(SPOT.ph) Just when you thought you had seen and tasted everything you could in Baguio City, you find that you are very much (happily) mistaken. The accessibility (approximately four hours, whether by public bus or private vehicle) and improved post-pandemic situation have been favorable to new and newly revived sites. And if you're looking for a place to stay that's strategically located a good walking distance away from Good Shepherd Convent and Mines View Park, and in the other direction to Wright Park, you may want to consider booking a room at Giraffe Boutique Hotel in Barangay Gibraltar in the City of Pines.
Why "giraffe"? Well, there is a metal giraffe on the terrace and another image of the long-necked animal painted at the stairwell. And while there’s no live giraffe on the property, Giraffe Boutique Hotel is pet-friendly.
Also read: 10 Places in Baguio for the Artsy Traveler
What to Expect at This Baguio Hotel
The three-storey Giraffe Boutique Hotel has ample parking and a beautiful, Instagram-worthy terrace where you can take your complimentary breakfast and a cup of coffee. A sought-after spot is a table by the vertical flower garden. This area is airy and conducive for hanging out at any time during the day. Inside, there is a long bar and ample seating for diners, too; especially for dinner, when the air can get nippy.Â
At night, when they light a bonfire, you can huddle together sharing stories at the dap-ay out back, nursing a cup of hot cocoa or an aperitif.
The hotel is nestled in a residential area surrounded by towering pine trees and flowering plants, and this cozy and homey environment extends to each room.
The Superior Room (P3,500) has more than enough space for two. The One Bedroom Suite (P5,800) has a spacious sitting room with a couch, tables and chairs, and a coffee nook with an electric kettle and microwave oven. The Junior Suite (P6,500) is perfect for a family or group of five with three beds in the main room and two beds in the loft. Each accommodation has a writing desk, a minibar, and a smart TV. The ensuite bathrooms have rain showerheads and are fully stocked with complimentary toiletries.
There is a small meeting room that accommodates about a dozen people. Within the year, they expect to inaugurate the convention center currently under construction across the street. Â
They take pride in their Italian restaurant, Mangiamo, led by an Italian chef. Don't forget to try their octopus salad, fresh pasta (especially the ravioli), and oven-baked pizza. Order the margherita for an absolute classic. Their "specials of the day" board sometimes includes interesting treats like sushi pizza and paccheri frutti mare. And of course, leave room for tiramisu.
Also read: Baguio and Burnham: How This City Was Made to Last
Giraffe Boutique Hotel is at 5 Arellano corner Moran Street, Gibraltar, Baguio City., Benguet. Rates start at P 3,500. For more information, follow Giraffe Boutique Hotel on Facebook.
