...but the journalist in me can't resist a scoop.
And I try to convince myself that such a great place won't stay a secret for long anyway. So I'd rather take the credit of telling the world about it.
Mirage Resort sits on the beach front of Pulau Besar, which is 20 minutes away by speed boat from Mersing Jetty. With a capacity of 40 guests, it is a boutique resort with a rocking service crew who are extremely attentive and friendly.
Compared to its more publicised neighbours - D'Coconut and Asiana - this resort does not fare well on first impression, without a pool and wall-papered rooms.
My seven friends and I took the plunge, or rather we were pushed off the edge, simply because all other resorts were full. And we were undeservedly rewarded with an amazing weekend.
Here are ten reasons why Mirage Pulau Besar should make top three in your next list of weekend getaway destinations:
10. High staff to guest ratio means your every need is attended to.
9. Mancoral, one of the staff, gives free pool lessons and makes a mean dish of sweet and sour prawns.
8. If you gather a party of 35-40 people, you can book the entire resort!
7. You don't have to fight for a good spot on the beach.
6. Their BBQ lamb is wicked!
5. The in house Pirates Bar dishes out free beer if you get the party going.
4. Your friends and you can sit by the sea, around the camp fire, and under the stars.
3. With a simple email, Chris books everything you need - mini-bus, boat, rooms, food, and activities!
2. Are you not sick of Batam, Bintan, Tioman, Redang, and the other touristy beach spots?
1. At that price, it's a real steal.
For the entire weekend (Saturday morning to Monday evening), I spent:
- Accommodation and most meals at Mirage Resort RM 340
- Mini-van from Eunos MRT to Mersing Jetty and back SGD 45
