Gloomy weather, flight cancellation, a big travel extravaganza that put a hurt on the walletβwho cares about these when we can opt for a staycation? First, what is a staycation? Glad you asked! π It’s a fancy term for “stay-at-home vacation” or by definition, a vacation spent in one’s home country rather than abroad.
Now let’s admit it, most of us have spent more time going to places outside the country than we have sites to travel to on our own town or area. We tend to dismiss exploring the local regions because of the assumption that going there is easier as we wish. But by having stuck with this same thought every time, we’re missing out on wonderful places around us that showcase great explorations.
Case in point: F1 HOTEL MANILA in 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila. π
I’ve read reviews on F1 Hotel Manila and I’ve also seen the pictures online. Thanks to “Daddy” Richie‘s recommendation and Boss Spanky’s invitation, my mom, sister and I had the most awesome time at this hotel last weekend. π
Warm Reception
After parking at a secured car park slot at Basement 3 of F1 Hotel Manila without any hassle, we set foot at the fifth floor where weΒ were greeted by the friendly hotel staff and met another early bird, Jeng of www.foodinthebag.com with his companion. We felt so welcomed, as we were offered treats at the Premier Lounge.
For this coming Halloween, F1 Hotel Manila is featuring the Marvel theme, and this explains why the cookies have the Hulk and Green Lantern’s symbol on them. Good-looking and delicious pastries have the magic, always and forever, to draw us in and put smiles on our faces. π
Our two-day staycation itinerary was delivered via this cute piece of rolled paper tied to a Christmas ball. From there, I knewβF1 Hotel Manila would be making us experience howΒ it is to stay in a “Home of Happy Experiences.”
Top 7 Staycation Activities to Do in F1 Hotel Manila (Bonifacio Global City, Philippines)
1.Β Indulge with Food
We had the Christmas lunch buffet, an awesome barbecue dinner and the buffet breakfast at the F CafΓ©. Chef Sau Del RosarioΒ is no longer their executive chef and for now the kitchen team is being handled byΒ Sous Chef Pierre Tan. Anyway, food was still great. F CafΓ© presents a wide array of dishes for an enjoyable meal, we pretty much loved everything that came out of their kitchen. Here is the Review of F CafΓ© / F All Day Dining (F1 Hotel Manila, Bonifacio Global City).
2. Surf Online
We appreciated the free, fast and reliable Internet connection everywhere in the hotel. The availability of free Wi-Fi is an important factor for choosing where to stay. As for any purpose of the travel, people nowadays want to be connected online.
Since residents of F1 Hotel Manila, as we observed, are mostly holidaymakers and business travelers, it’s good that the hotel’s Internet connection wasn’t at all disheartening. Laptop users can also make use of the LAN cable in the room to work and maintain constant contact with clients and the office.
3. Relax and Have a Massage (Spa & Wellness Center)
F1 Hotel Manila offers a nice massage for hotel guests. My mom and sister received a relaxing Swedish massage from the masseuse who went to our room.
The massage therapist was pleasant, professional and obviously experienced.Β She spent more time than what’s expected and offered kind advice to Mom who’s suffering from some leg pains. She paid careful attention to problem areasΒ and used an appropriate amount of pressure, quickly adjusting her technique based on response. These prompted us to give a service tip she deserved.
We also visited the Spa & Wellness Center at the 3M floor, where hotel guests can have the massage service as well. I just wondered why the beds are arranged side by side in one room with a bath tub at the side with no curtains or any walls in between. What about privacy issues of people who don’t know each other? I guess the room will be booked exclusive to a family or a group of friends who are comfortable to be in the setup.
Furthermore, the Spa & Wellness Center has a sauna room for those who just want to steam and like to stay hot.
4.Β Go Out
Staycation activities are not limited inside the building. There are lots of exciting places to go around at Bonifacio Global City, and a number of them (e.g. SM Aura, Market! Market!, Serendra, etc.) are just a walking distance away from F1 Hotel Manila. Mom was thrilled to go to S&R Membership Shopping for some retail therapy immediately after seeing it nearby. Upon hearing this, Jane of www.sugargospice.com was really sweet to offer us to use her membership card. Yay! Thank you so much, Jane! π
5. Sleep and Stay Sound
F1 Hotel Manila has these room types with the respective published rates:
- Deluxe Room (PhP 9,500 per night)
- City Suite (PhP 10,700 per night)
- Fort Suite (PhP 13,100 per night)
Each is good for 2 adults and 2 kids. The rate is inclusive of breakfast, applicable taxes and service charge.
