Novotel Araneta City Staycation: Honest Review

If you think you need a plane ticket to reset, think again.
Sometimes, the best escape is just one good hotel night away.

That’s exactly what I realized during our Novotel Araneta City staycation. No long drive. No stressful planning. Just check in, breathe out, and slow down. Right in the middle of the city, but somehow far from the noise.

Here’s my honest experience, exactly how it felt.

What is Novotel Araneta City and Why It’s Perfect for a Staycation

Novotel Manila Araneta City is located inside Araneta City, one of the most active areas in Quezon City.

At first, that sounds like the opposite of relaxing.

But that’s where Novotel gets it right.

Step outside and Cubao is busy, loud, and always moving. Step inside the hotel and everything shifts. The noise fades. The pace slows. Your mind finally gets a break.

That contrast is what makes this staycation work.

Arrival and First Impressions at Novotel Cubao

Arrival was smooth and stress-free. The lobby felt open, calm, and welcoming. High ceilings. Neutral colors. Enough space to breathe after traffic.

Check-in was quick, and the staff were warm without feeling rushed. No awkward waiting. No pressure. Just an easy start to the stay.

This is where staycation mode officially begins.

The Room Experience and That City View

The room felt clean, modern, and comfortable. Nothing overdone. Everything intentional.

Then there was the window.

The city view instantly became our favorite part. From above, Cubao feels different. More organized. More peaceful. During the day, you watch the city move. At night, the lights turn into a calm glow instead of chaos.

We spent more time by the window than expected. Sitting. Talking. Doing nothing.

That’s when you know the room is doing its job.

Why This Novotel Araneta City Staycation Feels So Calm

The calm doesn’t come from silence. It comes from balance.

You’re still in the city. You feel its energy. But you’re removed enough to rest properly. That’s why this staycation works so well for couples, families, and even solo travelers.

No need for vacation leave. No need to go far.

Nighttime Inside the Hotel

As night comes in, the room gets even cozier. The city lights glow softly. Traffic turns into distant movement.

This is the perfect time to slow down. Scroll through photos. Talk about plans. Or just sit quietly.

City hotels rarely feel this peaceful. Novotel Cubao does.

Breakfast at Novotel Araneta City Is Worth Waking Up For

Breakfast was one of the highlights of our stay.

The buffet offered a good mix of Filipino and international dishes. Enough choices without feeling overwhelming. Whether you want something light or indulgent, it works.

What I loved most was the pace. No rushing. No pressure. You sit longer. You go back for seconds. Breakfast feels like part of the staycation, not a task.

Small Breakfast Details That Make a Difference

The little touches made breakfast special. Warm doughnuts. Fresh juices. Infused water. Even taho.

These small details made the experience feel thoughtful and personal. It didn’t feel like standard hotel food. It felt comforting.

Sometimes, the smallest things leave the biggest impression.

Pool Time Above the City

The pool area is another reason this Novotel Araneta City staycation works so well.

Up here, the city feels far away. Surrounded by greenery and open space, it invites you to slow down even more. Swim if you want. Lounge if you don’t. Sitting still is perfectly acceptable here.

Time moves slower by the pool.

Evenings by the Pool

At night, the pool feels calmer and more intimate. The lights soften. The air cools. Conversations slow down naturally.

It’s not about swimming anymore. It’s about ending the day gently.

Amenities That Encourage Rest

Beyond the room and pool, Novotel Cubao offers spaces meant for rest. The InBalance Spa. Quiet lounges. Corners where you can just sit without feeling rushed.

Nothing here pushes you to do more. Everything quietly invites you to slow down.

Waking Up to Cubao

The last morning was peaceful. Watching the city wake up from above felt grounding. The noise returned slowly, not all at once.

The hotel is also near a lot of malls and exciting parks. It’s also near the a famous interactive art gallery.

It felt like re-entering daily life with a full battery.

One night felt enough to reset. Staying longer felt tempting.

Final Thoughts on Our Novotel Araneta City Staycation

This staycation is all about balance. You’re in the heart of the city, yet comfortably removed from its chaos. Comfortable rooms. Good food. Relaxing views. Thoughtful spaces.

If you’re looking for a simple and stress-free staycation in Quezon City, Novotel Araneta City delivers without trying too hard.

No flights. No long drives.
Just rest, right where you are.