The Cocoon Boutique Hotel

The Cocoon is a hotel with a mission: to leave the smallest possible footprint. Everything here has been designed to minimize the impact the building and its operations have on the planet, from the use of reclaimed wood to rain and ground water being used for cleaning and flushing. These practices are reflected in the interior design of the hotel as well. While from the outside the hotel looks like any other building in town, inside the spaces are warm, stylish and modern, with a subtle nature decor theme. The lobby features an attractive mix of stone and wood (both reclaimed), beautiful wood carvings, comfy couches, and an old Steinway that guests are allowed to play. Rooms have a similar feel and style, with beautiful reclaimed wood floors, energy-efficient appliances, and recycling bins.

The Cocoon is located on a quiet side street off Timog Avenue, one of Quezon City’s main thoroughfares. Tomas Morato Avenue, a nightlife hotspot in this part of town, is located just a couple of blocks away, and there are parks and cheap eateries nearby. Cubao, one of Quezon’s most famous shopping areas, is a short drive away. Central Manila and Makati, however, are about a 20-minute drive from the hotel, but main roads are generally congested and travel time can be longer than expected. The international airport is a 40-minute drive away.

The hotel features 39 spacious, bright rooms, including standard units and junior suites with ample living space. Just as in the rest of the property, eco-friendly practices are widespread here: Floors are made of beautiful reclaimed wood; LED TVs are mounted on striking wood walls made of reused wood planks; toiletries are 100 percent certified organic; and rain and ground water is used to flush toilets. Decor is upscale, warm and stylish, with lots of wood accents -- including ornate latticework panels in some rooms -- and a sweet light green, cream, and yellow palette. High-end in-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, memory foam beds, Egyptian cotton sheets and towels, and minibars. Bathrooms are attractive and upscale, with mosaic wall tiling in different brown hues, TV speakers, and separate showers and soaking tubs. Studio Rooms and Junior Master Suites have sitting areas with sofa beds for an extra guest.

Spa at Cocoon is a relaxing wellness center offering massages and salon services. It features a couple of treatment rooms, a sauna, and a mani-pedi area. Those looking to keep up with their workout routine may want to check out the fitness room -- but note that it is equipped with only two cardio machines and a flat-screen TV. The highlight here is the rooftop deck, complete with a small pool, a plunge pool for kids, and a small restaurant serving Filipino and international cuisine. A free breakfast buffet with a handful of options is served here daily. The hotel also offers a ballroom that can be turned into two meeting rooms, and freebies such as on-site parking and Wi-Fi.