MANILA, Philippines - Initially conceptualized to cater to relatives of patients confined at a nearby hospital, the Lemon Tree Inn has since grown to become a boutique hotel for those who wish to spend a night or two in a place they could call home.
“Here, we make sure that our guests feel like they are staying in their own home,” Lemon Tree Inn general manager Linda Luz Amante told The STAR. “We make sure we give them the comfort that they will get in their own homes, and even more.”
From the outside, the hotel, with its striking pastel yellow and green, stands out among the concrete structures fronting the Capitol Medical Center on Quezon Avenue in Quezon City.
The difference becomes even more evident upon entering the building, as the interior design – particularly of The Lounge located on the second floor – transports guests from the dust and pollution of the outside world to the confines of an inviting, comfortable and cozy home.
Amante said they worked hard to ensure that the limited space they have is maximized, complemented by top notch service that they have become known for among their clients.
With only a limited number rooms, Lemon Tree Inn often finds itself fully-booked, with many corporate clients as well as individual guests.
“There are instances when we do not have available rooms, guests would check-in at another hotel, but would immediately transfer here once a room becomes available,” said Amante.
The relaxing atmosphere of Lemon Tree Inn is just one of many reasons why their guests keep coming back.
“We make sure that they feel like they are part of the family,” she said.
Upon entering the hotel, one can feel the genuine warmth and hospitality of the staff. And this is not just for show; it’s the prevailing atmosphere. Hotel staff shared how Amante treats them like her children, often making an effort to go beyond professional boundaries to know about their personal lives.
Amante said she believes having that kind of relationship among the hotel staff and executives impacts positively on their performance and treatment of guests.
In addition to regular training for their personal development, Amante organizes a weekly bible study for the spiritual development of the hotel personnel.
The hotel is also active in various advocacies, for instance supporting parish-led projects providing support to marginalized students. Products used in the hotel, particularly detergents and soaps, are purchased from a group that provides livelihood for women from underprivileged communities.
Medical tourism, personalized service
Established in 2007, Amante – a physician who previously worked in the pharmaceutical industry – said they wanted to provide decent and secure accommodations for those who have relatives at the Capitol Medical Center, which is directly in front of the hotel.
With her and her husband’s medical background, the hotel prides itself in providing guests with spotless, hygienic rooms equipped with contemporary furniture and a kitchenette.
The hotel also has its own kitchen, which guests can use for a minimal fee.
Asked about the choice of the name, Amante says “lemon” has long been known as a symbol of cleanliness and relaxation. “When you say lemon, you will think about feeling refreshed and relaxed,” she said.
From being a medical tourism hotel with an identified target market, Lemon Tree Inn later expanded its services to attract more clients.
The hotel found its niche by offering personalized services to its clients, for instance, providing special romantic set-ups for couples spending their honeymoon at the hotel. Known as the “romantic package,” guests are treated to additional services, including flowers and free use of The Lounge for pictorial and discounts on bridal car rentals and in-room spa services.
Hotel staff are more than willing to help guests make their stay memorable, recognizing that it is the little things that make a whole lot of difference in their hotel experience.
For reservations, call 376-6103, email reservation@lemontreeinn.com.ph or visit www.lemontreeinn.com.ph/main. Photos by Janvic Mateo