
Unwind in Zen: Manila's Grass Residences Staycation Bliss!
Unwind in Zen: Manila's Grass Residences Staycation Bliss! - A Messy, Honest, and Hopefully Helpful Review (Spoiler: It's Pretty Good!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your average, polished hotel review. I’m here to tell you about my recent staycation at Unwind in Zen: Manila's Grass Residences, and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster. From the moment I tried to park (more on that later) to the blissful moment I sank into the oh-so-fluffy bed, I logged it all. And yes, this is supposed to be both helpful and real, so expect some… imperfections. Consider it your pre-booking pep talk.
First Impressions: The Great Accessibility & the… Less Great Parking Saga
Right off the bat, HUGE kudos to Unwind in Zen for prioritizing Accessibility. The elevators? Smooth. The public spaces? Easy to navigate. This is seriously appreciated, especially with the growing number of folks looking for accessibility (like myself, with… ahem… a perpetually tired back). I didn’t personally need a wheelchair, but it was clear that someone could easily move around.
However, let’s talk about the Car Park [on-site]… and the Car Park [free of charge] situation. Okay, technically you can park for free, but finding a spot in the designated free area felt like a competitive sport. Picture this: you’re circling, feeling the pressure of the clock and the judgmental glares of others, dodging errant shopping trolleys… yeah. Not zen. Valet parking is also available which seems like a godsend, especially if you're like me and would rather pay a bit more than engage in a parking Hunger Games.
Once you do get settled in, you find yourself in a pretty decent base of operations. Check-in/out [express] is a lifesaver, and you can even do Contactless check-in/out which is just excellent for these times. And the Front desk [24-hour] is a bonus – because who knows when a sudden craving for midnight snacks (thanks, Snack bar) will hit?
Rooms: Cloud Nine (Literally, Because They're High Up) & the Occasional Slight Annoyance
My room (non-smoking, thankfully!) was… well, it was great. A High floor room with a Window that opens (fresh air, YES!), and a view that legitimately made me gasp. Okay, maybe not GASP, but I did a little "Ooh!" It had everything – Air conditioning, a comfy King bed, Blackout curtains (essential for the sleep-deprived), and a Seating area where I may or may not have spent an embarrassing amount of time staring out the window, contemplating life.
The Internet access – wireless was surprisingly solid (bless you, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!). Though honestly, I didn't even bother with Internet [LAN]. Who uses a cable anymore? There was even a Laptop workspace which I completely ignored because, staycation, duh!
My biggest complaint? The soundproofing was… okay. I could occasionally hear my neighbors having a fiesta, though whether they were actually partying or just REALLY enthusiastic about their TV shows, I'm still not sure. Also, the supplied toiletries were a bit… generic. But hey, Toiletries are provided they work!
Things to Eat, Drink, and Generally Be Merry
The dining scene is a mixed bag – and by that I mean there are definitely some things that could improve. Let's start with the good: Room service! Room service [24-hour] is always a win. Ordering a late-night pizza and binge-watching Netflix in your robe? Absolute bliss. Also, the Coffee shop has a decent caffeine fix for you to start the day.
Breakfast [buffet] is offered, and I’m fairly sure I ate my weight in bacon. The Western breakfast was standard, with a side of Asian breakfast. I did catch myself eyeing the Vegetarian restaurant but alas, I was too busy devouring the meat. If there’s one thing I’d change, it’s the restaurant's ambiance, which feels a bit… sterile. But the food is tasty, and that's what matters, right?
They serve a Breakfast takeaway service if you are in a hurry or too lazy to walk down.
I didn't get a chance to check out the Poolside bar, but I'm already picturing myself sipping a cocktail by the Swimming pool [outdoor].
Relaxation Station: Spa, Sauna, and the Pursuit of Bliss
Okay, this is where Unwind in Zen really shines. And now, I'm going to gush.
Let me tell you about the Spa. Seriously, book a massage. Do it. Right now. I opted for the Body scrub and Massage, and I left feeling like a completely different human. The therapist (shout-out to Maria, who worked miracles on my knotted shoulders) was incredible. The ambiance, with its soft lighting and soothing music, was perfect. I could seriously live in that spa. They have spa and sauna services. Do yourself a favor, just treat yourself and go. I did.
