NAIA III Condotel: Savoy Hotel's Luxury Next Door – Unbelievable Views!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! Because we're about to dive DEEP into the NAIA III Condotel: Savoy Hotel's Luxury Next Door – Unbelievable Views! – and trust me, it's a whirlwind. Forget those perfectly manicured hotel reviews; this is the real deal, warts and all. And yes, the SEO gods will be appeased along the way.
Let's start with the big promise: Unbelievable Views! Okay, I'll admit, the photos do look stunning. But real life, right? Well… the views? Yeah, they're pretty damn good. I mean, genuinely good. Especially if you manage to snag a room on a high floor (which, thankfully, is an option – and hey, high floors are always better). The city sprawls below, glittering at night. Definitely worth the price of admission, even if you're slightly terrified of heights (which, ahem, I may or may not be).
Accessibility? Ugh, that's always a tough one. I'm not in a wheelchair, but I tried to keep an eye out. There's an elevator, which is essential. Facilities for disabled guests are listed, but I'd definitely call ahead and clarify exactly what that entails. Always err on the side of caution. They have a car park [on-site] and car park [free of charge] which is a HUGE plus in Manila traffic.
Inside the Room: A Love-Hate Relationship
Okay, the rooms. They're…modern. Think clean lines, maybe a little bland. But hey, at least they're clean! And the Wi-Fi is free in all rooms! (Hallelujah!) The Internet access – wireless is on point – a must for a digital nomad like me. Plus, they've got Internet access – LAN if you're a purist (who even uses LAN cables anymore?). They've got Air conditioning, Hair dryer, and Coffee/tea maker. Basic necessities, check, check, check.
Now, the slippers? Yes, they provided them. The bathrobes? There are. The mini bar? Tempting. The separate shower/bathtub situation? Very nice, especially after a long day of navigating Manila's glorious chaos.
Now for the downsides, because, let's be honest, there are always some…
The soundproofing? Let's just say, I could sometimes hear the party downstairs. This is Manila, people. It's a loud, vibrant city! The blackout curtains are a lifesaver though, let’s be real. The desk and laptop workspace? Functional, but not exactly inspiring. And honestly, sometimes the room felt a little… sterile. Like a perfectly-curated Instagram photo that lacks any actual personality.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure (Maybe)
Okay, the food. This is where it gets interesting. There's a variety, but I wouldn't call it gourmet. They have restaurants, a coffee shop, and a poolside bar. The Western cuisine in restaurant and Asian cuisine in restaurant offerings are decent. I enjoyed the Breakfast [buffet] in the morning – a pretty solid spread, with Asian breakfast offerings included. They also offer breakfast in room. Look out for Happy hour at the bar – always a good idea. The Snack bar will get you in a pinch if you’re ravenous.
Here’s the thing: I went for dinner one night and ordered something… I can't even remember what. But the waiter kept calling me "Sir" (I'm a woman) even after I corrected him. Minor detail, but it was the kind of thing that grates after a long day.
Things to Do (or Not Do) – Relaxation and Rejuvenation
Right, this is where the Savoy really tries to shine. They have a Swimming pool [outdoor] with those "unbelievable views". It's a gorgeous pool, surrounded by sun loungers, perfect for soaking up the rays and pretending you're not in the middle of a busy city. They've also got a Fitness center, Gym/fitness, Spa, Massage, Body scrub, Body wrap, a Sauna, Steamroom, and a Foot bath. The works!
I tried the massage. This is where the story gets good… or bad, depending on your perspective.
My Deep Dive: The Massage – When Relaxation Goes Sideways
Picture this: I was stressed. Manila had been a whirlwind of traffic, chaos, and amazing food. I needed to de-stress. So, I booked a massage.
The spa looked… underwhelming. But hey, I was committed. The massage itself was good (the therapist was clearly talented!) BUT… the room was freezing. I mean, Arctic tundra freezing. I was shivering throughout the entire massage. Not exactly conducive to relaxation. I politely mentioned it, and they turned up the temperature… slightly. Still, I left feeling more like a popsicle than a relaxed human being.
This is an imperfection you should know about. Did I complain more? No. Did I learn a lesson? Absolutely. Always bring a sweater, even to a spa in the Philippines.
Cleanliness and Safety: A Worried Traveler's Perspective
Okay, COVID-19. It's the elephant in the room, right? The Savoy does try. They have Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, Staff trained in safety protocol, and Rooms sanitized between stays. There's Anti-viral cleaning products being used. I saw evidence of all this, which was reassuring. They also offer Room sanitization opt-out available, if you prefer. The Safe dining setup was, well, safe.
