Azumi Staycation

As you already know, I like doing staycations and I’m always looking for promos and discounts because who doesn’t like a sale. Good thing my credit card has a promo at Azumi Boutique Hotel. I was able to avail of a 50% discount on room rates (which also included a 500 peso voucher on nail spa services). Lucky me because when I got there to check-in, I had a free room upgrade to a Garden Suite (woohoo). As usual, I’m with my staycation buddy RJ since it was a holiday for the both of us.  

Overall rating: ★★★★☆ 

I’ve stayed at Azumi twice already and each time was a pleasant stay.  Azumi is chic and stylish, the Black and White motif is on point and stylish. It’s also and affordable hotel option that is perfect for that quick city R&R or staycation.

Accessibility/Location: ★★★★★

Centrally located in Alabang within Madrigal business park. Right across Alabang Town Center shopping, dining and entertainment and Molito for additionl dining options. Also 3 – 5 minutes away from Northgate Cyberzone which is the BPO hub of Alabang. Easily accessible by car via Alabang-Zapote road, SLEX, Skyway and Daang Hari. Also accessible via public transportation whether you’re coming from Alabang or Zapote.

Amenities/Facilities: ★★★★☆

Highlight of the hotel is the rooftop infinity pool at the 17^th floor that overlooks Alabang and as far as BGC/Makati from a distance (that’s why I gave an extra star). It’s a beautiful view and perfect place for that Instagram photo.

Changes were made to the pool area from the last time I’ve stayed is that, they have installed shades which was a welcome addition since it does get hot there even at morning and especially during the afternoon.

  

Pool area is quite small (there are chairs and tables) and pool towels will also be provided. They also have a sort of a bar/refreshment area where you can get snacks and drinks and I think you can also order food here. 

Note: Pool is open until 11:00 PM which is perfect for that night dip or just taking in the city lights from the top.

The hotel houses Romulo Café that serves Filipino dishes. The interior matches the overall theme of the hotel and I'm digging the B&W with the green wallpaper. 

There’s also a nail spa for your mancure and pedicure needs. I don't exactly get manicures or pedicures often but it does feel nice once in a while and very relaxing. 

Rooms: ★★★★☆

Rooms were simple but that’s the theme they were going for. Rooms have a couch which is another bed option if you’re 3 people staying in the room. What I like about their rooms is that they have a small kitchenette with a sink and a microwave  (you can heat food!). Also, they have a big refrigerator (not the typical room refrigerators that can only fit the mini bar drinks). What I also like is that the mini bar are not exaggeratedly priced and are somehow affordable. Rooms also come with a huge flat screen TV, ample closet space and in-room safe. Toiletries provided are basic and are good for one time use (like really small tubes); these include shower gel, shampoo, toothbrush and soap.  

Since I had a free room upgrade, I liked that I had a big veranda or terrace with chairs where I can just sit down and relax (probably early morning or late afternoon since there's no shade). 

Food: ★★★☆☆

This might be an unfair review but I’m basing this on the breakfast buffet that was included. The breakfast buffet was limited, like seriously, and 2 of the options were already rice (J). Like any other buffet breakfast, you have a few cold cuts and cheeses, breads and spreads, entrees and fruit. Taste wise, it was ok, I actually found the burger steak a little salty (RJ even said that it was looked like the generic patties you can buy at the grocery).

Note: On a not so hot morning, it’s nice to sit al fresco and have your breakfast outside. Since Azumi is tucked a block away from the road, you still have that nice atmosphere surrounded by tress and birds chirping. Only downside is that there are a lot of flies, which ruins the ambiance.

Staff: ★★★★★

Amazing staff. Everyone from the doorman, concierge, pool attendant, etc. Everyone is pleasant and with a smile. Plus points to their social media manager too. I kept posting pictures in my IG stories and I was able to ask for a late check-out via Instagram DM. 

Additional Comments:

There are some areas for improvement: 1. The check-in process could be faster – I think I spent a good 15 minutes or more waiting, but then again, you have that time to take pictures around, and 2.Some furniture need re-upholstering (especially the ones in the lobby) because a chic lobby needs beautiful furnishings as well. 

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