Social Items

Showing posts sorted by date for query Santorini Resort. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query Santorini Resort. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Nothing beats a quick weekend staycation to reset, especially when you score an absolute luxury deal in the heart of the Metro. Last weekend, our family packed our bags for a premium overnight escape at The Alpha Suites in Makati to celebrate Josh and Gabby's birthdays.


Thanks to a special booking voucher, we managed to bag a massive 3-Bedroom Suite for only around ₱13,000 a night—an incredible steal given the high-end amenities and sprawling spaces we walked into.

Watch the vlog here:


If you are planning a luxury family staycation in Makati, here is an insider review of what it is really like to stay at one of the top-rated serviced residences in the Philippines.


The Alpha Suites Location

Situated along the Ayala Avenue Extension in Makati, The Alpha Suites offers premium accommodations featuring fully equipped gourmet kitchens, spacious dining areas, and private living rooms. Guests can also enjoy access to extensive, top-tier sports and fitness facilities.


Easily navigable via Waze, the property sits directly across from the Makati Police Station and is a convenient 8-minute walk from the MRT Ayala Station. The building is highly visible and easy to spot thanks to its prominent prominent signage on the facade.




Checking In: A Smooth Recovery and Free Welcome Drinks

Our stay started with a minor scheduling shift. Standard check-in was originally at 2:00 PM, but because the hotel enforces strict deep-cleaning standards, our room readiness was moved to 3:00 PM.


To make up for the hour delay, the front desk generously handed us complimentary welcome drink vouchers redeemable at the 6th-floor pool area. It was a fair trade, and sipping cold drinks by the water was the perfect way to kick off our weekend.



Inside the Massive 3-Bedroom Suite (Unit 10BC)

When we finally unlocked the door to Suite 10BC, any slight annoyance from the delay evaporated. I was completely in awe of the sheer scale of the space.


The layout felt like two separate high-end condominium units seamlessly combined into one massive, modern home.


The entire unit features centralized air conditioning, blazing-fast free Wi-Fi, automatic motion-sensor lighting, and an abundance of flush, hidden storage cabinets integrated beautifully into the walls.


THE ALPHA SUITES - SUITE 10BC MAP


Master Suite
  • King Bed + Smart TV + Walk-in Closet
  • Double Vanity Restroom (His & Hers)

Bedroom 2
  • Two Double Beds + Private En-Suite

Bedroom 3
  • Double Bed + Pull-out Bed + Work Desk
  • Dedicated Restroom across the Hall

Living & Dining
  • Floor-to-Ceiling Glass + Remote Blinds
  • Kitchen Island + 6 Sleek High Chairs

Full Kitchen
  • 5-Burner Induction + Oven + Dishwasher
  • 2-Door Fridge + Washer & Separate Dryer


Premium Living and Dining Areas

The open-concept living area is framed by magnificent floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering expansive city views. For privacy or mid-day naps, a simple click of a remote control automatically lowers the motorized window blinds.


The dining area features a pristine white center island table paired with six elegant high chairs, making it a wonderful spot for family bonding.



A Fully Equipped Chef’s Kitchen

For families who prefer home-cooked meals during a staycation, this kitchen is a dream.


It is fully packed with:

  • A sleek under-mount sink and electric water kettle

  • A microwave, a baking oven, and a premium 5-burner induction cooker

  • A complete set of high-quality kitchenware, dishes, and utensils

  • Complimentary iced coffee mixes and 6 bottles of drinking water

  • A premium automatic dishwasher (which we didn’t need to use, but loved having as an option)


Hidden Utility Conveniences

Tucked discreetly near the dining area is a large two-door refrigerator, a front-load washing machine, and a completely separate clothes dryer. Having a dedicated dryer is a massive lifesaver for families; we used it to instantly dry our wet swimming attire so we wouldn't have to pack damp clothes into our bags.


Luxury Bedroom Layouts


The Master Bedroom: Features a plush king-size bed, a dedicated flat-screen TV, and a gorgeous walk-in closet with automatic sensor lighting. The en-suite master bathroom is wrapped in floor-to-ceiling mirrors, boasting a hot-and-cold rain shower and a luxurious double vanity ("his and hers") sink setup.


