The oakwood difference

CEBU, Philippines - He held the door open with a large tray of sandwiches on the other hand, had me enter the elevator car and he slipped his way in then asked, ‘which floor sir?’

One-of-a-kind is an understatement to describe an Oakwood Premier Joy-Nostalg Center Manila experience. I have been in and out of many luxury hotels in cities both here and abroad, but Oakwood hoists serviced-living to another paradigm. I guess the distinction lies on the fact that this premier establishment combines urban living with impeccable five-star hotel services.

To begin with, guests do not settle in their usual rooms, Oakwood refreshingly refers to each private space as your “residence”. And it’s just as appropriate because instead of the usual tight-spaced hotel nooks, elegant apartment units welcome you as home.

Upon entering, you’re greeted with the view of the living room and a glimpse of the metropolis through the floor-to-ceiling glass walls. But before you start settling in, you will pass through the ergonomically fitted kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and all the modern cooking and dining necessities. Believe me, this area is style and function married to perfection. And in the closet opposite the kitchen, you might just find a washer and drier to boot! As expected, the living area spells luxury all over. From the furniture, to its fixtures down to the latest technology in home theatre, this area will definitely be the center of all your homely activities.

Meanwhile, the bedroom is another story. Spacious yet cozy, it also has its own entertainment system and glass walls that provide a magnificent view of the Ortigas business district. But it’s that king sized bed that really captures your undivided attention. It makes you wish you were sleeping beauty without true love’s kiss! Finally, the room that always leaves a lasting impression is the bathroom (I know for many, this is always the barometer of comparison). A spectacle on its own, it features a glass-enclosed shower space that turns into a steam room should you need that spa treatment at home, a detached bathtub and its own flat-screen television set. Hmmm, that certainly got your attention.

Well, some good things never last, they say. And as I closed the door behind my temporary residence after my second night, I made my way to the elevator. There, once again was the same room service guy I met on my first day only this time sans the food tray. As I slipped in the car, he greeted me and asked “Which floor sir?”

“The lobby please,” I replied, knowing that my great experience has come to an end. (THE FREEMAN)