• April 27, 2024

A melting pot of culture and a bustling center for trade, the City of Manila is home to many historically significant sites, prestigious educational institutions, corporate spaces, vibrant entertainment and retail spots, and trendy food hubs. Its proximity to other major business districts and accessibility to and from the different cities in the metro make it a strategic location for people looking to work, study, do business, or just have fun in the city and its nearby areas.

Manila has no shortage of options for people looking for short vacations, overnight stays, or long-term rentals. Recently, we had the pleasure of experiencing the charm of lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate when they invited us for a trial stay.

Managed by The Ascott Limited, lyf Malate Manila and The Suites are contemporary serviced residences that combine the luxury and comfort of top hotels and the convenience and amenities of a home. They cater to students looking for a home during the school year, travelers seeking a distinctive staycation, tourists exploring the country, and businessmen needing a place to stay while attending a seminar or exploring new ventures, among others—truly an ideal choice for a wide range of guests.

But what are serviced residences?

Your home away from home

For the unfamiliar, a serviced residence (or serviced apartment) offers the warmth of a home plus the hospitality offered by a hotel.

Photo: The Ascott Limited

Guests enjoy additional features that set it apart from a regular hotel, including a fully equipped kitchen, a dedicated and furnished living area, and a functional bathroom. Some serviced residences also have premium amenities typically found in hotels.

All of these enhance the overall experience in a serviced residence, especially for those looking for more freedom and comfort during their stay. Additionally, they become more cost-effective for longer stays or for those traveling in large groups.

The Suites life

Now, let us share with you our exclusive trial stay experience at The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate.

Warm and friendly reception greets you upon arrival at The Suites. With its classic interior and inviting ambience, the lobby provides an atmosphere that makes guests feel at ease and at home from the get-go.

The Suites occupies Levels 12 to 20 of the 45-story Torre Lorenzo Malate, featuring 168 upscale studio executive and one- or two-bedroom deluxe units. Room sizes are bigger than some hotel and condo units, too, ranging from 21.6sqm to 61.6sqm. Meanwhile, lyf Malate Manila units are at Levels 21 to 30 of this mixed-use building.

We stayed in a one-bedroom The Suites unit that comes fully furnished. The kitchen is equipped with an electric stove with a range hood, refrigerator, microwave, water heater, rice cooker, and utensils. If you’re staying for several days and would like to prepare your own meals, you definitely can here. You can even do your laundry since a washer and dryer are available in the room.

In the bathroom, basic toiletries were already provided. It also has a bidet, sink and mirror, and hot shower. Guests can request fresh sets of towels and toiletries as needed.

The living area is spacious and fits a long couch and a two-seater dining table with enough room to move around, The smart TV keeps the guests entertained when staying in; the free Wi-Fi connection ensures that they can stay connected and productive.

Photo: The Ascott Limited

Beyond the sliding glass door is the bedroom. It features a clean and comfortable bed, and a study table doubling as a vanity beside it. Our window features an expansive view of the city and Manila Bay.

On-site facilities

During our stay, we were also able to check out the different amenities available to guests in both The Suites and lyf.

Left: Wash and Hang at lyf | Right: lyf Malate Manila reception
Hang out at the Sky Lounge

If you’re staying in The Suites, you have access to the pool and fitness center. Meanwhile, those booked in lyf have their own gym, hangout spots, and study areas. They also have a dedicated, self-service laundry area and a social kitchen where folks can do their chores while socializing with friends, family, and other visitors. Guests of either residence can hang out or celebrate special occasions in the sky lounge and sky garden.

Furmoms and furdads can even bring their pets with them thanks to The Suites’ pet-friendly policy.

Places to visit nearby

Because of its central location, lyf and The Suites give you easy access to various areas of the locality.

For shopping, Robinsons Manila is just nearby. Some of the top schools in the country, like De La Salle University and the University of the Philippines Manila, are within easy commute.

Want to immerse yourself in learning our nation’s history and culture? The National Museum, Metropolitan Museum, and Intramuros are accessible within minutes via taxi or private car.

If you’re a foodie or looking to sample local cuisines, a lot of well-known restaurants and budding cafes are in proximity. The classic Aristocrat Restaurant, the local favorite Jim’s Pares Mami, and the newly opened Library Café are some examples.

It’s for everyone!

Our stay in The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate was nothing short of exceptional. We were able to enjoy the warm, homey environment while also reaping the benefits of the premium amenities and top-tier hotel service.

The Suites two-bedroom | Photo: The Ascott Limited

The Suites and lyf Malate Manila are ideal lodging options for business travelers, executives, and international tourists seeking extended stays and dependable services.

Meanwhile, those who love staycations with family or friends would surely enjoy the flexibility the rooms offer. They can cook, do laundry, or finish their work whenever they want.

To book a stay at lyf Malate and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate, you may visit the official website.

Words & Photos Pat Calica

Leave a Reply

Social