The Second Bedroom: Ideal for kids or extended family, equipped with two comfortable double beds and its own private, attached bathroom.

The Third Bedroom: Holds a cozy double-size bed with a clever pull-out bed underneath, alongside a quiet, spacious office desk setup. A separate full restroom sits directly across the hallway.



5-Star Amenities: Poolside Relaxation and Indoor Sports

By late afternoon on our first day, we headed straight down to the 6th floor to check out the iconic pool area.


Sprawling Lagoon Pool

The pool deck is beautifully landscaped with lush trees and tropical plants, making you forget you are in the middle of the busy Makati Central Business District. The main swimming pool runs 5 feet deep, while a separate 2-foot deep kids' pool keeps the little ones safe.


The hotel maintains strict safety and hygiene rules: no outside food or beverages are allowed on the deck, but they provide free premium pool towels and colorful floaties for children.


We claimed our free welcome drinks at the poolside lounge bar—the fresh Mango Passion Fruit blend was absolute perfection.


THE ALPHA SUITES AMENITIES GUIDE


4th Floor
  • Main Breakfast Buffet Venue
  • Indoor Basketball, Tennis & Badminton Courts

5th Floor
  • 500-sqm High-End Gym & Fitness Center
  • Indoor Kids' Playroom & Billiards Hall

6th Floor
  • 500-Meter Lagoon Pool & 2ft Kids' Pool
  • Poolside Bar, Lounge, & Resort Cabanas


High-End Sports Facilities & Wellness

On day two, we explored the rest of the complex. The sheer volume of amenities inside this property is unmatched:

5th Floor: A fully supervised indoor kids' playroom, a billiards hall, and a massive 500-square-meter professional gym.

4th Floor: High-ceiling, championship-scale indoor courts for basketball, badminton, and tennis, plus a high-definition virtual golf simulator.


The property also houses an upscale day spa and a professional hair salon for guests looking for premium pampering.



Staycation Dining: From Filipino Comfort Food to Authentic Taho

You will never go hungry staying here. The property itself is a massive culinary hub, but it is also steps away from Makati's top dining districts.


Dinner at Ayala North Exchange

For dinner on our first night, we took a short walk over to the nearby Ayala North Exchange mall complex.


We dined at Sunrise Dreams, an excellent restaurant specializing in authentic Filipino cuisine.

Our family favorites included:

Pork Steak: Incredibly tender, perfectly marinated, and easily the highlight of the meal.

Laing & Kare-Kare: Rich, creamy, and packed with traditional flavors.

Pork Sinigang: A wonderfully sour, comforting broth filled with tender meat and fresh vegetables.


Before heading back up our unit, we grabbed a few quick groceries at a nearby convenience store. We used our kitchen to whip up a midnight snack of hot french fries and local pika-pika (finger foods) while watching movies.



The Alpha Suites Breakfast Buffet Experience

We woke up at 7:00 AM for the complimentary breakfast buffet on the 4th floor. The spread is enormous, covering international, Asian, and continental selections.


I loaded my plate with an American breakfast lineup: fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, French toast, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruits, paired with hot coffee.


The absolute best part? They have an authentic Taho station. It tasted exactly like the traditional street-vendor taho with warm silken tofu, sweet arnibal syrup, and sago pearls.


The 9 Signature Specialty Restaurants Inside Alphaland

If you choose to dine inside the complex, you have access to nine world-class international restaurants:

Balesin Islander (Filipino Regional Cuisine)

Tosca (Fine Italian Pastas & Pizzas)

Sakura (Authentic Japanese Sushi & Sashimi)

Tang Palace (Traditional Cantonese Specialties)

Mykonos (Vibrant Greek & Mediterranean Plates)

Costa del Sol (Classic Spanish Tapas & Paella)

Mark's Prime Steakhouse (Premium Grain-Fed Steaks)

Salathip (Aromatic Thai Comfort Food)

The Clubhouse / Bon Phở (International Classics & Vietnamese Phở)




A Final Stop at Ramen Nagi Valero

After relaxing and packing up, we checked out comfortably at 1:00 PM. Before heading home, we drove over to Valero Street in Salcedo Village for a late lunch at Ramen Nagi.


