Driggs Pension House: Your Dream Getaway in General Santos Awaits!
Driggs Pension House: My GenSan Getaway – Honestly, It’s Pretty Darn Good! (and Here’s Why)
Okay, so I just got back from General Santos City, and let me tell you, escaping the daily grind was much needed. And where did I crash? Driggs Pension House: Your Dream Getaway in General Santos Awaits! (That's their tagline, by the way. Pretty ambitious, right? Let’s see if it lives up to the hype…).
Let me be brutally honest about the stuff I noticed first. The accessibility is a bit…mixed. Getting there? Easy! Airport transfer? Nailed it – Airport transfer is available, which is HUGE after a long flight. The check-in/out [express] option was a godsend because I was DEAD tired. BUT, while they say they have facilities for disabled guests, I didn't personally evaluate every detail. Best to call ahead if you have specific needs.
First impressions: Cleanliness & Safety? Big thumbs up!
Honestly, this is a HUGE deal for me. I’m a bit of a germaphobe, and these days, I'm extra cautious. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Staff trained in safety protocol? Felt it, saw it, done it. They even had multiple hand sanitizers strategically placed around. And the CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property made me feel secure. Seriously, the doctor/nurse on call and first aid kit gave me peace of mind. Look, I’m not saying I want to need a doctor while on vacation, but it’s comforting to know they're prepared.
The Room: My Sanctuary (Mostly!)
Okay, let's talk room. Mine was a non-smoking room, which is a MUST for me. It had air conditioning (essential in Gensan!), a comfy extra long bed, and a desk that was actually functional for working a little on my laptop (shhh, don’t tell my boss!). There was also free bottled water (always a good sign), a coffee/tea maker – Hallelujah! – and a mini bar (though I mostly used it for my own snacks). Basic, sure, but it totally works.
Things I REALLY Loved:
- The Wi-Fi! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And it actually worked! I needed it to upload Instagram stories of my food (more on that later!) and it was strong! Plus, there's Wi-Fi in public areas too, so I could get my social media fix anywhere.
- The Blackout Curtains. Yes. YES. I slept like a baby.
- The Staff. Seriously, they were genuinely friendly and helpful. They really cared.
Things to do, ways to relax: Spa Day (Sort Of…)
Now, I’m not the spa type. I’m too fidgety. But I did scope out the spa/sauna area. They had a steamroom and a massage option, for anyone who's into that sort of thing. I didn’t partake, but it looked…relaxing. They also have a fitness center, which I bravely walked past.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Foodie Paradise!
Okay, here's where Driggs really shines. Restaurant selection is good, with a Western cuisine in restaurant and Asian cuisine in restaurant. Let’s talk about the food, okay? I’M A FOODIE. The breakfast [buffet] was amazing! There was a full Asian breakfast, a full Western breakfast, and it had everything! Honestly, the fresh fruit was the highlight for me. Coffee was good too! And yes, there were desserts in restaurant and I ate them all!
Quirky observation: I noticed there were a lot of local families eating at the buffet in restaurant during my stay. You KNOW a place is good when the locals approve.
Some other dining notes: Room service [24-hour]? Yup! I totally ordered a midnight snack one night. Poolside bar? Yes! Perfect for sunset cocktails. They also have a coffee shop and a snack bar within reach. I'd definitely recommend the poolside bar. That's where the magic happens.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
- Daily housekeeping. Because who wants to make their bed on vacation? Not me.
- Concierge. Helpful for booking tours and answering tourist-y questions.
- Cash withdrawal. Super convenient.
- Dry cleaning and laundry service. Essential.
- Safety deposit boxes. Always a good idea.
- Meeting/banquet facilities. It looks like they can host special events.
Things that Missed the Mark (or Could be Better):
- The exterior corridor to my room felt a bit… old school. But hey, it added character, right?
- Didn't see pets. So that means pets allowed unavailable which is sad for animal lovers.
Getting Around – Easy Peasy!
Taxis are readily available, and they offer airport transfer. I didn't see bicycle parking or car power charging station, but I don't need them, they have good car park [free of charge] and car park [on-site]
Overall: The Verdict? Book It!
Look, Driggs Pension House won't be the fanciest hotel you've ever stayed in. It's not the Ritz. BUT, for the price, the service, the food, and the location, it's a total win. It’s charming, clean, comfortable, and genuinely welcoming. The staff are lovely, the food is great, and the location is convenient.
My Honest Opinion – It’s a solid choice, and I’d definitely go back. Maybe next time I'll actually try the sauna.
Book Your Escape NOW! Time for a Gensan Getaway!
Don't Miss Out!
Book your stay at Driggs Pension House and experience the best General Santos City has to offer!
- Safe, Clean, and Comfortable: With top-notch safety protocols and a commitment to your well-being, you can relax and enjoy your vacation.
