St. Nicolas Inn Cagayan De Oro Philippines

St. Nicolas Inn: Cagayan de Oro's BEST Kept Secret (Luxury Getaway Awaits!)

St. Nicolas Inn: CDO's BEST Kept Secret? Let's Dive IN (and Get Real!)

Okay, so, "BEST Kept Secret." That's a bold claim, right? Especially in a city like Cagayan de Oro, where good hotels are surprisingly plentiful. But after spending a long weekend at St. Nicolas Inn, I'm starting to get it. This place isn't just a hotel; it's a whole vibe. And honestly? It's messy, honest, and sometimes a little bit… well, imperfect. But that's part of the charm. Buckle up, because this isn't your average, cookie-cutter review. This is the truth.

First Impression: Accessibility & Getting There – Smooth(ish) Sailing.

Getting to St. Nicolas Inn is pretty straightforward. It's strategically located, which is HUGE in CDO. You're not stranded in the middle of nowhere needing a tricycle at 2 AM. Speaking of which:

Accessibility: The front desk is 24/7, which is a lifesaver when you arrive at godawful hours (thanks, delayed flight!). They also have an elevator – a MUST for any modern hotel, especially for those with mobility issues. I didn't personally need it, but I appreciated that it was there.
Getting Around: Free parking is a godsend (I HATE paying for parking!). They also offer airport transfers and taxi services. I took advantage of the airport transfer, and it was a breeze. Easy peasy!
Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Super important for someone glued to their phone like myself. They boast FREE Wi-Fi in all rooms AND in public areas. Solid. And the LAN option too, for you old school folks.

Rooms: Cozy, but Let's Talk About the "Luxury"…

They call it a "luxury getaway." Let's be clear, it's not the Ritz. But the rooms are definitely comfortable.

The Good Stuff: Air conditioning (essential in the CDO heat!), blackout curtains (hello, sleep!), and a comfy bed with fluffy pillows. The free bottled water was a nice touch. I love a good robe and slippers! The separate shower/bathtub was a plus. The rooms do have a safe, a mini-bar (I was tempted, but my wallet begged to differ), and a hair dryer (which is useful for people with longer hair like me). I appreciated the little things like a reading light.
The Imperfections: The "luxurious" aspect is more in the overall experience than the physical room itself. The decor is… functional. Not overly flashy, but clean and tidy. Some rooms might feel a tad small, but nothing a good book and a nice view can't fix.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Feast or Famine? Not Quite…

Okay, so the food. This is where things get interesting.

The Good: They have a restaurant that serves a mix of Asian and International cuisine. The breakfast buffet was decent, with both Western and Asian options. The coffee was good. They offer room service 24 hours, which is a major win, especially after a long day of exploring. They also have a poolside bar! Happy hour is a must.
The "Could Be Better": The a la carte menu was a little limited. I felt the deserts in the restaurant could add more variety. I'm a foodie, okay?
The Quirky Experience: One night, I ordered room service at like 1 am. The waiter was hilariously tired, almost missed my order and the food was decent, but the experience was unforgettable. That's the kind of thing I appreciate about the inn. It felt real.

Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Days & Poolside Bliss

Now, THIS is where St. Nicolas Inn shines.

The Pool: The outdoor swimming pool has a view and is gorgeous. This is the place you go to relax and soak up the sun.
The Spa: If you're looking for pure relaxation, absolutely hit the spa. They have everything - a sauna, steamroom, massages, body wraps, and body scrubs.
Fitness Center: If you're feeling energetic, they also have a gym.
For special events: They have indoor and outdoor venues. I did not join one, but I saw some, and they looked fun.

Cleanliness & Safety: Peace of Mind

This is a big one, especially these days. St. Nicolas Inn takes cleanliness seriously.

The Good: They use anti-viral cleaning products and have a professional-grade sanitizing service. Rooms are sanitized between stays, and staff are trained in safety protocols. They provide hand sanitizer everywhere and have a doctor on call.
The Extra Mile: They offer a contactless check-in/out, take cashless payments, and have physical distancing measures in place.

Services and Conveniences: Everything You Need (and More!)

The Essentials: Daily housekeeping, laundry service, dry cleaning, luggage storage, and a 24-hour front desk.
The Perks: A gift shop, a convenience store, and even a currency exchange. They also have meeting facilities and business services.
Things to Consider: They do not allow pets.