I ordered my absolute favorite comfort bowl: the Butao King with signature rich tonkotsu broth, thin noodles, and customized at Level 2 Spiciness for a perfect, subtle kick.


By 3:00 PM, we were officially on our way back home, completely relaxed and refreshed.


Makati Staycation Guide: Nearby Hotels and Things to Do

If you are planning an itinerary around the Ayala Avenue Extension or the West Makati area, here is a quick travel guide to help you maximize your stay.


5 Highly-Rated Hotels Near The Alpha Suites

Should you want to explore other properties in this immediate neighborhood, consider booking these top-rated hotels:

Seda Residences Makati: Located just a few blocks away along Ayala Avenue, offering gorgeous high-rise city views and fully-serviced apartment layouts perfect for long stays.

Valero Grand Suites by Swiss-Belhotel: Tucked away in the quiet, tree-lined streets of Salcedo Village, known for its spacious boutique suites and excellent walkability.

Red Planet Makati Amorsolo: Situated just down the road on Chino Roces Avenue; a highly reliable, clean, and budget-friendly option for minimalist travelers.

Discovery Primea: A premier 5-star luxury hotel located further up Ayala Avenue, famous for its magnificent infinity pool overlooking the skyline and elite wellness spa.

New World Makati Hotel: Located directly across the street from the Greenbelt shopping complex, making it the ultimate choice for luxury retail and central city access.

Valero Grand Suites



Top Things to Do in West Makati

Staying on this side of the Central Business District gives you easy access to culture, food, and relaxation:

Relax at Ayala Triangle Gardens: A 2-hectare green oasis nestled among corporate skyscrapers. It’s the ultimate spot in Makati for an early morning jog, casual strolling, or catching seasonal light shows.

Visit the Yuchengco Museum: Located right inside RCBC Plaza (just a 3-minute walk from The Alpha Suites). It houses beautiful master paintings by Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo, alongside historical Jose Rizal memorabilia.

Explore the Ayala Museum: Located right by the Greenbelt complex, this world-class museum features incredible exhibits on pre-colonial Philippine gold, historic textiles, and the famous hand-carved Diorama Experience.

Shop at the Salcedo Weekend Market: If your staycation falls over a Friday night, wake up early on Saturday morning and walk to Jaime Velasquez Park. It is widely considered one of the best outdoor gourmet food and artisanal lifestyle markets in Metro Manila.

Go Café Hopping in Salcedo and Legazpi Villages: These quiet, residential enclaves are packed with cozy, third-wave coffee shops, hidden brunch spots, artisan bakeries, and intimate wine bars perfect for an afternoon wind-down.



THE ALPHA SUITES: 3-Bedroom Stay in Makati (Staycation and City Tour)


Summer in the metro can get intense, and sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to gather your favorite people, pack a weekend bag, and head to a massive pool resort right in the city.


Recently, my family, along with our good friends Team Basti, did exactly that. This is only the third time I have spent a staycation in an SMDC - first was in Wind Residences in Tagaytay and the other was in Breeze Residences in Manila.


We went on a quick but incredibly fun 2-Days, 1-Night (2D1N) weekend staycation at Shore Residences in Pasay City. It was the perfect, hassle-free summer escape without leaving Metro Manila.


If you are planning a big group staycation soon, here is a breakdown of how our weekend went, what to expect, and some tips to maximize your stay!



4 Airbnb Units & Direct Pool Access

Since we were a big group, we booked a total of 4 Airbnb units. One of the best decisions we made was ensuring that 2 of those units had direct pool access.


Quick Cost Breakdown
  • Airbnb Rate: ₱4,500 per unit / night
  • Pool Access Fee: ₱150 per head / day


Having direct pool access meant that from our balcony, we could literally open the door and take a quick dip into the refreshing 4-foot resort pool. It was incredibly convenient, especially for the kids who wanted to jump in and out of the water all day.


Note on pool fees: The condo admin charges ₱150 per person per day to use the pool. Because our crew couldn't get enough of the water, some of us happily paid for 2 days of pool access to maximize both Day 1 and Day 2!



