Pure Bliss”

We spent 5 days at Buena Vida. I could have stayed much much longer. Firstly, the rooms are great with the most wonderful private terrace (see picture). We were told to keep the fan on, if we spent time in the terrace and were provided with mosquito candles as well as a natural mosquito repellant. We did not need to use any protection and did not come across any mosquitos. A small gripe may be that the wifi really is poor, but you can use the excellent wifi at the sister hotel. There is a minibar with soft drinks (can not recall if it had beer). There are also some snacks. What really made the ambiance 5* for me was the wonderful gardens which were tended to very well - in such a hot country I really appreciate such effort. The hotel is set back from the beach but has it's sister hotel on the beach called Ocean Vida were you may use the sun loungers on the beach. So do not let the fact that the hotel is set back from the beach put you off! You are provided with beach towels. The feel at Buena Vida is holistic and super relaxed. We had massages every night of our stay, there are about 7 or so different types to suit all. The massage rooms are nice and fresh and the essential oils are great. Rose and all the staff are smiley and attentive - always at hand. Always reminding you to enjoy yourself and relax. We ate at the sister hotel most nights as it was one beach but did enjoy the one veggie meal we had at Buena Vida. Last but by no means the least, I will mention my favourite part the Yoga, we had every morning, with the most amazing, professional and skilled yoga teacher Lorenta! Wow Lorenta, you need to know that you are a real credit and asset to Buena Vida. Lorenta even changed her daily morning classes to 6 am as it was a little hot starting at 7 in April as April is during the Philippine summer heat. Do not miss the Yoga classes, beginner or advanced - you must go! Lorenta will ensure that even if you are quite new to Yoga, like my husband, you will be doing

A wonderful, relaxing place”

My boyfriend and I appreciated all the efforts of the staff to make our stay a most memorable and pleasant one. The rooms were very well thought out and gave you a nice homey feel. We were surprised with the little treat of biscuits with a note they hung on the doorknob at night. It was a treat to receive something with a personal touch. Our spa experience was so good that we went two times! The staff were very friendly, thoughtful, and courteous. We really appreciated all their help most especially since we had a little problem with our card not working. Overall, our visit to Buena Vida Resort and Spa was truly memorable. I would definitely recommend this property to anyone who wishes to visit Malapascua.

Humble, peaceful & magical atmosphere ”

Buena Vida is a very down to earth & relaxed little resort. It's has a very uncommercial vibe compared to a hotel concept with the emphasis on a yoga & massage theme wich is truly brought forward with an authentic & genuine feel. All the staff are incredibly friendly making you feel very welcome. The rooms & facilities are ideal for the location (remember your on a small low key tropical island). The breakfast area along with the open air yoga room are based in the backdrop of the resorts tropical & eclectic gardens. The large spa section with four private massage rooms is perfectly positioned away from the reception area giving it the perfect ambience & sensation of escape, also attached is an air conditioned mini gym (all brand new kit which includes a lifestyle multi gym station, two running machines, cross trainer, bike along with a mini dumbbell rack & adjustable bench). All in all Buena Vida is a great little humble & unpretentious resort that provides everything you need.

Great stay at Buena Vida”

We stayed at Buena Vida from 23 to 29 December 2016, at first sight we thought we had to fight with mosquitos because of the trees and plants in the garden but instead we did experience no problems and the location was very pleasant because there was always a nice wind blowing on our terrace located at 1st floor in the corner side of the building facing the yoga terrace.They have free yoga sessions for hotel customers every day at 7am and 5pm, I didn't try but my wife did and she liked very much. I preferred to enjoy the SPA were you can have very relaxing massages at great price and enjoy herbs the` after, or use the Jacuzzi. There is also a gym but I didn't use it, I really wanted to relax and this is the best place to do it. Breakfast was good, you can have 3 kind of fresh juices, omelettes or eggs cooked in several ways, pancakes with inside banana or mango, muesli, fruits, milk, coffee, bacon, toasts, the`, and other things I forgot now. They are building a restaurant anyway they already serve some vegetarian meals for lunch or dinner, we tried once and we really enjoyed :) besides there is always relaxing music in the hall. the staff was really nice and supporting always! They also surprised me with a birthday cake on my birthday :). If we come back to Malapascua we will come back to Buena Vida.

