Luxury Escape: Princes Lodge Guesthouse Awaits in East London!
Luxury Escape: Princes Lodge Guesthouse Awaits in East London!
Luxury Escape: Princes Lodge Guesthouse in East London - A Rambling Review from a (Mostly) Happy Guest
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Princes Lodge Guesthouse in East London, and I’m still unpacking the experience – both literally and figuratively. This isn't your usual sterile, hyper-polished hotel review. This is ME, unfiltered, giving you the honest lowdown, complete with the good, the bad, and the “wait, what just happened?” moments.
Accessibility – A Mixed Bag, But…
Let's get the serious stuff out the way first. Wheelchair accessible? Hmm. The website says they have facilities. I’m not in a wheelchair myself, but I did see some ramps and the elevator, which is a good start. But I also noticed some narrow doorways in the lobby, and I'm not 100% sure about the pool access. So, if accessibility is crucial, definitely call ahead and get SPECIFIC details before booking. Don’t take my word for it (unless you’re just getting a general vibe, in which case, read on!).
Internet – Bless the Wi-Fi Gods!
Okay, confession time. I need internet. I’m a digital nomad, a freelancer, a… well, let’s just say I work on the internet. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? YES. THANK YOU. And it generally worked! I even managed to stream a few movies (on-demand movies are a nice touch, by the way) without too much buffering. They also have Internet [LAN] (old school!), but I didn't need it. Internet services were generally fine too, except once at 2 AM (more on that later).
Cleanliness and Safety – Sanitized, But…
Let’s be honest, we're all still a little skittish about germs. Princes Lodge gets points for the Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Hand sanitizer everywhere. They had Staff trained in safety protocol too, which was reassuring. I also noticed things like Individually-wrapped food options and the Room sanitization opt-out available. However, I’m pretty sure I saw a dust bunny the size of a small chihuahua under the bed. Just saying. They are trying, and I appreciate it. Rooms sanitized between stays is a big plus in my book.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – The Restaurant Saga
Okay, this is where things get interesting. The Restaurants, bar, poolside bar, and coffee shop are all, technically, on-site. The Breakfast [buffet] was decent (I’m a sucker for a good Western breakfast!), though the eggs were a little… rubbery. They also do Breakfast in room and Breakfast takeaway service, which is perfect for lazy mornings. I gave the Asian breakfast a try (because, why not?), and it was… interesting. Let's just say it broadened my culinary horizons. The A la carte in restaurant options varied, and the International cuisine in restaurant was quite diverse. I enjoyed the Soup in restaurant one evening after a long day, very comforting.
Now, about the "wait, what just happened?" moment: I ordered room service at 2 AM (see, I told you about the internet situation). I was craving a Snack bar item - specifically, the samosas. They were listed online, but the person on the phone was very confused and, after a long pause, said "are you sure?" I was sure about the samosas, but that was the point where I was staring at the ceiling at 2am not working. They eventually arrived. Don't believe everything you read about the Happy hour, it was short.
Ways to Relax – Spa Day or Bust
Okay, the Spa is where you can find relaxation. I love the Steamroom, Sauna, and the Pool with view. I didn't hit up the Body scrub or Body wrap (I'm more of a "sit by the pool and stare into space" type of relaxer.) And the Foot bath? Tempting.
Things to Do – Beyond the Pool
I could see myself staying at the Swimming pool for a long time - and I did. I have to say the Fitness center was surprisingly well-equipped, even though I didn't use it (see: "staring into space" above). They don't really have a ton of activities outside of the facility, but that's not the point of a 'relaxing getaway', is it?
Services and Conveniences – The Good, the Bad, and the “Where’s My Towel?”
Daily housekeeping, thank the heavens. I am not a neat freak. The Elevator was a lifesaver getting up to the high floor. Laundry service was efficient (needed!), and I appreciated the Ironing service too. Concierge was helpful but sometimes a little… distracted. One time I asked for a taxi, and it took about an hour to arrive, which was a bit rough. The Car park [free of charge] was a definite bonus.
For the Kids – Babysitting, Babysitting, Babysitting!
