I preferred eating at the local restaurants. You should. They have amazing seafood. I had the grilled fish; it was so good, simple and delicious. I'm drooling just thinking about it. I also ate some lechon kawali at a nearby restaurant that almost made me cry (in a good way!). Okay, maybe I did cry a little. It was THAT good. Definitely explore the local options as well! They're worth it.
Anything to DO besides lounging by the pool and stuffing your face?
YES! Thank goodness, because I can't sit still for too long (unless I'm napping, then I am the ultimate champion of inactivity). Herbie’s is right there on the beach! So, duh, beach time. Swim, sunbathe, take some pictures of the sunset (trust me, it's a good one). Also, there are a ton of things you can do since you're in Subic: go to the Marine Adventure Park, visit the Zoobic Safari. Take a trip to Ocean Adventure. It’s an excellent place if you love marine life or you want to have a great time. Just... don't expect all the attractions to be exactly what you envisioned. A little bit of a drive (I'd recommend renting a car). Then, you can go to the local beach clubs and party the night away. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try water sports. So many things to do! So little time (and so much sleep to be had).
Are there any downsides? Be honest! (I can handle it)
Okay, honesty time. It's not PERFECT. The Wi-Fi? Patchy. Prepare to be disconnected, which, honestly, might be a good thing. Then, one time, I found a small lizard (harmless, I assume) in my bathroom. And, I had to wait a bit too long for a drink by the pool one afternoon. Minor inconveniences, though, really. The service, overall, was pretty good. The staff was friendly and helpful. They even helped me find a decent massage therapist. The biggest downside? Having to leave. The post-vacation blues hit me HARD. So be warned: Herbie's might ruin you for the rest of your life. You'll want to go back, immediately. I'm already planning my next trip.
Is Herbie's Mansion Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! I saw families there, and they seemed to be having a blast. There are activities to keep the kids entertained, the pool is safe, and there's plenty of space for running around. I didn't have any kids, so I couldn't relate (thank goodness!) but it looked like a great place for families. Just, maybe, double-check if the kid activities are actually running before showing up with a super-enthusiastic mini-me. Better yet, just ask the hotel staff. They're generally helpful!
How about transport options? Is it easy to get around?
Getting around is pretty easy, actually. You can grab a tricycle (the Filipino version of a motorized rickshaw), or a taxi. Renting a car is also an option, especially if you want to explore the area. I personally recommend the tricycle. It's charming and cheap! Just be prepared to negotiate the price beforehand, otherwise, you'll end up overpaying. And get ready for some seriously bumpy ridesFind Secret Hotel Deals
