Red Planet Ermita Review

We were scheduled to attend a baptism at Sampaloc Manila last Sunday, November 15, 2105. We are not used to the streets of Manila so we decided to look for a place to stay-in the night before (November 14) to save the travel from Cavite to Manila. It turns out we had a good decision because of the hassle traffic caused by the closed roads for the APEC 2015.

We were quite worried we wouldn't find an affordable and accessible hotel room in Manila; since we were booking morning of November 14. As I was researching through Google for affordable hotels in Manila, I came across Red Planet's website. Because my Dad is more familiar with Ermita area, we chose that branch for our overnight stay. I was impressed at how affordable their rates were given the fact that we were booking less than 8 hours before the check-in time that day.

◢ the Room ◣

The room is not that spacious but has a decent space for two (2) persons. The queen sized bed was very comfy and big. The rooms are equipped with a ceiling fan and an air-con.

Love the idea of a drop down table near the bed. It's a smart way of maximizing space! It's not that big but it's functional. There's a power socket at the side which is very convenient for laptop users.

The rooms also have a flat screen TV with cable. Some channels were not clear but most of the most-watched channels were okay. Near it is a small wall-installed clothes rack with four (4) hangers.

I was very surprised to find a small built-in hair blower near the body mirror. Not all budget hotels have this kind of amenity so this deserves a thumbs up!

Just like most hotels I've been to, you have to use the card to turn on the power of the room. The switches of the lights and both the air-con + ceiling fan are found in one area. The air-conditioning of the room I got was great. During small hours, I had to turn off the air-con because it was really cold. This is when the ceiling fan came handy.

The bathroom had a decent space too. However, I was just shocked to find out there was no shower door. I'm not used to showering close to the wall so I only slightly moved the rose shower downward. It caused some of the water to go out of the shower area making the lavatory area wet.

Overall, the room was functional and satisfactory. The headboard had a mirror which made the room seem bigger. With all the room amenities mentioned above, we definitely got our money's worth.

◢ the Ambiance ◣

The hotel was located along Mabini St. of Malate Manila. It is surrounded by night clubs and bars. The atmosphere outside can be very noisy day and night while the ambiance inside is very different. It's quiet and composed.

At the lobby, they have provided computers with internet access for their guests. They also maps for sale for tourists. The lobby may not be as fancy as the other hotels I've been to but it's spacious and very quite; very different from the setting outside.

◢ the Rates and Booking ◣

As mentioned in the beginning of the post, I was very impressed at how affordable the rates were for a last minute booking; and by last minute I meant about six (6) hours before check-in time. The price at the website was Php 1,350. I got a 10% discount after signing up which arrived us a total of Php1,215 inclusive of taxes and other fees.

Unlike other hotels, Red Planet doesn't seem to be accepting extra person (adult) in a room. So I had to get a separate room from my parents. Anyway, even if you add the two (2) rooms, it was still cheaper from other hotels.

The booking was fast! We chose to pay via credit card and the website just asked us the basic details of the card and viola! I quickly received the confirmation code via email and a note saying I have successfully booked a room! It was very convenient though it can be a little risky too because there wasn't much of security process.

You can choose to pay on your arrival at the hotel but your room will not be guaranteed. You may read further details about this matter and their policies here.

The rates per room vary per location. I have tried checking the rates for other Red Planet branches such as the Makati and Aseana area and it is way higher than other branches.

◢ the Summary ◣

What I love

♡ I really love the fact that we can bring food inside the rooms.
♡ Hotel provides free and strong wifi connection.
♡ Rooms have a clothes rack and hangers.
♡ Universal power sockets.
♡ Rooms have a hair dryer.

What I wish

☆ Rooms had an intercom because not everyone can download their app.
☆ Door of the rooms should have a magnet holder.
☆ They allow at least one (1) extra person (adult).
☆ Door of the rooms should have a peephole.
☆ Shower should have a door.

What You Should Know

✔ There's a convenience store (7Eleven) and a Chinese restaurant at the ground floor of the building.
✔ Hotel has parking but first come, first serve basis.
✔ No smoking in all rooms, hallway or even lobby.
✔ This branch is near the Robinsons Place Manila.
✔ Rooms have two (2) power sockets.
✔ Rooms have easy-to-use vaults.
✔ There's a hot and cold shower.
✔ Hotel provides two (2) towels.
✔ Rooms have a TV with cable.
✔ Pets are not allowed.

◢ Book Your Stay Now ◣

I suggest you try them out and experience their service yourself.

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