Just a stone’s throw away from Ayala Malls Manila Bay, 15 minutes away from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and half an hour away from the bustling central business districts of Makati and BGC, Seda Manila Bay is an all-encompassing haven for tourists and locals alike in search of a sanctuary for some much-needed R & R.
People often yearn for respite from the hustle and bustle of daily living either to recharge or fuel their creativity. More often than not, the ideal remedy is to simply go on an extended staycation. And when it comes to staycations, Seda, which opened its newest branch recently, has been gaining a reputation for providing guests top-notch comfort and service.
Located in Parañaque’s thriving Entertainment City, Seda Manila Bay is the Seda Group’s 12th property in the Philippines. The hotel opened in July last year just in time to address the dramatic increase in the number of foreign and balikbayan visitors to the country. It has also become the top-of-mind choice of Filipinos in search of the ideal staycation hotel.
They say first impressions last, and the initial impression one gets upon stepping inside Seda Manila Bay doesn’t disappoint. Journalists and social media influencers had the opportunity to experience firsthand the hotel’s services in a recent exclusive familiarization and overnight stay.
The atmosphere inside the hotel was warm and welcoming, thanks in no small part to the staff’s commendable customer service. It didn’t hurt that the hotel’s magazine-worthy interiors and other visual flourishes crafted by such Filipino artists as Ann Pamintuan, Paco Guerrero and Eddie Zobel were nothing short of impressive.
Sensational experience
This writer had the pleasure of staying in the deluxe room, which made her feel like a queen for a day. The pillows, duvet and bed were plush enough to ensure a good night’s sleep. And talk about luck, this writer was fortunate enough to stay in a room with a stunning view of Manila Bay’s gleaming waters and clear skies.
Of course, no vacation is complete without food! Seda’s all-Filipino staff, headed by Chef Joey Miguel, prepared a curated lunch menu that tasted as divine as it looked. From the appetizers and main course to the dessert, every dish left our palates and tummies happy.
One of the trip’s highlights was the croquembouche-making activity, headed by Seda’s Pastry Chef Thea Policarpio. Everyone got to try to fill choux puff pastries with chocolate and later design each before stacking them up into a tower. Thanks to the assistant chefs who were ready to help, guests, many of whom have no prior experience dealing with pastries, were easily able to craft a colorful and tasteful masterpiece.
After the short activity, guests were then treated to a delightful buffet dinner outdoors at Straight Up rooftop bar, which boasts majestic views of the skyline. And since the weather was good, it was a perfect time to enjoy after-dinner cocktails and the serene evening breeze while chit-chatting with friends.
A walkthrough
The hotel offers 350 rooms that cater to various preferences and price points. Deluxe rooms are ideal for solo travelers and short-stay guests. The more spacious Suite and Premier rooms, which feature separate living and dining areas as well as a kitchenette, are ideal for couples.
Seda Manila Bay general manager Jeffrey Enriquez notes that their primary clientele, particularly on weekends, consists mostly of families. As a result, Family Rooms, which offer a separate kids’ room furnished with a bunk bed and vibrant themed walls, are one of the hotel’s most in-demand room categories.
Meanwhile, guests staying in Club Rooms and Club Suites have exclusive access to the Club Lounge as well as additional amenities and services, including express check-in and check-out, complimentary buffet breakfast, all-day refreshments, cocktails, a private meeting room, an iMac station and extra-personalized service from the hotel’s dedicated staff.
The hotel is also becoming known for its 350-seater Sampaguita Ballroom, which is becoming a popular venue for large-scale events, including conventions, corporate events and wedding receptions, among others.
When it comes to dining, Seda Manila Bay offers diners a diverse and flavorful dining experience at Misto, its signature all-day dining restaurant, where guests can enjoy a medley of local and international cuisine.
Getting rave reviews from visitors — especially families — is the hotel’s sprawling swimming pool located on the fifth floor. It features a water playground with pool fountains, which are certified hits among kids and adults alike, especially on a scorching summer day.
And what’s staying at a hotel by the bay without witnessing a glorious sunset? Guests can catch remarkable views of the golden hour while having a dip at the pool and enjoying some drinks and grub from the Straight Up bar.
Fun experience
Whether you’re the adventurous or laidback type, rest assured that there’s an activity that will keep you occupied during your stay at Seda Manila Bay.
The hotel offers various leisure and entertainment amenities to keep guests engaged throughout their stay. For instance, one can pass the time at the mini golf course. Other family-oriented amenities include the children’s playroom, a game room with gaming consoles, and a fully equipped state-of-the-art gym.
Since the hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Ayala Malls Manila Bay, you can also indulge in some shopping. If you’re looking for an activity that can make you feel productive even during your break, you may want to check out Craft Academy, where you can turn your dreams of being a baker or barista to life.
If you’re into culture and a bit of history, why not discover the beauty of the Philippine culture through Lakbay Museo? Depending on your pace, the whole experience may take up to two hours. There are plenty of Instagrammable spots, as well as interactive booths where you can get a free taste of flavored lambanog, a traditional Filipino distilled palm liquor.
After an eventful day, you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the Seda Spa, which offers room service options to allow you to unwind and de-stress within the comforts of your own room before retiring for the night.
— Ma. Angelica Demegillo