I didn't have kids with me, but the Family/child friendly vibe was definitely there. I saw some Kids facilities and a Kids meal option, which is great for families. They also advertise a Babysitting service, which could be a godsend for parents.
Rooms – My Cozy Little Haven (Mostly)
My room… ah, my room. Let’s just say I’m a sucker for a good Sofa. My room had a Seating area for me to settle. It was a Non-smoking room, which I appreciated. Air conditioning was a must, and it worked like a charm. I had a Coffee/tea maker, which is a must-have. Free bottled water? Yes, please! The Bed was comfy, the Pillows were… okay (I’m picky about pillows). There was plenty of Storage, a Closet, and a Desk to work at. I had a Private bathroom in my room and a Separate shower/bathtub. The Additional toilet was helpful! I had a Bathrobes and Slippers, too.
Getting Around – Easy Peasy (Mostly)
Taxi service was available. The airport transfer was a breeze.
Overall Impression – Would I Go Back?
Look, Princes Lodge Guesthouse isn’t perfect. It has its quirks, its minor issues, and the occasional "huh?" moment. But overall? I had a lovely stay. The staff were friendly (mostly), the rooms were comfortable, and the pool was heavenly. If you're looking for a relaxed getaway in East London, definitely consider it. Just… maybe ask about the samosas before ordering. And bring your own favorite pillow. Rating: 7.5/10. I'd recommend it.
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's travel itinerary. This is the real, messy, glorious, possibly-a-little-unhinged journey that actually happened (or, at least, could have happened) at that little gem, Princes Lodge Guesthouse in East London, South Africa. Get ready for some serious travel-induced brain slosh!
The Messy, Unfiltered Guide to Surviving Princes Lodge (and Possibly Emerging Sane):
Day 1: Arrival & Mild Panic (aka, "Where's My Luggage?!"")
- Morning (ish) - The Airport Shuffle:
- Vibe Check: Woke up at some ungodly hour, feeling like a crumpled piece of paper. Airports are a necessary evil, right? Right? Wrong. They're fluorescent-lit purgatories of delayed flights and overpriced coffee that tastes like despair.
- The Luggage Tango: Landed in East London. Sun shining, air crisp, me… slightly frantic. My bag? MIA. Cue internal monologue: "Deep breaths… it's fine… I packed my entire life in that thing!"
- Princes Lodge Pickup: Seriously, the guesthouse arranged a pickup! Saved my sanity, and my wallet. The driver, bless him, was cheerful despite my luggage blues. He had this amazing accent, like a warm blanket you could wrap yourself in.
- Quirky Observation: The first thing I saw from the car was a bright blue ocean, even more blue than I could ever imagine.
- Afternoon - Check-In & Initial Impression:
- First Impression: Princes Lodge itself? Charming. Like a secret garden hidden in suburbia. The roses were in full bloom, and the air just smelled happy. (Much needed after the airport… shudders).
- The Room Reveal: My room was… chef's kiss. Okay, it wasn't the Ritz, but it was clean, comfy, and had a veranda that looked straight out of a postcard. More importantly, it was a sanctuary from the luggage-less chaos.
- Emotionally Charged Moment: That first shower after the long flight? Pure, unadulterated bliss. I swear I could feel my worries (and the airport crud) washing down the drain.
- Slight Imperfection Alert: The Wi-Fi was… a little temperamental. But hey, a digital detox might be exactly what I needed, even if I didn't realize it yet.
- Evening - Early Exploration & Disappointment:
- Rambling Thoughts: Okay, so I was tired, but still had to go out and check out the place. Even though I was tired, I was still pretty excited.
- Wandering About: Managed a quick walk around the neighborhood. Found a cute little coffee shop a few blocks away.
- Culinary Letdown: Decided on dinner at a local recommended place, but alas, it was an overcooked fish, and felt like a letdown.
- Emotional Reaction: Defeated (and hungry), I retreated back to the lodge with my tail between my legs, and hoped that my luggage would make an appearance.