Services and Conveniences: The Helpful Stuff They’ve got everything, from concierge services to laundry service. Doorman, daily housekeeping. They offer Currency exchange and Cash withdrawal so you won't have to walk too far to get money! They have Luggage storage, which is essential if you're checking out super early or have a late flight. They also have Meeting/banquet facilities, which, frankly, I didn't need. But if you do, they're there. Airport transfer is available too.
For the Kids? They have some things for kids, but it's not advertised too much, so definitely wouldn't call this a super-kid-friendly place.
Getting Around? They offer Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site], also Taxi service and Bicycle parking. Not the easiest to get around or even get there – that’s Manila!
My Emotional Verdict: The Savoy - It's Complicated.
Look, the NAIA III Condotel: Savoy Hotel is a mixed bag. It's not perfect. It has its quirks. The massage (minus the freezing temperature) was good, the views are amazing, and the location is convenient.
Here's my verdict: I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a solid choice if you're looking for a comfortable and convenient base in Manila, especially if you prioritize those "unbelievable views" and access to a pool.
But here's the REAL kicker…
A (Slightly) Messy, Honest, and Persuasive Offer:
Tired of Manila's Hustle? Escape to Paradise (…with a Few Caveats!) at NAIA III Condotel: Savoy Hotel!
Here's what you get:
- Unbelievable City Views: Gaze upon the Manila skyline from your room (High floors highly recommended – ask for one!).
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected, even if the connection to reality is a little shaky.
- Poolside Bliss: Swim in the outdoor pool, cocktail in hand, and pretend you're on vacation (you are on vacation… sort of.)
- Convenient Location: Close to NAIA airport, making those early/late flights a little less painful.
- Cleanliness and Safety: They're trying their best to keep things sanitized (but maybe bring a sweater for the spa!).
- Everything else: All the amenities, convenience and services to make you'r stay easier, including lots of options to relax.
The Catch?
It's not perfect. There might be a few minor imperfections, like a cold spa room or a so-so dining experience or perhaps a bit of city chaos. But hey, that's Manila for you!
Book your stay at NAIA III Condotel: Savoy Hotel NOW and receive:
- 10% off your stay (use code: MANILAESCAPE)
- Complimentary breakfast for two (because everyone loves a free breakfast!)
- Exclusive access to the hotel’s private lounge (ask for an upgrade!)
Don't wait! Experience the good (and the not-so-good) of Manila. Book now!
*Limited availability
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is a survival guide, a confession, and a slightly manic love letter to… well, Manila, specifically the area around NAIA Terminal 3 where I just had to book a condo at the fabulous (and cheap) NAIA III Condotel. (Don't judge! Late night flights are a cruel mistress.)
The "Almost Sane" Itinerary (with a generous helping of chaos)
Day 1: Arrival & "Oh God, What Have I Done?"
- Time: 3:00 AM (Seriously, who books a 3 AM flight? Apparently, me.)
- Event: Touchdown at NAIA Terminal 3. Reality hits. The air is thick, humid, and smells faintly of… adventure? And maybe a little jet fuel.
- Transportation: The pre-booked Grab car. Pray it arrives. Seriously, the airport's a swirling vortex of taxi drivers trying to scam you, so stick with the app.
- Lodging: NAIA III Condotel - "cozy" is the operative word. Let's be honest, the lobby screams "early 2000s hotel aesthetic," but hey, for the price, I'm not expecting the Ritz. Plus, the AC is blasting - a godsend after that airport sauna.
- Emotional State: Exhausted. Slightly euphoric. A touch of existential dread, because, you know, Manila.
- Anecdote: Finding the Condotel was a comedy of errors. Google Maps led me on a merry chase through a labyrinth of unmarked streets. I spent 20 minutes arguing with a tricycle driver who insisted my destination was "just around the corner," which, in the Philippines, can mean anything from "five minutes" to "a week." Eventually, finally I found it. Lesson learned: print proper directions.
Day 1 (cont.): The Glorious Nap & The Search for Coffee
- Time: 4:00 AM - 10:00 AM (ish). Sleep. Glorious, uninterrupted sleep. Except for the intermittent bursts of traffic noise and the vaguely metallic scent wafting from the hallway.
- Event: Wake up. The initial relief of waking up alive quickly gives way to the crushing weight of… needing coffee. Badly.
- Transportation: Feet. Explore the immediate vicinity.
