Those who have transactions, whether business or social, in the northern fringes of Makati’s Central Business District did not have too many options for medium-range world-class accommodations for quite some time. There were just the usual inns or small tourist hotels that did not exactly attract the fastidious travelers. In fact, due to the paucity of better accommodations, travelers opted to stay in neighboring Mandaluyong or Pasay or Manila, cities that have these budget-type international standard accommodations, even if the purpose for their trip was in Makati.
Then, two years ago, City Garden Grand opened its doors to the public. Finally, the budget-conscious business and leisure travelers got the world-class accommodations they have wanted for so long. The lively neighborhood now looks even better with this hotel right in its midst, offering deluxe facilities and services at rates that are easy on the pocket,
It has been talked about that the 300-room hotel can easily compete with any of the 5-star properties in the city as far as service and availability of facilities are concerned. I was curious at what the hotel could offer its guests, as compared to the international-standard properties in the area, so I decided to check in. First thing that pleased me was that I didn’t have to spend time looking for parking as the hotel offers complimentary valet services. And for a lazy driver like me, that means a lot.
As I entered the lobby, I right away enjoyed the feel of luxury of its interiors, with accents of onyx, narra hardwood and marble that are staple to international-standard accommodations. Check-in was a breeze, as the entire process took less than five minutes.
My spacious room had everything I needed for a comfortable stay… king-sized bed, flat screen TV, strong Wi-Fi connectivity, luxury amenities in the bathroom and, most of all, a breathtaking view of Makati’s Central Business District.
For the fitness conscious traveler who wants to de-stress at the end of a long day, the fully equipped gym and spa on the 9th floor are available. But what gives the hotel added advantage is its proximity to fancy restaurants, bohemian dining and other options. The Rockwell area, which offers shopping, culinary treats and several forms of entertainment, is an easy 10-minute walk from the hotel.
But if you’re too lazy to go out because of this punishing heat and humidity that currently plagues the metropolis, there is always the Spice Café at the 7th floor, boasting of a breakfast and lunch buffet that is hailed as one of Makati’s best, at a very affordable price.
Still looking for something that gives the hotel an edge over its next-door neighbors, I decided to walk around the entire property, and was glad to have discovered the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi on the 32nd floor. Now, this was exactly what I was looking for… a breathtaking, unobstructed view of Makati’s Central Business District. A dip in the Jacuzzi “on top of the world” was such a relaxing experience that is hard to come by these days.
On the same level is the Firefly Roof Deck, the all-weather full-service bar which offers a wide selection of beverages and a full menu for al fresco dining. I was lucky I checked in on a weekend because they had a live band that played my favorite songs of yesteryears. The sound of these familiar tunes added to my enjoyment of the view, the food, the drinks, making my overnight stay even more enjoyable.
Viewed from a certain angle, the northern part of Makati’s Central Business district, occupied by an assemblage of buildings with various shapes and sizes, looks like a harsh wilderness of concrete and steel. With all the comfort and convenience that it has to offer, City Garden Grand is the likely “oasis” in that concrete jungle.
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