Manila's HOTTEST Poolside Jazz Pad! D1 Central Balcony w/ WiFi
Manila's HOTTEST Poolside Jazz Pad! D1 Central Balcony w/ WiFi: A Review That's Totally Real (and Probably Overly Enthusiastic)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just spent a weekend at the legendary D1 Central Balcony, the “HOTTEST Poolside Jazz Pad” in Manila, and lemme tell you, it’s…an experience. Forget those sterile, perfectly-curated hotel reviews – this is the real deal, warts and all (and believe me, there were a few…but mostly good ones!).
Accessibility? Well, that's where things got a little iffy. The brochure blathered on about "facilities for disabled guests," but the reality…let's just say if you're really reliant on a wheelchair, call ahead and double-check everything. It felt like there were some ramps, but navigating the whole shebang might be a workout on its own. But hey, at least there's an elevator, right? So, a tentative thumbs up, with a side of "buyer beware."
Internet Access, WiFi & the Modern Dilemma: Okay, this is crucial, people. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! YES! And it worked! (Mostly.) I'm a digital nomad at heart, so reliable internet is EVERYTHING. They also boast about Internet [LAN], which feels delightfully old-school but hey, options are good! Wi-Fi in public areas? Yep, all over the place, including the pool, proving I could actually work while pretending to be on vacation. Huge win. This place GETS IT.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Pandemic-Proof Paradise (Mostly!)
Alright, let's be real, the world is a germ-fest right now. D1 Central Balcony seemed to take this seriously. I saw Daily disinfection in common areas, Anti-viral cleaning products, and the staff were ALWAYS armed with hand sanitizers. My room? Rooms sanitized between stays. They offered Room sanitization opt-out but given my germaphobic tendencies, I was like, "GIVE ME ALL THE SANITATION!" They even had Individually-wrapped food options, which made me feel a little less guilty about my breakfast buffet tendencies. They also seemed to have Professional-grade sanitizing services, which is reassuring. Kudos to the commitment to cleanliness.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food (Mostly!)
Food is ESSENTIAL to a good hotel stay, am I right? The Asian breakfast was decent – I'm a sucker for a good noodle soup. Breakfast [buffet]? YES! (Although, I'm not sure I needed to try EVERYTHING.) The Poolside bar was a lifesaver. Imagine this: warm sunshine, a cocktail, and some live jazz. Heaven. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was surprisingly good, which is always a bonus. They have Restaurants with Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and Vegetarian restaurant. The choices are plentiful! The Room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver when those late-night snack cravings hit (pizza, anyone?).
Things to do & Ways to Relax: The "Chill" Quotient
Okay, let's get to the good stuff. This is supposed to be a "Jazz Pad," right? Well, the Swimming pool [outdoor] is BEAUTIFUL. The Pool with view is even prettier, especially at sunset. (Cue the social media spam!) And the Sauna? Bliss. Absolute, unadulterated bliss. There's also a Spa with services like Body scrub and Massage. I treated myself to a massage and…siiigh… definitely worth it. If you're looking to Relax, this place is a good bet. I didn't hit the Fitness center, because, let's be honest, those cocktails weren't going to work off themselves. 😉
The Quirks and the Chaos:
Okay, here's the truth: There are a few, let's say, "character-building" moments. The elevator, for example, is slow enough to age a millennial. Also, the “happy hour” didn’t seem that happy for my wallet, but what do I know? The service? Sometimes impeccable, other times… well, let’s just say "Filipino time" is a real thing. They’re trying, bless their hearts.
My Most Memorable Moment (Spoiler Alert: It Involved Jazz and a Cocktail)
One evening, I was sprawled on the Terrace of the Central Balcony (hence the name, duh!), sipping a "Manila Sunset" cocktail (highly recommended!), listening to a live jazz band. The music wasn't just background noise; it was alive. It filled the air, wrapped around me, and made me feel… happy. Really, truly happy. I swear, the stars seemed to align just for me. It was one those moments where you realize, "Yeah, life is pretty damn good." That alone made the whole experience worth it.
