hotel review

7 Reasons why Henann Prime Beach Resort is a perfect hotel for your Boracay trip

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
Henann Prime Beach Resort

Henann Prime Beach Resort is the newest and very first Henann beachfront resort in station 1 Boracay. Opened in November 2016, Henann Prime Beach Resort is becoming a popular choice of station 1 Boracay hotel among tourists.

Me being a first timer in Boracay, Jen made sure that to book the best but not the priciest hotel in the island. We were lucky to have booked Henann Prime Beach Resort’s Splendid Package which is a 2 nights and 3 days stay including 2 buffet breakfast, 2 buffet dinner and airport transfers.

We loved everything about Henann Prime Beach Resort and we’re definitely recommending it to anyone who’s planning to visit Boracay. Here are my 7 Reasons why Henann Prime Beach Resort is a Perfect Hotel for your Boracay Trip:

1. Breathtaking Beachfront Resort

Me enjoying the beautiful beach front of Henann Prime Beach Resort
Me enjoying the beautiful beach front of Henann Prime Beach Resort

Situated in station 1 which is known to as home of luxury and high–end resorts in Boracay, Henann Prime Beach Resort has the best beachfront compared to other Henann resorts in Boracay island. It’s beachfront is as equally beautiful as other station 1 hotels and resorts. The beachfront is the perfect spot to enjoy the breathtaking view of fine white sands and pristine waters of Boracay.  From afar, Henann Prime Beach resort’s facade stands out for it’s signature blue-green beach beds with stylish white umbrellas.

Henann Prime Beach Resort
Henann Prime Beach Resort

The facade is truly eye-catching.  It has a high-end look and feel. The beautiful beach beds are just few meters from the shore and are perfectly placed for relaxation. Almost all tourists walking in the shore take a glimpse of the carefully arranged and classy beach beds of Henann Prime Beach Resort.

Watch my short video featuring Henann Prime Beach Resort’s beachfront:

2. Superb Customer service

Henann Prime Beach Resort knows what customer service is! The superb customer service starts the moment you arrive in the in the airport. You will experience a VIP treatment throughout your stay, from your Caticalan airport transfer to Henann Prime, during your stay in the resort, until your transfer from Henann Prime to Caticlan airport.

The moment we arrived at Henann Prime Beach Resort, we were warmly greeted by the security guard, luggage attendant and Jcel- resort’s front desk. Since we way too early for the 3:00 PM check-in, we were allowed to check-in at 1:30 PM. We even asked to give us a smoking room. Jcel was kind enough to provide us a Premier room on the 3rd floor, where smoking in the balcony is allowed. While waiting, we checked out Sea Salt Cafe and relaxed at the beach bed. We have not officially checked-in yet but the beach attendant surprised us by serving cold glasses of water and giving us towels while we were on the beach beds.

With Sir Art, Henann Prime's Manager on Duty
With Sir Art, Henann Prime’s Manager on Duty

All the staff were very welcoming and accommodating. Every time we bump into a staff in the resort’s vicinity, we were sincerely and politely greeted. There were occurrences where we had to cross the main road and the lady guard made sure of our safety while crossing road. We felt very special.

Some of the staff of Sea Salt Cafe, Henann Prime
Some of the staff of Sea Salt Cafe, Henann Prime

During buffet breakfast and dinner, Sea Salt Cafe staff were very accommodating. They were very helpful and were always ready to serve guests. Sir Art, the manager on duty, was very welcoming and accommodating. He makes sure that food are readily available throughout the duration of buffet. He always ensures that chaffers are always refilled so you will need not to worry about running out of your favorite food in the buffet.

3. Smooth Airport Transfer

It amazed me how organized and seamless the airport transfers were. Since we booked via Henann’s reservation, we did not experience any issues at all. The airport transfers went well. We arrived at Henann Prime Beach Resort fresh and relaxed.

Caticlan Airport to Cagban Port

Henann Group of Resorts Boracay van
Henann Group of Resorts Boracay van

The moment you arrive in Caticlan airport, there are Henann staff with a Hennan placard waiting for you. These Hanann staff will direct you to your van transfer from Caticlan airport to an exclusive Henann Group of Resorts port. This port is nearby to Caticlan port where tourists go for a boat transfer to Cagban port. Since Henann group of resorts has its exclusive port, you will need not to worry about enduring the long lines and waiting time in Caticlan port. In addition, you also get to ride a Henann Group of Resorts’ speed boat. Meaning, you will not have to undergo the usual process of falling in line, paying for the environmental fee and waiting for the boat to fill up.

