To be honest, I have never thought of going on a staycation in the heart of Quezon City. Although I spent a part of my college life there, Quezon City may seem a bit off the beaten path for many Dabawenyos as it can be a bit far from the airport which is why I didn’t know what to expect during my stay at the the Summit Hotel Magnolia.
After a quick flight via Cebu Pacific and a short drive from the airport, I arrived at the Summit Hotel Magnolia together with the familiarisation tour group composed of other lifestyle writers from Davao and Cebu. The a unique 82-room boutique hotel, Summit Hotel Magnolia, showcases functional design starting from its elegant lobby, common areas to its stylish rooms and themed suites. The property which is located at the heart of New Manila in Quezon City, and near the boarder of San Juan, and the City of Manila. This is where I finally realise the beauty of the hotel’s location when it comes to shopping and, of course, eating.
But first the hotel
Summit Hotel Magnolia offers wonderfully spacious rooms outfitted with stylish interiors, luxe furniture and vibrant artwork.
There is definitely something for everyone, whether for business or pleasure, at the Summit Hotel Magnolia. All rooms feature upscale amenities including a 42-inch LED TV, stylish bathrooms with premium bath products, high quality beddings and a dedicated WIFI router connection in every room.
The hotel also has eight themed suites, each with a unique style, making every stay a fresh and exciting experience. From modern Moorish design, art deco to old world Hollywood, each suite offers distinctive designs reflected in its name. My favourite suite would be the Nostalgic suite which harkens back to the time when the Robinsons Magnolia mall complex used to be an ice cream plant.
Dining options at the mall
Conveniently located within the Robinsons Magnolia mall complex, the hotel has its own direct entrance to the mall which offers many shopping options and even more dining choices. From the mall’s food court, to the fancy restaurants, to the vibrant alfresco dining area. One is truly spoiled for food.
You can drop by Mesa Filipino Moderne located at the mall’s third level to try their own take on Filipino dishes. Those who want comfort food can try Uncle Cheffy’s along the mall’s alfresco area. Charcoal-roasted coffee fans will want to drop by the UCC Park Cafe for an afternoon pick-me-up.
If you feel lazy, then maybe The Clubhouse Restaurant, which is located right beside the hotel, is your best option. Breakfast is also served here.
Beyond the mall
Those craving for great tasting Chinese food need not go far as the famous Greenhills Shopping Arcade is just a short drive away. The more adventurous food traveller can take the LRT2, which has a station near the hotel, all the way westward to Recto Station right besides Manila’s famous Chinatown.
I was also tempted to take the LRT2 eastward to Katipunan Avenue where my old dining haunts such as Sweet Temptations and Tia Marias used to be but our tour schedule had us test our skills at BreakOut, a panic room game where participants cooperate to solve puzzles and mysteries to escape in a set time. Our team unfortunately did not complete the puzzle but it was a fun experience, so fun that we had to grab some doughnuts from Cello’s which is just located below BreakOut.
For more information and reservations you can check out www.summithotels.ph. Aside from Summit Hotel Magnolia, there are also Summit Hotels in Tagaytay, and Cebu. You may also call them up at at (02) 398-8788 / 0998 888 7788.
