The stress from work, the everyday traffic, and the mounting unfinished tasks every week could build up and turn you into a walking timebomb. We know that we deserve a much-needed break from all of these. We have to go somewhere else to vent the smoke out. We have to be in a place where we can be alone and get a city life detox even just for awhile.
On the other hand, we could not negate the fact that releasing the smoke could also mean blowing a hole in our wallets.
Well, fret not! You can actually escape from all these. There are a lot of Zen-inspired stays in and around Metro Manila where you can actually relax and unwind without spending too much.
Also read: 15 Budget-Friendly Weekend Getaways Near Manila
Metro Manila
1. Zen Home Eastwood Parkview, Bagumbayan, Quezon City
Image credit: Zen RoomsBeing a partner of Zen Rooms, the largest hotel chain in Southeast Asia, everything in this hotel is zen. It is situated right at the centre of Eastwood City. Aside from having modern Asian architecture, you can be ensured of a relaxing stay in your room due to its minimalist design accentuated by wooden fixtures. Of course, there are the signature large glass windows that permit enough sunshine. This alone is a good way to start your day.
If you want to do something outside your accommodation, Zen Home Eastwood Parkview is just a stone’s throw away from the Eastwood Ferry Station and Eastwood City. It is also near Metrowalk and SM Megamall. There is no way you can’t leave all your worries away and recharge here during your stay.
Rates start at ₱1,199 per night
2. The Purple Tree Bed & Breakfast, Parañaque, Metro Manila
Image credit: The Purple TreeYou can call this place your little Eden. By Eden we mean serenity, comfort, and peace – a homey ambience that only The Purple Tree can offer. All these things equate to rejuvenation and relaxation.
All accommodations are well-lighted courtesy of large glass windows for ultimate peace of mind. The striking minimalist make up complemented with relaxing earth colours of the rooms make it impossible not to calm your weary soul here. The property also has a garden swimming pool where you can take a dip while listening to the sounds of nature.
Rates start at ₱2,300 per night
Also read: Hotels in Manila for Your Ultimate Barkada Spa-Cation
3. Oriental Zen Suites, Sampaloc, Metro Manila
Image credit: Oriental Zen SuitesOriental Zen Suites is an affordable zen getaway in the midst of a rather busy and noisy environment. The rooms are cosy, relaxing, and very clean, and they also have very accommodating staff.
To boost your stay, you can also conveniently reach the Folk Arts Theater from the hotel. Other famous landmarks in the area you can have a side trip at include Chinatown, Divisoria Market, San Sebastian Church, Quiapo Church, Intramuros, Manila Ocean Park, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Rates start at ₱1,800 per night
4. Ramada Manila Central, Binondo, Metro Manila
Image credit: Ramada Manila CentralDon’t get intimidated by the name. Despite being the first international hotel to be established in Binondo, Ramada Manila Central is actually one of the most affordable Zen-inspired hotels in the metro. It has spacious rooms which offer different angles of Binondo area.
Image credit: Ramada Manila CentralStaying here is like a travel back in time because the hotel is surrounded by many historic spots: Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz or the Binondo Church, Fort Santiago, Intramuros, and Rizal Park just to name a few. And since it is located in the heart of the world’s oldest Chinatown, you can embark on a gastronomical journey tasting authentic Chinese food sold just about everywhere. And yes, the hotel’s roof deck is the place where you should be as the place gets romantic and serene as night falls.
Rates start at ₱3,207 per night
Outside Manila
5. Nurture Wellness Village, Tagaytay, Cavite
Image credit: Nurture Wellness VillageThis multi-awarded wellness industry pioneer is considered the cream of the crop not only in the country but in whole Asia. It has also one of the most unique locations: in the middle of sprawling coffee orchards. Nurture Wellness Village is most famous for their brand of ecotherapy, which is healing by and through nature.
Also read: Yoga in the Philippines: 6 Idyllic Retreats to Relax Your Mind, Body and Soul
All you can see around the property are genuine Filipino themes, such as the Ifugao native hut-inspired accommodation. Nurture has five accommodations, each with a unique Filipino touch. And if you are a true adventurer who wants to be close to nature, glamping Nurture-style will surely be an experience to fill your conscious psyche for a long time.
Image credit: Nurture Wellness VillageAside from the all-embracing environment, Nurture has their own version of hot stone massage called Nilaib, which is definitely a must-try.
Rates start at ₱2,500 per night
Also read: 10 Glamping Spots in the Philippines for a Romantic Getaway
6. T House Tagaytay, Tagaytay, Cavite
Image credit: T House TagaytayNestled in a place not far from the metro yet far enough to keep you away from the pressures of the daily urban grind, the T House Tagaytay lets you relax like a royalty in its quiet and Zen-inspired environment. The whole T House property – from the front yard, the lobby, up to the rooms – is like a virtual charger lifting your spirits up every second of your stay. Themed accommodations include Earth, Water, and Fire, that also come with their corresponding elemental colours.
And unlike any other hotels or resorts that give you a welcome drink, T House has a goodnight drink for you!
Rates start at ₱4,850 per night
7. Zen Garden Hotel, Silang Cavite
Image credit: Zen Garden HotelZen Garden Hotel isn’t just your middle-of-the-road hotel located in Tagaytay. Instead, it boasts of serenity and pleasure all rolled into one. Everything in this place is no less than captivating. The non-chlorinated swimming pool, the Japanese-inspired structures, and the Oriental garden are the things you should not miss.
Image credit: Zen Garden HotelThe rooms are Japanese inspired and nature-themed. They have rooms that can accommodate a single traveller or a group of up to 12 persons.
Rates start at ₱5,000 per night
8. Makiling Onsen Hotel, Los Baños, Laguna
Image credit: Makiling Onsen HotelTrue to its name, Makiling Onsen Hotel offers authentic zen atmosphere. The place is a remarkable retreat from the city life. It will not be called as such without an actual onsen (hot spring) inside the property, by the way.
And for a more authentic zen experience, the hotel also provides Yukata, a Japanese traditional dress, that you can wear anytime you like during your stay. The rooms have subdued earth tones typical in Zen-inspired accommodations. Overall, the place literally makes you forget that you are indeed in the Philippines. Imagine a blanket of mist rising up the air early in the morning with the lush greeneries of Santa Cruz, Laguna mountains as your backdrop. That’s nature’s way of saying “Good morning” to you at Makiling Onsen Hotel.
Rates start at ₱2,499 per night
Also read: Stays Secrets: Hotels in the Philippines with Cheapest Rates & Awesome Perks When You Book Directly
Having a quick getaway to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city life including our own busy lifestyle is not meant to be luxurious. Finding a relaxing and affordable stay is easy considering the numerous Zen-inspired places in and around Metro Manila.
All you have to do is grab your bags and go!
Do check out TripZillaSTAYS for more relaxing stays in the Philippines.