- Food & Drink: The hunt for coffee. This is a critical mission. The Condotel's "breakfast" (included) is definitely not going to cut it
- Emotional State: Caffeine-deprived and grumpy. But secretly, excited.
- Quirky Observation: The Condotel's "fitness center" is apparently a single treadmill in a room the size of a closet. I'm guessing it's more of a "suggestion" than an actual gym.
- Anecdote: Wandered the streets, resembling a zombie in search of brains (aka coffee). Found a 7-Eleven. Coffee. It was instant, and tasted like… well, 7-Eleven coffee. But it was coffee. Then, in a moment of glorious, greasy brilliance, I discovered a nearby carinderia. Where they serve coffee for like, a nickel. And pansit. Which became my savior.
Day 1 (cont.): The SM Mall Adventure - A Glimpse into Madness
- Time: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Fuelled by a questionable caffeine, I decided to be brave.
- Event: SM Mall of Asia (which is actually pretty far from the Condotel without traffic)
- Transportation: Pre-booked Grab. (Again. Don't mess with the taxi drivers unless you're fluent in Tagalog AND have nerves of steel.)
- Food & Drink: A feast of choice. Trying everything. From Jollibee to Korean.
- Emotional State: Overwhelmed, confused, but also kind of loving it.
- Quirky Observation: The level of air conditioning: from "Arctic Blast" to "Tropical Humid." The people-watching is epic.
- Anecdote: Almost got lost in SM Mall, probably. The scale of this place is genuinely mind-boggling. I saw everything from designer goods to those bags that everyone seem to be trying to sell. I navigated the crowds, the noise, the smells (good and bad), and the sheer energy of the place. I felt like I was in the middle of a movie.
- Imperfection: I didn't buy anything. Just stared, confused, at the sheer variety.
Day 2: The Unplanned Day & The "I Need a Drink" Moment
- Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Event: The plan? Get up bright and early, go to a museum. The execution? Well, let's just say, "Manila Time" has officially claimed me.
- Transportation: None so far. Contemplating my options.
- Food & Drink: Room service. It was… edible.
- Emotional State: Disappointed with myself, but also kind of happy to be doing nothing. "Procrastinating" is the word.
- Anecdote: Turns out, getting any kind of food delivered to the Condotel is a logistical nightmare. But I finally managed to order a lumpia. It was worth it.
- Imperfection: Still haven't left the Condotel.
- Event: The plan? Go to Casino.
- Transportation: Grab car.
- Food & Drink: The casino buffet.
- Emotional State: Hopeful, then deflated.
- Anecdote: Played at the slots and lost.
Day 3: Departures & Dreams of Return
- Time: 5:00 AM. The final alarm.
- Event: The airport run.
- Transportation: Pre-booked Grab. (You've gotta be predictable sometimes, okay?)
- Food & Drink: A final, desperate cup of that 7-Eleven coffee.
- Emotional State: A strange mix of relief, exhaustion, and… a grudging fondness for the chaos.
- Quirky Observation: As I leave, I see the Condotel's lobby getting ready for the day. All around the people going in-and-out in a variety of moods.
- Anecdote: As my Grab car swirled away from the Condotel, I took a final look. Even with its flaws, it was where I spent a few days.
- Imperfection: I still have no clue what "sisig" is, but I'm determined to find out next time.
Final Thoughts (stream of consciousness)
Manila… it's… an experience. It's not perfect. It's loud, chaotic, and sometimes a little overwhelming. But there's a raw, vibrant energy to the city that gets under your skin. It's a place where "laid back" is redefined, where schedules are suggestions, and where you might just find yourself falling in love with the unexpected.
Would I recommend this itinerary? Absolutely not, if you want a polished, perfectly planned trip. But if you're open to adventure, willing to embrace the mess, and can handle a healthy dose of chaos, then… come on in. The waters not only warm, it's a full-blown tsunami. Just remember to bring your sense of humor, your caffeine of choice, and a healthy dose of "expect the unexpected." You're going to need it. And I'm already planning my return.
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Your Dream German Getaway at Quellenhof Retschow!
NAIA III Condotel: Savoy Hotel's Luxury Next Door – Seriously? Let's Talk...
Okay, so "Luxury Next Door"... Is that just marketing fluff? Or, like, actually legit?