The Offer You Absolutely Cannot Refuse! (Or Maybe You Can, But You Shouldn't!)
Book your weekend escape NOW at D1 Central Balcony! Mention code "JAZZLOVER" and get:
- A complimentary welcome cocktail at the Poolside Bar (because, duh!)
- A 20% discount on spa treatments (treat yourself!)
- Early check-in/late check-out (because you deserve it!)
- FREE! I repeat, FREE! Upgrade to a room with a view (subject to availability)
Why You Should Book:
- The Vibe: It's cool, it's chic, it's got that "secret hideaway" feel.
- The Jazz: Seriously, the music is AMAZING.
- The Pool: Picture perfect, Insta-worthy, and the perfect remedy for a Manila heatwave.
- The Location: Easy access in Manila's heart.
- Safety and cleanliness is high up!
The Bottom Line:
D1 Central Balcony isn’t perfect. It has its quirks, its minor inconveniences, and the odd moment where service is a little slow. But it's got heart. The staff are (mostly) lovely, the ambiance is fantastic, and that jazz… oh, that jazz. If you're looking for a stylish, fun, and memorable getaway in Manila, this is a solid choice. Don't expect a flawless experience, expect a real experience, one that might even leave you feeling a little bit transformed (and possibly needing a nap). So, go on, book it! Just do it, and tell ‘em I sent ya. You won't regret it (probably!).
Escape to Paradise: Morocco Blue Cafe at Chilong River Farm Resort
Alright, buckle up, buttercups. This is less "itinerary" and more "chronicle of potential Manila madness." We're talking Jazz Residences, D1, Central Poolview Balcony Wifi… the promise of paradise. Let's see how it ACTUALLY shakes out, shall we?
**Day 1: Arrival & That Glorious Balcony (Maybe) **
14:00 (ish) - Arrival at NAIA, the Thunderdome of Transportation. Okay, so the plan was a smooth airport pickup. HA. Found myself wrestling with a rogue luggage wheel on the way out. Seriously. The first thing you encounter in Manila is a test of your sanity. Found my Grab driver (thank GOD for Grab, seriously) eventually, after a near-miss with a jeepney that looked like it was about to swallow me whole. I'm not even kidding.
15:30 - Check-in at Jazz Residences, Praying to the Wifi Gods. Fingers crossed the key actually works. Last hotel I stayed in, the lock was on a personal vendetta against my arrival. The Poolview is technically visible. From the balcony, yeah. That glorious, promised balcony… let's just say the view's less "tropical oasis" and more "concrete jungle with a splash of hazy sky." But, hey, at least I have a balcony, right? Right?! The Wifi. Oh, the Wifi. Pray for me.
16:00 - First impressions and unpacking. Unpacked, which, let’s be honest, is mostly just rummaging through my bag and realizing I packed three pairs of the exact same socks. What is wrong with me? Also, that first whiff of Manila air – a heady mix of exhaust fumes, tropical humidity, and… something vaguely floral? Not quite sure. I have to admit I was initially pretty impressed, but now I think I am going to have to check again because the first thing I did was take a quick peek at my phone and the wifi in this room, as planned, did not work, not at all.
17:00 - Balcony Reconnaissance & Initial Panic. Spent about 15 minutes staring at the balcony, taking in the view and watching the traffic. Then… the panic set in. Am I going to be able to navigate this city? Will I get eaten alive by traffic? Or, you know, just sweat to death? Grabbed a local beer from the 7-Eleven downstairs anyway. Might as well start the acclimation process. And… okay, the balcony is growing on me. Sort of. That pool is just… there. The pool view is nice, though.
19:00 - Dinner, or: Finding Food That Doesn't Kill Me. I'm starving. The restaurant recommendations I got are all intimidatingly fancy. Think I'll start with something basic. Maybe a local "carinderia" – a hole-in-the-wall place. Praying for no tummy troubles tonight. Praying. Really, REALLY praying.
