Escape to Paradise: PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa, Kenya Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, because this ain't your grandma's hotel review. We're diving headfirst into Escape to Paradise: PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa, Kenya Awaits!, and let me tell you, after spending a week there… well, let's just say I've got feelings. Big ones.
First off, let me preface this by saying I'm a seasoned traveler, but also a bit of a… well, a human. That means I trip, I get hangry, and sometimes, I just want to lie on a lounger staring at the ocean and not be bothered with anything remotely resembling responsibility. So, expectations set. Let's jump in!
The Accessibility & the Little Annoyances:
Okay, so getting there. Airport transfer was solid, thank heavens. After a loooong flight, the last thing you want is to be haggling with a taxi driver. Then came the Accessibility, and this, folks, is where the story gets… interesting. PrideInn tries. The elevator is a lifesaver, obviously. And I did see a Facilities for disabled guests option mentioned, so that's good. But, I did notice some areas weren't super easy to navigate if you were using a wheelchair. Some of the pathways to the Swimming pool [outdoor] were a little rough. Nothing catastrophic, but it's worth noting. Again, they're trying.
Now, about the check-in… I'm going to be honest: I like the idea of Contactless check-in/out, because who wants to breathe in the germs of a hundred other travelers, and this is a huge plus! But, sometimes I missed the personal touch, the human contact. I’m all for Check-in/out [express] but in my opinion, some of the charm of a vacation is missing because of it.
Cleanliness & Safety - Breathe Easy (Mostly):
Alright, COVID times, right? So Cleanliness and safety are HUGE for me. I'm happy to report they seem to take it seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Yep. Hand sanitizer everywhere. They even had Staff trained in safety protocol. I even got a little annoyed at first, because it felt like I'm just constantly being asked to sanitize, but I got over it. Mostly. I saw someone coughing and I was running for the hills.
The Good Stuff - Relaxation Reconnaissance:
Okay, now to the juicy bits. Relaxation is key, right? And PrideInn delivers… mostly.
That Pool with Views. Oh. My. Goodness. I could've lived in that Swimming pool [outdoor], staring out at the ocean. It’s honestly worth the price of admission alone. Pure bliss.
The Spa! Okay, so I'm a spa fiend. I'm always looking for a good Body scrub, and a Massage. PrideInn’s spa is… good. Not the best I've ever experienced, but it got the job done. And after the massage, I went to the Sauna.
Fitness Center? Yeah, it's there. I went once. Let's just say I spent more time admiring the ocean view from the window than actually working out. Just call me the lazy tourist.
Food, Glorious Food! (With a Side of "Oh, My Stomach…")
Okay, buckle up for the food section. This is where things get… complicated. They have a decent variety, I'd give them that. Big things from the Breakfast [buffet]! Some of the Western cuisine in restaurant was pretty good. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was…well, let's just say my stomach had some opinions.
The Asian Breakfast: I was genuinely excited about the Asian breakfast, but oh, the mystery meat! I'm not going to delve into the specifics, but let's just say I spent a significant amount of time in the bathroom after that experience.
The "Oh-So-Romantic" Dinner Disaster: I tried a fancy dinner. The A la carte in restaurant seemed promising. We ordered what sounded amazing – an international dish, and I was looking forward to a relaxed romantic night. My partner's fish was undercooked, my salad was like eating grass clippings, and the waiter seemed totally unbothered. The Happy Hour, however, saved the day.
The Snack Bar: I lived at the Snack bar for a day in my life and it was the best one. I ate so many chips. I will never regret it.
Rooms & The "Home Away From Home" Factor:
The Rooms are decent. I mean, you get the essentials: Air conditioning, Air Conditioner, Free Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi [free], Daily housekeeping, Satellite/cable channels, and a Seating area. I liked the Additional toilet and Shower options. Also, Slippers and Bathrobes? YES!
My "Accidental" Blackout: The Blackout curtains were a godsend because let's face it, I was trying to sleep and do no think of my responsibilities.
The Noise Factor: However, and this is a big however… Soundproofing could be better. Those walls are thin, and if you have boisterous neighbors, well, good luck.