Cagban Port to Hannan Prime Beach Resort

 

Henann Group of Resort’s boat immediately leaves for Cagban port once you aboard. And it only takes less than 10 minutes boat ride from Caticlan port to Cagban port compared to approximately 20 to 30 minutes when you board a public boat in Caticlan port.

Once you reach Cagban port, they will direct you to a Hennan group of resorts van that will bring you to Henann Prime Beach resort. If you have a heavy luggage, no need to worry as the Henann staff will take good care of your luggage throughout the transfers.

I should say that Hennan Prime Beach resorts exceeded my expectations. I did not really expect that the transfer was a breeze.

4. World-Class and Elegant Rooms

Henann Prime Beach Resort has a total 104 world-class elegant rooms. 50 rooms are located on the Beach wing and the other 54 rooms are on the East wing (main road side).

Rooms at Henann Prime Beach Resort is at par with that of luxurious hotels in Manila.  High-end furnitures and fixtures are carefully selected making the rooms very functional and elegant. I personally love the attention to detail they have put into the rooms.

Here is my separate blog post for my review of Henann Prime Beach Resort’s Premier room. – Henann Prime Beach Resort Premier Room Review

The beach wing comprises of Premier room, Premier room with direct pool access and Grand room with sea view.

Tip: Book a room on the beach wing as it is the near to the beachfront.

Below are the standard amenities you get to enjoy if you book a room at  Henann Prime Beach Resort:

  • Separate toilet and bathtub
  • Safety deposit box
  • Telephone with IDD and NDD
  • Bathroom telephone
  • Personal refrigerator
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Electric kettle
  • Complimentary coffee
  • Daily complimentary water bottles
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • Bidet spray in toilet
  • Hair dryer
  • Daily house keeping service
  • Laundry service (with a fee)
  • In room dining service
  • Henann Toiletries

Room Types at Beach Wing

Premier Room

Premier Room at Henann Prime Resort Boracay
Premier Room at Henann Prime Resort Boracay
  • located on 2nd, 3rd and 4th level
  • choice of 1 queen size bed and a single bed or 1 king size bed
  • approximately 36 sq. m.
  • veranda with a mini dining set
  • bathroom vanity area
  • 43 inch cable TV
  • WIFI access

Premier Room with direct pool access

  • located on ground floor
  • same features as Premier room plus it’s special feature of having a direct access to the beautiful pool

Grand Room with Sea View

  • beachfront view
  • 1 king size bed
  • approximately 56 sq. m.
  • veranda with a mini dining set
  • Spacious seating and wardrobe area
  • bathroom vanity area
  • large free-standing bathtub
  • 50-inch cable TV
  • WIFI Access
  • Ipod docking station

Room Types at East Wing

The East Wing rooms consist of Deluxe and Deluxe with direct pool access.

Deluxe Room

  • located on 2nd, 3rd and 4th level
  • 1 queen size bed and a single bed
  • approximately 40 sq. m.
  • same features as Premier room but are located on the main road side

Deluxe Room with direct pool access

  • located on the ground floor
  • 1 queen size bed and a single bed
  • approximately 40 sq. m.
  • same features as Premier room with direct pool access but are located on the main road side

Published room rates at Henann Prime Beach Resort 

The below published rates are generated from the Henann website and are generated as of this writing. Rates are inclusive of airport transfers and buffet breakfast. Please note that prices vary from the booking date and are subject to change.

  • Premier Room – 8,664 Php or Premier Room (triple)- 9,242 Php
  • Premier Room with direct pool access – 10,770 Php or Premier Room with direct pool access (triple)- 10,307 Php
  • Grand Sea View – 11,984 Php
  • Deluxe Room – 6,465 Php
  • Deluxe Room with direct pool access – 7,604 Php

Tip: Henann Prime Beach Resort offers Splendid Package promo rates inclusive of 2 nights and 3 days stay, buffet breakfast, buffet dinner and airport transfer.  Jen and I compared the promo rates and found that these are indeed cheaper than the published rates. We booked a Splendid Package for lean season for 16,995 Php all-in. Alternatively, you may also book discounted and cheaper Henann Prime Beach Resort room HERE.

