Yap
My experience at Manta Bay Resort in Yap, Micronesia was a mix of highs and lows, with some notable aspects to consider.
Firstly, the location is situated on the waterfront of Colonia, the tiny capitol of Yap, a short ride from the airport. The resort's unique Phinisi boat converted into a bar and restaurant added to the charm of the place.
The rooms at Manta Bay Resort were spacious and decorated with ornamental carved timber furniture, providing a comfortable stay. Daily housekeeping ensured cleanliness, and essential toiletries like shampoo and conditioner were provided. The availability of in room WiFi was a plus for staying connected.
When it came to meals, the breakfast options were simple but satisfying, with eggs cooked to your preference. However, some dishes like bacon were not up to par. Lunch options were limited on weekdays, requiring advance ordering or exploring cafes nearby. The dinner menu offered basic Western fare, with standout items like sashimi and burritos receiving praise. The staff was friendly, although service could be slow at times, averaging around 50-60 minutes for meals.
The resort's own microbrewery produced good-quality beer, enhancing the dining experience.
Diving with Yap Divers provided both excitement and disappointment. The manta rays at Stammtisch and the sharks at Vertigo and Yap Caverns were the standout dives. While the boats were comfortable and well-equipped, including amenities like water and hot wet face towels after dives on board, camera handling could be improved. The dive planning and execution, however, were a bit disorganized, with changes in plans not always communicated effectively. The mix of experienced and new divers on each boat, along with varying dive durations, could lead to inconsistent experiences.
Snorkeling options were available, although some practices, like snorkeling with dive groups at shallow sites, raised concerns about disturbing marine life, such as mantas.
Overall, Manta Bay Resort offers a unique experience in a tropical location, with room for improvement in areas such as dive planning and meal quality.