Room Amenities: Home Away from Home

The Airbnb units were studio-type apartments, but cleverly laid out with a separate bedroom area, a cozy living room, and a dining space.


It truly felt like a home away from home.
The units came completely equipped for a comfortable family stay:

  • Kitchen: Clean fridge, induction cooktops, and complete kitchenware.

  • Restroom: Good water pressure, a water heater for the shower, and a washing machine—which was an absolute lifesaver for spinning dry all our wet swimwear!

  • Kid-Friendly Spaces: Aside from the massive pool networks, the central courtyard also features a dedicated, separate playground area where the kids could run around once they were done swimming.



Food & Errands 🍕

When you're on staycation with a big crew, nobody wants to spend their vacation hovering over a hot stove or doing the dishes. We decided to go full-on relaxation mode.

For all our main meals, we simply ordered through GrabFood. Being in the heart of Pasay meant we had endless food options—from fast food cravings to big family platters.

For quick errands, ice, drinks, and late-night snack runs, we didn't even have to leave the complex. There are multiple convenience stores right downstairs, including a fully stocked Alfamart, which made grabbing last-minute essentials completely effortless.


Guide to Shore Residences, Pasay City


📍 Where is it located?

Shore Residences is located within the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, Seaside Boulevard, corner Sunrise Drive, Pasay City. It’s highly visible, incredibly centralized, and sits right by Manila Bay.


🚗 How to Get There

Via Private Vehicle / Grab: Simply input "Shore Residences" (specify whether you are staying in Shore 1, 2, or 3) on Waze or Google Maps. If you're coming from the north or south, you can easily access it via EDSA, Macapagal Boulevard, or the NAIAX/Cavitex exits.

Parking Fee: P600 to P750 per night/stay

Via Public Transport (Commute):

  • LRT-1 / MRT-3: Take the LRT-1 to EDSA Station or the MRT-3 to Taft Avenue Station. From there, head to the front of Metropoint Mall or under the station where there are dedicated jeepneys and UV Express vans bound for SM Mall of Asia (MOA).

  • From MOA: You can take a short 10-15 minute walk towards Seaside Blvd/Sunrise Drive, or hail a quick tricycle/Grab ride to the main lobbies of Shore.




🎡 Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

If your group wants to explore beyond the pool area, you are practically surrounded by entertainment options:

SM Mall of Asia & IKEA (5-10 mins away): Shop, dine, or get lost in the massive world of IKEA. You can also visit the Space & Time Cube Museum at S Maison for some amazing futuristic photos.

SM by the Bay Amusement Park: Take a sunset stroll, watch the famous Manila Bay sunset, and let the kids experience the rides, including the famous MOA Eye Ferris Wheel.

Star City: If your crew is looking for more extreme thrills, the newly upgraded Star City amusement park is just a short drive away down Roxas Boulevard.

Gootopia / The Dessert Museum: Fun, interactive, and highly Instagrammable indoor parks located nearby that are perfect for kids and the young at heart.


Final Thoughts ✨

Our 2D1N staycation with Team Basti proved that you don't need to drive for hours to Laguna or Batangas just to enjoy a premium summer pool experience. For ₱4,500 a night, having a private space to bond, a massive resort-grade pool right at your doorstep, and the convenience of city living made it a weekend to remember.


Check Out More Staycation Ideas!



SHORE RESIDENCES: A Weekend City Staycation in Pasay


Finding the perfect family-friendly accommodation in Boracay can be a bit of a puzzle. You want something budget-friendly but comfortable, close to the action but quiet enough for a good night's sleep. During our recent 4-day tropical getaway, we stayed at Altabriza Resort Boracay, and it hit every single requirement on our checklist.

If you are planning a family trip to the island and want a modern, clean, and highly accessible place to stay, here is my honest personal review of our experience.



AltaBriza Resort Boracay

Traveling as a family of four usually means booking multiple rooms or paying premium prices for a suite. At Altabriza Resort, we managed to book a spacious room equipped with two large beds—perfect for 4 pax—for around PHP 5,000 per night.


Considering the quality of the room, the amenities, and the fact that it included a free daily breakfast buffet, this price point is an absolute steal for Boracay standards.