- Delicious Dining: Indulge in a fantastic breakfast buffet and explore a diverse range of dining options, from Asian cuisine to Western flavors.
- Ultimate Relaxation: Unwind with a massage or a spa treatment, and soak up the sun by the pool.
- Convenient Location: Close to everything!
Special Offer: Book a two-night stay and receive a complimentary welcome drink at the poolside bar! Use code "GENSANESCAPE" at checkout.
Click here to book now! [Insert Link to Booking Site]
Don’t wait! Your dream getaway awaits!
INNJOY Guesthouse Semarang: Your Indonesian Paradise Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your grandma's sanitized itinerary. This is my potential trip to Driggs Pension House in General Santos City, Philippines, and it's going to be a rollercoaster of emotions, questionable decisions, and probably a lot of me complaining about mosquitos.
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (and maybe some sisig)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at General Santos International Airport, bleary-eyed and reeking of airplane air. Seriously, what is that smell? It’s like a stale, recycled burrito. First hurdle: navigating the chaos to find transport. I'm already envisioning myself getting scammed by a ridiculously persistent tricycle driver. (Pray for me.)
- 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: Taxi to Driggs Pension House. Okay, this is where I hope the "Pension" part doesn't mean it looks like my grandma's basement. I’ve seen the pictures, the decor seems…basic. But hey, at least its location is, according to the internet, "near everything." Which, in the Philippines, can mean everything from a bustling market to a stray dog looking for a snack.
- 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Check-in. Pray that the room isn’t a mosquito buffet. I swear, I've developed an irrational hatred for those tiny, bloodsucking devils. Also, I hope the aircon actually works. The thought of sweating through my clothes the second I step inside is already turning me into a grumpy bear.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Room check. Inspect the room like a seasoned CSI investigator. Bedbugs? Check. Water pressure? Check. WiFi that’s faster than dial-up? Praying for a check!
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Wander around the neighborhood. Find some local food. Hopefully, a sisig experience that blows my mind. If it's not perfectly crispy, bursting with flavor, and a little bit messy… I'm going to complain. Loudly.
- 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Dinner and chill. Hopefully, my first impression of the city will be good. If it's not, I'll sit in my room, eat instant noodles, and contemplate my life choices that led me to this moment.
Day 2: Market Mayhem and the Glorious Struggle
- 7:00 AM: Wake up (hopefully to sunshine, not the aforementioned mosquito symphony). Scramble for coffee. Coffee is essential, you guys. Essential.
- 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM: General Santos City Market – Prepare for sensory overload. Smell of fish mingling with the aromas of exotic fruits. Negotiating with vendors is a must. I will inevitably look like a complete tourist and overpay, but hey, it's all part of the experience, right? (That's what I'll tell myself.) I'm also hoping to find some really unique souvenirs. Please let there be unique souvenirs!
- 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Snack break. Find a kare-kare place. Let the comfort food embrace me.
- 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Nap back at the Driggs Pension House. It's hot. I'm tired. All that walking and noise has taken it out of me. I need this.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: After the nap, perhaps visit a local beach if there's one within a reasonable distance. Picture me, fumbling with my sunscreen, probably getting sand everywhere. I'll make a fool of myself in the process, but the ocean is worth it.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant. I am craving seafood. Lots of seafood. Let's see if GenSan can deliver.
- 6:00 PM - onwards: Reflect on my day and contemplate on how to make sure my phone is not getting stolen, and get ready for the next day.
Day 3: More Markets and A Farewell
- 8:00 AM: Another day. Another cup of coffee.
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: One last stroll through the market. I'm going to try to be a pro negotiator this time. Emphasis on try.
- 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Souvenir shopping for friends and family. Panic mode activated.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: One last, delicious lunch. I’m talking about savouring every single bite.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Say goodbye to the amazing locals, but also to Driggs Pension House. I will remember the good times and the not-so-good times.
- 3:00 PM: Stroll the airport and board my flight. As the plane soars into the sky, I would hopefully reflect on the wonderful experience I had. So that’s it for now. Goodbye! Thank you for reading!
Okay, that’s the loose plan. As you can see, I'm basically winging it. This itinerary is more of a suggestion, a framework for disaster, delight, and everything in between. And honestly, that’s the best way to travel, isn't it? Embrace the chaos, the unexpected, and prepare for a whole lot of mosquito bites. Wish me luck. I'm going to need it.
Escape to Fairytale Charm: Elm Tree Cottage, Begelly Awaits!
Okay, spill it. What *actually* is Driggs Pension House like? Beyond the brochure, I mean.
Alright, alright, you want the real deal? Forget the perfectly-lit Instagram shots. Driggs is…an experience. Think "homey," then dial it up to eleven. It’s not the Ritz, let's be clear. Picture this: you arrive, probably covered in sweat from the GenSan heat (seriously, bring extra deodorant!). The welcome is genuine, filled with that warm Filipino hospitality. You know, the kind where they genuinely *want* you to feel like family. That’s Driggs. The rooms? Okay, some are…cozier than others. My first one had a slightly wonky aircon and a view of… well, the roof of another building. But honestly? After a day exploring the tuna port and trying to navigate the chaotic (but brilliant) public transport, I didn’t care. I crashed HARD. And the bed? I could've sworn it was made of clouds. Seriously, best sleep I’ve had in ages.