We stayed at the Fort Suite. Checking in was seamless. The staff gave us the access key cards to tap on the elevator and on our room door, and they promised to bring us our luggage thereafter.
We got into the room easily and were super awed by its coziness and beautiful design. An abstract painting on the wall welcomed our view, providing a visual link in the background. A few steps brought us to the “living room” area which obviously has all of requirements. It’s very clean and spacious, equipped with an air conditioning unit, a sofa bed, telephone and television on a work/study table, stand lamp, cabinets, kitchen counter and a mini refrigerator.
The big windows with the view of the neighborhood made the ambiance shimmer in the mid-day light. There were plenty of outlets (to charge our gadgets), and the TV had plenty of channels. We were also happy that there’s a full-length mirror that’s perfect for checking out our outfit, ensuring there’s nothing stuck in our teeth or other things I’m sure you can imagine. π
It didn’t take five more minutes before we heard the door bell ring. It was the hotel staff carrying our bags and another staff carrying the folding bed (pull-out bed) that he placed beside the sofa bed nicely. My mom and sister jumped in right away to test the comfort of the bed. As you can see in the picture, it passed! The pillow was fluffy yet adequately firm.
Moving on, there’s a door separating the living room and the bedroom, assuring that privacy never feels intruded. As in the living room, the bedroom has thick blackout curtains that prevent sunlight from waking you up from a good night’s dream. The bed was plush and the bedding, including the sheets and comforter, was high quality, so make sure to set an alarm clock if you have to wake up earlier than your body clock is set for. It felt like sleeping on top of the cloud. Weeeee! π
There’s also an LCD TV mounted on the wall and a cabinet which has an existing closet light.
Inside the closet were a full-size ironing board, an iron, hangers, a mini vault, hotel slippers, bathrobes and weighing scale. We got plenty of space to put our stuff.
Attached to the bedroom, the bathroom looked lovely and elegant with minimalistic interior. It had one of those modern waterfall shower heads installed with the right water pressure. The hot water made showering feeling good after going through the rainy weather. Temperature was easy to control.
The glass door doesn’t have a latch but it’s great that it has seals that stop puddles of water from leaking out of the shower area. Toiletries available were nicely scented shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, tissue paper, shower cap, razor/shaver, and body lotion. The face towels, hand towels and bath towels provided were wonderfully clean and soft.
6. Work Out at the Gym (F1 Hotel Manila’s Fitness Center)
F1 Hotel Manila’s gym at the 3M floor is quite small for more than 10 people to be accommodated. But the good thing is that it’s open for hotel guests 24/7. There are three treadmills (my cardio favorite), two stationary bikes, one stepper (also a great way to elevate the heart rate), weights, a yoga ball and other machines at the back.
7. Swim – Infinity Lap Pool, Kiddie Pool and Family Pool
We planned to go swimming but then it rained on a Saturday afternoon. I hoped that the swimming pool area could be covered with a roof that can protect us against the sun rays and rain and that can slide open to the sky on balmy days. Anyway, it was fun watching the kids splash around in the kiddie pool the next day.
The family pool was great for a refreshing dip as the water’s not too deep as the infnity pool so both kids and adults can play and waddle in the water.
The infinity pool looked most inviting and mesmerizing against a spectacular view of the city. I’d have to say it’s one of the main attractions and highlights in this hotel. Shame that I could not try to even swim a lap because I had some signs of a common cold last Sunday and the water was just soooo cold. For sure, I won’t pass up the chance to swim in the infinity pool the next time we book for a stay at F1 Hotel Manila! π
Wrap Up
Recently, I was again realizing that life is too short not to spend time with people you love and do things together that you love. If you want a short break and are looking for a great place to stay for a vacation and a perfect bonding time, know that F1 Hotel Manila in BGC for a staycation should not be skipped, especially in this coming holiday season. It’s a top notch hotel in Metro Manila where you can take refuge and a nice dose of luxury at a reasonable price. There’s so much more to rave about, but do yourself a favor and come visit F1 yourself. You will not regret it. π
About Rochkirstin Santos-Sioco
Health and technology freak. Food and lifestyle blogger with a large appetite for food and travel.
Seems like a perfect “temporary abode” for me. You’ve got great photos as well that help me to picture myself in it. I’m gonna check it out when time permits. By the way, if it’s not too much for you, please pay me a visit as well. Xoxo
I’ve learned that F1 Hotel Manila is the first hotel built in Bonifacio Global City. Staying at a room here is an experience all in its own, and dare I say, worth the price. Upon leaving, we said a fond farewell, but there it remains, ready to impress the next hotel guest. Sure, John. Thanks for the visit!