5. Delectable Food at Sea Salt Cafe

If Henann Regency Resort & Spa in Station 2 has Sea Breeze Cafe, Henann Prime Beach Resort’s very own Sea Salt Cafe boasts its delicious selection of dishes, pastries and drinks.

View from Sea Salt Cafe
View from Sea Salt Cafe

Dining in at the Al Fresco Sea Salt Cafe is incomparable to any dining experience in Boracay’s popular restaurants. Located in front of Henann Prime Beach Resort’s property, you get to enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful view of white sand beach.

A post shared by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on

A post shared by Ed Puno (@onearmedwanderer) on

Sea Salt Cafe offers Filipino, Asian and Western cuisine.

Buffet breakfast at Sea Salt
Buffet breakfast at Sea Salt

Breakfast buffet is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM and costs 549 Php (approximately $11). Dinner buffet on the other hand starts at 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM and costs 695 Php ($14). Sea Salt Cafe also offers 10% discount for in-house guests! If you drink, Sea Salt Cafe has a happy hour, buy 1 take 1 on selected beers and cocktails from 5 :00 PM to 7:00 PM.

I will write a separate blog post on my review of buffet breakfast and dinner at Sea Salt.

6. Uniquely Beautiful Pool

Henann Prime Swimming Pool
Henann Prime Swimming Pool at Beach Bing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Compared to its sister resorts Henann Regency Boracay and Henann Resort Alona Beach Bohol, Henann Prime Beach Resort is smaller. which makes it more quiet and private. Nonetheless, Henann Group of Resorts utilized its limited real estate and made 2 unique and beautiful pools on each wing of the resort. For the safety of its guests, pool opens and 7:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.

7. Peaceful Location

Based on stories from people I know, I must admit that I pictured Boracay as a party place. I was wrong. There is still an area in Boracay white sand beach that is relatively less crowded, calm and peaceful.  Being in station 1, which is a bit far from the crowded and busy stations 2 and 3, Henann Prime Beach Resort is a haven to those who want to relax. There are less tourists walking in the beachfront and there are no bars or party places nearby.

Overall, I enjoyed my very first visit in Boracay island. I must say that a huge part of the positive experience was because of us staying at Henann Prime Beach Resort. The airport transfers were hassle free, the room was elegant, beachfront was breathtaking and of course the customer service was superb! Henan Prime Beach Resort in Boracay is truly a perfect hotel if you are visiting the beautiful island of Boracay!

Henann Prime Beach Resort

  • Address: Station 1, Beachfront, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, 5608 Philippines
  • Resort  Office contact number:+63 36 288 9200
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: wwww.henann.com
  • Book your discounted Henann Prime Beach Resort room HERE.

 

 

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Hotel in Bonifacio Global City: F1 Hotel Manila

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
F1 Hotel Manila

F1 Hotel Manila is the very first premier hotel in Bonifacio Global City or popularly known as BGC – a Philippine leisure, lifestyle and business hub situated in Taguig City.  F1 Hotel Manila is located along the 32nd Street of Bonifacio Global City and is just a walking distance from various corporate offices, shopping malls, banks and a world-class hospital.

F1 Hotel Manila Facade
F1 Hotel Manila Facade

Since I will not be able to travel on Christmas, Jen and I decided to book a hotel for a holiday staycation instead. Since we did not want to go farther for our staycation, we considered hotels in BGC which is just a 10 minute drive from home. After comparing prices, we decided to book a room at F1 Hotel Manila.

Lobby

We arrived at F1 Hotel Manila at around 3:00 PM. The hotel’s parking was full, perhaps due to the holiday season where many guests visit F1 Hotel for their sumptuous lunch and dinner buffets.  We had to temporarily park at Parkade 3 and soon transferred to the hotel’s parking later that day.

I should say that F1 Hotel Manila’s entrance is not like any other expensive hotels in Bonifacio Global City. It was simple yet modern.  We approached the concierge at the hotel’s ground floor and we were courteously informed that the hotel lobby is on the 5th level.

Concierge at the ground level
Elevator area at the ground level
Lobby at the 5th level

The lobby in the 5th level was simple and modern. The check-in process was a breeze. Special thanks to F1 Hotel Manila’s front desk officer Joanne! Unlike in other hotels, I was surprised that we were given 2 key cards for our room.  Joanne also provided a personalized WiFi password for our internet needs throughout out stay. Just make sure to prepare your credit card or 3,000 Php cash for the hotel’s security deposit. Don’t worry as this is refundable after check-out.