Other ways to chill out included the Sauna and Steamroom (both fantastic, but remember to hydrate!), and the outdoor Pool with view.
Safety First: The Unseen Heroes
In these times, safety is paramount. Unwind in Zen gets a solid A+ for their efforts. I spotted Hand sanitizer everywhere, and the staff were clearly trained in hygiene protocol. The Rooms sanitized between stays, the Daily disinfection in common areas, and the dedication to Hygiene certification – it all added up to peace of mind. The Anti-viral cleaning products and the extra sanitization measures made me feel secure. They also offer Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, and Individually-wrapped food options. The staff also practice Physical distancing of at least 1 meter.
For the Kids… And For You, Too!
While I didn’t have any kids with me (blessedly!), I did notice some Kids facilities. There’s a Babysitting service, and the entire vibe felt Family/child friendly.
The Not-So-Zen Side (But Let’s Be Real, It’s Still Okay)
Look, no place is perfect. And Unwind in Zen is no exception. The hotel chain is not unique and its overall feel could be a little more personality-packed.
Overall Verdict: Book It! (But Maybe Prepare for the Parking)
Would I recommend Unwind in Zen: Manila's Grass Residences for a staycation? Absolutely. The rooms are comfortable, the spa is divine, and the safety protocols are top-notch. The parking situation is a pain, and the restaurant ambiance could use a little jazzing up, but these are relatively minor quibbles.
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (Knocking off half a point for the evil parking lot!)
The Unwind in Zen: Manila's Grass Residences STAYCATION BLISS! Offer for YOU!
Tired of the same old routine? Craving an escape without the hassle of travel? Unwind in Zen: Manila's Grass Residences has the perfect solution!
Here's what you get:
- Luxurious Stay: Enjoy a relaxing stay in one of our well-appointed rooms, complete with all the essentials for a perfect getaway.
- Spa Indulgence: Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa experience. Get a free add-on with the Deluxe Room.
- Delicious Dining: Savor mouthwatering meals at our on-site restaurants, offering a range of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds.
- Ultimate Relaxation: Unwind and recharge in our pool with a view, sauna, and steamroom.
- Peace of Mind: Rest easy knowing we prioritize your safety with top-notch hygiene protocols and cleanliness standards.
- Convenient Amenities: Take advantage of our services, including 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, and express check-in/out.
Book now and get:
- 15% OFF on all room rates (excluding weekends)
- FREE room upgrade.
- Complimentary welcome drinks upon arrival.
- Exclusive Spa Discount: Enjoy a 20% discount on any spa treatment during your stay!
Limited Time Offer! Don't miss out on this opportunity to escape the everyday and embrace pure relaxation.
Click here to book your Unwind in Zen staycation and experience bliss today!
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Villa Awaits in Bali
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my slightly chaotic but ultimately glorious "Zen Staycation" at the Grass Residences in Manila. Prepare for a whirlwind of overthinking, questionable decisions, and the absolute joy of pretending to be a minimalist for 72 glorious hours.
The "Zen" Staycation: A Mostly-True Plan (with room for glorious derailment)
Day 1: Arrival of the Discombobulated
1:00 PM: The Great Arrival. Or, "Why Did I Think This Was a Good Idea?"
Traffic. That's how this whole thing starts. Not a particularly zen start, let me tell you. I swear, battling Manila traffic is a spiritual test of patience. You're forced to embrace the chaos, the honking, the near-misses…or you'll lose your mind. I arrived at Grass Residences more frazzled than a cat in a washing machine. The lobby was surprisingly chic, though. Clean lines, soft lighting… they were clearly trying to lull me into a state of calm. I, however, was armed with unresolved anxieties and a questionable selection of snacks. My first thought? "Did I pack enough chips?"
2:00 PM: Room Reconnaissance & Interior Design Shenanigans
Alright, room check! Nice view. Okay, maybe not zen zen, but it was high enough to make the city noise fade a bit. I spent a good twenty minutes reorganizing the room. Why? No idea! My brain just craved order amidst the chaos. I rearranged the furniture just to get that sweet 'fresh start' feeling. It wasn't about being organized, it was about feeling organized, you know?