This is probably one of the most detailed review of a hotel I have ever seen. Thanks for all the insight π Now I wish I could also have a staycation there.
You’re welcome, Achi Kathy! Since it’s in a prime location in BGC, the views are flawless and breathtaking especially when you’re on a higher floor. If you’re in the area, drop by for a quick peek. π
There is a ton to do there. Sounds like a great place to be in for a staycation!
Yup. I adore the size of the fort suite. It’s even bigger than our room at home. This staycation at F1 Hotel Manila was such a unique experience. Treat yourself. It will be worth it. π
Hey Roch! Awesome post right here and might I say.. you really are model material! Alam na alam mag project!!! Tama si Sir Richie! π
I definitely agree with you that life is too short not to spend time with the people we love… what better way to do that than with a staycation!!! Awesome to have you guys around over the weekend π and yeah.. I definitely agree with number 1!!!! FOOD!! FOOD !! FOOD! Glorious FOOD! … Have a good one Roch. and regards to your family! Cheers π
Hahaha thanks, Jeng! Project lang nang project pag may time. π Malay mo madiscover diba? π
It was another great time with you guys. Thanks for the good company and see you soon!
I’ve been to Bonifacio Global City several times. And yes, I pretty much saw F1 hotel. I just never thought this was a perfect place for a staycation. Cool!
I didn’t know that either. It’s odd that the entrance is fronting a secondary street that’s small to really notice. I think they should have a sign or something to make the attention of people go toward that direction.
I love the idea of staycation and often toy with the idea-but since from what i know staycation means staying in your own hometown, i usually forsake it for a out-of-town mini vacay to a nearby city in the end! I might have a real staycation on the next Eid Al Ftr since most of our maids go to their own hometowns and it’d be nice to stay in hotels and not care about making the bed or whatever! Btw, i really love the wooden interiors of F1 hotel, definitely the type of decor that i prefer most!
Oh yeah we also maximize our vacation time during holidays. Last Monday was a Muslim holiday so we had no work. It’s perfect timing to go on and relax. I’m really glad we had a memorable experience here. π
Oh wow, why go outside just stay in this grand hotel. It’s got everything. Oh boy, what I wouldn’t give for a massage right now. This is a great place, and I bet the view is just as grand. Very informative work. Great job.
Thanks! We left feeling pampered and relaxed. If you want to treat yourself to something special, stay at this hotel. π
I’ll share this with my mom – seems like a great hotel we can visit – next!
Sure! The entire place is one big photo op, and quite romantic to boot. If I were a multimillionaire, I would love to stay at their cozy and lovely hotel room. A lot. π
I will consider this hotel for a BGC staycation with the family. BGC is just too far from our house, so I have not really explored that whole area too much yet.
That’s a good reason to come stay here even for a weekend. There are free shuttle rides that can take you around BGC. The schedule of the trips are provided in the hotel’s reception area. It’s a good reference for those who want to tour ala hop-on-hop-off style. π
Lots of good info here
I travel mostly in my country
If you’re traveling to Philippines and specifically around Metro Manila, this is a good hotel to stay. Know that it is not a budget hotel nor do they claim to be. Expect that this stylish hotel will answer every whim.
You were really able to maximize your stay at F1 hotel. They do have nice facilities and excellent service. The marvel theme was also a nice touch.
In a perfect world, we could have spent the day by the pool or drinking in the Canary Lounge. Having massage services and other facilities inside the hotel helped to salvage a particularly nasty rainy day.
Dibs number 3! I would be in the spa all day long, if I didnt have 2 kids. So in reality I would be in the pool with them all day.
Haha my mom totally is in agreement with that. Before we stepped into the hotel, I told her that there’s a spa and wellness center in the hotel. She immediately decided to stay there all day long–which I was glad she didn’t for she would be missing the other exciting activities. π
you provided a great review of that beautiful hotel.Seems like a great one to stay.
It felt like home, minus the mess of course, haha! Anyone would be thrilled to stay here. I can’t recommend it enough.
I’m ALL about staycations. That massage looks like what I need.
We need body massages when we’re too tired from work. Consider it as a prize for a job well done. π
I love Staycations and this one is even better because you may be in town, but you aren’t at home! There are a ton of F1 hotels in France and I have stayed in one or two, but I have to say this one looks gorgeous!
Exactly! π No detail has been overlooked in making guests feel pampered, welcome and relaxed. The staffs at F1 Hotel Manila were all fun and absolutely professional without a trace of pretension.