F1 Hotel Manila Deluxe Room

We stayed at room 702 which is at the end of the hallway and appears to be corner unit. As we entered the room, there was an element of surprise as there is a mini hallway leading to the main room area. I should say that I was really surprised with the interiors! The room is stylish and has this executive and businessman vibe. The grays, reds and browns perfectly complement each other resulting to a modern and classy appeal of the room.

mini living room area
F1 Hotel Manila

The king size bed and pillows were very comfortable. Pillow cases, linens and comforter were of high quality and at par with that of 5-star hotels in the metro. I personally love the soft gray headboard.

Executive feel

There is a life-size gray wooden dresser that come with safety box, bathrobe, iron and even fire extinguisher. Beside the dresser are the complimentary tea, coffee and creamer sachets along with complimentary water bottles. Beneath is a personal refrigerator.  Across the dresser is a mini living area with a high-end sofa and table.

work area
toilet & bath

The Deluxe room also comes with a 32 inch flat screen cable TV placed in a long desk paired with a comfortable stylish chair. The desk also serves as a work area in the room. On the other end of the desk is a stylish lamp, a welcome letter from F1 Hotel Manila, F1 Hotel Manila notepad and a booklet containing hotel’s menu and offerings.

The toilet and bath were also a surprise! The sink and the toilet are adjacent to one another. F1 Hotel Manila branded toiletries such as soaps, shampoo, conditioner, cotton buds, toothbrush, toothpaste and even a comb are provided. Just above the sink is a long mirror that covers the entire length of the bathroom. The shower area is separated by a glass door. The rainfall shower is my favorite!

Aside from the cozy and upscale ambiance, the floor to ceiling glass window sets this F1 Hotel Room apart from other upscale hotels I have been to. Despite of this, the room does not get hot during daytime due to the floor to ceiling curtains and not to mention the strategic location of its air-conditioning unit.

F1 Hotel Manila Published Room Rates

  • Deluxe Room – 10,000 Php a night

1 King-Size Bed
36-38.89 Sqm

  • City Suite – 11, 200 Php a night

2 Double-Size Bed
39-40 Sqm

  • Fort Suite – 13,600 Php a night

1 King-Size Bed
42.15-43.82 sqm

Tip: We booked a Deluxe Room and only paid 4,200 Php instead of the 10,000 Php published rate. Get huge discounts if you book your F1 Hotel Manila room HERE.

F1 Hotel Manila Facilities, Amenities and Services

  • F All Day Dining Restaurant – Located on the hotel’s 3rd level, F All Day Dining Restaurant serves contemporary Filipino and international lunch and dinner buffet.
F All Day Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Yummy breads at F All Day restaurant

Since our booking includes breakfast, we had our breakfast buffet at F1 All Day Dining Restaurant. Breakfast buffet is only served from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

  • Swimming pools – Located in the 3rd level, F1 Hotel Manila has three pools – a kiddie pool, family pool and a lap pool. These pools are open daily from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
One of the 3 pools in F1 Hotel
Jen enjoying the cabana
  • Fitness Center – If you are a regular gym goer, do need to worry about missing your daily gym regimen. F1 Hotel Manila has a fitness center fully equipped with treadmills, weights and many other gym equipment.  The gym is located in 3rd level mezzanine and is open 24/7.
  • Spa and Wellness – To those who want to simply relax, F1 Hotel Manila offers a selection of signature and traditional massage services. The Spa and Wellness is located in 3rd level mezzanine and open from 1 PM to 5 AM during weekdays and 10 PM to 5 PM on weekends.

Other Facilities and Services

  • Complimentary Shuttle Service – Shuttle service going around Bonifacio Global City is available for in-house guests. Prior reservation is needed and maximum of 10 passengers per trip.
  • Airport transfers – Available upon request. Minimum rate of 1,500 for a sedan car and 2,200 Php for a van per way.
  • Make-Up Room – F1 Hotel Manila offers 1 complimentary make-up room service per day. To avail the service, simply tap to activate the make-up room icon near your room’s door. High-tech!
  • Concierge Services
  • Meetings and Events Facilities
  • 4 level car park
  • Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas
  • 24-hour Guest Services
  • 24 hour security
  • In-Room Dining
  • Laundry & Valet Service
  • Babysitting Services

Overall, we enjoyed our F1 Hotel Manila staycation. The hotel did not disappoint. The hotel staff, from the security guards to front desks are very welcoming and accommodating. The room was very stylish, classy and cozy. The breakfast buffet was good. I would highly recommend this hotel not just for a staycation but also for business and corporate travelers who are visiting Bonifacio Global City.

