With only about six remaining three-day holiday weekends forthe rest of the year, it can be quite unsettling how we can still enjoy some downtime amid the backbreaking work we do.

Fortunately, there are quite a few chic and reasonably priced boutique hotels in the Metro that we can check into just for either an overnighter or a two-day weekend escape, and hopefully leave us feeling pampered and recuperated from our daily stresses.

Here are two of my favorites:

Discovery Suites

25 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

WHAT I like about it:

·      The firm but comfortable beds with plush linen and comfy goosedown pillows guarantee a good night’s rest. As soon as I my back hits the bed, I drift off and dream away.

·      It has well-appointed spacious bathrooms and a magnifying mirror; a very thoughtful touch, especially for guests like me who can’t see too, well to put on their makeup.

·      The fully functional kitchen allows guests to cook one’s favorite dishes over a ceramic glass cooktop and touch-control electric range (my favorite appliance!), or do some light reheating and/or toasting in a microwave.

·      The in-house Terra Wellness Spa provides an even quieter sanctuary for tired, overworked bodies. I suggest Terra Touch, the spa’s signature massage, which is a definite heaven-sent for the workaholics among us.

It combines slow and graceful gliding strokes applied to the different key pressure points of the body.

The massage relieves tension and aids in blood circulation, while the ginger tea served at the end of the therapy makes a sweet ending for the session.

·      Its 22 Prime is one of the best steak restaurants in the city, with a breathtaking view of the Metro’s skyline to boot. No-nonsense grilled steaks with your choice of sauces and a variety of mid-priced wines to enjoy.

The medium-rare rib-eye is a winner for me, and large enough to share with a companion.

·      Last but not the least, I adore the always respectful, smiling and efficient staff, who always punctuate their responses with “certainly” and “with pleasure” to even the most demanding of guests’ requirements.

A trademark quality service of all Discovery properties. At present, Discovery Suites has a “Summer City Escape” promo, where guests can enjoy an overnight stay at a well-appointed junior suite, with breakfast for two persons for only P3,999+, or P4,999+ for a spacious one-bedroom suite, as well as other complimentary treats.

For information, visit www.discoverysuites.com.

Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences,

119 LP Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City

WHAT I like about it:

·      The unconventional and uniquely designed rooms make guests feel like they’re walking into a gallery. Taking inspiration from artist Pablo Picasso, the interiors are awash in bright colors from the master’s palette. It’s a happy and hip hotel—one gets an instant lift as soon as he steps through the lobby.

·      The accommodating staff are all smartly attired and are very courteous and attentive to the guests’ every need.

·      The art spaces on each floor give guests pause from their usual harried lives, encouraging them to be open to unrushed and creative processes. There is also an inhouse art gallery, which features contemporary Filipino artists—a great way to spend a few hours of reflection on things that really matter in life.

·      Free Wi-Fi! Need I say more?

·      The location is conducive to leisure walking, especially on weekends when it’s quiet and the streets are free of traffic. It’s accessible to the Salcedo Market (open on Saturdays) for guests who want to check out a variety of delicious home-cooked dishes, and relatively inexpensive wet market goods and organic products, as well as to neighborhood restaurants like Apartment 1B, which have gotten high marks for its sincere cuisine.

·      While it’s easy enough to jump in a cab and head off to the nearest malls in the area, the hotel is distant enough to give guests second thoughts about leaving their premises and enjoying the hotel’s amenities instead.

Picasso has regular promotions and gives friendly rates on its gorgeous inspiring rooms, especially on weekends and special occasions.

For information: www.picassomakati.com.