Pod Hotels - Affordable And Convenient

Have you heard of pod hotels? Pod hotels are the newest trend in budget accommodation for the people on the go who are willing to stay in a small room with basic amenities.

Pod hotels have been patterned after the Japanese capsule hotels which is the practical way of getting through the day in a different place with only a bed. The typical size of a capsule cabin is just 2 m (6 ft 7 in) by 1 m (3 ft 3 in) by 1.25 m (4 ft 1 in)* and if you're the claustrophobic kind then capsule accommodation is not the right one for you. You can try the pod hotel then.

Photo credit: thepodhotel.com

Pod hotels are bigger in terms of size and can accommodate a maximum of two depending on the pod hotel's design and size per pods. A typical double room pod will have a double bed size sleeping area, a flat tv, a tiny desk, hooks on the wall for clothing and jackets to be hung and a small bathroom. Gone are the mini-bar in the pod hotels because every space is maximized and the sole intention is to provide comfort with a low price. I think this is great for solo traveler, business folks and couples who do not mind sleeping in small rooms or even sharing a communal bathroom.

Review - Crowne Plaza Galleria Hotel, Ortigas, Metro Manila, Philippines

During my vacation few years ago in Manila, we booked ourselves (my mom and daughter and myself of course) at Crowne Plaza Galleria Hotel, Pasig City for 2 nights and 3 days. The experience was very pleasant, fitting for royalties who were there for a good R & R.

The hotel is a 5-star property under the Intercontinental Hotels group of companies, a sister company as well of Holiday Inn. Crowne Plaza is located in the heart of Pasig City just adjacent to the Robinson's Galleria and stones throw away from SM Megamall and St. Francis Square.

I booked for a twin-bed, deluxe room in the higher floor and was quite glad to have a view of EDSA. The room was so spacious and very neat and organized. The bathroom has separate tub and shower area and was quite big. Other amenities includes mini bar, hair dryer, Internet connection, pressing board and iron. The staff was cordial and always ready with a smile. I felt like a royal!

I would definitely recommend this hotel to my family and friends who wish to stay in the city for a nice R & R. Here are some of the snaps I took:

The royalties!

Taking snap of the big mirror on the console area.

Hallway leading to the sleeping area.

Our beauty stuff courtesy of the hotel. Separate shower area The tub area. My princess used it as a mini-pool!

No pics taken of the hotel's facade, lobby, lounge area and the gym, spa, and outdoor pool as I was busy shopping! hahaha! Come on, it was just next to the mall and there was a short-cut bridge on the 3rd floor from the hotel (special access given to hotel guests) to the Robinson's Galleria Mall. Would I let that opportunity pass? Guess not.

P.S. These are my personal photos and this is NOT a paid review. It's just my way of thanking the staff for making me and my family feel so special.

Easy Travel Tips For Summer

Summer has arrived! Lots of people are already on their way to their summer destination. However, for those who are still on the planning stage of their vacation get-away, it is wise to note some of these tips:

1. Go to a destination where the value of your "local currency" is higher than the destination's currency (applicable to those travelling internationally).

2. Check Internet offers for great deals and discounts.

3. Stay on lodging houses or hostels if you are not the finicky type. If you are travelling with your family, there are youth hostels and bed and breakfast accommodation suitable for your type.

4. Be an early bird! Pay early! Sometimes, airlines and tour operators offer huge discount when you purchase your tickets or packages months in advance.

5. Avoid shopping if you can. The reason for your travel is to soak in other culture, enjoy the scenery and have fun in the local scene. Some trinkets or souvenirs are fine but leave your purchases to that and to your meals if you have to.

6. Stay with relatives. This is a great opportunity to save a lot of money by not paying for accommodation. This is a bit tricky though, it only applies to those who have relatives on other places.

7. Travel as a group. Airlines and tour operators always give discounts to large group travelling together.

8. Bring light and not easily perishable snacks. Cookies and those cup noodles can save you big time.

Breakfast at c.taste in Centro Yas Island Hotel in Abu Dhabi

We spent my husband's pre-birthday celebration in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi last 4-5 May. It was the right time to go there since my mom-in-law was still here at that time. We took advantage of the that weekend and drove to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

We stayed at Centro Yas Island Hotel which is a part of the Rotana chain of hotels. We took the continental buffet breakfast so we didn't have to worry about driving out of the island for a quick breakfast.

We paid 45 dhs. per head from the 60 dhs. We used our company's discount card in the hotel so had a good savings. The 45 dhs. was really worth it!

The breakfast buffet opened at 06:00 to 10:30 daily. We had a wide selection to choose from. There were cold cuts, fruits, cereals, yoghurts, coffee, hot chocolate, juices and the hot meals, danish pastries and other baked goods. You could also request for an omelette done according to your liking from the chef.

We were stuffed and the food was great! For the price we paid for, the meal was more than enough since it was a buffet and we could help ourselves with more servings.

If you are planning to visit Abu Dhabi, UAE and don't know where to stay, book yourself at Centro Yas Island and enjoy the great ambiance, food, affordable price and hospitality.