Internet, Connectivity, and Tech:
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yes! Okay, so the Internet access – wireless was generally reliable and good. I had to get some work done. Didn't try the Internet [LAN]
The Kid Factor:
They're Family/child friendly, with Kids facilities and a Babysitting service. I noticed some older kids running around. Didn't see any young ones.
Services and Conveniences - The Useful Stuff:
- Currency Exchange: Big plus.
- Laundry Service: Needed it.
- Concierge: They were helpful when I needed them.
- Car Park: Free parking.
The "Hidden Treasures" and the Random Stuff:
- The Unexpected Shrine: There was a tiny little Shrine tucked away in a corner. It was oddly peaceful.
- The Souvenir Shop's Quirks: The Gift/souvenir shop had some interesting – and occasionally, truly bizarre – souvenirs. I found some weirdly patterned mugs that I actually kind of loved.
Now, for the "Make-or-Break" Question: Would I Go Back?
Hmm… that's a tough one. I wouldn't say it's the perfect place, but the pool and the spa are tempting. I would go back. I'm just gonna pack my own snacks next time.
Here’s my “Escape to Paradise: PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa, Kenya Awaits!” offer to you:
Escape to Paradise: PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Spa, Kenya Awaits – Book Now & Get Ready to Unwind!
Unbeatable Pool Views: Dive into pure bliss with unlimited access to our breathtaking Swimming pool [outdoor] with stunning ocean views.
Spa Indulgence: Treat yourself to spa bliss with a relaxing Massage and a steaming Sauna.
Safety First: Rest easy knowing we're committed to your health with our enhanced cleaning protocols with Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas and Staff trained in safety protocol.
Stay Connected: Enjoy Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – stay connected with your loved ones.
All-Inclusive Option: Savor delicious meals and drinks with our curated Dining, drinking, and snacking experiences.
Flexible Booking: Book with confidence knowing that you can alter your plans if necessary.
Don't just dream of paradise – live it. Book your escape today! Limited rooms available. Click here!
Uncover Yakushima's Hidden Gem: Manten Ryokan's Mystical CharmAlright, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to get a virtual sunburn. I'm back from PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort (Kenya, for the geographically challenged) and, let me tell you, my memory bank is overflowing like a poorly packed suitcase. This isn’t a travelogue, it’s a hot mess express of memories, opinions, and the lingering taste of coconut cocktails.
The "Schedule" (More like a Suggestion Box with Explosives in It):
Day 1: Arrival - Disorientation and Beach Bliss (Mostly the latter)
- 8:00 AM (ish): Arrived at Mombasa Airport. Okay, lemme just say, the "Arrivals" hall looked suspiciously like a scene from a B-movie about a zombie outbreak. A bit of chaos, a lot of heat, and a healthy dose of jet lag. Found my pre-booked transfer (phew!), but the driver was a bit… enthusiastic. Let's just say I now know every single pothole between the airport and the resort.
- 10:00 AM (ish): Check-in at PrideInn. The lobby? Glorious. That initial blast of air conditioning was a religious experience. The staff? Ridiculously friendly. They all seemed genuinely happy to welcome us. Me? Still slightly convinced I was hallucinating.
- 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Okay, now, this is where it gets good. The beach. The freaking beach! Imagine the most perfect postcard, then multiply it by a thousand. White sand so fine it felt like walking on powdered sugar. Turquoise water that whispered promises of adventure. I promptly ditched my luggage and went for a swim. Pure. Bliss. Until a rogue wave nearly swallowed me whole. Note to self: Respect the ocean.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch at the Coco Beach Bar. I went for the grilled fish – I mean, come on, I’m on the Indian Ocean! The fish was fresh, the beer was cold, and I swear I saw a monkey eyeing my fries.
- 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Beach bumming, reading, napping (mandatory jet-lag-induced nap), and contemplating the existential dread of returning to real life.
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner at the Flamingo Restaurant. The buffet was… well, a buffet. Plenty of options, some delicious, some… less so. The grilled prawns were a highlight. The resident band was doing their best, but the music was a bit too… lounge-y for my taste. (Yes, I'm now a music critic!)
