Around-the-corner hotel adventures at Richmonde

MANILA, Philippines – Not everyone wants to go to Timbuktu for summer vacation. Whether it’s getting rid of stress, work that needs them to be on-call, a lack of funds, or a desire to keep things simple, some people want a change of scene but prefer to stay close to home.

For Metro Manila residents who want a change of scene but want to avoid the extra hassle of an out-of-town trip, hotels around town can be the best solution.

Here are 5 reasons why booking a room in hotels just around the corner is the perfect middle ground between a staycation and an all-out summer trip:

1. Get to discover hidden spots in a (seemingly) familiar place

When I say “just around the corner,” you don’t have to take it literally. Choose a hotel in a different part of the city or province, perhaps an area you drive by everyday but have never really explored. In Metro Manila, try checking out cities you rarely visit. Though these places may just be a car drive away, they still have many adventures and thrills to offer.

Be open even to places that aren’t often associated with travel and tourism such as Ortigas City. Richmonde Hotel on 21 San Miguel Avenue is right smack in the middle of this business hub that has much in store for the curious traveller. There are endless choices of restaurants in El Pueblo, Metrowalk, and the nearby malls. Night-prowling foodies can invade Banchetto Emerald, a food fair that happens from 12am to 11am on Saturdays along F. Ortigas Jr. Avenue.

History junkies can visit the Ortigas Foundation Library on the second floor of the Ortigas Building, Ortigas corner Meralco Avenue. They have an extensive collection of writings about National Hero Jose Rizal and rare books, some dating as far back as the 18th century. They also often hold talks by famous artists, writers, historians, and other experts on culture and the arts.

You may ask, why book in a hotel when you can just drive to these places and go home? Because staying in the area is part of the immersive experience.

2. Experience luxury without guilt

Cash-strapped travellers often settle for not-so-awesome accommodations because they also have to spend on airfare and a tourism package. This potentially stressful scenario is not present when travelling nearby so you can afford to splurge on accommodations.

Luxury does not have to come with too hefty a price tag, either. Many hotels are affordable yet offer comparable amenities and services.

Richmonde Hotel comes with such amenities as a sauna room, a health center, and even rentable office space at their business center for those who like to get some work done even when on vacation.

But the hotel’s guests often come for its indoor heated pool. Made safe from the elements by it’s sky-light ceiling, it is ideal for family outings with young children. The pleasant water temperature helps guests — often businessmen — relax and forget their troubles.

3. Enjoy promos and special offers

Most hotels offer special menus or activities to lead up to occasions like Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, or Christmas. Richmonde Hotel has a buffet for Mother’s Day in which guests can feast on a Bowl of Salad Risoni with Salsicia Sausage, Pan-seared Chicken Leg with Red Wine Wild Mushroom Sauce, Caramel Cheesecake, and more.  

Some hotels invite celebrities to sing for a special program or give away fantastic discounts for rooms and amenities.

This all adds to the novelty of the experience because even if you’re in town, you still get to experience a special treat.

4. Sit back and relax

Many times, the only reason we want a vacation is so we can relax from our chores. There’s need to go out of town for that. In a hotel — whether nearby or leagues away — you don’t have to wash dishes or busy yourself with keeping things neat and tidy. Rooms usually come with a free breakfast so there’s no need to cook, either.

There’s no reason why you can’t just hit the pool or curl up in the big bed with a book. The only thing employees of the hotel want you to do is enjoy your stay.

5. Have a more carefree bonding experience with friends

Because you’re trip isn’t so far away and not as stressful to organize, inviting friends to come along for the fun is much easier. Whereas out-of-town trips require advanced planning and, often, a strict adherence to the itinerary, you and your friends can be more loose and carefree with nearby trips.

Booking in nearby hotels leaves more room for last-minute changes or additions to the party. Someone who suddenly decides to join the group can easily tag along or get a room if the hotel still has available ones (more likely during off-season months).

Also, such trips attract friends who are too busy to organize out-of-town trips or who prefer to stay within their comfort zones. This is the perfect compromise, allowing them creature comforts and convenience but assuring that all of you will bond over a different experience. – Rappler.com

For more information about Richmonde Hotel, visit www.richmondehotel.com.