That looks like such a nice play to stay! They really showed you a good time π
Indeed. Customer service was great. π And oh, I forgot to mention that there was a small piece of cheesecake waiting us in our room. Super appreciated! The staff at the premier lounge also informed us to just dial in 0 if there was anything we need to ask them to do to make our stay better.
Great Staycation, for sure. I love the hotel, pool and spa. Very relaxing~
Go to the website right now and you’ll get an idea of just how beautiful this hotel looks like. π
Looks like a great time with so many great activities! Despite the gloomy weather!
Right. If you want to impress a special someone, this IS the place. We will want to come again. π
Nothing beats a good staycation! It always helps when there are so many interesting places to go to near home!
We haven’t gone “staycationing” for a while and time was just perfect to rejoice for another one. The hotel exterior and lobby are positively stunning and our room was luxurious, yet welcoming. Good that it’s only like an hour away from our home.
I’ve never been to Manila. It looks like a great place to have a staycation.
Hope you visit here at some point in the future. You won’t be disappointed. π It’s more fun in the Phillippines.
This looks amazing! As a “staycation” you really know how to “live it up!” lol I would probably go from the gym to that pool all day!
Oh, seems like you’re the sporty gal. I would totally have done the same if not for the rain. Also, we were too full from eating and tired from all other activities that I haven’t had the time to really spend and work out in the gym. BUT, I’ll make sure to do that next time. π
Wow! What a very detailed review you made! It seems as if I was there with you when you stayed..
The hotel looks so grand and there are a lot of things/features they offered!
Glad to hear feedback like that. I really try to write reviews and share experiences as detailed as possible because I want readers to feel it and in the same manner, I want myself to remember what we’ve done in every encounter easier. π The room was mega cool and neat. You’ll love it here, Grace!
You could also run in BGC as F1 is located at the center of the Global City.
Haha yup! I told my mom that 32nd Street was where we had the fun run last time with Ensure. She nodded so as to remember. π It’s a nice venue to have a good run early in the morning before the sun even comes out.
I now have to visit the Philippines to have an amazing stayvacation. I was sold on the massage in my room, what is a vacation without a massage. The pastries looks delicious and if I come, I’ll be sure to stay at F1 Hotel.
Massage is my second favorite activity next to eating. π You’re so right!
Luxury goes with a particular price tag, of course. From the looks of it I need a lot of savings to do to stay at least one night in this hotel.
For frugal folks like myself, it might cost an arm and a leg to stay here. But if you ask me if it’s worth it, answer is yes. We need to take a break from being cheapskate and enjoy our earnings when we can afford it anyhow. π
I still haven’t tried having a staycation with my boys at F1 Hotel. Thanks to this post, we might book a night soon. It is quite pricey compared to the other hotels in Makati but I think I’ll give it a try.
It’s very near Makati. Just drive past the Kalayaan flyover and in about five minutes, you will see yourself at the F1 Hotel Manila entrance. π It will be a great experience for your family.
[…] accessible and open like restaurants residing in a mall. Rather, it sits at the third floor of F1 Hotel Manila, my new-found place and recommended spot for a nice business lunch or celebratory dinner with the […]
The last time I had a staycation was around 2 – 3 years ago. Yay! I have heard good things about F1 Hotel and this first hand account from you justified that. π
The location offers stunning views, ideally situated for sight seeing or business. And also the food are worth coming here for! For foodies like us, the F Cafe is recommendable. Check out my review post on their food. π
Wow – that looks like the perfect place for a staycation! Very nice!
Yup, F1 Hotel Manila isn’t just a hotel, it’s an experience, great for staycations. π
Beautiful hotel! Great review too! Thank you for sharing
You’re welcome, Alyssa! Thanks too for reading and even leaving a comment. π
They have really nice pools. I like to try their spa service too.
Yup! I wish I’d have another chance to dip and actually swim in the infinity pool. I’m eying on the deal in DealGrocer. π
Wow, what a beautiful place! Sauna would be for me!
Haha you might change your answer if you’re coming to Manila and feel the heat here. At 12NN-3PM, you would feel like you’re in a sauna already – so no need to go in there. π But yeah, it will be another good experience anyway.
This hotel looks absolutely amazing! I would love to stay there.
Yup, what’s also great is that it’s in a fantastic location so it’s easy to walk to many of the sightseeing spots and shopping areas. π
What’s this, Roch? 5 or 4 star? Anyway, the pictures showed how happy you are with your sis and mom. Upon observing your previous posts and this, seems like you’ve almost used your VLs na. lol!
