Quick holidays call for staycations in nearby city hotels. Depending on what your preferences are, there are a number of luxury hotels in Manila to choose from. Being a mother of four, a staycation for me normally means a family-friendly hotel with five-star service and amenities. After all, since a staycation is admittedly an alternative excuse for a vacation, why not receive all the pampering, as well?
I was pleasantly surprised when Sofitel presented me with everything I would want from a family-fun staycation, plus more!
A Resort-like Swimming Pool
Nothing puts a bigger smile on children’s faces than an inviting swimming pool with all the twists, turns, slides and waterfalls. Sofitel has all that! Slides for big kids. Slides for little kids. And quiet corners for those who don’t want the splish and splash. There are several lifeguards on duty at the same time, and they are quick in keeping everyone’s safety in check, especially by the water slides.
Designed like a lagoon pool, the water circles around an island of lounge chairs and underneath bridges. There are many quiet pockets for lounging, as well. Service from the Poolside Bar & Restaurant is only a press of a button away. Immediately, a poolside attendant will appear and gladly serve refreshments and snacks, as you continue to lounge by the pool.
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Happy Hour with a View of the Sunset
By 5PM, a make-shift bar by the garden plays lounge music. It is your indication that Happy Hour is about to start. Nothing feels more like a resort vacation than having happy hour with a view of the sunset.
Facing Manila Bay, the garden by the bay walk is comfortably setup with low tables, large cushions and wide mats. You can easily move from the pool to the nearby garden, and still keep an eye on your children swimming nearby. You can lounge and drink in your swimwear, just as if you’re in a beach resort. If you wish to stay the way you are and dine in the garden, the Poolside has a short menu of Salads, Pizzas, Pastas and Sandwiches.
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Good Food
If you would rather freshen up and dress for dinner, Sofitel’s Spiral buffet is a must. The buffet has earned a reputable following, and diners from all over make sure they stop by for this buffet every time they’re craving for both quality and quantity. Spiral has become known for their overly generous spread of dishes and buffet stations. You name it, they have it. Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, American, French, Korean, Thai. There is a cheese room, plus a dessert spread so huge.
During Sunday Brunch at Spiral (12noon to 3PM), several carts make their way around the tables, each one catering to different preferences—a selection of wine, dimsum, make-your-own crepes, artisan ice cream, and even a gin & vodka bar cart. A magician also makes his way around, entertaining your little ones at the table.
Luxurious and Comfortable Suites
Suites are well-appointed with modern amenities. For families, the Sofitel Suite provides more than enough space, with a separate bedroom and living area. The living area has a sofa bed, bar, counter table and powder room. All beds are comfortably fitted with duvet sheets. Sleeping in is definitely an option! Unless you wish to catch the Spiral breakfast buffet, which is until 10:30AM. Another option is room service. With a suite like this, why not?
Exclusive Access to the Executive Floor
For those who prefer it quiet and with less people, all suites have exclusive access Club Millesime located on the 10th floor. Breakfast here is also until 10:30AM. There are complimentary all-day snacks and refreshments, as well as treats for your little ones. By 5PM, children are no longer permitted in the Club, as Happy Hour starts and complimentary alcoholic beverages are served. Proper attire (no slippers and swimwear) is also required in the Executive Floor at all times.
A Pampering Spa Treatment
The next day, after you’ve had your fill of swimming but the children have not, escape to Le Spa for an hour or two. There are many pampering treatments to choose from, and you are guaranteed to leave in a state of bliss regardless of which one you choose. Private treatment rooms are quiet and relaxing, and are appointed with everything you expect from a luxurious spa.
Many Treats for the Little Ones
Sofitel does not fail to make your children feel special too. From the moment you check-in, they receive little gifts and surprises in your suite. The different establishments also offer them treats, like free popcorn in the Sports Bar, a scoop of ice cream in the Poolside, and a bag of candies from Le Bar.
In the pool, different activities are offered during the weekends, like Mermaid Tail Swimming Lessons! Little children also have access to La Villa des Enfants, which is located near the play area. Here, children can be left to do other activities, like coloring, painting, and arts & crafts. There is also a Gymboree located in the hotel for little ones to enjoy.
When it’s time for your staycation in Sofitel to end, it will feel like any other vacation—you wish it wouldn’t! Take solace in the fact that it’s only 20 minutes away from the city, and with another weekend coming up, why not have another excuse for a staycation?
The Sofitel Philippine Plaza is located at the CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. For inquiries and reservations, phone (+632) 551-5555 or visit <sofitelmanila.com>.
Mother’s Day Weekend Treats
Treat your mom, or if you are a mother, treat yourself to the perfect Mother’s Day Staycation at Sofitel. There will be several Spiral and Poolside buffets to choose from, culminating with a Mother’s Day Brunch. Pampering packages also await at Le Spa and at Vietura Aesthetic Lifestyle.
