Y2: A balance of yin and yang

MANILA, Philippines - How often do travelers find themselves checking into a hotel that’s well...comfortable enough but frankly unexciting?

Standard, or classic, may initially look attractive, but in the long run it can get very boring. And if you’re the type to look for more than the usual, the black and white magic offered by Y2 Residence Hotel might just tickle your fancy.

From the ceiling to the walls, down to the interior and floors, Y2 Residence Hotel is playfully designed with touches of black and white. Even its lights, chairs and air perfumer compliment the hotel’s motif of yin and yang.

Indeed, a perfect harmony.

“Our overall concept is the oriental philosophy of balance and harmony. Yin and yang mean balance – a balanced life, a balance in everything. And that’s what we want to project,” general manager Philippe Batholomi told The STAR.

Y2 Residence Hotel lies at the heart of the perpetually abuzz Makati Avenue and is surrounded by restaurants and bars. It could be easily spotted as one of the unique buildings around Century and A-venue Malls. For Bartholomi, the hotel’s strategic location allows guests to have the “best dining options” in town.

Y2 has 169 rooms –ranging from studio units to two-bedroom suites. Each room has a dining area, a well-stocked mini bar and a fully equipped kitchen. Except for the studios, each room also has a living area.

“The type of room we offer is very different from other hotels. The configuration allows our guests to enjoy their privacy,” he added.

While each room may have the same facilities, they are still distinct from one another. Unique hand-painted murals depicting oriental-themed subjects – ranging from flowers to anime characters – await guests. You won’t know what you’ll get – until you get there!

On top of the 21-story building are an alluring swimming pool and a spa that promise a reprieve from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Y2 Residence Hotel has been operational for a year now. It has come a long way since its soft launching in November 2013. Despite the tough competition among Makati hotels, Y2 has made its way to Tripadvisor Philippines’ ranking as the 10th best among the 67 hotels in the city.

Recent reviews called it a “home in the city” that has “mid-level price with a five-star service.”

“We are the hotel that caters not only to the short-stay market. When I say short-say, meaning one night to two nights. We are not only a hotel but also a residence for those who are staying long,” said Bartholomi. Either way, Y2 Residence Hotel is indeed a home like no other.

To know more, visit www.y2hotel.com or call 224-3000. Photos by Fernan Nebres