Looking for an easy yet memorable weekend getaway with the kids? Let us tell you about our staycation at The Excelsior Hotel in Alabang, where we tried their exciting Explorecation package, a game-changing family experience just minutes away from Metro Manila.
From cozy rooms to fun-filled challenges, trackable adventures, and quiet bonding moments, this trip was a breath of fresh air. Here’s a full guide, packed with tips, costs, and expectations for your own family-friendly weekend.
Where to Find The Excelsior Hotel
Located on Alabang–Zapote Road, The Excelsior sits conveniently near Festival Mall and Alabang Town Center in Muntinlupa. Parking is free, and it’s an easy drive whether you’re coming from Cavite, Laguna, or Manila. If you’re driving, tolls are minimal; if you’re commuting, several UV Express and Grab options are available.
All-in Explorecation Package Overview
We booked an Executive Rooms with the Explorecation package for 4 adults and 2 kids.
The Excelsior Hotel PH:
ADULTS: 2,999 X 4 = 11,996
ROOM UPGRADE (EXECUTIVE ROOM): 2,150
(4YO AND BELOW FREE OF CHARGE)
TOTAL: 14,146/NIGHT
For around ₱14,146, you get:
- A comfy room big enough for a small family, with a queen bed, TV, mini-fridge, and clean bathroom
- Buffet breakfast for 4 adults (kids eat free with adult buffet)
- Participation in kid-friendly hotel challenges and family games
- Access to hotel amenities and free parking
Everything was thoughtfully designed to help us reset and reconnect without traveling far or breaking the bank.
What is the Excelsior’s All-in Explorecation?
The All-in Explorecation is a fun, interactive concept that turns your stay into a mini adventure. It includes:
- Pool and Outdoor Fun
- Unlimited Snacks – Morning and afternoon snacks
- Indoor Fun
- Toy Gallery
- Selfie Gallery – Insta‑ready corners around the hotel labeled “Explorecation”—perfect for family selfies.
- Melody Studio
- Arcade Game Lounge
- Movie Night
- Unlimited Dinner
- Breakfast Buffet
- Activity Nook – Levi and Hunter played loved this so much!
This playful twist made the stay extra special—no need to squeeze into crowded theme parks or malls.
Food Options & Dining
Breakfast Buffet
Served in the hotel’s buffet area, it included:
- Local favorites like tapsilog, pork tocino, and longganisa
- Kid-friendly staples like pancakes, fried eggs, and cereals
- Hot coffee, fresh juices, and local fruits like watermelon and cantaloupe
On-site Food Options
They have Café Excelsior and Sky Sports Pub if you get hungry outside breakfast hours. We had added snacks and milk at night from the café—very convenient!
Nearby Dining
Festival Mall and Alabang Town Center are just a short drive away. What you’ll loved: endless food options for lunch or dinner, including coffee shops, fast food, and family restaurants. But honestly, we never went out and made the most of our stay!
Estimated Costs
Here’s a breakdown for our family of 4 adults and 2 kids:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| All-in Explorecation Package for 4 adults | ₱11,996 |
| Room Upgrade (Executive room) | ₱2,150 |
| Ice cream | ₱200 |
| Gas & tolls round trip | ₱150 – ₱1,000 |
| TOTAL | ₱15,496 |
Sample Itinerary: Great Weekend Flow
Saturday (Check-in Day)
- 3:00 PM: Check-in
- 4:00 PM: Start of explorecation at the 18F or at the outdoor area
- 5:00 PM: Pool time or arcade exploration
- 6:30 PM: Unlimited dinner at Café Excelsior
- 8:00 PM: Movie time
- 10:00 PM: Storytime and quiet bonding in-room
Sunday (Morning & Check-out)
- 7:30 AM: Breakfast together
- 8:30 AM: Play with kids at the outdoor area
- 9:30 AM: A morning dip at the pool, Levi and Hunter loved this so much!
- 10:30 AM: Chill at the room
- 11:30 AM: Full check-out and head home with hearts full
Tips for Families
- Book early, especially weekends and holidays, to secure Explorecation availability.
- Ask about free upgrades when you book—sometimes deluxe views or family discounts apply.
- Pack swimwear and socks—socks are usually required for some zones or play spaces.
- Bring snacks for the kids to munch between meals.
- Capture those moments! Explorecation zones are perfect for family photos, but don’t forget your personal camera.
- Check mall schedules for special events, children’s shows, or weekend promos.
Why We Recommend This Staycation
- Affordable – More inclusive than just booking a hotel room and paying for fun extras separately
- Convenient – All activities and meals included; no need to coordinate rides or extras
- Kid-Centric – Thoughtful touches—from outdoor fun to photoshoots—make kids feel special
- Comfortable – Hotel is clean, cozy, and quiet enough to sleep well
- Close to Manila – Less travel stress, more time together
Final Thoughts From Mommy Pia
Our Explorecation at The Excelsior Hotel was exactly the weekend hug our family needed. Levi and HUnter went from puzzle‑focused to pool‑splasher in one trip, and even Daddy Ryan had a blast discovering hotel corners together.
If you want travel magic without jet lag, a stress-free adventure packed with bonding but easy on the pocket, this is the staycation I highly recommend for families. To watch more, catch our staycation vlog in the works on our YouTube channel soon!
Ready to Book?
Book via Agoda
Book via KLOOK or use the code VISITMANILAKLOOK for 5% OFF
Let us know how your trip goes! Tag #TheDionesesExplorecation so we can celebrate family moments together.
