TAMBAYAN CAPSULE HOSTEL AND BAR
In a
wooden grand staircase passing through a prominent stained glass; a spacious
lobby of a high ceiling adorned by a large swarovski
crystal chandelier, who would have thought that we have entered a capsule
hostel in Metro Manila.
I
have my own perception of how it feels to stay in a capsule hostel. And actually, though I have been wanting to
try out for mere curiosity, it wouldn’t happen.
It doesn’t interest me.
I
find it weird to be sleeping in such a long, narrow space that resembles a
coffin and prone to anxiety attack for the claustrophobics. Perceptions change and I have come to the
conclusion that it all depends on who you are with, and that interests may
adjust. I am no solo traveler after all.
Across
the Robinsons Malate Mall, the dangling electrical lines fronting this façade
nevertheless did not obstruct the classy interiors of the building as peeked
through the almost-all-glass-walls of
the Tambayan Capsule Hostel and the al fresco bar at the second floor.
LOCATION
Tambayan
Capsule Hostel as the name implies is a perfect rendezvous and the chill-out
place for groups. Being relatively new
and common spaces being scattered, there would be less possibility of interaction
with fellow travelers, compared to what a common hostel offers.
One
thing is certain though, it can be a meeting place for one to visit the tourist
landmarks of Manila in the likes of Luneta Park, the National Museum and sunset
viewing at the Manila Bay. All these
landmarks are a walking distance from the hostel.
Situated
at the center of Malate, Manila, surrounded by a vibrant neighborhood known for
night parties and café’s, the hostel definitely suits the travelers’
lifestyle.
ROOMS
The
innovative capsule bunk beds is actually a practical way for travelers to spend
a night or two on wherever the transient stay is.
Contrary
to my perceived notion of a capsule hostel, the rooms are indeed spacious. Each
capsule has a good layout with a comforting bed matched with its own electrical
outlets, mini-fan, mirror and a roller blinds for some privacy.
We
were reserved at the Quad Premier, a dorm-type accommodation with communal
comfort room and lockers outside the room.
The space was just enough for us, nine in the group.
Depending
on the guests’ preference, there are other types of rooms as well including the
coffin-like capsule which I have envisioned.
(click to check room types and rates)
TAMBAYAN BAR AND HOSTEL'S INTERIORS
Apart from the front desk and room service operating for 24 hours, the Tambayan Bar at the second floor is likewise open for 24 hours. Seated at the bar, it provides a relaxing ambiance to just even loiter and people watch as the busy and fast-paced street affairs of Bocobo unfolds every second. We were able to experience the Tambayan Bar through their invitation during the launch of the hostel.
Apart from the front desk and room service operating for 24 hours, the Tambayan Bar at the second floor is likewise open for 24 hours. Seated at the bar, it provides a relaxing ambiance to just even loiter and people watch as the busy and fast-paced street affairs of Bocobo unfolds every second. We were able to experience the Tambayan Bar through their invitation during the launch of the hostel.
Tambayan
Capsule Hostel is not your ordinary type of hostel. Being a refurbished decades-old mansion, the
traces of its grandeur remain - of well-polished wooden floorings and
well-decorated corridors overlooking the reception area at the ground
floor.
It
is the old Manila vibe that the hostel would like guests to experience. Murals painted on the varied room types are
quite informative as well, with rooms named after the different streets of
Malate.
ASSESSMENT
Capsule
hotels may have originated from Japan to address the concern of a transient
stay at a very reasonable cost. Though I
am uncertain if this is the first capsule hostel in the Philippines, I am just
glad I experienced the same with good friends at the Tambayan Capsule Hostel. My predicaments of a cramped space and
security issues vanished.
Though
not so of an ordinary hostel vibe (actually bordering to a new hotel or a
luxury hostel category) Tambayan Capsule Hostel provides the perfect location
when one stays at the Manila area.
Tambayan Capsule Hostel and
Bar
1607
Bocobo Street, Malate, Manila
Philippines,
1004
(02)
521 8850
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