Paradise”

I wish that I could back there right now, as it was the most pleasant stay during our holidays. Its a marvellous place. The garden, the breakfast, the yoga, the staff.... everything makes you feel comfortable, relaxed and in peace. Malapascua can get very hot and after diving and exploring there is not so much to do, so having a nice place to relax is a must. Buena Vida Resort is without any doubt the best place for this. You can either chill in your hammock, do yoga or get one of those incredible massages they offer. I can only say thank you for all the staff there for making our stay the highlight of our travels and for taking such good care of us. Special mention to the great Yoga teacher Lorenza who added a special touch to this already great experience (Thank you!!). Finally I also have to add that the breakfast buffet was my favourite in the Philippines with healthy options and delicious juices. I hope I can go back soon!

Our Best Ever Travel Experience in The Philippines!”

I had the pleasure and privilege to spend my girlfriend's birthday at Buena Vida Resort & Spa and I have no words to clearly express my gratitude and thankfulness with Lorenza and all the Staff. They were very accommodating, kind, friendly and never got a "No" or "Maybe" as an answer. They made my girlfriend feel at home (Colombia) The room was lovely decorated with Flowers, Balloons, Fabulous Smell, and Clean. We had a romantic tour around the island waiting for the sunset. After it the best massage I have ever received so far (I normally have massages twice a month), and the best was yet to come, they exclusively cooked Colombian food (Bandeja Paisa) and even reserved the Jacuzzi just for us. Wow! I love this place and we will go back soon! Thank you so much!!!! I Love You Guys!

Exceptional”

I stayed with my sister for one night at Buena Vida recently. I had arranged to be picked up from Cebu City at 4am as we wanted to have an early start because of our very limited time. I was very disappointed when nobody showed up at the appointed time. We had to wait for two hours before somebody showed up. The drive was smooth though and the driver was very corteous and polite. The 30min boat ride was also smooth, boat crew were fine. When we arrived at the resort, we were offered free massage which more than made up for the agonizing delay, by the way. Massage at Buena Vida's Spa is one of the best I have experienced. I very much recommend the Aroma Oil Massage. The room we were in is nice and clean. It had all the basic amenities we needed. The location is quiet nice as we were tucked away towards the village, very quiet and private but not too far from Bounty Beach where all the restaurants, Scuba shops are located.Over-all, I would definitely recommend this resort.

A gem of a hotel in Malapascua Island!”

Buena Vida was breathtaking - from the rooms to the lobby and everything in between. An absolute paradise. The spa is an excellent way to treat yourself, with superb massages from trained professionals. The entire staff is friendly and hospitable, going above and beyond to ensure you have a pleasant stay. The location is also great, only a few minutes walk to the beach or market where you can discover delicious Filipino meals. I could not have chosen more perfect accomodations. I highly recommend staying at Buena Vida Resort and Spa!

Warm & Welcoming”

Had an amazing time at Buena Vida. Everything down to its rooms, location, customer service, spa, food and ambiance was perfect. Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. The spa treatments was amazing and relaxing. Breakfast was simple and healthy (the vegan pancakes are so good). The Yoga was so great especially in the hut they did it in. They made us feel at home, safe and thought of everything we would need. Loved it at the Buena Vida resort and would recommend to everyone.

Best Place to stay in Malapascua”

We absolutely loved this place! We had a beautiful and perfectly clean room on the second floor with a wonderful view of the garden. It is perfectly located near all the restaurants and the beach. Although the beach in front of the ocean vida(sister hotel) is full of boats parked in front and the beach is covered in seaweed. However staff from buena vida drove us to the North Beach which is super nice! Breakfast is delicious and healthy and every night we a little treat was waiting for us in our room. The jacuzzi is wonderful option if you want to skip the beach. The most outstanding though is the staff! Lorenza teaches a wonderful yoga class and is always there to help you. Manali at the reception always welcomes you with a smile and is prompt to help you! Rechelle did my nails a Christine a wonderful massage! Thanks buena vida for a wonderful stay!