Day 2: Sunrises, Surf Lessons & A Surprisingly Fantastic Burger
Morning - The Sunrise Revelations & A Dose of Inspiration:
- Strong Emotional Reaction: Woke up pre-dawn (thanks, jet lag!), crawled onto the veranda, and watched the sunrise over the ocean. Holy. Freaking. Moly. The colours were insane – pinks, oranges, purples… like a giant, beautiful painting exploding in the sky. I literally cried a little. Actually, I might have sobbed. Don't judge me.
- Quirky Observation: The birds were also awake and having the time of their lives!
- Rambling Thoughts: This is why I travel. To feel small, to feel connected, to remember that there's beauty even when everything feels a bit… off.
- Minor Category: Breakfast: Delicious with a lot of fruit and a good cuppa.
Morning (again) - Surf School & Humiliation:
- Pre-Surf Panic: Signed up for a surf lesson at Nahoon Beach. I’d seen those surfers… they make it look effortless. I, on the other hand, felt like a clumsy beached whale.
- The Reality Check: Turns out, surfing is hard. Like, face-planting-into-the-salty-water-while-looking-like-a-goofy-penguin hard.
- Anecdote: My instructor, a local legend named JP, was super patient, but also did not hold back the laughter when I wiped out… which was approximately every 30 seconds.
- Honest Assessment: Despite the humiliation, it was AMAZING. The feeling of (briefly) standing up and riding a wave? Pure adrenaline, pure joy. Even the water up my nose was worth it.
Afternoon - Post-Surf Rant:
- Rant about the water: The water was so cold.
Evening -Burger Brilliance & Local Lore
- The Burger Savior: Dinner at a burger joint, was recommended by JP the surf instructor. Oh. My. God. It was the BEST burger of my life. Juicy, flavorful… pure perfection. (I’m still daydreaming about it).
- Anecdote: The owner of the burger joint told me about the history of the area. It was fascinating, hearing the stories from someone who actually lived there.
- Quirky Observation: South Africans REALLY know how to make a burger. It's practically an art form.
Day 3: East London Exploration & the Great Luggage Miracle (Maybe)
- Morning - More Sunrises:
- Emotional Reaction: More sunrise. I'm starting to think sunrise is my favourite thing… ever.
- Opinionated Language: Absolutely stunning. I would give anything to be able to see this sunrise again.
- Morning / Afternoon - The City:
- Minor Category: Headed into the city.
- The Art Museum: Okay, the art museums are a must see. But, honestly, it's nice to walk around and see the places.
- Afternoon - The Great Luggage Mystery (Resolved?):
- Phone Call: Ring, ring. It's the airline! My bag… it made it! It was finally here!
- Emotional Reaction: I almost burst into tears of joy. I literally jumped up and down, did a little happy dance, and ran to grab it from the reception.
- Anecdote: Opening my suitcase was like a reunion. My favourite T-shirt, my lucky socks… it sounds silly, but it felt like a hug from home.
- Evening - Celebration & Reflection:
- Rambling Thoughts: Feeling a little happier, feeling a little more grounded, and definitely a little more tan.
- Another Burger: Yup, went back to the burger place. They were probably starting to wonder if I was a regular.
- Reflection: I’m not exactly sure what I thought I'd find in East London, but it's quickly becoming my place.
Day 4: Departure!
- Morning: More sunrise tears. I am genuinely going to miss this place.
- Departure: Farewell to Princes Lodge. Until we meet again!
Final Thoughts:
Look, this wasn't a perfectly planned trip. Stuff went wrong. I was tired, and frustrated, and occasionally looked like a drowned rat. But that's the good stuff. That's the stuff you remember, the stuff that makes the trip yours. East London and Princes Lodge, you were a bloody delight. And I'm already planning my return.
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Luxury Escape: Princes Lodge - The Unvarnished Truth (and maybe a little wine-induced rambling)
Okay, spill it. Is Princes Lodge REALLY as luxurious as it looks in the pictures?
Alright, alright, let's get real. The photos? Yeah, they’re gorgeous. The pool shimmers, the rooms look like they belong in a magazine...and listen, it's *pretty damn close* in reality. It's got that "old money, but still chill" vibe. Think slightly faded grandeur, like a good vintage wine – better with age and a little… well, let's say character. I mean, yes, the bed was ridiculously comfortable. Like, "I need this mattress in my life immediately" comfortable. And the soaps? Forget about it. My skin felt like a baby’s bottom, and a tiny, tiny part of me was very tempted to pocket a bar, but you know, decorum and all that.
