Acacia Hotel Manila proved to be an excellent choice. Its location was ideal, especially for the book fair at the Filinvest Tent. We could easily walk there, saving us time and hassle. But the convenience factor didn't stop there. With a McDonald's right outside the hotel and Westgate Alabang just across the street, a plethora of dining and shopping options were at our fingertips. Beyond the immediate conveniences, we also enjoyed the hotel's sweeping city views, a refreshing panorama of clean, well-maintained streets and lush greenery.

Our Deluxe King Room was well-appointed and provided everything we could need for a comfortable stay. From the expected tea and coffee-making facilities, bottled water, and toiletries to the thoughtful additions of towels and robes, they had us covered. The room was spacious, offering a pleasant view, a perfectly comfortable temperature, and a wonderfully fresh scent. If we had one minor suggestion, it would be to improve the lighting. The room was a tad dark, particularly in the evenings.

The spacious bathroom, complete with a separate shower and bathtub, was a definite highlight. We were particularly impressed by its impeccable cleanliness. It was spotless – no mold in sight! This attention to detail truly enhanced our experience.

While the pool was a bit on the smaller side, it still offered lovely views, perfect for unwinding. Breakfast was complimentary, and while the salad bar and eggs were delicious, I admit I was slightly disappointed that the bacon wasn't as crispy as I prefer. However, this minor detail didn't detract from the overall filling breakfast.

What truly elevated our stay at Acacia Hotel was the exceptional staff. They were incredibly accommodating and always greeted us with a smile. They even allowed us to check in an hour early, a much-appreciated gesture that set the tone for a relaxing staycation.

Before checking in, we headed to Westgate Alabang for lunch. We decided to finally try Angrydobo, the Filipino restaurant owned by celebrity Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo. We ordered the Angrydobo Classic (of course!), Chili Garlic Rice, Laing with Bagnet, and Tamarind Iced Tea. The food was good, though a bit oily. The presentation was lovely, and the restaurant's ambiance was a plus. My only comment about the Tamarind Iced Tea was that it was too sour for my taste. 

Our Alabang staycation was a success. We hauled a mountain of books from the Big Bad Wolf fair (perfect for Christmas presents!), enjoyed a comfortable stay at Acacia Hotel, and explored the flavors of Angrydobo. It was the perfect mini-break to unwind and recharge before diving back into the daily grind. Sometimes, a change of scenery, good food, and a stack of new books are all you need to feel refreshed and ready to take on the world again.

Explore & Be Free!

Mai