21:00 - Attempting to Embrace the Evening. Back in the room. Wifi is STILL refusing to cooperate. Starting to consider going into full-on hermit mode. But. Okay, I am going to chill. Balcony? Let's do it. Might as well people-watch. Wonder what crazy things that guy on the motorcycle is up to…
Day 2: Culture Shock (and Coffee, Lots of Coffee)
08:00 - The Breakfast Debacle. Okay, so room service doesn't exist. A quick trip downstairs to find a suitable place to eat, now, that's a challenge. Let's hope the breakfast place is not the same as yesterday's lunch (which took an hour to come, and when it did, was not what I ordered)
09:00 - Trying the famous things. I am going to find the best adobo in the city. The research continues.
11:00 - A visit to Intramuros. Got my heart set on Intramuros and will go there by the end of the day. It would be interesting to see the churches, museums, and old Spanish architecture.
13:00 - Lunch near Intramuros. It would be a great idea to include this in the lunch plan.
15:00 - Head back to the Jazz. Let's call it a day. No, actually, I'm going to make it an afternoon.
17:00 - Taking a breather. I am going to take a break from the heat, maybe take a dip in the pool (if I dare), and enjoy my time in the balcony.
19:00 - Dinner with a view. I'm going to eat at a rooftop restaurant. Hopefully, the view is worth it.
Day 3: (Surviving and Thriving? Fingers Crossed)
07:00 - The Great Wifi Revival (Maybe?) Pray, pray, PRAY that the Wifi has decided to cooperate. Need to update the world on my Manila adventures… if the internet gods allow it.
09:00 - Exploring More of Manila.
13:00 - Lunch. I am going to eat some delicious local foods.
15:00 - Shopping. Going to visit a mall.
17:00 - Relaxing. I am going to chill and relax at the balcony, drink some drinks, and enjoy my time.
19:00 - Last Dinner. I am going to find the best restaurant to end the trip.
Final Thoughts (Post-Trip):
Okay, so maybe it wasn’t exactly the smooth, picture-perfect vacation I'd imagined. There were moments of pure frustration, moments of "what have I gotten myself into?," and moments of just… sweaty, blissful, exhaustion. But you know what? Manila, in all its chaotic, beautiful, and sometimes infuriating glory, burrowed its way into my heart. The people are incredible. The food is a rollercoaster of flavors. The city is a sensory overload in the best possible way. And that balcony at Jazz Residences? Well, it became my little sanctuary, my place to decompress, and soak in the glorious, messy reality of being in Manila. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Just… maybe invest in some industrial-strength Wifi next time. And a better pair of travel socks. Seriously.
**Cadillac's Hidden Gem: Montreal's Le Chablis Hotel Awaits!**
D1 Central Balcony: Poolside Paradise? (Or Just Another Manila Day?) Let's Get Real.
Is D1 Central Balcony *really* as amazing as the photos make it look?
Okay, let's be honest. Those photos? Airbrushed perfection. I’ve been there. Beautiful? Yes. Instagram-worthy? Absolutely. But "amazing"? Well, 'amazing' depends on your definition, right?
The balcony *is* spacious. Pool *is* inviting (when it's not packed like a sardine can). That jazz music... well, sometimes it's sultry sax, sometimes it’s a questionable cover band butchering a classic. Seriously, one time I swear they were doing a reggae version of "Bohemian Rhapsody." I almost walked out. *Almost*. Because… the view. Oh, the view. If you get a good spot, overlooking the city… that’s pretty darn amazing, I’ll admit.
So, "amazing"? A qualified yes. Bring your own earplugs for the band.
What’s the WiFi like? Because, you know, gotta stay connected… (and post those pics)
WiFi? Ah, the eternal struggle. Officially? They *have* WiFi. Unofficially? Prepare for moments of utter frustration. I swear, sometimes it's faster to send a carrier pigeon with a thumb drive attached.