For the Kids: A Family-Friendly Paradise?

They have family-friendly facilities, with kids' meals available.

Overall Impression: Is It Worth It? Absolutely.

Look, St. Nicolas Inn isn't perfect. But it's real. It has charm, personality, decent amenities, and a genuine desire to make your stay enjoyable. Here's the deal:

It's Perfect For: Couples looking for a relaxing getaway, families needing some space, and anyone who appreciates a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Cagayan de Oro.
It's Not For: Ultra-luxury snobs who need everything pristine (because, remember, it's REAL!).
My Verdict: Yes, it's a BEST KEPT SECRET. It's not the most glamorous hotel in CDO, but it's comfortable, convenient, and has a lot to offer.

Final Thoughts & A Compelling Offer:

I left St. Nicolas Inn feeling refreshed and with a warm fuzzy feeling. It's not just a place to stay; it's an experience. This isn't a sterile, corporate hotel. It's a place that feels like a home away from home. The staff were friendly and helpful. The facilities are top-notch. And the overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming.

So, Here's My Offer (For You!):

Escape to Paradise & Discover CDO's Best-Kept Secret!

Book your stay at St. Nicolas Inn today and receive a complimentary spa treatment (your choice of massage!) for stays of three nights or more! Plus, we'll throw in a free welcome drink at the poolside bar! Don't miss this opportunity to unwind, recharge, and experience the best of Cagayan de Oro!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ESCAPE! (Make sure to mention this review to get your free spa treatment!)

This is a real experience, not just a place to stay! This is your chance to be the best version of yourself!

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St. Nicolas Inn Cagayan De Oro Philippines

Alright, buckle up buttercups! This isn't your grandma's perfectly-formatted travel brochure. We're diving headfirst into the chaos, the mango juice spills, and the existential dread of a trip to Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, fueled by the promise of the (allegedly) charming St. Nicolas Inn.

The Cagayan de Oro Chaos: A St. Nicolas Inn Odyssey (with a healthy dose of self-doubt)

Day 1: Arrival, Anticipation, and a Questionable Taxi Ride

Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Cebu Pacific flight from Manila. The usual airport shenanigans: the screaming baby (always), the overly-caffeinated business traveler, and the sheer crushing weight of my carry-on. Thank GOD for noise-canceling headphones and "Parks and Rec" reruns. Landing smoothly in Laguindingan Airport, which already feels a million miles away from the city. (Side note: are all airports in the Philippines painted the same shade of depressing beige? Just throwing that out there.)
Morning (9:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Disaster strikes! Negotiating a taxi. I swear, it’s an Olympic sport. The initial offer was highway robbery (literally, I felt like I was being robbed). After some spirited bartering (and a mental breakdown), I secured a price that almost didn't make me weep. The driver, bless his heart, clearly only knew the "scenic route." We spent an hour and a half weaving through traffic, dodging habal-habals (motorcycles), and generally questioning all my life choices. By the time we arrived at St. Nicolas Inn, I was clinging to the seat, muttering prayers.
Morning (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Check-in. The reception area was charming enough – a little cramped maybe, but hey, character! The staff was all smiles, which significantly softened the taxi-induced trauma. My room? Basic. Clean. A/C that hopefully works. I'm trying to keep my expectations low, people. This is budget travel.
Afternoon (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Lunch at a nearby carinderia. This is where the real adventure (and potential food poisoning) begins. Ordered the kinilaw (fish ceviche), which, while a bit… tangy, was actually pretty good. Made me momentarily forget the taxi ride from hell. And then… the torrential downpour started. Perfect timing.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Stuck in the room. Rainy season blues. Contemplated the existential dread of being alone in a foreign city. Listened to the rain batter against the windows. Read a book. Realized I forgot to pack my favorite socks. Minor crisis.
Evening (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Tried to explore the area around the Inn. Walked around the streets, dodged the cars, and the cars that dodged me, and got a sense of the pace of the city which seems to be always moving. Saw a small park which was nothing special but a good place to be.
Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Dinner at a local restaurant (again, questionable name, but delicious food – sinigang na bangus!). This is where I met a woman named Maria. She was a local and the kindest person I've met in a long time. We talked for hours, and she really helped with advice about the city. She reminded me that I was safe, and I should enjoy every moment of my vacation.

