Shekhinah Staycation: Manila's BEST Hidden Gem Revealed!
Shekhinah Staycation: Manila's Best Hidden Gem? Let's Unpack This, Shall We? (Brace Yourselves!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I've just emerged, slightly rumpled and deeply relaxed, from the Shekhinah Staycation experience. And let me tell you, the claim of "Manila's BEST Hidden Gem" is… well, it's a bold statement. BUT! After a weekend of intense scrutinization (read: lounging and eating), I'm here to spill the (perfectly brewed) tea.
First Impressions & Accessibility: Getting There, Getting In, Getting Around (or Trying To!)
Shekhinah isn't that hidden, geographically. It's reasonably accessible, but traffic in Manila, as we all know, is a beast. Accessibility: Let's get real. This is Manila. While they do list "Facilities for disabled guests," I didn't see a ramp into the main building, so it's crucial you double-check directly with them if you have mobility concerns. Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Valet parking: Score! Parking's a breeze, which is a huge win in this city. Airport transfer is another plus, especially if you’re jet-lagged and just want to collapse. Getting around I'd say is better than some downtown hotels.
Internet? Oh, the Internet. (Free Wi-Fi!)
Internet, Internet [LAN], Internet services, Wi-Fi in public areas, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!: Okay, folks, this is important. In a city that loves its social media, working remotely, or just streaming Netflix, the internet needs to be solid. And Shekhinah delivers. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yes! And it was generally reliable. I mean, there were a few glitches (hello, Manila power fluctuations!), but nothing that ruined my Instagram story binge. Internet access – wireless, Internet access – LAN: They offer both wired and wireless, which shows they understand the modern traveler. A total win.
Cleanliness and the "Safety First" Vibe: Is It REALLY Safe?
Cleanliness and safety: They definitely take cleanliness seriously. This is a huge plus, especially in the age of… you know. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment: They've ticked all the boxes. I saw staff diligently cleaning everything. The staff looked like they knew their way around a bottle of sanitiser. Hand sanitizer was EVERYWHERE, which, yes, I appreciated. Hot water linen and laundry washing: Essential. Doctor/nurse on call, First aid kit: Reassuring. This commitment to safety gave me peace of mind.
The Rooms: A Sanctuary? (Mostly…and with potential for a Great View!)
Available in all rooms: This section is pretty intense and quite a lot of variety, so I don't need to go through every single item. However, Shekhinah has thought of nearly everything. Non-smoking rooms is a huge bonus in a city that loves its cigarettes. Blackout curtains – YES! Crucial for a good night's sleep (or a daytime nap). Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens: All the basics are covered, and then some. My room – the high floor one - had a breathtaking view - and a comfy sofa. Score! The bed was heavenly. The complimentary tea was a lifeline (Manila traffic, am I right?). The downsides? While the room was clean and well-appointed, it wasn't particularly inspired. It's functional, comfortable, but not exactly design-magazine worthy.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food, Glorious Food (with a few hiccups!)
Dining, drinking, and snacking: Ah, the heart of any good staycation: the food. Restaurants: The hotel has restaurants, serving a variety of cuisines. Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant: They cover their bases. Breakfast [buffet], Buffet in restaurant: The breakfast buffet was solid, if a little… predictable. It had the usual suspects: eggs, bacon, pastries, a decent selection of Asian dishes. Nothing to write home about, but certainly enough to fuel a day of lounging. A la carte in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant: The room service (24-hour, no less!) was a lifesaver after a long day of… well, doing nothing much. They have Poolside bar, Snack bar: Perfect for a quick bite or a refreshing drink. Happy hour, Bottle of water, Desserts in restaurant, Coffee shop, Vegetarian restaurant, Room service [24-hour], Alternative meal arrangement: They are fully equipped.
The Downside… (Because Nothing’s Perfect!)
Okay, the food could have been slightly more exciting. The breakfast was adequate, but a bit… bland. I craved something with a little more oomph. Also, and this is a minor gripe, the coffee wasn’t strong enough for this caffeine addict. But look, I’m being nitpicky. Overall, the dining experience was perfectly serviceable.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax: Spa Day Dreams!
Things to do, ways to relax, Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor]: Here's where Shekhinah really shines. The spa is a MUST. I indulged in a massage, and it was divine. The pool is amazing, with a killer view. The Pool with view is definitely a selling point! If you’re into fitness, the Fitness center, Gym/fitness looked well-equipped. Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor]: I didn't manage to check out everything but it's all there!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Services and conveniences: Shekhinah is well-equipped with all the usual hotel services. Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center: Everything you'd expect and more. Concierge service was very helpful, and the staff were generally friendly and responsive. Elevator is obviously a must.
For the Kids and Others in Your Life
For the kids, Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: They seem to be mostly family-friendly, but I don't have kids, so I can't say for sure. They do have a Babysitting service and Kids meal options. Couple's room: Seems available!
