Finding a balance between the frantic energy of Metro Manila and the need for a peaceful retreat is the primary challenge for most travelers. Citadines Salcedo Makati solves this by offering a “home-away-from-home” apartment setup in the quiet, upscale enclave of Salcedo Village, effectively removing the stress of cramped hotel rooms and noisy city intersections.
Traveler’s Problem Solver: Why This Choice Works
The Space Dilemma: Standard Manila hotel rooms are often small. Citadines provides serviced apartments with separate living areas and fully-equipped kitchenettes, perfect for those who feel claustrophobic in traditional layouts.
The Traffic Headache: Makati traffic is legendary. Staying here puts you within walking distance of major corporate offices, avoiding the hour-long “commute” just to cross a few blocks.
The Food Search: Instead of hunting for reliable meals, you are surrounded by Salcedo’s famous “hole-in-the-wall” dining scene and the weekend market.
Best For
Business Travelers: High-speed internet, functional workspaces, and proximity to the Central Business District (CBD).
Digital Nomads & Long-Stays: The kitchen facilities and laundry services make it sustainable for weeks or months.
Families: The 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom options provide the privacy parents need while keeping kids close.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Prime Location: Nestled in the “quiet side” of Makati; safe for evening strolls.
Apartment Amenities: Microwave, refrigerator, and stovetop in most units.
Exceptional Service: Staff are noted for remembering guest preferences and being highly responsive.
The Park Proximity: Just a 2-minute walk to Jaime Velasquez Park.
Cons:
Pool Size: The indoor pool is more for a quick dip than laps.
TV Connectivity: Some rooms still lack smart TV features like Netflix/YouTube integration.
Aging Tech: Occasional reports of finicky air conditioning controls in older units.
First-Person Review
“I checked in after a grueling 12-hour flight, and the first thing I noticed was the quiet. Unlike hotels along Ayala Avenue, you don’t hear the constant honking here. My 1-Bedroom Deluxe felt like a real apartment—I actually used the kitchenette to make coffee and toast before my morning meetings. The staff even helped me secure a Grab car during a heavy downpour, which is no small feat in Manila. It’s not the flashiest luxury hotel in the city, but it’s the most comfortable one.”
Travel Guide & Tips
Transportation: Use the Grab app for all travel; it’s the safest and most transparent way to get around. For short trips within Makati, the hotel is near several “Jeepney” routes, but walking is usually faster during rush hour.
Nearby Attractions:
Ayala Triangle Gardens: A lush park perfect for a morning jog or seeing the Festival of Lights in December.
Salcedo Saturday Market: A must-visit for artisanal local food and fresh produce (Saturdays, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Ayala Museum: A 15-minute walk away for a deep dive into Filipino history and art.
Local Food Tips:
Try Ikomai & Tochi for incredible Japanese-Filipino fusion.
Visit Omotesando Koffee nearby for a world-class caffeine fix.
For a refined evening, The Penthouse 8747 offers Gatsby-style views of the skyline.
Pricing Observations & Comparison
Current Rates: Generally ranges from ₱5,000 to ₱7,500 ($85–$130) per night depending on the season and room type.
Comparison:
Versus Luxury (e.g., Makati Shangri-La): You save about 40% and gain a kitchen, though you lose the grand lobby and massive breakfast buffets.
Versus Budget (e.g., RedDoorz/Tune): You pay roughly double, but the jump in safety, cleanliness, and space is significant.
Value Play: It competes directly with Somerset Central Salcedo. Citadines often feels slightly more modern, while Somerset offers a more traditional “grand” feel.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.