Microtel by Wyndham is a chained-brand economy hotel with more than 300 locations around the world. It currently has 13 properties in the Philippines located in Acropolis, QC, Baguio, Batangas, Boracay, Cabanatuan, Cavite, Davao, General Santos, Mall of Asia, Palawan, South Forbes, Tarlac, and UP Technohub Quezon City.
Since my fifth sister’s wedding was going to be held in UP Diliman, Quezon City, we had to look for a nearby, no-frills property to stay at for two nights.
Among all the options near Balay Kalinaw, UP Diliman (the wedding venue where the woman in green is laughing like crazy), Microtel by Wyndham UP Technohub stood out in terms of value for money, location, and reputation.
Here’s what worked for me (and Neil), what didn’t work for us, and what we suggest to help them improve their service.
(Note: If you click some images on this post, you can quickly find Agoda’s rates for Microtel UP Technohub rooms.)
Hotel Review: Microtel UP Technohub
Address: UP-Ayala Land Technohub, Commonwealth Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City 1121, Metro Manila, Philippines
Phone Number: +63 (02) 804 6888
Check in/out: February 15 – February 17, 2018 (2 nights)
Booking Details: 2 Queen Beds Room inclusive of breakfast for 2 guests, free Wifi, free parking and complimentary hot & cold water for the total amount of P6,970.
What Worked For Me
Staff’s Thoughtfulness
At around 11pm, our plane arrived at Terminal 4 Manila Airport. As soon as we checked out our luggage, I got a call from Microtel Hotel confirming our arrival and room reservation. We worked all day that day and we were really tired and hungry so this call warmed my heart.
Security of the Location
After about an hour and half, we reached UP Technohub. We then passed through a checkpoint where the security guard asked for our Grab driver’s credentials before allowing his car inside what looked like a village. After inspection, the car stopped in front of the main hotel’s lobby entrance.
Efficient Check-in Procedure
During check-in, the young lady at the front desk smiled at us, asked for the booker’s ID (mine), and gave me a form to sign. After a few minutes, she handed us our key cards, breakfast coupons, and WiFi access codes. We asked about room service as we were both starving but she said that their room service is only available until 12 midnight. This was a let-down, which our downcast facial expressions showed. Sensing our disappointment, she mentioned that we could order from any 24/7 fast food restaurant and have our food delivered. Neil and I both beamed at the mention of ‘food.’
Spacious, Clean Room with Chiropractor-Approved bed
Despite two Queen beds in our room, it looked spacious and relaxing with inviting color palettes. There are plenty of spaces to put our bags and shoes (under and beside the working desk, inside the cabinet, near the window seat, and more). The desk was also large enough for two 13-inch laptops. Meanwhile, Neil excitedly turned on the LED TV to browse for movies or interesting documentary to watch (we don’t own a TV so this has been his favorite thing to do the minute we enter any hotel room).
But for sleep-deprived travelers, the highlight of every room is the bed. While I didn’t check the exact brand of the bed, Microtel’s website says it is ‘Chiropractor-approved’ and I didn’t really need proof for this. I lay on the bed for a few minutes, feeling the mattress, and fell asleep. I only woke up when our food arrived.
High-Speed Wifi
After a much-needed nap, I forced myself to get up and connect my laptop. After entering our WiFi access code, I was connected! This was around 1AM and I found the internet connection to be decent (e.g. I was able to open 10 tabs at the same time.) Neil was also able to order fast food online (though he didn’t really need to connect to the room’s WiFi because his Smart LTE was working perfectly.)
Free Branded Toiletries
While most budget hotels are scrapping their branded toiletries, Microtel UP Technohub hasn’t gone this route yet. Ample toiletries with the name of the brand greeted me as soon as I checked the bathroom. Bath and face towels looked and felt clean. Other standard features of a modern full-sized bathroom can be found, including a bidet, rainfall showers, and hot and cold water.
What Didn’t Work for Us
Minor Things Missing
Neil was thirsty when we entered our room. While the water dispenser can be found along the hallway, it would have been more convenient and ‘welcoming’ if there was drinking water waiting in the room. There was also no coffee or tea sachet provided. But this is just a minor inconvenience that maybe some guests can simply ignore.
No Room Service after Midnight
Millie’s All-day dining happens to be closed after 11pm. Its room service closes an hour later. I’m not sure how many guests need late dinner or super early breakfast yet wouldn’t it be awesome if room service is available after 12 midnight?
The Hotel’s Only Restaurant Can Get Crowded
With a central location and function rooms that can handle about 200 people, the hotel’s only restaurant can get packed before or during business hours (7AM-9AM). The hotel is a popular place for wedding photoshoots, international conventions, and business meetings. So wake up early to make the most of the breakfast treats and select your seats/spots at the dining area.
Is Microtel UP Technohub our favorite hotel now?
I love the location, security, ambience, and the main guest room features and amenities. However, I wasn’t totally satisfied with the value of room for the price we paid since we checked in late and we were not allowed to stay in our room later than 1pm.
Would I recommend Microtel UP Technohub branch?
Absolutely. Be sure to check the swimming pool located at the roof deck and don’t miss your free breakfast as the buffet spread is quite good. If you set your expectations right, I believe your stay will be as splendid as ours.
Have you stayed at Microtel by Wyndham UP Technohub? What did you think of it?