The Verdict: "Hidden Gem" Status?
So, is Shekhinah Staycation a true "Hidden Gem?" Well, it depends. If you're looking for a perfectly polished, super-stylish, Instagram-worthy hotel, maybe not. But if you're after a comfortable, clean, and relaxing stay, with great service and some seriously awesome spa options, then YES. Shekhinah is totally worth it. It's a fantastic escape from the Manila madness.
Now, for the Big Sell: My Persuasive Pitch (Because I Want YOU to Go!)
Tired of the Manila Grind? Need a Break? Unlock Bliss at Shekhinah Staycation!
Here’s why you NEED to book:
- Escape the Ordinary: Ditch the traffic, the stress, the constant chaos. Shekhinah is your urban oasis, offering a sanctuary of calm just a short drive away.
- Spa Heaven:
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly-preened travel itinerary. This is the Shekinah Staycation: Manila Edition, a chaotic, emotional, and probably slightly off-kilter journey through… well, me trying to relax in Manila. Let's go!
Day 1: Arrival & City Slickin' Shenanigans (or, The Great Hotel Room Debacle)
- 1:00 PM: Touchdown at NAIA. Ugh. Airport. Let’s just say I’ve had more graceful arrivals. Finding a Grab (the Filipino Uber, for the uninitiated) felt like wrestling a particularly stubborn carabao. Finally, sweating buckets, I secured a ride. Victory? Hardly.
- 2:00 PM: Check-in at Shekinah Residences. Okay, promises, promises. Website pictures are notorious liars, aren't they? My room… let's just say it was "cozy." Okay, fine, it was tiny. The "city view" was mostly a view of the air conditioning units of the building next door. My initial reaction? A slightly hysterical giggle, quickly followed by a wave of existential dread. Can I even breathe properly in here?
- 2:30 PM: Okay, I need to fix this. Rant time to the front desk, explaining my expectations for a relaxing staycation, which apparently, did not involve feeling like I was trapped in a shoebox. They offered to move me to an upgraded room, which, by the way, was still not great, but better. Small victories, right?
- 3:30 PM: Late lunch, after the 'situation', some sisig (Filipino chopped pig) with rice. The food was incredible, but the memory of the room still lingers. I am eating my feelings.
- 4:30 PM: I decided to go for a walk, or more like wandering around the streets of Manila. I observed the city's life, people hustling and bustling, it's a cacophony of sights, sounds, and smells. Everything from the blaring jeepney horns to the aroma of street food. My head spun. Manila is a sensory overload, and I am HERE FOR IT.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner with the family, an attempt to bond and laugh about the day, but the room trauma is real. I am hoping for a peaceful night.
Day 2: Culture Shock & Trying to be a "Relaxed Person"
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel, included some local coffee. Okay, I am feeling human again, so far. I am trying to be a relaxed person, like in the movies. I'll never be that person, but I can at least try!
- 10:00 AM: The National Museum Complex. Okay, I'm gonna be honest, massive halls full of art kind of intimidate me. I did find some cool stuff, and read about the pre-colonial history. I enjoyed the artwork, and the art makes me emotional, realizing the history I've never known.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a nearby food stall, adobo (Philippine stew) with rice again. Gotta love the classics. I also enjoyed watching a street vendor set up shop to sell ice cream.
- 2:30 PM: Back to the hotel. After the museums, I felt the urge to sleep, took a nap, it was heavenly.
- 4:00 PM: Had a conversation with a stranger, which I was not planning to, but the best conversations are the unexpected ones, and this one was one of those. We shared stories for an hour, and I realized the value of this staycation.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner with the family, and decided to enjoy the night
Day 3: A Day of Self-Discovery (and Failing Miserably)
- 10:00 AM: Gym and sauna. I was intending on trying to relax, but I don't know if I'm getting the "relaxing" part down.
- 11:00 AM: Brunch and read the book I brought for the stay, and I enjoyed it somehow.
- 1:00 PM: Shopping. This is more me.
- 4:00 PM: Some last-minute souvenir shopping. My luggage will be a disaster.
- 6:00 PM: Trying to cram in a final dinner at a restaurant, before the hotel check-out.
- 7:00 PM: Check-out and going wherever the day takes me.
Final Thoughts (or, The Messy Aftermath)
This staycation? It was messy. It was chaotic. It was… actually, pretty great. Manila, with all its flaws and sensory overload, is a place that crawls under your skin and refuses to leave. I didn't come back "relaxed." I came back… changed. (Cheesy, I know, but true!) So, would I recommend a Shekinah Staycation in Manila? Absolutely. Just, maybe, pack some extra patience and a good book. And prepare to fall a little bit in love with the beautiful, messy chaos of it all. Goodbye, Manila! Until next time, you glorious creature.