Discounted F1 Hotel Manila Rooms  HERE

F1 Hotel Manila
Address: 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City
Contact Number: 908.7888 / 928.9888
Email us at: [email protected]

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Budget Hotel: Meaco Hotel Valenzuela City

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
Affordable hotel in Valenzuela

Meaco Hotel in Valenzuela City is one of the newest hotel chain of Asia Novotel Incorporated. Located along McArthur highway in Baranggay Karuhatan, Meaco Hotel Valenzuela is strategically located as it is few meters away from SM Center Valenzuela and a few minute drive to Our Lady of Fatima University and Fatima Medical Center. If you love to try local restaurants, Meaco hotel is literally few steps away from Little Beijing and a few minute ride to Golden Crown food center.

Meaco Hotel Valenzuela facade
Meaco Hotel Valenzuela facade

The facade is simple and barely noticeable from McArthur highway. Parking area is right in front of the hotel building.

Meaco Hotel Lobby and Hallway

I should say that I was not expecting much from Meaco Hotel. As we arrived in the area, it was raining and we were greeted and assisted by the hotel’s security guard to the parking area of the hotel. As we entered the lobby, it was clean and well-maintained. There is nothing much to see except for the reception, small LCD TV, a couple of chairs and tables, dining area, a mini store where guests can buy snacks.

Mini store and dining area
Meaco Hotel Valenzuela reception

We informed the receptionist of our online booking. Unfortunately, it appears that they overlooked our booking for that day and reserved a deluxe room for us the next day. It was late night and we were advised to wait for an hour. Given that the hotel is quite new, we tried to understand the situation as the receptionists might not be used to online bookings and reservations. Surprisingly, unlike other hotels in Metro Manila where check-out time is 12 noon, Meaco Hotel allows literally 24 hour stay from your check-in time. So the delayed check-in was not issue to us.  While waiting, we ordered their yummy longsilog (for only 80 Php each) and had our dinner in the hotel.

Come check-in, we took the stairs to the second floor as there is no elevator in this 3-storey hotel. Hallways are consistent with the lobby, very clean and well-maintained. The rooms are surprisingly powered by key-card locks.

Meaco Hotel Valenzuela Deluxe Room

The room is spacious.  The queen size bed with a golden headboard is comfortable but surely not at par with that of upscale hotels in Metro Manila. Nonetheless, it was good enough for a good and sound sleep. There are also bedside tables with a hotel room phone on one table. There is a cable LCD TV screen with limited channels facing the bed. On the right of the LCD TV is stylish mirror in a golden frame.  If you are bringing work to Meaco hotel, right below the TV is a long table that can serve as a work space. All rooms also come with free WiFi access.

Meaco hotel deluxe room
Meaco Hotel Room
LCD TV and work space area

Meaco hotel room’s toilet and bath  is very clean and spacious. Fixtures look modern and new. The hot and cold shower is working perfectly. Toiletries such as bath towels, bath gel, shampoo and toothbrush are also provided. My only rants were the slightly clogged water drain in the shower and the very small slippers in the room. Nonetheless, issues like these can be reported to the reception.

Toilet and bath
Toiletries

Meaco Hotel Valenzuela Room Rates

Apart for the affordable room rates, Meaco Hotel also offer 12 hour rates for those who are visiting Valenzuela on short trips.

  • Deluxe 12 hours – 700 Php / 24 hours – 900 Php
  • Twin Deluxe 12 hours 800 Php / 24 hours 1,000 Php
  • Family 12 hours 1,100 Php / 24 1,400 Php
  • VIP Family 12 hours 1,500 / 24 hours – 1,800 Php

Tip: It is cheaper if you book online using a voucher. My girlfriend booked via asiatravel.com and used a voucher for our two night stay at Meaco Hotel Valenzuela. We paid 1,400 Php instead of 1,800 Php!

