Accor Hotels, based in Paris, is a French hotel group that runs close to 4,000 hotels all over the world, ranging from economy brands all the way to luxury properties. The lowest rung on the ladder is represented by Ibis Hotels. The mid-scale brands are Novotel and Mercure. The upscale brands are Swissotel, Pullman, and the Grand Mercure, and the luxury brand is Sofitel, soon to be joined by the Raffles and the Fairmont Hotels.
We are all very familiar with the local Sofitel, its facilities, its standard of service and how it pampers guests, from arrival to departure. Of course, we were thrilled by its being the first, and for the longest time, the only resort hotel in the metropolis, until new ones popped up these past two years.
So, when news broke a few years ago that the Aranetas would open a Novotel in that very busy eastern sector of Metro Manila, those of us in the industry were elated because, among the many international hotel chains operating in the country, it would be the first “serious player” in that part of town. We all know how Cubao has progressed into a booming corporate district, with the advent of many multinational companies setting up their business hubs in the area.
When the hotel officially opened, I made it a point to check out its facilities. Prior to going there, I reminded myself not to expect the same standard of facilities as those of Sofitel because, in Accor’s hierarchy of brands, Novotel is two classes lower than Sofitel.
But the moment I stepped into Novotel Manila Araneta Center, I was awed by what I came face-to-face with – a very spacious, modern and well-designed lobby which exudes the same luxury feel as that of Sofitel. The furniture, clustered in strategic parts, were of avant garde designs that gave me the impression I was walking into a time tunnel to the future. The lobby even has a circular, semi-closed-in area equipped with some PCs which guests could use while waiting for friends – a clever way to pass the time. I was pleasantly surprised and amused by everything that I saw, I decided to book myself for an overnight stay.
The hotel has 401 spacious and stylish rooms, and offers direct access to the LRT and MRT Stations. It is right next to the busy Gateway Mall and the Smart Araneta Coliseum, making it very convenient for guests who have things to do in that part of the metropolis.
Food is aplenty at the contemporary casual dining Food Exchange Manila, which is at the lobby level, where the daily buffet is extensive enough to feed a king’s legion. For cocktails, there’s the Gourmet Bar right next to the restaurant.
Located on the sixth floor, outdoor, on an elevated ground and several meters away from the swimming pool, is what I find interesting: the Bridal Garden, lined with bushes, with a pathway towards a gazebo where a couple can have their wedding vows. The bridal reception can also be done in the area, and the party will have a breezy, beautiful view of the surroundings.
The Olympic-sized outdoor pool is so inviting, especially when one has to bear the El Niño-induced heat and humidity the entire working day. All around the pool are palm trees and various types of vegetation, giving one that resort feel that city folks like us always enjoy.
But what I like most about the hotel was my room… spacious, luxurious, with a very modern design paired with excellent facilities. The orthopedic bed and the large fluffy pillows made sleeping an effortless and heavenly diversion.
The bathroom walls are all clear glass but when you want some privacy inside, with the flick of a switch, the glass turns frosted, giving you the visual isolation you want. The bathroom amenities are all high-end and what was curiously interesting was the bath soap made from sugar! I didn’t know whether to shower with it or put it in my coffee.
All in all, I was a “happy camper” during my stay. This new Cubao landmark has everything one looks for in luxury accommodations, at prices that don’t hurt the pocket. In fact, I found it difficult to believe I was not in any of the luxury brands of the Accor Group. With all its fascinating, modern accoutrements and superb facilities, the hotel felt like a Sofitel, or a Fairmont, or a Raffles, but, truth to tell, it was Novotel Manila Araneta Center.
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