Okay, deep breath. "Luxury Next Door"... it's a loaded phrase, right? I was skeptical, *so* skeptical. I pictured a slightly nicer motel with a REALLY aggressive air conditioner. But… here’s the thing. I actually *stayed* there. Like, I booked a room and threw myself into the experience like a hungry dog at a steak. My verdict? It's a mixed bag, folks. Let's just say the "luxury" part isn't exactly Buckingham Palace level, but it's a solid, comfortable, and surprisingly convenient base of operations for a weary traveler… and the views? We'll get to the views. They *almost* redeem everything.
What's the *real* deal with the views? They keep banging on about them...
Alright, hold onto your hats and prepare for my definitive, slightly unhinged view on the views. They are… phenomenal. Seriously. I mean, you look out your window, and it’s like, boom! The entire airport. I literally watched planes take off and land. As a self-confessed airplane geek, I was in absolute heaven. Not gonna lie, I spent an embarrassing amount of time glued to the window, just watching the ballet of metal birds. Especially at sunset. The colors? Unbelievable. Forget the hotel; I’d go back just for that. Though, I did have a minor freakout once as a plane was taking off and it did seem a *little* close. Maybe I'm just paranoid.
Is it noisy? I'm a light sleeper, which means the apocalypse has to be a quiet one for me to get any sleep.
Okay, this is a big one. Airplanes... they make noise. Duh, right? Well, it's more complicated than that. They're mostly alright. The windows are actually surprisingly good at blocking out a lot of the aircraft roar. But… there were moments. Moments when the afterburners on departing jets felt… intimately involved with my existence. Seriously. If you're super sensitive, ask for a room on a higher floor, away from the runways, and consider earplugs. I mean, I am. I'm pretty sure I'm wearing them right now just thinking about it. The other noises? Well, the occasional street noise? Manageable. The air conditioner... well, it's a contender for the apocalypse. They do a good job with the sound proofing, but the traffic nearby is a constant hum, even at night.
What's the food situation like? Did I get the impression it’s all hotel food?
The food? Yeah, it's… hotel food. But not terrible! There's a restaurant, and it's pretty decent considering the location. Breakfast buffet – a lifesaver, honestly. They have the usual suspects, with a pretty decent selection of local fare. I may or may not have loaded up on the longganisa every morning. (Don't judge me; I was running on airplane fumes!). But, and here's where it gets good, there are food options. The location is a big bonus. The mall across the street has so much. I mean, *so* much. I practically lived on takeout for a few days (don't tell my doctor). You're not stuck with just the hotel's offerings. Win! Well… mostly.
Okay, let's be honest: What's the *worst* thing about it?
Okay, time for the truth bomb. My biggest gripe? The elevators. Let's just say, they weren't always my best friends. They're slow, and there are times when you think, "Maybe I should just walk up 20 flights of stairs?" (I didn't, by the way. I value my knees). There's a real 'rush hour' experience to the elevator sometimes. Also...the little things. You kinda get used to the slight imperfections after a while. Things aren't always perfect, but honestly, I'd still go back. Just, you know, expect the elevators to be a little… temperamental.
What about the rooms themselves? Spacious? Cramped? Clean?
The rooms are… well, they're functional. Not massive, but not claustrophobic either. I went in with low expectations, and I was pleasantly surprised. Cleanliness was generally good. The bed was comfy, which is crucial. The bathroom? Standard hotel bathroom. Everything worked, which, let's be honest, is a win in itself. The AC, though… it could be a little noisy. It was a minor thing, really… until it wasn't. On one particularly hot afternoon, it decided to channel the roar of a jet engine. That was less fun. Generally though, the rooms are good enough to sleep in.
Is it worth the money? Especially if you're just there for a layover?
This is where it gets tricky. Value for money… it depends. For a layover? Absolutely, yes. The convenience of being right next to NAIA Terminal 3 is pure gold. You can practically roll out of bed and onto your flight. For a longer stay? Hmm… maybe. The price is competitive, but there might be better options if you're not tied to the airport. I'd say, factor in the view, factor in the convenience, and then decide. For me personally? I'd probably go again. The views are just… too enticing.
Is it easy to get around or are you stuck? I don't want to be trapped.
Getting around is… doable. Not ideal, but doable. Grab is your friend. Seriously, download the Grab app before you go. It's a lifesaver for getting to other parts of the city, though traffic can be a nightmare. The proximity to the airport is the big advantage here. You're not really “trapped,” just… potentially delayed. Public transport? Let's just say I'm not an expert, so I can't offer you sage travel advice. But if you are okay with waiting for a vehicle, you'll be fine.
Anything else I should know, some juicy little secrets they don't tell you?
Okay, here's the secret intel. The pool… itFind Your Perfect Stay
