A millennial’s staycation guide at Citadines Millennium Ortigas

There are times when we want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the Metro, but even the comfort of our own home gets infiltrated by numerous calls, messages, and noisy blabbering. It’s during times like this when we tend to grab that staycation opportunity at a nearby hotel just so we can escape for a while without going far. For those like us who tend to look for spaces that feel like home even when you’re outside, there’s one called Citadines Millennium Ortigas at the heart of the Ortigas Business District.

Before booking a stay, here’s a look at the interiors, amenities, and our personal experience during our recent weekend staycation at this apart-hotel – a service residence under Ascott.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Part of the lobby
Elevator area

From outside, Citadines’ entrance looks like a typical glass door to an Ortigas building. No over-the-top lighting or decorations can be seen, but it has a very homey vibe. You’ll be greeted by their front-desk staff and from here, you can already notice how their lobby is skipping the typical gold-and-silver theme for a more down-to-earth vibe. It’s vibrant and savvy, and their furniture looks like something creatively sculpted out of nature. We heard that those are locally made – which made us fall in love with the designs even more! Everything downstairs seemed simple, but this is where things start to get interesting.

EXECUTIVE APARTMENT

Such a pleasant surprise!

Knowing that Ortigas is an area that is surrounded by tall buildings, we were in awe to see the view from the 24th floor. There are lots of trees and overall, it’s one of the best views of the city. I was also surprised to see a photo of myself on a canvas with a greeting that says, “Welcome home, Ms. Ces.” Turns out that this is something that guests can also request prior their stay so they can surprise those who are celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, and other occasions.

View from our room in the morning

The green and white tones in the room made it more pleasing and relaxing. I was expecting to stay in a room with just a bed, table, and comfort room but was surprised to see an entire living room, kitchen, dining area, bathroom, and even a small area with laundry needs. Everything you need from toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, dishwashing soap, and even detergent are laid out in front of every spot.

Living Room
Feels just like home!

It’s cold everywhere because both the living room and bedroom are air-conditioned. Both these places have their own television sets, too. The management encourages that the appliances be turned off when not in use, though!

Over at the bathroom, they have really clean towels – which they suggest being changed only when necessary in order to be more eco-friendly. Yes, they have a bidet and their mirror doesn’t fog even if you take a hot bath!

We were able to have food delivered from their restaurant called Relish for dinner. Sisig, roast chicken, mashed potatoes, plus the lettuce and dressing they left for us were enough for a hearty meal. Another thing that I like about CItadines is that they’re not strict when it comes to food deliveries. Guests may opt to buy from outside restaurants if ever they want something else aside from Relish and Aburi – a Japanese restaurant within the vicinity.

Dinner from Relish
One of the meals you can get from Aburi

Meanwhile, their mini kitchen has all the things you need – from knives, glassware, extra mugs, plates, a pan, a microwave, to an electronic stove. All sides covered!

Mini kitchen, dining table, and the laundry machine.
Check out what’s inside this cupboard.

For the past few days, I wasn’t able to sleep soundly because of different reasons and it was a really great experience to finally disconnect from the world even for just two days. I was able to sleep soundly in their king-sized bed with a really comfortable mattress. I’m really considering getting similar sheets for my personal use, too! One of the best 8-hour sleep I had so far (without exaggerations), especially after that relaxing massage. You can book a spa session during your stay, if you need to unwind (like me). The view from the window beside the bed can also give you good vibes in the morning!

Bathrobe – check! Nice view – check!
Teddy bears and a guide around the Metro, included!

You can actually consider checking in even if you don’t bring anything with you. They have everything you need in each room – bathrobes, room slippers, comb, hairdryer, iron for clothes, a safe, and a fast WiFi. Definitely worth their rate around P6,000.

Citadines is near Robinsons Galleria, SM Megamall, and the Ortigas Business District, just in case you need to run errands during your stay.

ONE BEDROOM EXECUTIVE

For solo travelers, this room will be spacious enough. It still has a bathroom, mini kitchen, and dining area but it’s not as spacious as the room that we stayed in.

THREE- BEDROOM EXECUTIVE

For those who will be spending the night as a group, this will be the best choice. Around P15,000, you’d be able to enjoy 3 spacious bedrooms with a total of 4 beds, 3 comfort rooms, a living room, and a dining area. Maximum of 9 people are allowed but only 6 can get free breakfast at Relish. Recommendable for those who need to stay in for an upcoming wedding or debut!

FACILITIES

  • Swimming Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Conference Rooms
  • Laundry Room
  • Garden Deck

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Honestly, you’ll only need around 3 things – a valid ID to be presented upon checking in, a set of clothes (and swimsuit), and money. Check-in time is 2 PM while check-out time is 12NN. However, you can request that your check-out time be moved to a different time as needed. Extra charges may apply.

If you want to save money, you can bring food and cook inside the room!

HOW TO GET THERE

View from our room at night

If you won’t be riding a Grab to the place, you can ride the MRT and go down Ortigas Station. From there, you can walk to Guadix Drive, cross and make a left turn at ADV Avenue, and make a right turn along Ortigas Avenue. You’ll see Citadines on the right side before reaching Emerald Avenue.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

  • Walk-ins get a standard rate so it’s better to reserve a room online for a discount.
  • Get yourself Ascott Star Rewards so you can earn points for savings.
  • The residence is pet-friendly and they’re planning to have pet kits in the future. Currently, they have a P1,000 cleaning fee for our furry pals. Only two small pets for each room are allowed.
  • They have a “no party policy” but you can still celebrate as long as you don’t make a lot of noise that can disturb other guests.
This basket of fruits and veggies made my day! I’m currently following a strict diet so having these readily available in my room was such a blessing. Thank you, Citadines!

Overall, I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially if I need to attend extra late/early events within the area. Since it’s a service residence, they don’t have a star rating but it’s similar to a 5-star hotel. Everything’s clean and prepared for you ahead of time! It would appeal to millennials as long as it fits their budget. Definitely something worth trying even at least once in your life.

Do have questions about our stay? Let us know so we can add details here. We’ll be uploading a video soon on our social media pages so make sure to follow Manila Millennial on FacebookTwitter, or Instagram for instant updates!

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