Above and beyond expectations ”

The staff at Buena Vida consistently go above and beyond expectations to make sure guests have an amazing time while on malapascua island. They were more than gracious to guide us to the locations we wanted to go to as well as make sure our transit to and from the hotel went smoothly without any issues. In particular, I am so grateful for Lorenza and Fabienne's help in making our trip so memorable and smooth.

A little sanctuary of indulgence...”

Buena Vida completely exceeded my expectations. The rooms were tastefully decorated with an amazing outdoor space complete with hammock, beanbag & cushioned seating. I indulged in a massage that did not disappoint. The staff were friendly, helpful & small touches like flowers in the room & small treats hung on the door with sweet messages certainly made me feel special. It is worth noting that the hotel is a very short walk away from the beach via a small alleyway which at night is unlit. But once you've met he locals you'll soon realise that you are completely safe so this was not a worry. I would highly recommend Buena Vida, it is an oasis of serenity, complete with jacuzzi tub...

The Best in the Island”

Staff: All of them are friendly and very welcoming. They treat their guests as friends whether they are locals or foreign,unlike on the other hotel where we stayed the next day. Hi Ate Lorenza and the rest of the staffs thank you for the warm welcome and for providing us the best service. We'll surely be back and stay there at Buena Vida again. Kudos for you guys! Stay that way😊 Location: Yes it is not in front of the beach but it is just like a minute or two away from the beach. Cleanliness: Everything is perfect. No nasty things inside the rooms. Rooms are well maintained. I love the garden and the hammock on the balcony. Oh also the cute puppies roaming around the garden. 😊❤️

nice and cozy resort”

The resort is closed to the beach, it just talks 2 mins walk. quiet, nice, and cozy.. the other beach-front resorts are too noise due to the live band in the restaurants. for myself, i prefer Buena vida as it is far away from the noise music. i can enjoy the quiet and relaxing holiday. but the massage service is always full, we can't book it.

Wonderful hotel with a relaxed charme”

Very much enjoyed or stay at the Buena Vida Resort and Spa. Had a very relaxing massage, a cosy room and very helpful staff. Would have loved to stay longer!!

Lovely garden oasis”

Buena Vida is a great hideaway just off the beach, where you can recharge in your own space. The rooms have huge, beautiful verandahs, and the yoga studio is surrounded by trees. I had a massage in the spa and loved it. The staff are super friendly. Only downside is the room is a little small. Recommended

Exceptional”

Staff were super friendly. Location was perfect to the all the nearest restaurants and bars. We loved the massage we opted for it was amazing! Breakfast was beautifully made too. The Oats with frozen bananas especially was the best! Oh and also fresh mango to finish it with. Thank you Buena Vida Family for the most comfortable and beautiful stay, we would love to return soon.

Great Stay”

Stayed here for 5 nights and had a wonderful stay. The room was clean and when you left your room it was promptly cleaned every day. Warm shower and quiet AC. The breakfast was buffet. The staff was helpful with whatever you needed and the massage was amazing, overall a great experience. My husband had massages at other places on the island and definitely said Bueno Vida was by far the best. It's not on the ocean, if thats what you are looking for, though is connected with Ocean Vida Resort and you can stay there at the beach and run up a tab at the restaurant and bar. The mosquitos weren't bad, and I expected them to be bad, as you are in the jungle. I would recommend the Bueno Vida and really enjoyed the vibe there.

Best resort ever had”

this resort is complete, especially when you have the rooms with the big balconies. It feels luxury and they thought about every detail. The buildings are perfectly finished and this for Philippine standards. it is the top of the top in Philippines for this price. I recommend this place to everybody. Best on the island malapascua. And the distance from the beach is absolutely perfect unless you want a sea view. The breakfast can use a little more variation but again, the quality of it is perfect. The staff is 100% ready for you and super friendly. They even know when you arrived, when you leave ( even the chef in the kitchen knows) They have a good organization. I appreciate that kind of places a lot.

Calm, relaxing environment, friendly staff and excellent value for money.”

We had access to facilities at Ocean Vida including comfortable sun loungers. We took advantage of the spa which was excellent value. Rooms were clean and the decor was great. Excellent value! A must if your staying on Malapascua!