Queenstown Dream Home: Lake Views, BBQ, FREE Parking!
Queenstown Dream Home: Lake Views, BBQ, FREE Parking! - A Messy, Honest Review (and Why You NEED to Book)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Queenstown, and let me tell you, it was an experience. And the piece de resistance? Queenstown Dream Home: Lake Views, BBQ, FREE Parking! (Yes, I’m yelling the parking. In Queenstown, it's a bloody miracle.) This isn't your sanitized, perfectly-packaged hotel review. This is the real deal, warts and all, and I'm going to be brutally honest.
First things first: The Lake Views. Holy. Freaking. Moly. Seriously, the photos don't do it justice. Waking up and seeing that shimmering blue, the mountains in the background… it’s enough to make a grown person cry. I may have shed a tear or two. Don't judge. It's Queenstown! It's magical!
Accessibility: I didn’t need any specific accessibility features, but I did notice the elevator which is a huge plus, especially if you're lugging bags or have mobility concerns. I also saw facilities for disabled guests, which is fantastic. They've thought of it all!
Cleanliness and Safety (the COVID-19 stuff): Okay, this is a big one. Traveling during a pandemic is stressful, let's be real. But Queenstown Dream Home gets it. They had hand sanitizer everywhere, and I mean everywhere. The staff was masked up, and the whole place just felt clean. I saw them doing daily disinfection in common areas. And get this: they offer room sanitization opt-out available! That's choice, people! They even use anti-viral cleaning products and have professional-grade sanitizing services. Felt safe enough to finally relax.
Rooms: The Good, The Bad, and the Slightly Embarrassing:
My room? Glorious. Air conditioning was a lifesaver, because, yes, even in Queenstown, it gets warm. Blackout curtains are crucial for that jet-lagged sleep. I appreciated the free Wi-Fi – essential for Instagramming that stunning view. The complimentary tea and coffee/tea maker were perfect for those early morning wake-ups to watch the sunrise. And the refrigerator was a godsend for the beers I “needed” to cool down after a day of hiking (and, ahem, ahem, maybe a few too many celebratory beverages at the end of the day).
Now, the bathroom. It was clean, well-stocked with toiletries, and the shower had decent water pressure. But let's be honest, the mirror fogged up faster than a teenager's bedroom window. And, yes, I totally used the bathrobes and slippers. Don't judge me! Comfort is key!
Things to Do, Ways to Relax, and My Near-Death Experience (kinda):
Okay, so this place is a basecamp for adventure. Queenstown is all about adrenaline! Things to do are endless. I spent a day hiking, which nearly killed me (steep hills!). The car park [free of charge] was a godsend for this. It allowed me to get back safely after my ordeal.
Now, let's talk relaxing. I didn’t hit the spa (budget constraints, sadly!), but the thought of a massage after that hike was pure bliss. They have a gym/fitness. I didn't use it. Let's just say, my "fitness" is currently "existing".
Food, Glorious Food (and My BBQ Disaster):
Okay, so they have restaurants! I didn't use them because, you know, budget. But there are restaurants! They have room service [24-hour] which is perfect for those late-night cravings.
And the BBQ… Oh, the BBQ! This is where my epic fail story comes in. I, in my infinite wisdom, decided to try and cook a steak. Let’s just say, the smoke alarm went off. The fire department was not called, but the steaks were burnt and the BBQ was a mess. Thank god for the daily housekeeping. And, yes, I did leave a note apologizing. But, the BBQ is there! and it's free! (I think I just wasn't cut out for being a BBQ chef. But you, you can be better than me!)
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking:
I saw a bar! There's a poolside bar! There's coffee/tea in restaurant! There's a snack bar! I ate at a place called Fergburger, and it was amazing. But Queenstown Dream Home has food! I'm just bad at using it.
Services and Conveniences (the boring bits, but important):
They have luggage storage, which is perfect for early arrivals or late departures. Daily housekeeping is a godsend. Concierge service – a helpful dude. The front desk [24-hour] is there if you need anything. And yes, they have free Wi-Fi everywhere!
