Having an infant around sure is hard work. Although Charlie sleeps longer now, I still have to wake up every few hours to nurse him and cuddle him to sleep. During the day, I have to take care of our two bigger kids and work at the same time. No wonder I’m drained by the end of the week! That’s why I make it a point to treat myself to a massage every week, or if budget permits, a staycation. We usually go on staycations in Metro Manila, but this time around, we decided to go on a family staycation in Antipolo – Cloud 9 Antipolo.
The Hotel
Cloud 9 Resort Hotel is one of the first hotels built in the city and the rooms and amenities show it. Although outdated in look, a lot of people still head over to this resort hotel not just to stay for the night, but also to enjoy their restaurant with a view. This Antipolo hotel is often picked as a wedding and debut venue because of the view.
But if you ask me, this hotel makes for an amazing family staycation in Antipolo! For one, it’s very affordable. There are different types of rooms depending on the number of people you’re booking for, making it a great pick for your family or barkada getaway, couple staycation, or even a big event like conferences, weddings, and birthdays.
Location
Cloud 9 Resort Hotel is conveniently located along Sumulong Highway, the main road leading into the mountain city of Antipolo. Public utility vehicles pass by the hotel, making it easy to reach even if you don’t have a car. If you’re commuting there, though, prepare yourself for a hike going up the resort hotel. Public utility vehicles will off-load you at the main entrance, but you have to walk up going to the main area of the resort hotel.
Don’t fret, though. Your effort going to the resort hotel won’t go to waste. Cloud 9 Antipolo provides a beautiful 360 view from the mountains of Antipolo, giving you a chance to take in the picturesque scene of the Metro Manila skyline or the mountain tops of Sierra Madre.
It is also just a few minutes away from Robinson’s Antipolo and the New Antipolo Public Market so in case you need to buy something, you can just drive to the mall or take a jeepney/tricycle going there. Don’t forget to stop by the stands on the roadside for your pasalubong! The suman and casuy in Antipolo are a must buy!
The Rooms
The hotel is rather old and the rooms are quite outdated. However, I feel like there’s a charm to its old furniture and design. The rooms could use newer appliances though.
We tried their Penthouse for our stay, which is the only room of its kind in the resort hotel. It is one of the few rooms in the Cloud9 Building Rooms and Suites. The room has a 360-degree view and comes with a double bed and two single beds. There is also a living room and a dining room with a long table that can seat six. The bathroom comes with a shower and bathtub – a must for our minis!
If you work from anywhere like I do, you’ll be thrilled to know that Cloud 9 Building Rooms and Suites have wifi internet access. Yay! The speed is reasonable – okay for checking e-mails and other light work.
We have tried their room in the Celestial Building, which is the building near the pool area, during our New Year’s Eve staycation. However, the rooms here do not have access to wifi internet and the television has poor signal. If you’re going on a staycation, there’s no point in staying in a room where you have nothing to do. So if you’re going there for a staycation, get the Penthouse.
Facilities & Activities
The resort hotel is most known for its 360-degree viewing deck that can be reached through the famous Cloud 9 Antipolo hanging bridge. The deck will give you a beautiful view of Metro Manila and the Sierra Madre mountain range. Note that the hanging bridge has an entrance fee. However, it’s free for their hotel guests and restaurant diners. All you need to do is to present your receipt at the entrance – so don’t lose your receipt!
Cloud 9 Resort Hotel also has pools, but being located atop a mountain, it’s often too cold to take a dip. Our minis tried swimming when we stayed here last December, but they didn’t last long. LOL! I didn’t dare try it myself.
Food
The resort hotel has its own restaurant, although checked in guests may have their food delivered to their room.
I can’t say that the food at the Cloud 9 Antipolo restaurant is exceptional. It’s actually a bit pricey for the serving size. I guess what makes their restaurant inviting is that it has a nice view of the Metro Manila skyline.
Service-wise, I’m not a fan. Service is a bit slow. The restaurant could use more hands to handle the number of diners at the restaurant.
Verdict
Cloud 9 Resort Hotel is great for a family staycation. The rooms are spacious enough and although the terrain is a bit of a challenge, it’s great for a morning walk with kids. We love the cool weather at the hotel, as well as the relaxed, old-school vibe and the beautiful view the Antipolo hotel provides its guests. If you’re looking for some quiet time with the family, this is the place to go.
BUDGET: The price range of their rooms are pretty affordable, which is great! You’ll get value for your money – just don’t expect modern accommodation because this hotel is really old school.
Cloud 9 Antipolo
Sumulong Highway Brgy. Sta. Cruz
Antipolo City
(02) 584-3011
