Acacia Hotel Manila

Acacia is a hotel with a focus on design. Common spaces have been individually decorated with a striking combination of patterns and colors. The overall effect is certainly stylish and sophisticated, if a little too busy for some tastes. The lobby bar, for instance, pairs black-and-white flower prints on armchairs with blue geometrical patterns in the rugs. Rooms, however, have a more classic style and subdued decor in earth tones. The hotel’s location amid lightly built green areas allows for lots of natural light and serene views from the restaurants, the lobby, and the rooftop area, which houses a pool and a lounge. Although the decor, range of services, and amenities are on par with what is expected of a luxury hotel, some guests have complained about unimpressive customer service and chaotic check-ins, which often result in long lines at front desk and a busy lobby.

The hotel is centrally located in Alabang, a serene residential and commercial area in Muntinlupa, the southernmost city in Metro Manila. The neighborhood is increasingly popular among well-heeled Manila residents for its luxurious houses and laid-back vibe, and is home to several shopping malls, two of which are within walking distance of Acacia Hotel Manila. There are dozens of restaurants and shops nearby, as well as corporate buildings -- but little else. The historic part of Manila is a 30-minute drive away, and the financial area of Makati can be reached in 20 minutes in good driving conditions. The airport is easily accessible via the Skyway.

Large, stylish rooms at Acacia Hotel Manila include big windows, carpeted floors, large padded headboards, and contemporary dark wood furniture. All units feature the same great amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, stocked minibars, memory foam beds, and pillow menus. Most suites also offer a basic but fully equipped kitchenette, a dining area, and access to a shared laundry room. Bathrooms in all rooms and suites are large and luxurious, with marble floors and walls, glass-enclosed walk-in showers featuring rain showerheads, and separate soaking tubs. The hotel is across the street from a green area, and views are expansive from most rooms. Robes, slippers and a wide array of toiletries are also available in all rooms. There is a designated smoking floor in the hotel; the rest of the rooms are non-smoking.

The hotel offers three dining options, including a buffet restaurant, a steakhouse, and a lobby bar with a drinks and food menu. Additionally, there is a rooftop lounge offering food alfresco -- as well as panoramic views -- and a bakery selling pastries and cookies. The hotel spa is small but relaxing, with treatment rooms, and a mani-pedi corner. Across the hall is the fitness center, complete with dozens of up-to-date machines and natural light. The rooftop pool is long and pleasant, with a few loungers, a whirlpool, and great views. Those planning an event can book one of the hotel’s 13 event spaces, ranging from small contemporary boardrooms to large, elegant ballrooms for up to several hundred people. The hotel also offers great freebies, including breakfast, Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and shuttle service to a variety of destinations within the Alabang area.