In the booming district
of Alabang lies a quiet shade for tourists and staycationers — Acacia Hotel
Manila. Despite bearing a name that finds its roots in foreign land (the genus
originated primarily in Africa and Australia to be exact.), this homegrown five-star
luxury hotel shares why the conditions are right for it to blossom on Philippine
soil.
When one utters the name
“Acacia,” it conjures up an image of an earth-toned, calming abode, accented
with fresh blossoms and delicate garden-inspired interiors. But enter the glass
doors of Acacia Hotel Manila and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Within the glass-encased
abode is a juxtaposition of distinct patterns, bolder prints and color: metal
orb pieces of sculpture and crop-circles leading up to the entrance, black and
white paisley printed lounge chairs on zebra print carpet, giant green and
orange blooms on brown tapestry against a more than colorful striped carpet,
and psychedelic blue LED lights arranged in waves on the ceiling. A gigantic
metal piece, which resembles a treetop, hangs behind the guest relations desk,
while a red and gold abstract piece by Filipino artist Bernie Pacquing crawls
across the lobby wall. The different elements may seem visually jarring at
first, but when seen as a whole, (surprisingly) blends into a harmonious dream.
You have to admit — Acacia has flair. The hotel’s general
manager, Bobby Horrigan, seconds the motion and beams with pride: “From the
driveway to our lobby to each of the 262 suites, we have a distinct design.
There are none like us in the area.” And a standout the hotel proves to
be.
Proud to be Pinoy
Aside from becoming one
of the favorite hotspots of the locals as well as tourists (especially the
Korean and Japanese market) because of its accessibility to nearby golf courses, the blossoming success
of the hotel is attributed to its incomparable Filipino hospitality and
service.
“I remember people
always talking about world-class hospitality,” Horrigan says, “But we’re better
than world class; we are Filipinos. We give that genuine hospitality that the
Filipinos have become known for from sunrise to sunset. And we are consistent
in providing that,” he says. CHMI Hotels and
Residence, Inc. president Cheryl
Rodriguez-Chua then adds that Acacia is one of the few hotels in the country that employs an all Filipino staff.
“From the owners to the general manager, down to the staff, we are truly 100
percent Filipino,” she beams. Yes, even Horrigan is Pinoy.
Aside from its ideal
location and complete hotel amenities (Acacia also houses a
grand ballroom, six function rooms, a swimming pool and a fitness center). Acacia
Hotel is also attracting guests with its all-day five-star dining menu and
buffet. It is also worthy to note that Acacia recently found its new
managing partner in Enderun Colleges, one of the prestigious culinary
institutions in the country. Enderun will not only be helping in the overall
operations but will also overlook Acaci coffee shop and its lounge/restaurant,
The Lobby at Acacia. Now, sumptuous Asian spreads and international favorites
crafted by the country’s best can be enjoyed from morning to midnight.
With its eclectic
interiors and strong Filipino pride, Acacia Hotel seems to have a misplaced
name. If one were to think about it, wouldn’t “Narra” be a more fitting choice?
Chua — possibly having read this writer’s mind — explains, “ Many ask why we
chose the name Acacia. We know that Acacia is not the national tree nor do we
have any furniture made from Acacia in the hotel, but we thought the name
‘Acacia’ was a fitting choice because like the Acacia tree, we aim to provide comfort like a shade; a safe haven such as a
shelter; and a strong and stable place that guests can keep coming back to.”
And that, this writer cannot contest.
First printed in PeopleAsia Magazine
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