Affordable Hotel in Valenzuela City

Overall, we enjoyed our 2 night stay in Meaco Hotel Valenzuela. For the price, the hotel exceeded our expectations. The security guards and most of the staff were very friendly and helpful. The rooms are very decent and clean.  The hotel is very accessible and strategically located. If you are visiting, travelling or backpacking Valenzuela, you would never go wrong if you stay in this budget hotel.

Meaco Hotel Contact Number – +63 2 4439021 / +63 916 3491030
Address – 349 McArthur highway, Karuhatan, Valenzuela City

Aside from Valenzuela City, Meaco Hotel chains are also available on the following Philippine provinces:

  • Legaspi, Albay
  • Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
  • Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte
  • Calbayog, Samar
  • Anilao, Batangas

 

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BRBlock Boutique and Residences Makati Review

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer
BRblock hotel room Makati

BRbock Boutique and Residences is one among the few affordable boutique hotels in Makati City. Situated in the Philippine’s central business district, BRBlock hotel is strategically located as it is just few minute taxi ride away from various shopping malls, bars, restaurants and offices. What sets BRblock apart from other Makati boutique hotels is that it is located in the heart of Santiago village, a peaceful and quiet Makati neighborhood.

BRblock Boutique and Residences Makati

Distance of BRblock Boutique & Residences from various landmarks:

  • SM Jazz Mall – 650 m
  • Century Mall – 750 m
  • Glorietta Mall – 2.9 km
  • Bonifacio High Street – 3.6 km
  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport- 7 km

Unique and Remarkable Minimalist Boutique Hotel in Makati

Opened in June 2015, BRbock Boutique and Residences building is fairly new. Not like any other boutique hotels in Makati, its facade is gray and humble but its architecture is carefully designed and truly remarkable. It is in fact one of the best boutique hotel facade I’ve seen in Makati.

This 4-storey Makati boutique hotel has an elevator. Each floor has a foyer where guests can hang-out and simply relax. The open-air industrial minimalist themed hallways are very clean and spacious for such a small hotel. From BRblock’s entrance up to the room, everything is unique and pleasing to the eye.

Deluxe Room at BRblock Boutique & Residences

The rooms are simple and very spacious. I love the minimalist but practical design of almost everything. Right after the room entrance, on the left is a mini bar with a couple of items and snacks for sale at a minimum price. Yes you heard it right! Minimum price! Unlike other boutique hotels, it was such a surprise that their snacks are quite cheap for an upscale boutique hotel.

The minibar also comes with an electric kettle, 2 coffee cups, sachets of coffee, creamer and sugar. If you are a coffee lover, BRblock Boutique & Residences offers unlimited coffee! Just call the reception and coffee sachets will be delivered right in front of your hotel room. Below the minibar is a personal refrigerator with 2 complimentary water bottles and sodas in can for sale.  There is also an open closet with a vault to secure your money or valuable items. If you are bringing work to your BRblock hotel room, there is a long shelf with a mirror and a stylish lampshade that serves as the room’s work space.

Clean and stylish white linens and pillow cases cover the very comfortable bed and 4 pillows in BRblock hotel rooms. I should say that the quality of the bed and pillows can match that of expensive 5 star hotels in Makati. There is a huge cable LCD screen TV facing the bed. All rooms also come with a free Wifi.

Unlike a typical hotel, the curtain in BRblock are white roller blinds. This is perfect for the floor to ceiling sliding glass door which separates the room from the balcony. If you are a cigarette smoker, the balcony serves as the smoking area.


The simple and practical toilet and bath is very clean. The overall design complements to the minimalist theme of the hotel. Fixtures are stylish and look new. The hot and cold shower works perfectly and there are no issues with the water pressure. The toilet and bath come with toiletries such as soap, 2 toothbrush with toothpaste, cotton buds, bath shower and gel. I personally love the small soap wrapped with a BRblock branding.

BRBlock Boutique and Residences Room Rates

Compared to other Makati boutique hotels, room rates at BRblock are more affordable.

  • Deluxe Room for 2 persons- 1,989 Php (approx. $43)
  • Family room for 3 persons – 2,574 Php (approx. $55)

Tip: Room rates are cheaper if you book HERE (Agoda).

Security and Safety

As for the security, there is a security guard on duty 24/7. The entire BRBlock building is also equipped with cameras. Being in a peaceful and quiet environment, we felt very safe during our stay at BRblock.
Due to its limited real estate, BRblock boutique and residences can accommodate maximum of 6 cars and its parking space at the ground floor.