- 7:00 PM onwards: Stumbled back to the room, totally wrecked. Passed out before my head hit the pillow. First impression? Paradise, but with a side of "what-did-I-just-eat?".
Day 2: Water Sports, Cocktails, and the Great Lobster Robbery
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. The buffet was less of a mystery, more of a war zone this time. I found the coffee, and thank the gods for that!
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Watersports! Tried jet skiing. I almost capsized twice. Let's just say I'm more of a "beach chair and book" kind of gal than a "daredevil on a jet ski" type. Then, attempted windsurfing. I resembled a flailing octopus. My instructor, however, had the patience of a saint.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Cocktail hour, naturally. The "PrideInn Paradise special" was dangerously delicious. My inhibitions started evaporating faster than the ice in my glass.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch at… the same restaurant. I am going to try something else.
- 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Beach again! Swimming, sunbathing… and, oh yeah, that lobster. * The Lobster (The most important event of the trip): Let me tell you about this lobster. This was no ordinary lobster. This was a culinary masterpiece that I ordered at the Coco Beach Bar thinking I deserved a treat. It was HUGE, grilled to perfection, and served with garlic butter that could bring world peace, if I’m being dramatic. I savored every bite. Then… disaster struck. A flock of seagulls (yes, a whole FLOCK) decided they wanted in on the lobster action. They swooped, they squawked, and they STOLE my lobster! I was traumatized. I chased them, I yelled, I even threatened to… well, let’s just say I was a woman possessed. I did not get the lobster back. They are probably laughing about it to this day. Note to self: seagulls are opportunistic thieves.
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Walllowed in my grief over the lobster, and went to the bar.
- 7:00 PM onwards: Evening stroll on the beach. It was pretty, but I am was still mourning the lobster.
Day 3: Exploration and Goodbyes (and maybe another attempt to kidnap a lobster? Just kidding… maybe.)
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast, with a renewed appreciation for the buffet's less-offensive offerings.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Excursion. We went to the Haller Park. That was amazing. Baby giraffes, crocodiles, and a whole host of other creatures! Definitely recommend this. The heat was intense. Almost passed out.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Late Lunch because of the excursion.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Back to the beach!!
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Packing and preparing to leave.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: One last sunset cocktail. The view was stunning. Okay, I got a little emotional. Because this trip was truly special.
- 7:00 PM: Goodbye Dinner at the Flamingo Restaurant.
Quirky Observations and Ramblings:
- The Room: My room was lovely, spacious, and had a balcony that overlooked the gardens. The air conditioning was a lifesaver. But the shower pressure was… well, let's just say it was more of a gentle mist than a shower.
- The Staff: Seriously, the staff at PrideInn are amazing. Everyone was genuinely friendly and helpful. They always had a smile (even when I was probably being totally annoying).
- The Beach Boys (the ones selling souvenirs, not the band): They can be a bit persistent. A firm "no thank you" is usually effective, but they're friendly, and you have to respect the hustle.
- The Food: Overall, the food was decent. Obviously, the seafood was the highlight. I will say, though, the buffet got a little repetitive after a while.
- Mosquitoes: They exist. Bring bug spray. End of discussion.
- The Sun: Prepare for the sun. It is intense. So, so intense. Slather on the sunscreen, people!
Emotional Reactions:
- Joy: Pure, unadulterated joy at the beauty of the place.
- Frustration: At the aforementioned lobster robbery.
- Relaxation: The feeling of complete and utter relaxation after a few days.
- Sadness: Knowing that I have to go back to normal life, and I can't just stroll onto that beach any time I feel like it.
Final Verdict:
PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort? Highly recommend. It's a slice of paradise, with a few little quirks here and there (and a healthy dose of thieving seagulls). Go. You won’t regret it. Just remember to bring bug spray, sunscreen, and develop a very firm stance on crustaceans.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: The Grand Hotel Eastbourne - You Won't Believe Your Eyes!Is the beach, like, *actually* paradise? Because I've been lied to by brochures before...