For the Kids (because I’m not one, but I saw some!):
They have a babysitting service! It’s family/child friendly, which is awesome.
Getting Around:
Airport transfer is available, which is super convenient. They offer taxi service. And the car park [free of charge]! I'm still screaming about it. Seriously, it's gold in Queenstown.
The Verdict:
Queenstown Dream Home: Lake Views, BBQ, FREE Parking! is not perfect. It's not some sterile, corporate hotel experience. It's a place with character, charm, and a view that will leave you speechless. It's clean, safe, and the staff is friendly and helpful. And did I mention the free parking?
Here's the deal:
- Stunning lake views: Wake up to the kind of scenery that makes you want to pinch yourself.
- Free Parking: Seriously, this is a game-changer in Queenstown.
- Clean & Safe: They take COVID seriously, so you can relax.
- Comfortable Rooms: Everything you need for a relaxing stay.
- BBQ (if you’re better at it than I am): Grill up some dinner and enjoy the view.
- Amazing location: Close to everything Queenstown has to offer.
My Offer (because you deserve it!):
Book Queenstown Dream Home now and get a free upgrade to a room with a balcony! Plus, I'll throw in a complimentary bottle of New Zealand wine (because you deserve it after a day of adventures… or BBQ disasters). Use code "QUEENSTOWNMAGIC" at checkout!
Seriously, book it. You won't regret it. Just maybe… avoid the BBQ. Unless you are a BBQ master!
Ortigas Manila Dream Home: Fully Decorated & Ready to Move In!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is Queenstown, baby, and we're about to get gloriously, wonderfully messy. We're staying at Highlands House | Lake Views | Free Parking | BBQ – sounds fancy, right? We'll see about that. Prepare for the real deal, the unfiltered, the "did I REALLY eat that much cheese?" version of a Queenstown adventure.
Day 1: Arrival, Jet Lag, and the Quest for the Perfect Burger
- Morning (ish): Touchdown in Queenstown! The airport is tiny, which is immediately charming. Except… my luggage seems to have taken a detour to… well, who knows. "Lost luggage" is apparently a rite of passage. Fantastic. First impression: breathtaking mountains, slightly stressed traveler.
- Mid-morning (ish): Finally, the rental car. It's… uh… functional. Okay, it's a bit of a clunker, but hey, free parking at Highlands House, right? Navigation is my nemesis, especially when the scenery keeps distracting me (seriously, the lake is that blue!). Found the house eventually. The views? Holy moly. Worth the lost luggage, almost. The house itself? Clean, spacious, and the promised BBQ is staring at me like a hungry beast.
- Afternoon: Jet lag hit. Hard. Nap time. Woke up disoriented, craving carbs. The quest for the perfect Queenstown burger begins! Everyone raves about Fergburger. The line… oh, the line. It's like a pilgrimage. While waiting, I overheard a couple arguing about the best ski resorts. Classic. The burger? Worth every single minute. I devoured it. Judgment: Heavenly, greasy, and I'd do it again.
- Evening: Stumbled back to the house, utterly stuffed. Tried to fire up the BBQ. Failed miserably. Turns out, I'm a terrible BBQ-er. Settled for a cheese platter and a bottle of local Pinot Noir on the deck, watching the sunset paint the lake in fiery hues. Utter bliss. Until the sandflies descended. Those little monsters.
Day 2: Adrenaline Rush and a Lesson in Humility
- Morning: The sun! The view! The… aching muscles. Today, we conquer the Shotover Jet. Or, at least, I attempt to. The boat is ridiculously fast, the turns are insane, and I'm pretty sure I screamed the entire time. It was terrifying, exhilarating, and I'm not sure I'd do it again. Maybe.
- Mid-morning: Bungy jumping. I had to. Queenstown law. The walk to the edge… pure terror. The jump… a blur of adrenaline. The freefall… exhilarating and horrifying at the same time. The relief when the cord stopped me from becoming a splat… immense. I survived! I even got a certificate. Proof of my temporary insanity.