Exemplary Customer Service

Customer service is exemplary! The security guards, concierge and the rest of the staff are very welcoming, friendly and courteous. Steph, the front desk personnel welcomed us with a huge smile and even assisted us to our room upon check-in.

Other Services

  • 24-hour front desk
  • luggage storage
  • laundry
  • fax/photocopying

If you are visiting Makati for a vacation or business, I would highly recommend BRblock Boutique and Residences. With its exemplary customer service, simple yet upscale atmosphere, minimalist and clean rooms, security and safety and most especially its affordability, BRblock is the best boutique hotel there is Makati.

How to Get to BRblock Boutique & Residences

Since BRblock is relatively new, most of the taxi drivers are not aware of the place yet. So make sure to have your Google map or Waze ready or just simply tell the below directions to the taxi driver.

From Kalayaan Avenue in Makati, turn left to Pililla Street. After a block, turn left to Baler Street and turn right on Penafrancia St.

BRblock Boutique & Residences Map

BRBlock Boutique and Residences Address, Contact Number and Online Booking

Address: 1631 Penafrancia St., Baranggay Valenzuela, Makati City
Contact Number: +63 2 8335121
Online Booking and Reservation: Unfortunatey, BRblock Makati does not have an official website. Alternatively, you may book your room HERE.

 

 

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Rosal Hotel Pasig Review and Room Rates

Posted on by One Armed Wanderer

Rosal Hotel is one among the long list of Pasig motels located in Hillcrest drive. Just like its neighboring hotels, this budget accommodation offers short-time stay rates.

Rosal Hotel Garage Room

I have been to the nearby Orchids hotel and I should say that Rosal hotel’s garage is more spacious, clean and well maintained. Just like any other motel, at the back of the garage is the stairs leading to the vestibule. There is nothing much in the vestibule except for the 2 complimentary water bottles.

The room itself is very spacious. Unlike other affordable motels, you can say that the room is well maintained. There are no to minimal signs of frayed furnishings and ageing ceilings and walls. The bed, linens and pillows were just okay and not something that you will rave about.

Rosal Hotel Pasig Room

There is a small cable LCD TV with limited channels. My only complain is the remote is not working (we checked-in at room #56). The air conditioning works perfectly. There is a designated dining area that also serves as a work space if you are brining work in your Rosal hotel room. Surprisingly Wifi signal is strong with a fast internet connection.

Rosal Hotel Pasig City

The toilet and bath is spacious and very clean. It comes with 2 bath towels and 2 pairs of slippers. There is hot and cold shower. Same with the neighboring Orchids Hotel, toiletries are for sale except for the small soap. Since Rosal hotel offers short time rates, condoms are also  available for 30 Php.

  • toothbrush – 15 Php
  • toothpaste –  10 Php
  • Shampoo – 10 Php
  • conditioner – 10 Php
  • Mouthwash – 55 Php

Rosal Hotel Pasig Room Rates

  • Wash-Up rate or popularly known as short-time rate (3 hours) – 540 Php (In excess of 3 hours, an extra charge of 180 Php per hour)
  • 24 hour rate – 2,325 Php (comes with free breakfast for 2)
  • Evening Special (8 PM to 8 AM) -740 Php
  • Midnight Promo (adjustable 12 hours and check-in should be between 12 AM to 5 AM except Saturdays) – 840 Php
  • Morning Special (5 solid hours and check-in should be between 4 AM to 4 PM except Saturdays) – 540 Php

Tip: Room rate for 24 hour stay is cheaper if you book HERE.

Rosal hotel also accepts major credits cards and Bancnet debit cards. Service car is also offered from Rosal hotel to various landmarks around Pasig.

Tip: If you are visiting without a car, Uber is cheaper than Rosal hotel’s service car. I am giving you 100 Pesos off each of your first 2 Uber rides. Just use the promo code ‘edp1000ue‘ and sign-up here.

Overall, Rosal hotel Pasig is just like any other cheap motels in the metro. What sets it apart is the clean and spacious rooms and toilet. It is a good place for a short time stay if you are visiting Pasig City.

Rosal Hotel Pasig contact number: +63 2 6352729
Adress: Jardin De Rosal Hotel, Hillcrest Drive, Bagong Ilog, Pasig City, Philippines

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