Friendly front desk staff at the Vivere Hotel/Photographed by: Editor-in-Chief of Geonhang Times

Nestled in the heart of Alabang, south of Manila, Vivere Hotel offers a quiet, classic retreat for business travelers and vacationers alike. During my recent stay, I discovered a hotel that balances warm hospitality and solid amenities with an undeniable edge in value.

A Five-Star Hotel with a Surprisingly Affordable Rate

Despite being classified as a five-star property, Vivere Hotel is remarkably affordable. With rates hovering around ₩100,000 KRW (approximately USD 70) per night including breakfast through major booking platforms, it's hard to overlook the cost-performance advantage. In a city where upscale accommodations often stretch budgets thin, Vivere stands out as a smart choice.

Aged Elegance with One Flaw: Weak Water Pressure

The hotel leans toward a classic, slightly old-fashioned design, with wood furnishings and warm lighting creating a cozy atmosphere. However, signs of aging are noticeable, especially in the bathroom water pressure, which was consistently weak throughout my stay. For guests seeking a strong shower after a long day, this could be a notable downside.

Breakfast Done Right, and Staff That Shines

One of the highlights of Vivere is its well-prepared breakfast buffet, offering a solid mix of local and international dishes. Made-to-order omelets and a good coffee selection added to the positive impression.

Even more impressive were the staff: polite, attentive, and genuinely kind, from the front desk to housekeeping. Their professionalism and warmth made a real difference.

Reliable Wi-Fi for Work and Leisure

In an age where digital connectivity is non-negotiable, Vivere delivered. The Wi-Fi was fast and stable, even during video calls and file uploads. It’s a definite plus for business travelers or anyone working remotely.

Safe Surroundings, But Far from the Airport

Located in a relatively safe and upscale neighborhood, the hotel offers access to nearby malls, restaurants, and coffee shops. I felt comfortable walking around, even after sunset.

However, one limitation is its distance from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)—expect at least 30–40 minutes by car in light traffic, and much longer during rush hour.

Vivere Hotel delivers high-end service and comfort without the high-end price tag.

Though its age shows in certain areas—most notably the bathroom plumbing—its excellent staff, strong breakfast offering, safe location, and stable Wi-Fi more than make up for it.

Above all, the value-for-money proposition at ₩100,000 per night is hard to beat in Metro Manila.