Okay, look, the glossy brochures? They lie. They *always* lie. But the beach at PrideInn? It's… pretty darn close. We're talking white sand that squishes between your toes like the best kind of sand, clear turquoise water that beckons you in, and enough space to actually breathe without bumping into some Speedo-clad stranger. I spent a whole afternoon just staring at the waves, contemplating the meaning of life (and how much I wanted a coconut). The only downside? The occasional ambitious crab who *thought* he could outsmart me and steal my sunscreen. Seriously, those crabs were criminals.
How's the food? I'm a hungry human.
Ah, the food. A critical question. Okay, so, there's a buffet, which, let's be honest, can be a mixed bag. Sometimes it's a culinary masterpiece; other times, you're wondering where that perfectly roasted chicken *used* to be. I had this incredible seafood curry one night… truly, I considered licking the plate (but, decorum, people!). Then, the next morning, the scrambled eggs were… well, let's just say they weren't winning any awards. But listen, the *variety*! You've got your local Kenyan dishes (try the ugali!), your international stuff (pizza for those comfort-food moments), and enough fruit to make you feel like you’re basically a vitamin-fueled superhero. Just… pace yourself. And maybe bring your own hot sauce. Just in case.
The rooms... are they actually *nice* nice? Or just "hotel nice"?
Okay, so this is where it gets a little… nuanced. The rooms are generally good. Clean, spacious enough, with air conditioning that actually *works* (a godsend in the Kenyan heat). Some have incredible ocean views. The *style* is… well, it's a bit dated, I'll be honest. Think comfy, but not necessarily cutting-edge design. My shower pressure was a little… optimistic at times. But honestly? When you're spent the whole day on the beach, sandy, sun-kissed, and blissfully exhausted, the basic requirements are all you truly need. You're not there to judge the wallpaper! You are there to crash, and you will. And the bed was comfy. That's all that matters, sometimes, right?
Is there anything to *do* besides lie on the beach? Because, you know, boredom…
Oh, honey, yes! Please don't spend your whole vacation just… lying there. (Unless that's your *thing*, in which case, more power to ya!). There are pools! Several, actually. There's a swim-up bar (essential!). They offer a bunch of water sports - jet skis, snorkeling trips to the reef (worth it!), and diving. I took a boat trip (super rough, a bit seasick, but utterly glorious). And then, there's the animation team. They are *relentless*. But in the best way! They get everyone involved in games, activities, and they put on nightly shows. I'm not usually a "show" person, but the drumming and dancing were phenomenal. Don't just sit there! Get up and have fun!
What about the spa? Worth it? Because I need some pampering.
YES. A thousand times YES. Okay, I'm going to gush here. I had a massage at the spa, and… it was transformative. The atmosphere is so serene, the staff are so lovely and professional, and the massage itself... oh, the massage! I felt like I was melting into the table. All my stress and tension just melted away. I'm serious, for a few hours I think I was a completely different human being. One of the best massages of my entire life. Go. Book it. Do it now. You deserve it. Seriously, I'm starting to salivate just thinking about it. I. Need. Another. Massage.
Are there any downsides? Because nothing's perfect, right?
Okay, yeah, nothing's perfect. The Wi-Fi can be… spotty. Like, "forget about streaming your favourite guilty pleasure" spotty. The beach vendors can be a little… persistent. But a polite "no, thank you" usually does the trick. And, let's be real, you're going to want to bring some insect repellent. The mosquitos are real, people. Also, I had a slightly awkward encounter with a baboon. They're curious creatures, and they *will* try to steal your snacks. So, yeah, pack some snacks and keep an eye on your stuff.
What's the best time to go?
I went in [insert time of year you went, it doesn't matter]. The weather was amazing! But I’ve heard dry season (June-October) is best for avoiding the rain. But truthfully? Any time is probably a good time. Just pack some sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe a good book. And your appetite. And your patience for those baboons. And a good attitude, too.
Is it family-friendly?
Oh, absolutely. There are loads of families there. They have a kids' club, lots of activities to keep the little ones entertained, and plenty of space for them to run around. Be warned: you'll be hearing lots of screams of pure, unadulterated joy. If you're a kid person, great! If not, there are ways to find a quieter corner of the resort. But yeah, it's definitely a very family friendly place, in a fun, busy, joyful, energetic way. You can't escape it!