Our Room Highlight: The Ultimate Private Dip Pool

The biggest surprise—and the absolute highlight of our stay—was our room setup. Our room actually featured its very own private dip pool right outside!


Whenever we wanted to wash off the saltwater from the beach or just unwind in privacy without heading to the main pool deck, we could just step out and enjoy a relaxing soak. It was a massive hit with the family and added a luxurious, exclusive vibe to our staycation.


Must also try is their rooftop infinity pool where you can get great views of Boracay's shores.


The room itself was kept pristine throughout our 4-day stay, thanks to their excellent daily housekeeping service. From extra towels to daily essentials, the staff provided us with almost everything we needed without us having to constantly ask.




Dining at Tangerine Restaurant

Every morning of our stay started at Tangerine Restaurant, Altabriza’s in-house dining spot located on the 2nd floor. It’s conveniently situated right near the main pool area, giving it a bright, breezy ambiance to start the day.


The complimentary breakfast buffet offered a great rotation of classic Filipino breakfast favorites, eggs, fresh fruits, and pastries. Fueling up here before heading out saved us a lot of time and money, making our mornings completely stress-free.


The Location: Right in the Middle of It All

Altabriza Resort is located right along the Main Road in Balabag, positioning it almost perfectly near the center of the island.


Proximity to Key Spots


Station 2 White Beach: It’s a very manageable, flat 10 to 15-minute walk down to the famous beachfront.

D’Mall & Jollibee: Since it's located in Balabag, you are just a short walk away from D’Mall for shopping, currency exchange, and endless restaurant options.

Balabag Lake: Located just around the corner, making navigation super simple.

Bulabog Beach: If you love water sports or want to catch the sunrise, it’s just a 20-minute walk in the opposite direction toward the eastern side of the island.

Book a Stay at Altabriza Resort Boracay!


Getting Around the Island

Because the resort sits directly on the main Boracay Highway, catching transport is incredibly easy. You can flag down an electric tricycle (e-trike) right outside the lobby to take you anywhere—whether you want to explore the powdery sands of Station 1, visit Puka Shell Beach, or travel further down south.


The Transport Dilemma: Resort Transfer vs. DIY

One great feature that Altabriza offers is a free transfer service from the Caticlan Jetty Port directly to the hotel.

While this is an amazing perk for families who want a seamless, hands-off travel experience, we actually opted for a DIY (Do-It-Yourself) route instead to keep our itinerary flexible. However, knowing that the resort provides this option for free gives peace of mind to anyone looking to skip the hassle of organizing their own boats and trikes upon arrival.




The Verdict: Would We Stay Here Again?

Without a doubt, yes. Altabriza Resort Boracay gave us the best of both worlds: a clean, modern, and hospitable sanctuary away from the noisy beachfront crowds, while still keeping us close enough to walk to the sand whenever we wanted.

Between the private dip pool, the delicious breakfast at Tangerine, and the central location, it is a fantastic mid-range option for families who want to maximize their budget without sacrificing comfort.

Watch the vlog here:






IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN BORACAY:

ALTABRIZA RESORT BORACAY: Review and Personal Experience (4 Days 3 Nights Stay)


If you are looking for the perfect family staycation in the heart of Pasay, you know that the struggle to find "the one" is real. You want convenience, great food, and enough activities to keep the kids from climbing the walls.

Last October 2025, my family and I decided to skip the usual neighborhood trick-or-treating for something a bit more "magical." We headed to Belmont Hotel Manila to celebrate their highly anticipated Halloween event: Bailey and the Chocolate Factory.

Here is my full, personal review of our weekend stay, the "Golden Ticket" experience, and why this hotel remains a top choice for travelers and locals alike.



About Belmont Hotel Manila

Before we dive into the candy-coated details, let’s talk about the hotel itself. Belmont Hotel Manila is a premier 4-star destination that has built a solid reputation for "sophisticated staying." Since its opening in 2015, it has become a cornerstone of Newport World Resorts (formerly Resorts World Manila).

Belmont Hotel Manila

Location

The hotel is strategically located right across from NAIA Terminal 3. For travelers, this is a godsend. You can actually access the hotel via Runway Manila, the air-conditioned pedestrian link bridge that connects the airport directly to Newport City.

