Need more options for a family-friendly Mother’s Day celebration? Here is a list of hotels we love and why we do

Written by Chelsea Gogola
Photos courtesy of Ed Simon; ; ; ;

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

ROOMS: In this 5-star resort hotel, pillows are hypoallergenic and body care products are from Hermès and Lanvin. Everything exudes luxury; perfect for the family that is looking to indulge and unwind.

AMENITIES: Kids can stay at these places so you and mister can spend quality time together: Club Millesime Play (exclusive for Luxury Club guests) has activities, games and gaming consoles, flowing snacks and refreshments and helpful staff to keep kids aged nine and below happily occupied; The Kid’s Tent (which is free for all hotel guests) has an outdoor playground and air-conditioned tent with puzzles and books; Gymboree offers educational fun for kids 5 and below.

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL: From May 8 to 10, Mother’s Day will be celebrated at the famed Spiral, with recipes from Judy Ann Santos, Nina Daza-Puyat and Sandy Daza among others.

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is located at CCP Complex Roxas Boulevard, Pasay; tel. (2)551 5555 or (2)832 6988; visit

Hotel H2O

ROOMS: The kids will be thrilled to “sleep with fishes” in Hotel H2O’s marine-themed rooms and suites—some with giant aquariums and a view of the Manila Bay. Room rates start at P9,700.

AMENITIES: Their Zenyu Eco Spa is one of the few places you can experience a full body fish spa where tiny fishes nibble on your dry skin.

DINING: Dining options within the hotel are limited to Makan Makan, which offers a wide variety of Asian cuisine, and Club Lounge, a good after-hours hotspot with a great view of the bay. The latter is great for a night out with the hubby, but if you have little kids, a quick stroll to SM Mall of Asia will give you many dining options.

ATTRACTIONS: If you and the kids haven’t had your fill of aquatic life, you’d be glad to know that Manila Ocean Park is right next door to this hotel. Feeding penguins, playing with sharks and learning to swim as mermaids are just some of the activities kids can enjoy.

Hotel H2o is located at Luneta, Manila; tel. (2)238 6100; visit

Ace Hotel & Suites

AMENITIES: Ace Water Spa is the hotel’s highlight. It’s the first water spa in the country that offers a therapeutic experience using aquatic jets to massage the body. Spend the day relaxing or playing with the whole family. Four hours is P550 for adults and P250 for kids 4ft and below.

DINING: Enjoy a romantic dinner with an affordable price at the hotel’s Sky Garden Fine Dining. If you’re starved from a day at the pools, there’s the Ace International Buffet.

ATTRACTIONS: The hotel is located along Kapitolyo, known for being a foodie haven.

Ace Hotel & Suites is located at United St. corner Brixton St., Kapitolyo Pasig; tel. (2)628 1888; visit

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Makati

ROOM: The industry standard for hotel rooms is 26sqm, but Holiday Inn’s smallest room is 32sqm—perfect for kids to move around in. For kids 12 and below, accommodation is free. Mini bars even have activities for kids such as coloring books.

AMENITIES: Although the hotel is located at the business district, the facilities are kid-friendly. There is an outdoor kiddie pool and a Sunday kids’ club where little ones can play Wii and watch cartoons.

DINING: At the Flavors restaurant, kids who get their own buffet station with nuggets, burger patties and ice cream as some of their options. Kids under 12 get to eat for free too! For you and the hubby, there is Oz Bar by the pool where you can grab a few drinks.

ATTRACTIONS: The hotel is connected to shopping and dining mecca, Glorietta Mall.

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Makati is located at Palm Drive, Ayala Center, Makati