Nessebar's Hidden Gem: Hotel Avenue's Unforgettable Bulgarian Escape
Ugh, What Even *IS* This Thing? (Like, Literally, What is this FAQ?)
Okay, fine, let's be real. You're looking at a list of frequently asked questions. A *FAQ*. It's like, the internet's way of saying, "Hey, before you email me the same darn question a million times, READ THIS!" I’m supposed to answer questions about… well, whatever the heck you're curious about, which in this case, is a whole lot of nothing, but pretend there's a topic here. If you don't mind me making a mess along the way.
I mean, who actually *reads* these things? Probably just the people who've already tried the "common sense" route and found it to be a spectacular failure. Welcome, friend. You're in the right place.
Is This Thing Actually Helpful, Or Just More Online Noise?
Look, I'm not gonna lie. I'm not exactly promising a unicorn here. Helpful? Maybe. Depends on your definition of "helpful." I try. Sometimes I succeed! Other times, I get lost in a rambling tangent about the existential dread of being a FAQ. (Just kidding… mostly.)
Seriously, let's be honest: you are likely wasting your time.
But hey, if you glean a tiny nugget of information, or at least get a chuckle out of my internal monologue, then consider it a win. Or maybe just a tiny, insignificant participation trophy. I don't judge.
Okay, Okay, let's pretend this is about... lets say, Getting a new pet. What kind of pet is right for me?
Oh, the pet question. The *eternal* question. Right, well, I could give you the standard, boring answers about lifestyle and space and allergies. But let's be brutally honest, shall we? The *right* pet? That's about as easy to figure out as a politician's true intentions.
Look at this: I once had a *plan*, a beautiful spreadsheet outlining the perfect dog for my… let's call them "ambitious" lifestyle. I wanted a running buddy, a smart companion, maybe even a dog who could fetch the newspaper (because, you know, still a thing in my fantasy world). And then… I met a grumpy, drool-y, perpetually-stinky Bulldog named Winston. Complete and utter chaos. He was the opposite of *everything* on my spreadsheet. Lazy. Dumb as a brick. But I fell hard.
My point? The perfect pet is probably the one who makes you laugh the most, the one who melts your heart with a goofy look or a tail wag, the one who needs you, even if they're a hot mess. Forget the checklist. Trust the gut. Then, you still might need to buy a shop vac. But it's worth it.
What is the biggest mistake people make when they get a new pet?
Oh, this is a good one. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement. Puppies! Kittens! Fluffy bunnies! But the biggest mistake? Overlooking the *long game.* Seriously. That tiny, adorable creature is going to... well, not stay tiny. They're going to need feeding, walking, training, vet visits, and a whole lotta love (and patience). Think about the next 10-15 years. Can you *really* commit? It's not just about the cuddles. It's about the poop bags, the chewed shoes, and the days when you're so tired you just want to hide under the covers, but... you can't, because your new best friend is staring at you with big, hopeful eyes.
I learned this the hard way. Twice. And still, I wouldn't trade either experiences for anything.
How do I prepare my home for a new pet?
Okay, you're in panic mode, right? You're picturing chaos, right?
Here's the *actual* prep list, and again, expect things to still go wrong. It is going to happen. Get pet-proofing supplies. Secure the valuable items. Do the training thing. Then, take a deep breath, and know that your home... it *will* change. It's not the end of the world, but I'm not gonna lie, it will get messier. Prepare for the inevitable: scratched furniture, misplaced toys, and the ever-present scent of "wet dog." You’ll get used to it.
My pet is making me crazy, what can I do?
Hang in there. First, breathe. Secondly, talk to your vet. rule out any medical issues. Then, I recommend asking for help. A trainer can be a life saver, even if you think you know it all. Be patient. And, most importantly: Remember that feeling you got when you first met your pet? Try to bring that back. The feeling you felt so long ago. It can work wonders.
What about the emotional impact? Getting a pet is big
Okay, real talk, emotional stuff. Yep. Having a pet? It's a rollercoaster. Pure joy. Complete devastation. The bond is real, and it's powerful. Be ready to feel things you didn't know you could feel. Get ready to laugh (and sometimes cry). Just know that you're absolutely *not* alone. Every pet owner has been there, wrestling with the beautiful, messy reality of loving a creature who depends on you.
Is it okay if sometimes you hate your pet?
Oh, honey, yes. Perfectly fine. Let me whisper this just between us: *everyone* has those moments. When you just want to scream at the four-legged (or two-legged) furry, scaly, or feathered menace who's just destroyed your favorite thing, or left a "present" on the carpet, or simply won't listen. It's okay. It's normal. Don't beat yourself up. Just take a breath. A walk of shame. Then, remember why you fell in love in the first place. And buy more carpet cleaner.
Okay, last question: What's the best part of having a pet?
The best part?Cheap Hotel Search