Day 2: White Water Rafting! (Or, the Time I Almost Drowned, But It Was Awesome)

Morning (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Breakfast at St. Nicolas Inn. The usual – rice, eggs, and some mystery meat that might or might not be what the menu says. Gotta build up that energy for the day!
Morning (9:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Picked up by a rafting tour group. The anticipation was killing me! I’m usually terrified of water, but I was trying to be adventurous, dammit! The bus ride to the rafting launch site was… eventful. The guide, a short guy with a booming voice and a perpetually mischievous grin, kept yelling, "WHOO! CAGAYAN DE ORO! ARE YOU READY TO GET WET?!" I secretly wanted to hide under my seat.
Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): The rafting itself. Holy. Mother. Of. Water. It. Was. Incredible. The rapids were exhilarating, terrifying, and exhilarating again! I screamed, I laughed, I may have swallowed a bit of river water (ew). Our guide, a total pro, steered us through the chaos. We even had to jump out of the boat at one point and float! It was the most liberating and terrifying experience I've had in years.
- Anecdote: There was a moment where the raft flipped. I. Almost. Drowned. The water was a churning, white mess. I was flailing, choking, and my glasses flew off (RIP, my precious eyesight!). But then, somehow, I found my way back to the surface. The adrenaline rush was insane.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Post-rafting bliss (and mild trauma). We celebrated our survival with a massive, delicious lunch – the food was the best thing I had eaten in days! Ate a whole lot of lechon. It was like a reward from the gods. Exhausted, sunburnt, and buzzing with endorphins, I felt alive.
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Back to the Inn. Showered for, like, 30 minutes straight to get rid of the river grime. Passed out for a well-deserved nap.
Evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Dinner and drinks at a rooftop bar. Watched the sunset over the city. Finally, felt a sense of peace wash over me. Maybe, just maybe, this trip wasn't going to be a complete train wreck, after all.

Day 3: Exploring and Departure

Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Visited the City Museum and the Gaston Park. There were a variety of art and museum exhibits. Found some nice local things.
Afternoon (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Last-minute souvenir shopping, trying to find something slightly less tacky than the "Cagayan de Oro" t-shirts. (Spoiler alert: it’s hard).
Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Back to St. Nicolas Inn. Packed my bags, said goodbye to the helpful staff, and tried to mentally prepare for the inevitable taxi ride back to the airport.
Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Airport. Flight back to Manila. Another screaming baby. More airport beige. But this time, a smile. I had survived Cagayan de Oro. And you know what? I kind of loved it.

The Verdict on St. Nicolas Inn:

Don’t expect luxury. Do expect a quaint, clean, and friendly place. It's not the Ritz, but it's comfortable and affordable. It served its purpose. The staff was the best part. They made the trip so much better. Overall:

Cagayan de Oro is a city full of contradictions: chaos and charm, adventure and apprehension. It's not always pretty, it's sometimes a little messy, and it can be overwhelming. But it's also real. And if you're willing to embrace the mess, you might just have the adventure of a lifetime.

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St. Nicolas Inn Cagayan De Oro Philippines

St. Nicolas Inn: Cagayan de Oro's "Best Kept Secret" - (Is it REALLY that secret?)

Okay, spill the tea. What ACTUALLY is St. Nicolas Inn? Is it really as "luxury" as they claim?

Alright, let's be honest. The "luxury" tag? Yeah, it's pretty accurate. Think less gold-plated toilets (though... you never know!) and more, seriously, *thoughtful* touches. I went there expecting, you know, the usual hotel drill. You get a room, a bed, maybe a dodgy mini-bar. Nope. Not here. My boyfriend, bless his heart, booked us the "Presidential Suite." (Bragger alert, I know!) The view… oh my GOD, the view. Like, postcard-worthy, melt-your-face-off-with-beauty kind of view. And the room? Huge. Like, I got lost in the bathroom huge. Now, the jacuzzi? Let's just say I spent a LOT of time in there, plotting world domination…or at least deciding what to have for dinner. They’ve done a great job creating a sense of remoteness and quiet. Seriously, after 2 days there, I felt like a whole new person. And yes, if you are lucky enough to book their best rooms, it is absolutely luxury. It's not gold-plated, it's actually *comfortable* luxury.