- Afternoon: I needed a break. A long, quiet break. Found a cozy cafe in town, ordered a flat white (the local coffee obsession), and just watched the world go by. People-watching is a sport, you know? Saw a proposal! Cue the happy tears (mine, obviously).
- Evening: Dinner at a slightly overpriced, but beautifully located restaurant. The food was good, the wine was better, and the company (me, myself, and I) was… entertaining. I may have overshared with the waiter about my bungying experience. He seemed amused. Later, back at the house, I attempted to stargaze. Too many city lights. But the thought was there.
Day 3: Wine, Waterfalls, and a Very Unsuccessful Hike
- Morning: Wine tour! Oh, yes! The Central Otago region is famous for its Pinot Noir. We're talking rolling hills, stunning vineyards, and copious amounts of wine tasting. I'm a lightweight. But I learned a lot about the process, the grapes, and the art of swirling and sniffing. Mostly, I learned I really like Pinot Noir.
- Mid-morning: A quick stop at a stunning waterfall, just to get out of the car for a bit. The power of nature is undeniable.
- Afternoon: The hike that should not have been. I'd read about a short, easy trail. "Easy," they said. "Beautiful views," they promised. Lies! It was steep, muddy, and I got lost. I blame the map. And maybe the Pinot Noir. I eventually made it back to the car, covered in mud, slightly grumpy, and questioning my life choices.
- Evening: Back at the house. BBQ attempt number two. Success! (ish). The sausages were a bit charred, but the burgers were edible. Ate dinner on the deck, surrounded by the mountains, and finally, truly, felt at peace.
Day 4: Farewell, Queenstown, You Crazy Place!
- Morning: Last breakfast on the deck. Savoring the view. Trying to memorize every detail. Packing. The dreaded packing. Realizing I've bought way too many souvenirs.
- Mid-morning: One last walk around the lake. A final glance at the mountains. A bittersweet feeling of leaving this incredible place.
- Afternoon: Airport. The rental car returns. The final goodbyes. Queenstown, you've been a wild ride. I'll be back. Just maybe with a better map and a less adventurous spirit.
Post-Trip Reflection:
- Highlights: The views, the food, the adrenaline rush, the wine, the sheer beauty of the place. The burger, truly.
- Lowlights: Lost luggage, getting lost on the hike, the sandflies, my disastrous BBQ skills.
- Lessons Learned: Pack light, learn to BBQ, and maybe, just maybe, stick to the easy trails. And always, always, bring bug spray.
- Emotional Verdict: Queenstown, you stole my heart. You're a chaotic, beautiful, breathtaking mess. And I wouldn't have it any other way.
Queenstown Dream Home: Lake Views, BBQ, FREE Parking! ...or is it? Let's find out! (My Brain's a Mess)
Okay, *seriously*, is that lake view *really* as good as it looks in the photos? Like, can I actually see the water?
Alright, buckle up, because this is where things get... real. The photos? They’re gorgeous. Think postcard-worthy. And yes, technically, you *do* get a lake view. But let me tell you about my first morning. I stumbled out of bed, still half-asleep, and squinted through the window. "Oh, there it is!" I mumbled, relieved. Then I noticed... a tree. A *large* tree. A very *well-placed* tree. It wasn't obstructing the view completely, but it was definitely giving the lake a serious photobomb. Now, is the view *bad*? Absolutely not. It's still Queenstown, people! But manage your expectations. It's more like "peek-a-boo lake" than "breathtaking panoramic vista." My advice? Pack binoculars. You might need them. Or, you know, just accept the tree as your new best friend. (I'm still working on that part.)
The BBQ – is it a decent one? I'm picturing epic grilling sessions.
The BBQ... ah, the BBQ. Let me tell you, it's the *promise* of the BBQ that gets you excited. The reality? Well, let's just say it's seen better days. It's functional, yes. You can *technically* cook on it. But don't expect a gleaming, stainless steel masterpiece. Think more... seasoned. (And by seasoned, I mean probably used to cook a small animal at some point. Okay, I'm exaggerating. Maybe.) My first attempt involved a lot of smoke, a near-charred sausage, and a frantic search for the fire extinguisher (which, thankfully, I didn't need). Moral of the story? Bring your own tongs and maybe a little patience. Oh, and definitely check if the gas is full before you start. Rookie mistake, I know.