Is it noisy? I'm a light sleeper...
Okay, here's the truth bomb: sometimes, yes. It depends on your room, and it depends on the day. There's the occasional karaoke session (usually later…much later… at night, and you will probably enjoy them). There's traffic noise from outside when you open your window, which I usually do to feel a cool breeze since some rooms don't have air condition. But honestly, it's part of the charm. It’s the soundtrack of GenSan. Bring earplugs if you're super sensitive, but I found the general hubbub kind of… comforting, like sleeping over at a slightly rambunctious aunt’s place. And honestly, after a day of exploring the fish port, you will crash like a rock and just not care.
What about the food? I'm a foodie, and picky. Spill the beans!
Okay, food. This is where Driggs REALLY shines. Forget fancy plating; think home-cooked goodness. Breakfast is included, which is a huge plus. Expect the usual Filipino offerings: *tapsilog* (beef with rice and egg – a classic!), *longganisa* (sweet sausage), maybe some *daing na bangus* (dried milkfish – get ready for the bones!). And coffee? Strong enough to wake the dead. The best part? The friendliness. The staff will ask what you want, serve you, and smile about it. Even if you're not feeling breakfast, they will pack a sandwich for your trip. And the *adobo*? Oh my *gawd*, the *adobo*... It was so good I almost proposed to the chef (kidding!… mostly!). Honestly, it's simple, honest food, prepared with love. Don't expect Michelin star quality, but expect a full belly and a happy heart. This food is the actual reason I go back sometimes.
How's the location? Is it easy to get around?
The location is actually pretty decent. And what I mean by that is that it's... GenSan. Everything's a little bit away from everything else. It's central enough to get to the fish port (a MUST-SEE – the sheer energy, the noise, the *smell* – is incredible!), and the local markets (perfect for cheap souvenirs and fresh fruit). You'll probably be relying on tricycles! They're everywhere, and they're cheap. Be prepared to haggle a little (it's part of the fun!), and hold on tight – those drivers are fearless! The best part? You're not surrounded by tourists. You're right in the middle of real life, which I love. Just embrace the chaos. That's GenSan. And it's glorious.
Are there any downsides? Be honest!
Okay, the downsides. Let's be real. It's not perfect. Some rooms could use a little… TLC (tender loving care). There’s been an issue in the past. The Wifi can be a bit spotty sometimes. And, as I mentioned before, noise levels…can fluctuate. Also, the water pressure in the shower might not be anything to write home about. But, honestly? These are all minor gripes. If you're a super-demanding traveler, you might find yourself a little… frustrated. If you want luxury, go elsewhere. But if you're looking for authenticity, a genuine experience, and a place that feels like a home away from home, these little imperfections are… well, they're part of the charm. And it really is just a home. If you're looking for home, then go to a hotel, that can be your home. But, this is Driggs, this is somewhere else. The staff are amazing. They will make you feel like family. I swear, I still miss them.
What's the best thing about Driggs Pension House, in your opinion?
Hands down, the people. The staff are incredible. They're genuinely friendly, helpful, and they go out of their way to make your stay memorable. I mean, they actually remembered my name after the first day. That’s something. They helped me plan my itinerary, recommended the best places to eat (besides their own!), and even helped me navigate the local transport. One time, I was feeling particularly lost and overwhelmed, and one of the staff members just sat down with me, shared a cup of coffee, and gave me the best advice. That is something you won't get in a chain hotel. They treat you like family. And that makes all the difference. It's not just a place to sleep; it's a place to *connect*. That's what makes Driggs special. It’s the human touch. Without a doubt.
Okay, last question. Would you go back?
Absolutely. In a heartbeat. In fact, I'm already planning my return. I miss GenSan. I miss the heat, the chaos, the tuna, and most of all, I miss Driggs. It's not a perfect place, like I said. But it's real. And that's exactly what I'm looking for in this world. It's not just a place to stay. It's an experience. And a darn good one at that. So, yeah. Go. Go now. And tell them [my name] sent you. And get extra *adobo* for me, please!
What kind of rooms are available? And are they all the same?
This is where it gets a little… well, let’s call it “varied”. They have a mix of rooms. Some are air conditioned, some aren’t. Some have private bathrooms, some have shared ones (which, honestly, is part of the adventure!). The rooms also vary in size, like my first room was smaller than a prison cell, but it felt like home in the morning. They're not all cookie-cutter identical, which I secretly like. You know there is one with some color, and another has a balcony, and you might get an amazing view (youBudget Travel Destination
