Our Best Western Mint Hotel Quick Summer Getaway

I’m not entirely sure if I’m using the camera incorrectly or if it’s the other way around, but please forgive the quality of the images uploaded here. I’m considering getting an SLR, but until then, I’ll make do with my phone camera for this freelance career.

The last time my husband had a work-related seminar in Pampanga, the kids and I decided to tag along and enjoy a quick getaway at Best Western Mint Hotel after a few busy weeks at work.

Of course, we couldn’t have been more pleased with this gem of a find. Best Western Mint Hotel occupies a prime spot on one of the busiest streets in Angeles City. By car, it takes about 2 to 3 hours to get there. Head north via NLEX, then you can exit at Angeles, Dau, or Clark South via SCTEX.

If you’re traveling by bus, any Victory Liner or Five Star bus along EDSA that does not go to Cabanatuan will stop at Dau. From there, Angeles City is just a jeepney ride away (around 2 hours and 15 minutes total travel time).

The hotel’s location is excellent and conveniently within walking distance of several great restaurants along Mon Tang Avenue, and it’s just across from Pagcor Casino. I first read a few reviews, which seemed decent enough, so we decided to give it a try.

Upon arrival, we noticed that the hotel exterior was decent but not particularly spectacular—we were kind of expecting something grander. One downside is that the parking lot entrance is quite narrow.

However, once we checked in, we were pleasantly surprised by how nice the place was. The hotel features a minimalist style with maximum appeal. I looked around, and everything had a fresh, clean feel.

It’s by no means a five-star hotel, but for 3,000 pesos or less per night, it’s perfect for a budget-friendly and quick vacation.

The picture shown above may look like a dark tunnel we were about to step into but yes, that’s actually the entrance to the parking lot. It was a bit tricky to navigate, to be honest. Thankfully, you can still park right in front of the lobby entrance if you prefer an easier option.

Right across the reception area, you’ll find the lobby café, a convenient spot where guests can enjoy a selection of desserts.

We arrived late and headed straight up to our room to check everything out. Our deluxe room was ready for us, complete with a king or queen-size bed, a flat-screen TV with premium cable channels, high-speed internet, a work desk, a coffee and tea maker, a hair dryer, and a minibar.

I can honestly say they have some of the friendliest staff around. Why? Well, I couldn’t figure out how to operate the television and ended up calling them every hour for help. Each time, they showed up with their biggest smiles and assisted me without a single complaint. Yes, yes, I probably looked like a total ignoramus with today’s technology...but hey, so what?!

Well, another downside -- the window. Yes, this was all we could see-- concrete. Hello wall! 

But despite everything, I absolutely loved this place. It’s a perfect, cozy escape for a quick getaway. Everything is well-kept and still feels fresh and new.

This is how we keep cool at the height of summer, we pack our backpacks, “grab the kids by the hair” (I kid you not!), and head out for a hotel staycation. The moment we stepped into the air-conditioned room, the kids went wild, fully embracing the cool comfort.

The next morning, as we waited for my husband to return from his seminar, I decided it was the perfect time to explore the city with the kids. The hotel even offered a free shuttle ride to Marquee Mall, how convenient! But first, breakfast. I couldn’t resist going for both American and Pinoy favorites, definitely a delicious start to the day.

And here it is… our free shuttle—tada!

 

Hello,  Marquee! 

We often go to malls that have plenty of family-friendly spots, which makes it much easier to bring the kids along. We usually look for play areas where they can spend time and burn off energy.

I found one particular play area that is probably the best in Marquee Mall and maybe even compared to other malls. It’s easy to spot because it’s huge, with lots of space for kids to run around, and it even has a fun space invasion theme.

What I really like is that it offers a wide, open area where kids can move freely. Because it’s well-monitored, it never feels too crowded. The staff also make sure everything runs smoothly and step in when needed to ensure the rules are followed.

You won’t have to wait long to get in. Just fill out a form and register your thumb scan, and you’re good to go. Hand sanitizers are placed throughout the play area, so it feels relatively safe and hygienic for the kids.

 

Yes, it is quite expensi, ₱410 for unlimited play per kid, whew! I have two more kids, so you can do the math.

 

See how huge the play area is? If only I can join them inside. 

Therefore, I can conclude that impromptu getaways are truly the best, and there were absolutely no regrets staying in this hotel. I would rate it 4 stars and I would definitely love to come back again!

Best Western Mint Hotel is located in Angeles City, Pampanga, about a 15-minute ride from Marquee Mall or SM Clark, and just 10 minutes away from Diosdado Macapagal International Airport.