3:00 PM: Poolside Pretensions & Sunburn Alert
Ah, the pool. This was meant to be the epitome of Zen. Me, in a floatie, floating aimlessly. And for a few minutes, it was. But then a rogue splash from a kid turned my perfectly serene hair into a drowned rat. Then, I realized I forgot sunscreen. Cue epic sunburn! I swore off the sun, vowing to only venture into the shade for the rest of the day.
5:00 PM: The Quest for the Perfect Coffee (and a Realization)
There's a Starbucks nearby! Score! I'm not sure how zen it is to depend on caffeine and sugar (but the Frappuccino was worth it). On the walk, I realized something crucial: this staycation wasn't about perfect minimalism, it was about me-ism. Indulging in little treats, allowing myself to be lazy, and most importantly, not feeling guilty about it.
7:00 PM: Dinner & the Art of Avoiding the News
I ordered in. I watched a movie that was so bad it was actually good. Zen me, but also, the Netflix binge monster was unleashed, which is pretty anti-zen, in hindsight. I skipped the news. The constant barrage of negativity was making me twitchy.
Day 2: The "Zen" Struggle is Real
8:00 AM: Breakfast Blues & the Pancake Paradox
Room service breakfast! This was my attempt at adulting. I ordered pancakes, expecting some Instagram-worthy fluffy wonders. They were… fine. Not awful, not amazing. The pancakes were the most profound philosophical experience I have had this year. It hit me: life is like pancakes. Sometimes they're perfect, sometimes they're slightly burnt, but you still eat them, because that's life.
10:00 AM: Mall Escapades:
The Grass Residences are attached to a HUGE mall. One moment I'm meditating, the next I'm in a Zara dressing room, trying on things I don't need. I spent an hour wandering around, buying nothing I needed, but wanting everything. It was a struggle.
12:00 PM: Lunch Lulls and the Elusive "Mindful Bite"
Back in the room. I tried to eat my lunch "mindfully", aka: slowly and without the phone. It lasted about two minutes. My brain craves stimulation, I guess…
2:00 PM: A "Zen" Moment of Truth (and Ice Cream)
A random walk to the park. This time, with headphones. I sat, watched people, and finally felt a sliver of actual peace. I treated myself to ice cream, because, well, Zen is about balance, right? A walk? Ice Cream? Perfection.
4:00 PM: The Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing (and Possibly Failing)
Okay, time to really be Zen. I tried to read a book but I kept getting distracted by the internet. Then I switched off everything. And I stared at the wall. And thought about things. Random things. It’s hard. It's hard to do nothing.
7:00 PM: A Dinner Disaster and a Confession
I ordered dinner. I somehow managed to spill it all over the bed. Cue the dramatic internal monologue. It was hilarious. I'm a mess.
Day 3: Acceptance & the Journey Home
9:00 AM: The Sweet Surrender of a Sleep-In
Woke up late. Didn't beat myself up about it. The entire point was to not have a schedule. Success!
11:00 AM: Packing Panic (but Less Panic-y)
Packing! And you know what? The panic was significantly lessened. Sure, I still had too many clothes, but this time I made peace with it.
12:00 PM: Check Out & The Verdict
Check out time! As I left, I felt… different. Not Zen-master different, but definitely more at peace with my own brand of beautifully flawed self. Maybe, just maybe, I'd even attempt another staycation.
The Takeaway: This Was My Zen, and It Was Imperfectly Perfect
My "Zen" staycation at Grass Residences wasn't about perfectly executed meditation and bland food. It was about embracing the chaos of my real life, allowing myself to be imperfect, and finding small pockets of peace amidst the delightfully messy reality of, well, me. And honestly? I’m already planning the next one.
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"How Does It Work?" (As If I Know Myself!)
What’s the Deal With [Specific Thing]? (That One Thing!)
Is There a Catch? Like, a *Big* Catch?
So, What's the Goal Here, Anyway? (Like, the *Whole* Point?)
Okay, I'm Confused. Where Do I Start?
What if I Have a Problem? (Help!)
Is This Going to Be Around Forever? (Or is this just a fleeting passion project?)