Is it actually a "secret"? Because, Google Maps seems to know about it...

Okay, okay, the "secret" thing is a bit of a marketing ploy. Let's get real. It's not exactly buried under a mountain. But still, I only realized it existed during a chance conversation. So, while it's not *completely* off the radar, it's definitely not as heavily advertised as the huge chain hotels. Which, honestly, is part of its charm. You won't get bombarded with noisy crowds. It's a little slice of serenity. And navigating Cagayan de Oro is a bit of an adventure, a little hidden gem like this is just perfect. I'd say, not a secret in the "Area 51" sense, but secret enough that you'd be pleased to have found it.

The Food! Is it any good? Because, let's be honest, terrible hotel food is my biggest fear.

Prepare to be pleasantly surprised. I’m a total foodie. Seriously, I live for food. And the restaurant at St. Nicolas? They've actually put effort in, not just some reheated slop. Breakfast! The best part of my stay, hands down. The omelets are fluffy, the fruit is fresh, the coffee's strong. It was a bit of a slow start to the morning, but let me tell you, the breakfast buffet was heaven. And the ambiance? Gorgeous. The staff were so attentive. I started daydreaming about breakfast the second I was out of that place. Didn’t get a chance to have dinner, but knowing the quality with breakfast, I'm sure it's equally as good.

What about the service? Are the staff friendly? I’m a high-maintenance person, for context.

Honestly? The staff were amazing. Like, genuinely nice people. No fake smiles, just genuine hospitality. I could see that the staff wanted to make sure we had a good time. They accommodated every silly request... Which, you know, I'm eternally grateful for. They actually made an effort to remember our names. The attention to detail was just phenomenal. I might be high-maintenance, BUT I saw them catering to other guests, also. You can tell they are well trained, and take pride in their work.

Any downsides? Because nothing's perfect, right? Spill the tea!

Okay, be warned. It's not *right in* the city center. You'll probably need a taxi or grab to get around, and those rides can take a while, depending on the traffic (because Cagayan de Oro traffic, is, well.. you get the picture). But for me, that distance was part of the appeal. I wanted to escape the hustle and bustle. Also, the internet? It was… serviceable. Not lightning-fast, but good enough for checking emails and posting a few (okay, a lot) of Instagram stories. And, in the moment, I didn't even care about it. I was living my best life, people! Oh, and it's not exactly budget-friendly. It's a treat-yourself kind of place. And if you're looking for a wild party scene, go elsewhere. This is about relaxation, pampering, and just… being.

So, would you recommend St. Nicolas Inn? The ultimate question!

Absolutely. 100%. Without hesitation. If you're looking for a place to unwind, to escape, to pamper yourself, then YES. GO. Book it now! Seriously. If you are going to CDO? That's where you should stay. I’m already trying to figure out when I can go back. It’s the kind of place that leaves you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and maybe just a *little* bit spoiled. And, honestly? We all deserve a little bit of that.

Do they have a pool? Because, pool is life.

Yes! They have a lovely pool. I spent, oh, about half my trip lounging by it. It wasn't massive, but it was perfect for a relaxing dip. They provide towels, and there's plenty of space to sunbathe... or hide from the sun under a shady cabana if you’re pale like me. It was clean, well-maintained, and the pool-side service was pretty great. You could order drinks and snacks, and the staff were always attentive without being intrusive. A really relaxing and enjoyable experience, overall.

Okay, let's get specific about the location. How easy is it to get to things to do outside the Inn?

Alright, so I mentioned it's not *right* in the center. Think of it as a bit of a sanctuary away from the chaos. You'll need to factor in travel time depending on what you want to see. Going to the city proper, restaurants, malls will take a bit of time (and traffic, ugh!). But honestly, the quiet was worth it for me. However, if you're all about being within walking distance of tons of attractions, this might not be ideal. But, consider if you're going to CDO, you're after adventure. White water rafting, the waterfalls etc. It's probably better for that.

Would you say it's a good place for a romantic getaway? Enquiring for a friend... (cough cough, me).

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St. Nicolas Inn Cagayan De Oro Philippines

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St. Nicolas Inn: Cagayan de Oro's BEST Kept Secret (Luxury Getaway Awaits!)