Look, it's Manila. WiFi is a fickle mistress. You might get a blazing connection perfect for streaming your favorite show (which, let's be real, is probably what you're *really* there for), or you might be stuck refreshing your email every five minutes praying for something, *anything*, to load. Bring a personal hotspot if you're serious about connectivity. Trust me, I learned the hard way trying to upload a vital spreadsheet… let's just say my boss wasn't thrilled.
Pro Tip: Find a spot near the router… if you can find it. I suspect it's hidden in the potted plants to protect it from the Manila heat.
Is it easy to get a good spot (especially by the pool!)?
Easy? Honey, getting a good spot at D1 Central is a competitive sport. It's like trying to get a ticket to a BTS concert. Except you're battling sunburn and the desire to sip on a ridiculously overpriced cocktail.
The best spots – prime pool-adjacent real estate – are usually swarmed early. I’m talking, arrive before the sun even thinks about showing its face. Or, be prepared to stake your claim with a towel and a steely gaze. I once witnessed a full-on turf war over a sun lounger. It involved accusations of "towel hogging" and a near-spillage of a fruity drink. It was glorious, and messy, and I loved every second of it.
My advice: Go during the week, avoid weekends like the plague. Or, become best friends with the pool guy. Just sayin'.
What's the vibe like? Is it all chill, or does it get… intense?
The vibe? A mixed bag, darling. It can be idyllic, with people lounging, sipping cocktails, and pretending to read books. Or it can be… *intense*. Especially on weekends. Picture this: a cacophony of clinking glasses, boisterous laughter, and the overwhelming aroma of sunscreen and ambition.
You've got your fashionistas, your Instagram influencers, and the ever-present group of guys who are *clearly* trying to impress someone. Then there’s me, just there for a nice view... mostly.
Honestly, it's Manila. It's vibrant, it's loud, and it's full of characters. Embrace the chaos. Or bring noise-canceling headphones. Your call.
The food and drinks - are they any good, and how much will they empty my wallet?
Okay, the food and drink situation… It's a tale of two realities. The food is generally acceptable, leaning towards "slightly overpriced but edible." They do a decent burger. And the fries… are actually pretty good. Nothing to write home about, but it'll fill a hole.
The drinks, however… prepare to weep. Especially if you like cocktails. You'll be shelling out some serious pesos for a drink. I'm not kidding. I once ordered a "signature" margarita and it cost more than my monthly internet bill (when the WiFi actually works!). I spent the rest of the afternoon quietly judging everyone else’s expenses.
My advice? Pre-game before you go. Hydrate with free water at your table. Or, just stick to beer. It's the most financially responsible option. And maybe, just maybe, bring a secret flask… (I didn't say that!)
What about the jazz? Is the music playlist worth the trip?
The jazz… Ah, the jazz. It's the whole premise, isn't it? The siren song that lures you in. Sometimes, it's heavenly. Smooth saxophones, talented singers, the whole shebang. You sit there, feeling sophisticated, sipping your overpriced drink, and thinking, "This is the life!"
And then… well, the band changes. And sometimes… sometimes it’s a train wreck. I've heard a version of "Sweet Child O' Mine" that should be a war crime. Seriously, I still have nightmares. I've endured off-key notes, questionable song choices, and a drummer who appeared to be lost in his own world. It's a gamble. Pure and simple.
Pro Tip: Check online to see who's playing. Or, embrace the cringe, and make your own entertainment. People-watching is a sport, and sometimes, the music is the soundtrack to the show.
Any other things I should know before going? Like, the really annoying stuff?
Oh, the annoyances! Let me tell you about the *annoyances*.
1. The Sun: It's Manila. The sun is relentless. Bring sunscreen. Reapply constantly. Seriously, you'll need it. I've seen some nasty burns, people. Be prepared to sweat. A lot.
2. The Noise: Even without a bad band, it can be loud. The music, the chatter, the screaming kids… It can be overwhelming. Bring those noise-canceling headphones. Or, embrace the chaos.