What's the deal with the location in East London? Is it actually convenient?
Convenient? Depends on your definition of "convenient." East London is…well, it's East London. You're not tripping over tourists like you might be in, say, the West End. Princes Lodge itself felt tucked away, which was a plus. You could actually breathe! Getting around? A car is your friend, especially if you want to hit up the beaches (and you *should* because those beaches are amazing!). I relied on a rental car (I did, actually, get momentarily lost trying to go back to the lodge after sunbathing, which added to the adventure), and found it easy enough to explore the area. But yeah, don't expect to walk everywhere in your Louboutins. (Unless you're feeling brave, in which case, more power to ya.)
How's the service? Are the staff angels or... well, anything less?
Okay, this is where things get interesting. See, service can be a bit… uneven. The staff are lovely, genuinely so. Especially the lady at breakfast who got my coffee order *perfect* the first time. (That’s a huge win in my book). But there were moments when it felt a little…understaffed? Like, I had to wait a bit longer for a drink at the bar one evening. Nothing major, just a slight speed bump in paradise. And, the other day, I accidentally locked myself out on the balcony and had to ring my friend and wait and it took a little while to get help. However, and this is key, they were always *trying*. And they were always friendly. You can't fault them for that.
The food! Tell me about the food! Is it worth the calories?
Breakfast? Glorious. Seriously. The breakfast was the highlight of my mornings. Fresh fruits, perfect eggs (I’m a sucker for a perfectly poached egg), and enough coffee to fuel a small army. I had to, on one occasion, stop myself from going back for seconds… and thirds… on the pastries. Dinner? We ate in one night - I'm still haunted by the memory of the prawns – absolutely amazing. (And I usually dislike prawns. This place is magic, I tell you!) The other nights, we ventured out to local restaurants. I mean, I wouldn't solely plan my trip around the in-house dining, but it's definitely a good start. Trust me, you won’t go hungry. Or disappointed, likely.
What's the vibe like at Prince's Lodge? Romantic getaway? Family fun? Solo escape?
It's definitely got a romantic vibe, I mean, the pool is beautiful, the rooms are comfy. But it could handle a family too. I did see a couple with a kid, and they seemed perfectly happy. Solo? Absolutely. I’d be happy to go there solo, and I'm not the biggest fan of my own company. The staff were very welcoming, and there's something so peaceful about the place that’s conducive to relaxing by yourself. It's a place to unwind, to disconnect. And let's be honest, we all need that sometimes. So, whatever your reason for going, you'll find something you will love.
Okay, but REALLY. What was the BEST thing about Princes Lodge?
Hands down, the *ambiance*. It's hard to explain, but it's just…calming. Maybe it was the big trees surrounding the building, or all the light that comes in through the windows. The architecture is amazing. Even the tiny details are carefully taken care of. It's a place where you can truly switch off. One night, I was sitting on the terrace, a glass of wine in hand, just listening to the crickets...and I finally, actually relaxed. Completely. It's a feeling I haven't experienced in years. And that, more than anything, is worth the price of admission. THAT’S MY REAL ANSWER. (That and the prawns. Can't forget those prawns.)
Anything REALLY bad? Like... did you find a hidden camera?
Okay, dramatic much? No hidden cameras, sadly. The only real downside? Honestly? Leaving. My biggest complaint is that it wasn’t longer. I mean, I’m a sucker for a good room, and an even better breakfast. If I have to nitpick, and I suppose I will, I wish there was a spa. But that's me being greedy. It's a minor detail in the grand scheme of things. I think I’m going back next year…
So, the big question: Would you recommend it?
Absolutely. Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes! Look, it's not perfect. It's got a few quirks. But the good far outweighs the bad. The beauty, the peace, the deliciousness? It's a recipe for a truly memorable escape. Go. Seriously. Book the darn trip. And send me a postcard. (Just kidding. Sort of.)
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