Haha wow you’re a good observer! I have only one VL credit left and that’s reserved for our family vacation about two weeks from now. π Our vacation leaves will be replenished in November.
I’m not sure if it’s a four-star hotel or a five-star one since the booking.com and cleartrip.com say it’s 5, while hotels.com says it’s 4.
This is a gorgeous awesome place to stay indeed. Everything looks wonderful and I would so love to stay there for a couple of days. I tend to agree about not see what is in our own areas. . Thanks for sharing.
Expect that there will be lots of great places to go to (malls, restaurants, shops, bars, etc.). We preferred staying in our peaceful room at night though. Just know that you won’t have a problem going around in BGC because it’s easy to take a walk out or catch a taxi. You can ask the staff to get you one.
I almost had the opportunity to visit the Philippines about 8 years ago, but had a conflict. I so wish I had taken the opportunity!
You can always go and plan for an itinerary here. π F1 Hotel Manila is truly a home of happy experiences as advertised.
That looks so peaceful. i would love a good day spa trip.
Let their well-trained therapists remove your stress as they give you the most relaxing massage experience.
Looks like you had a great staycation. The room looks fantastic. I would indulge at the spa for sure.
You can get a nice massage via room service. I prefer it that way (you can sleep afterwards) rather than go down to the 3M floor and have the massage at the spa center.
I want to stay there! That chair in the first photo is amazing and those rooms are just amazing. I could live there.
That chair is in the Canary Lounge. Haha funny I also thought I could live there (probably when I win the lottery – but I’m not even trying to win it). π
So many wonderful ideas! I could use a spa treatment. π
Getting a spa treatment is a must if you’re at your most tired. Rates start at PhP 900+. The staff is professional, friendly and go out of way to ensure you’re treated like royalty. π
This indeed looks like a nice place to have a staycation. I wanna take a dip into their pool.
I have never tried swimming in an infinity pool. I’m sure it’s simply the ultimate!
My sister won a staycation at F1, she went there last week and had an overnight stay. I’m jealous! I really want to stay there for a day and relax. The breakfast buffet looks good!
Wow! Congratulations to your sister. π I bet she deserved the prize and came home happy.
I think that these activities are great. I read in another comment about ordering a massage to the room. I’d totally do that. In fact, I wish more hotels here in the US above a 3 start offered that type of service. It would surely be welcome after a long day at a conference and having to present at it.
Right. In that case, you won’t have to walk back to your room after the massage from the spa center in the typical setup.
Looks like an amazing StayCation! I for sure would be the one to spend all my time at the spa:)
A-ha! You’re another one like my mom. π
I am lovin’ all the photos!! It seems like you had a great time at F1 hotel. Based on your photos, I could say that they have great facilities too..So jealous,., huhu I need this too! π
The facilities here are super nice. My favorite has to be the infinity pool (though I haven’t tried it) — don’t mind saying again and again haha. We all need this. Take a break. π
This sounds like a great place to go and stay. If we are ever able to get to the Philippines we now know of a place to check out for our stay there.
Nice. π Hope you’ll enjoy your stay here as much or more than we did. Thanks, Cass!
I’ve been to F1 Hotel and I’d say that it’s one of the most memorable staycation of my life.
It’s a great place to spend leisure time. π
The place looks awesome and the bed! It makes me wanna sleep for the whole day but of course, I won’t miss the swimming, the gym, the food, gaah! Almost everything!
Sleep the whole day? Over naman yata haha I have never done that. But it’s okay lah, nothing is stopping you to enjoy your sleep (and the dreams). π We sometimes forget that good sleep is essential as it is when the body has the opportunity to rest, recover, regenerate and repair from the demands we put on it daily. It will be a good time to get reminded on that.
i’ve read a lot of good stuff about this hotel. it sure looks like a lovely place to staycation with the family. i would love to spend a long weekend there with my boys one of these days!
Yay! That sounds exciting and really great bonding time for your family. π
I would also like to stay in this hotel!
Contact F1 for reservation! π
[…] and modern interior, Nest Manila (Nest MNL) located at the roof deck of the W Tower in BGC (beside F1 Hotel Manila) is a restaurant/bar that serves a fusion of Asian flavors and Western-style cooking plus a long […]
[…] F1 Hotel Manila is located at 32nd street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. For inquiries and reservations, please call 02-9289888. For online booking and more information, please visit http://www.f1hotelmanila.com. Read about our staycation here. […]