When you stay at hotels, it’s not all about the rooms. Of course, the quality of your accommodations is important ~ the beds and linens have to be fresh, the air-conditioning should be sufficient, the bathroom has to be clean and supplied with towels and basic toiletries, among other things. However, there are also other facilities you should look for in a hotel, like a restaurant or in-house spa — things that would help you have a truly relaxing time and forget about your stresses for a while.
Here’s a quick list of some of the best hotels around the Metro where you can treat and pamper yourself, whether you’re looking for good food, a great view, a quiet location, or all of the above!
For a Spa Treatment
The Health Club at the Makati Diamond Residences has some pretty wonderful spa offerings, like their signature massage, Swedish massage, rejuvenating facial, foot reflexology, and other truly relaxing treatments. You can also opt to have your chosen spa treatment to be conducted in the comfort of your own room, so you can just fall right to sleep on your plush bed.
Solaire Resort & Casino also has a state-of-the-art luxury spa that offers various kinds of massages, including the traditional Filipino “hilot” and a hot-and-cold stone massage. They also have a range of body scrubs, foot spas, facial treatments, and other luxurious indulgences that will leave you feeling totally refreshed and pampered like royalty.
For a Sumptuous Buffet
Cafe Ilang Ilang at The Manila Hotel is one of the most popular buffets in the country for a good reason: the eight live-cooking stations feature a bounty of Asian, European, Mediterranean, and Western dishes that would surely satisfy everyone’s palates. Cafe Ilang Ilang also has a famed Churrasco Station for those who love grilled tenderloin beef and their Italian kitchen has a wood-fired oven for that authentic pizza goodness. Another trademark of this restaurant is that their offerings for their dinner buffet changes every night, so you’re always in for a treat no matter when you stay at the Manila Hotel.
Meanwhile, Acaci at the Acacia Hotel in Alabang offers fewer choices compared to other bigger hotels, but that doesn’t mean that the quality is lacking. Their truly scrumptious dishes feature various selections from Asian and other cuisines; coupled with the modern design vibe and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer a view of the street below, and you have a truly unique and satisfying dining experience. Here’s a tip: their breakfast buffet has a taho station!
For a Great View
Manila is famous for its beautiful sunsets and the Sky Deck View Bar at The Bayleaf Intramuros offers an unobstructed 360-view of this stunning vista. Indeed, the Sky Deck is one of the best-reviewed roof deck bars in the Metro, with its extensive wine selection, as well as local beers and various cocktail mixes. Guests can also order from the 9 Spoons Restaurant for a hearty dinner or some truly tasty bar fare. During Fridays and Saturdays, the Sky Deck View Bar also serves a buffet dinner and provides live acoustic entertainment.
For a Good Night’s Sleep
The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences is located in Salcedo Village, a less busy section of Makati’s famed Central Business District. This makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while still being within easy reach of all modern comforts, such as shopping centers, theaters, and more. The rooms at The Picasso are also quite spacious — even their 45 sqm room feels airy and bigger than it really is. With beautiful art pieces and tasteful furniture, you are assured of a visual treat that translates into actual comfort.
What’s more, the hotel is located beside Salcedo Park, where you can enjoy quiet moments and simply breathe in the fresh air. Salcedo Park is also the venue for the Salcedo Community Weekend Market, which is open every Saturday from 7am to 2pm, where you can buy local and organic produce, regional and international foods and delicacies, and various other products like plants and flowers, home accessories, art pieces, and cooking ingredients.
Are you ready to let go of the stress and pamper yourself? Take your pick from these hotels and prepare for a relaxing time. You may also want to check out websites such as Deal Grocer to get awesome value-for-money deals and give your wallets a break.