Hotel staycations have become more and more popular over the years and it’s easy to see why: there’s no extra cost for travel, you’re not “pressured” to go sightseeing, and you have access to a lot of amenities -- like a swimming pool and a large playground for children -- that you may not have at home.
Another benefit of hotel staycations is that a lot of hotels have special offers when you book during occasions and holidays. For example, moms and dads may get a complimentary spa treatment and a free haircut and shave when you book on Mothers’ Day or Fathers’ Day. Websites like Deal Grocer also give further discounts and packages that give you more value for money. These aspects add even more appeal to the already attractive concept of staycations.
Want to spend some time with your loved ones over the weekend or perhaps for a special occasion like a birthday? Here are three options for boutique, budget, and luxury hotel staycations that you will truly enjoy.
Boutique: Azumi Hotel
Azumi Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Madrigal Business Park in Alabang. It’s a fairly new establishment, opened in 2014, and its tagline “Designed to be Different” clearly shows in its aesthetic choices: minimalist and smart.
All their rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass windows, which allow the maximum amount of natural light to filter in and boost your mood. Their ceilings help minimize heat and moisture, while the floors absorb humidity and foul odors so each breath you take is fresh and clean. The rooms are also minimally and practically furnished; the reduced clutter will help you feel even more relaxed.
One of Azumi’s most unique amenities is its saltwater infinity lap pool with a panoramic view of Alabang’s skyline. They also have an in-house nail spa where you can receive top-notch mani-pedis and other services without having to leave the hotel. Their in-house restaurant Romulo Cafe, on the other hand, will leave your tastebuds satisfied as you enjoy Filipino dishes with a twist.
Budget: Astoria Greenbelt
Astoria Greenbelt is usually considered a traveling businessman’s hotel, but it’s also a good choice for a budget staycation. It consistently has high reviews from its customers, due to its affordable rates and stellar service from its staff. The room prices start at around P3,600 per night and already include a buffet breakfast and other in-room inclusions and facilities.
The overall ambiance of Astoria Greenbelt is cool and pleasing, with shades of blue and green standing out in many areas of the hotel. And though the rooms are quite small, the furniture layout maximizes the space so that it doesn’t feel cramped. Their in-house restaurant and coffee shop Tableau serves Asian Fusion cuisine and Astoria’s signature dishes; Tableau can also be closed off and reserved for special events.
Another advantage of Astoria Greenbelt is that it’s located very near establishments like Greenbelt, Glorietta, and Landmark, where you can easily shop, dine, and enjoy to your heart’s content.
Luxury: The Manila Hotel
No other hotel in Metro Manila speaks “old world charm and elegance” than The Manila Hotel. They have a longstanding history of excellence, which assures every guest that they will receive only the best service throughout the length of their stay. The recent renovations also improved the already luxurious rooms and amenities of this majestic hotel.
The hotel’s pool has a bar in the middle where you can order fruit juices to enjoy while taking a break from swimming, while Cafe Ilang-Ilang never disappoints with its excellent choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. One of the restaurant’s most famous features is the Churrasco Station for those who love meat, and the Make-Your-Own Pizza and Pasta Station.
For leisure activities, The Manila Hotel offers day tours that include a visit around Intramuros while riding a calesa. The tour includes a visit to many historic sites, such as Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila. You may also want to visit Rizal Park or the Manila Ocean Park, which are both just a walking distance from the hotel. If you’d rather stay indoors, be sure to check out the opulent lobby where a pianist often serenades the guests.
So don’t worry too much if you don’t have a lot of vacation leaves just yet. You can still have enjoyable time-off even with just two or three days -- just book a staycation in these hotels!