If you’re driving, like we did, it’s easily accessible via the NAIAX (NAIA Expressway). The hotel offers complimentary parking for staying guests, which is a massive perk in an area where parking slots are usually gold dust.

RELATED GUIDE: Best Hotels Near NAIA Terminal 3 (Room Rates and Online Booking Guide)


Day 1: Checking In and Rooftop Relaxation

We decided to maximize the weekend by checking in on a Saturday, one day before the big Halloween event. The check-in process was smooth, and the lobby already had that buzz of excitement for the upcoming festivities.


Rooftop Swimming with a View

The first order of business? The pool. Located on the rooftop, Belmont’s swimming area offers a stunning panoramic view of the airport runways and the Metro Manila skyline. It’s the perfect spot to watch planes take off while you soak.

Pool at 11th floor

Amenities: They provide fresh, clean towels at the pool deck.

Pro-Tip for Parents: The hotel is very strict about hygiene (which I appreciate!). Swimming diapers are required for toddlers. Make sure to pack some, or you might have a very disappointed little one!


A Taste of Filipino Tradition

After our swim, we headed back down to the lobby. One thing I loved was the local touch—they had stalls set up right in front of the entrance serving Bibingka and Puto Bumbong. Nothing beats the smell of charcoal-fired rice cakes in the afternoon! It was the perfect pre-dinner snack.

Bibingka and Puto Bumbong

Kids enjoy the beds

For dinner, we took a short walk over to Newport Mall. The options there are endless, but we settled on Bulgogi Brothers. There’s just something about a hot Korean grill that feels like the ultimate Saturday night treat.




Day 2: The Bailey and the Chocolate Factory Event

Sunday morning started with a heavy breakfast at Cafe Belmont. The spread had a great variety—from Filipino breakfast staples like longganisa and garlic rice to an omelet station and fresh pastries. We made sure to fuel up because we knew the "Chocolate Factory" was waiting.


The Room Package: Is it Worth It?

We availed of the Special Halloween Room Package for PHP 7,900. Looking back, it was a steal. Here’s what we got:

  • Overnight Stay in a comfortable, modern room.
  • Breakfast for Two.
  • Two Golden Tickets to the Bailey and the Chocolate Factory event.
  • A Limited Edition Bailey Bear (a high-quality plushie that my kids still sleep with).
  • Access to facilities and parking.

Party's about to start

A Magical Family Day

The event was inspired by the classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Belmont really went all out. The theme was "Bailey and the Chocolate Factory," featuring the hotel's adorable mascot, Bailey Bear.

Bailey and the Chocolate Factory

For an entrance fee of PHP 1,400 per person (kids 2 and below were free), the value was incredible. The ballroom was transformed into a candy wonderland. We enjoyed:

  • Trick or Treat: Multiple stations where the kids could fill their bags.

  • Games & Entertainment: Fun activities that kept the energy high.

  • Face Painting & Arts: The artists were talented and very patient with the kids.

  • Lunch Buffet: A kid-friendly (and parent-approved) spread that was actually delicious.

  • Best in Costume Contest: Seeing all the creative costumes was a highlight!




Final Thoughts

Our overall experience at Belmont Hotel Manila was fantastic. Often, "event" hotels can feel cramped or disorganized, but Belmont managed the crowd perfectly.

The transition from our Saturday relaxation to the Sunday "sugar rush" was seamless. Whether you are looking for a place to stay before a flight or a dedicated family staycation spot in Manila, I highly recommend keeping an eye on their seasonal packages.

In character! Guess who!

Quick Summary for Travelers


Vibe: Modern, professional, but family-friendly.

Best For: Families, transit travelers, and staycationers.

Must Try: The rooftop pool and the breakfast at Cafe Belmont.

Nearby Attractions: Newport Mall, Newport Performing Arts Theater, and St. Therese of the Child Jesus Shrine.


Check Out More Staycation Ideas!



Belmont Hotel Manila Contact Details

Telephone Number: +63 (2) 318-8888
Email: reservations.manila@thebelmonthotels.com
Instagram & Twitter: @BelmontHotelManila


Read Next


Our Halloween Weekend at Belmont Hotel Manila (Review and Experience)

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)