FREE parking! Sounds amazing. Any catches?
FREE PARKING! Oh, the sweet, sweet siren song of free parking in Queenstown. Let me tell you, it's a godsend. You'll be doing a little happy dance every time you pull into that designated spot. Until… you realize the spot is approximately the size of a Mini Cooper and the driveway is steeper than a ski slope. And the *best* part? You'll probably have to reverse down the ridiculously steep driveway every time you leave. My first attempt involved a lot of nervous laughter, a near-miss with a mailbox (sorry, neighbors!), and a sudden, overwhelming urge to sell my car and take up permanent residence in a taxi. But hey, at least it was free! And you'll get *really* good at reversing. Like, professional-grade reversing. Think about the skills you'll gain! (Worth it?)
What's the deal with the kitchen? Is it well-equipped? I'm a foodie!
The kitchen... Ah, the kitchen. Okay, let's be honest. If you're a serious foodie, bring your own chef's knife. And maybe a few of your favorite pots and pans. The kitchen *has* the basics. A fridge, a stove, a microwave... the essentials. But it's not exactly a culinary paradise. I tried to make a fancy risotto one night. Epic fail. Turns out, the only pot big enough for the rice was also the one with the wobbly handle. And the cutting board? Well, let's just say it had seen better days. It was more of a "chopping surface" than a cutting board. But hey, I survived. And the risotto, while not perfect, was edible. Kind of. (I blame the wobbly handle.)
Is it actually a "dream home"? Or just a really nice rental?
Dream Home... *dream home*. Look, it's a lovely rental. It's comfortable, the location is great (ish, see: tree), and the free parking is a lifesaver (see: driveway). But a "dream home"? That's a *big* claim. I think the issue is the word "dream." We all have different dreams, right? Mine usually involve a house with a heated pool, a walk-in closet the size of a small apartment, and a self-cleaning BBQ. This rental... doesn't have any of those things. So, is it a dream home? No. Is it a fantastic base for exploring Queenstown? Absolutely. Just don't expect to move in and never leave. You'll want to explore the town, even if it means leaving your, erm, "dream home" behind.
Is it noisy? I need peace and quiet!
Noise... ah, the eternal question of the quiet traveler. Look, Queenstown is a vibrant place. It's *alive*. So, yes, there's some noise. You'll hear the occasional car, the distant rumble of a jet boat (that's part of the fun!), and maybe some enthusiastic tourists celebrating a successful day of adrenaline-fueled activities. But is it *overwhelmingly* noisy? No. It's not like you're staying next to a construction site. It's more like a gentle hum of activity. Just pack some earplugs if you're a light sleeper, and you should be fine. I'm pretty sensitive to noise, and I managed. (Mostly. There was that one night with the particularly loud party... but hey, that's Queenstown for ya!)
Okay, spill the tea: What's the one thing you *loved* about staying here?
Okay, okay. Here's the truth. Despite the tree-obstructed lake view, the seasoned BBQ, and the treacherous driveway, there was one thing I absolutely, utterly, completely *loved*. The *location*. Seriously, the location was *amazing*. You could walk to everything. The shops, the restaurants, the lakefront. Forget driving (unless you *have* to tackle that driveway). You could just stroll along the streets, soaking up the atmosphere, breathing in the fresh mountain air. One evening, I walked down to the lake to watch the sunset. It was breathtaking. The sky was on fire with color, the mountains were silhouetted against the horizon, and the water was shimmering. And in that moment, surrounded by the beauty of Queenstown, I almost forgot about the wobbly-handled pot and the tree that was hogging the view. Almost. But the location? *That* was pure gold. That's what made it worth it. That's the memory that'll stick with me. And honestly? I'd go back just for that. Even with the tree.
