My company decided to hold its annual holiday party at an events place in Parañaque City. When the venue was announced a few months back, I started planning my logistics since the party ends at 12 MN and I reside in Laguna which was about an hour and half from Manila. It was too late to go home by public commute so I decided to spend the weekend in Makati for my safety and at the same time catch some last minute r & r before the holiday craze starts rolling.
It was less than two weeks before our party. I still wasn’t able to find a place which suits my needs. I preferred it to be within the Makati business district. I also wanted it to be near shopping malls so I could do some last minute Christmas shopping. And lastly, I wanted the room to be quiet and nice because I needed to finish all my writing assignments before end of the year.
I was glad that I found all these expectations, and more, when I booked a room with Alcoves. It was actually kind of a coincidence because I was really looking forward to spending a quiet weekend by myself. So when I booked their 1 Queen Bed with Sofabed Room, I thought I found the perfect alcove – my own personal nook for that matter. 😉
Having traveled quite a bit, I’ve had my fair share of customer service booboos. As I work in the hotel industry myself, I know how a guest feels when their inquiries were responded in an untimely manner or worse, when e-mails were left unnoticed. I believe that no matter the content of an e-mail, be it a potential guest or a possible business partner, responding in a kind and timely manner is always a must.
But such was not my experience when I contacted the Alcoves team. They replied promptly. They were courteous, professional and efficient. Our correspondence had a personal touch. After our brief exchange, I got excited to actually meeting them.
A friend encouraged me to watch this cool video of the owners, Rocky and Anton, on ShopTalk a few years back.
My Arrival and Check-in
It was Saturday mid-afternoon when I arrived at the condominium where some of Alcoves’ rooms are located. Alcoves’ apartments are situated in several establishments. I stayed in Greenbelt Radisson along Aguirre St. in Legaspi Village, Makati.
I came in past two in the afternoon. I hurriedly went on my way to the building reception. I wanted to get into my room already because my bagpack was heavy. Then I heard someone call my name which turned out to be one of the Welcome Specialists of the Alcoves team.
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Felipe warmly welcomed me upon my arrival.
Thanks Felipe! 🙂
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Yahoo. My own alcove for the weekend! . Alcoves’ welcome is exceptional. 🙂 Perhaps I will finally be able to get some writing done. #Alcoves #PonderingPaodaolei #TheMermaidWanders
My room comfortably fits up to three persons. The kitchen will greet you upon entering the room. The bed is near the windows and balcony while the dining table and dresser is placed in the other corner. The cable TV was mounted on the wall.
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Hot and cold shower with separate toilet.
Extra towels, pillows and blanket were also provided.
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The room does not have elaborate locks but was secured with one that has a combination keypad. I had a friend with me but we arrived at different times. Having this kind of room lock was convenient as I just had to advise the pass code to my friend, no need for magnetic cards which you could easily lose if you were not careful with your belongings.
Perfect staycation companions. Haha! Chocolates. Gadgets. Magazines. #Alcoves #PonderingPaodaolei #TheMermaidWanders
Meanwhile, the kitchen has all the basics of a home kitchen. There were cooking pots and pans, rice cooker, electric kettle and electric stove, mini fridge, sink and utensils. Those who loves a total staycation experience can just stock up on supplies and cook for themselves. No need to go out and dine expensively. I cooked a simple meal for myself and it was really nice to have my own kitchen. It saved me the hassle of going to restaurants at the same time I saved a bit from cooking.
On my second morning, I dropped by a nearby park and communed with nature. It was just two streets away from where my building was and the greens were a welcome change in scenery. Christmas songs were being played, families were congregating. It was such a festive sight! It was a nice side trip before I headed to the mall to do my errands.
‘Love is being at home with your best friend.’ Savoring some down time at the park before the day gets busy. This park is just two streets away from @alcovesph Greenbelt Radisson! A nice place to take a stroll while listening to Christmas songs. Yes! There’s music being played at the park!. 🙂
walk straight then turn right at Aguirre St. Radisson Building is located at the right side past Family Mart, fronting Mini Stop.
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alcovesph@gmail.com
