Location, facilities and value for money – these are three of the major factors many staycation warriors consider when choosing a hotel. The minor aspects could change depending on every individual’s priorities but the aforementioned criteria greatly influence their decision on whether to book a room or browse through a list of other choices.
It would seem that City Garden Hotels’ youngest property, the City Garden Grand in Makati, got its priorities straight, as the two-year-old hotel provides premium amenities and excellent service right smack in a central location where major commercial areas are accessible – all for a practical cost.
Towering amid buildings along the stretch of Kalayaan Avenue and in the corner of Makati Avenue, the 300-room City Garden Grand Hotel was built for business and leisure travelers seeking luxury accommodation in the busy neighborhood. Luxury is evident the minute guests enter the property as they will be greeted by an elegant lobby with furnishings from Padua Furniture. The chandeliers are made with thousands of capiz shells and the hallways are encrusted with semi-precious onyx stones.
Finding a parking almost always spoils an experience even before it begins, but City Garden Grand Hotel ensures that guests and their cars are taken cared of with its complimentary valet parking service. Refreshments are available in the lobby as guests wait for the check-in process, which by the way only takes a few minutes.
The spacious rooms and suites evoke a home-like vibe thanks to interiors that feature warm, earth tones and a seamless interplay of Narra hardwood, floor-to-ceiling glass, marble and, again, onyx stones. The plush beds, covered with a 500-thread-count duvet made in India, and the non-allergenic pillows ensure a comfortable sleep. Basic amenities, such as cable TV, Wi-Fi Internet connection, hot and cold shower and mini bar are also provided in the room.
But perhaps, the major selling factor of each City Garden Grand Hotel room, especially those located on higher levels, is the sweeping view of Makati skyline, while some even offer a spectacular view that extends to Manila Bay.
Fitness buffs or guests who want to take the opportunity to break a sweat while staying in the “Grand” property may head over to the fully-equipped gym on the 9th floor or swim in the rooftop pool on the 32nd level. Those who want a truly stress-free stay will enjoy an hour of massage at the spa, also on the 9th floor.
Guests will never run out of food choices in the hotel as buffet breakfast and a la carte lunch are served at the Spice Cafe on the 7th level. Partake of a meal that comes with a lovely view at Firefly Roof Deck. (Tip: Dine in the evening to take advantage of the night view and live acoustic band performance.)
But should diners have a specific meal preference, it helps that the hotel is located in Makati area that abounds with restaurants serving Korean, Japanese, Persian and Filipino cuisines, among others.
Aside from dining establishments, City Garden Grand Hotel is surrounded by shopping, entertainment and leisure options, all easily accessible: Rockwell Center is just a five-minute walk, Bonifacio Global City can be reached in 20 minutes by car, while NAIA is only a 30-minute drive away (not taking into account road traffic and other circumstances).
While almost all hotels strive for the “home away from home” feeling, City Garden Grand is not only successful in providing a homey vibe but a convenient place where one can get what he wants and what he needs.
Visit www.citygardengrandhotel.com to know more about the Makati property.
