The Theodore Hotel: Being Unique is Being Different

“We are sun and moon, dear friend; we are sea and land. It is not our purpose to become each other; it is to recognize each other, to learn to see the other and honor him for what he is: each the other's opposite and complement.”

- Hermann Hesse

Normal is boring. I’m quite abnormal myself, that’s why I fell in love right away with Theodore, one of several boutique hotels located along the famed ridge of Tagaytay. Named after the owner’s parents (Theresa and Doroteo), Theodore is not your ordinary and conventional urban hotel. It boldly defies standards and stereotypes; and thus shows an exceptional character of being hip, quirky and whimsical.

Grandeur is in every corner and details of Theodore. The lobby is a mix and match of provocative and colorful furniture, couches, chandeliers, vintage suitcases, mirrors and interesting objects. There’s also a grand piano for the musically inclined and an Apple desktop to easily check night hot spots in Tagaytay.

But the master centerpiece which really grabbed my attention lies beneath the staircase – a shining metallic horse, a symbol of art and vigor.

Theodore has 10 different themed rooms clustered into superior and vista deluxe, the latter having lake and mountain views. With the room’s animated and playful ambience, I guess it would be okay to develop a weekend clinomania.

The Modern Filipino – superior room

 

The Theodore – vista deluxe room

Before calling it a day, why not treat yourself to a little pampering? Theodore offers spa services ranging from Guinot Hydradermie facial, aromatic body care treatment to Theodore Spa signature massage.

Spa jacuzzi

Staying overnight comes with a complimentary hearty set breakfast the morning after.

Dining hall

Pancakes with green apple

Tagaytay beef tapa

There’s a cabana in the garden, an ideal place to practice the art of doing nothing or simply read a Jerry Spinelli bestseller; just make sure it’s the one embracing individuality and non-conformity. 

But what I found really fascinating was the charming frog under a tree. I thought it was just an ordinary garden décor until suddenly it started singing. Oh people haven’t always been there to comfort me, but music has.

 

 

For those who want a more intimate party or small corporate meeting, there’s a function room that could be used at the roof deck.

 

 

The deck also offers the best panoramic and unobstructed view of the garden and the world-famous Taal Lake, which looks ethereal especially during the break of dawn. Even though I’ve seen Taal a hundred times, it is always a refreshing sight to behold; the one that nourishes a weary city soul.

 

 

Right from the unassuming entrance to its eccentric interiors and verdant surroundings to friendly staff, Theodore redefines Tagaytay as a dream-fantasy destination. It will make you think out of the box, satiate your visual appetite, and give you courage to express your true self. After all, life is too short to follow the standards of others. And no matter how hard you try, you can’t make everybody, happy all the time.

 

Theodore Hotel

Km. 54, Silang Crossing

East Aguinaldo, Tagaytay

Tel. No.: (046) 483-0350, 0922-8019578