We stayed at Novotel Manila Araneta City for two different occasion. One in September, for my mom’s 70th birthday, and another one last December for Christmas. Araneta has been my home for the past three decades so you may wonder why I would book for a place that’s already common for us especially on a special occasion. Well, my mom just underwent surgery so we had no choice but to book for a hotel nearby for our own convenience.
Novotel is very accessible because it is located at the heart of Quezon City. It’s just a few steps from the Araneta Coliseum. It’s a perfect place for a much needed staycation because of their affordable rates and friendly atmosphere. Shopwise is just across for last-minute grocery shopping, while SM Cubao and Gateway got everything else covered.
Since we are booked at their Executive Suite and Room, we headed straight at the 24th floor for the private check-in.
Executive Suite
We selected an Executive Suite because of its large bedroom, separate living area, spacious en suite bathroom and a walk-in closet that has a connecting access to another Executive room.
This is an ideal choice for families. I requested for two connecting rooms but it was subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. The receptionist said that they can only check the availability on the actual date of booking. I guess, we were just lucky that day.
Pet-friendly
Novotel is also a pet-friendly hotel! Our adopted dog, Kesha, enjoyed her stay here too!
They will give you a pet kit that includes a towel and a toy when you bring your pet at the hotel. Pets can stay inside the room or wander at the enchanting urban oasis at the 7th floor.
Premier Lounge
The highlight of these two staycations is the Premier Lounge nestled at the 24th floor. It has a floor to ceiling windows showing a panoramic view of Manila’s skyline, the bay and Rizal mountains. I find this place super cozy even during holidays when the buffet area is usually packed. It is also an ideal work station and they also have small meeting rooms.
It is open exclusively to all Executive room and suite guests during weekdays from 10AM to 7PM; weekends and holidays from 6:30AM to 7PM. Guests can partake from available snacks and refreshments like soda, coffee, tea, or juice.
They serve breakfast, usually, Filipino-American breakfast if you wish to stay away from the buffet crowd, afternoon tea and evening cocktails. Small servings but I really like the food presentation here especially their pastries. From 3PM to 5PM, they serve Afternoon Tea while from 6PM to 7PM they served evening cocktails where you can enjoy more delightful finger food, desserts and drinks. Here are some of the savory snacks they served from our September and December stay:
Buffet Breakfast
On Christmas day, they opened the function room for the breakfast crowd. I initially hated the idea of moving to the function room to dine but we cannot miss hotel breakfast! I mean, who goes on a hotel staycation without the breakfast buffet???
It felt like we attended an event haha but I still love having breakfast at their Food Exchange section at the ground floor because of better ambiance. Here, you can find a wider selection compared to Premier Lounge. I especially love their pastries!
New Year countdown was also set at the ballroom but since everyone wanted to view the fireworks outside, we moved to a different place.
I truly appreciate all quality services from Novotel especially during the peak season. It was a very memorable gathering for us. Thank you, Novotel! The best staycations are spent with your loved ones indeed — including your furbabies!
Last Updated on 11 months by Carizza
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