I am a City Girl. I have lived in the middle of Makati and Mandaluyong ever since and I never thought living in the city could ever be tranquil or relaxing until I visited Aruga at The Grove.

Aruga At The Grove is right along C5 by Ortigas Business District and the residential areas of Pasig. I find the location strategic as it is accessible going to Makati, Quezon City, BGC and Mandaluyong, but I didn’t imagine seeing such a relaxing living area there.

As soon as you enter the Grove, the ambiance changes. You are welcomed by low establishments and greens surrounding the area. Further down the middle of The Grove is what they call the Retail Row where you’ll see restaurants like Asakusa, BurgerPub, Backyard and Pi Breakfast and Pi. There is also Rustan’s Supermarket.

Aruga is Rockwell Land’s venture into serviced apartments, which can be seen in both The Grove and Rockwell Makati. Since it is resort-themed, it is perfect for travelers, businessmen and families.

We stayed at the 2 Bedroom Suite of Aruga at the Grove. It is very spacious and because it’s a serviced apartment, you can always call the front desk or maintenance for any concerns.

I didn’t expect a full dining room, but our room had a 6-seater dining area where the whole family can enjoy.

The master’s bedroom has a king-sized bed, its own full bath, a terrace, a television set and two spacious cabinets.

The other room has a bed and a television set, and is right beside the shared bathroom.

What I love most about serviced residences is that they always have a full functioning kitchen. This is what sets them apart from hotels. They have a fridge, a stove with an oven, a microwave, an oven toaster, a rice cooker, a coffee maker, plates with utensils, pots and pans, and other kitchen accessories that you might need. They also have a laundry area, which is a plus if you are staying longer.

I jog every night, so I was happy to see a jogging path along the “great lawn” where kids and dogs play. Since the place is pet-friendly, you can bring your pets, too.

Aruga at The Grove has the largest pool area out of all their properties boasting of real resort living.

Since the pool area is huge, you won’t mind if other people are in the area, too.

There are gazebos and tables around the pool area where you can have small get-togethers and where you can have a little picnic with your family and friends, as well.

The gym is really impressive as it looks like most swanky members-only gyms that you have to pay a fortune for. There are treadmills where you can watch your favorite show while jogging and you can even attach your iPods there to customize your experience.

There are gym instructors that are ready to help you, as well, along with a yoga/dance area, an indoor and outdoor basketball court, and a tennis area. This is perfect for those active people who want to have a vacation without breaking their exercise regimens.

While staying t Aruga, you will feel the hustle and bustle of the city melt away. You may have the perfect view of Ortigas, Eastwood and C5, but you will never feel the busyness of the outside world. If you need food or want to buy anything, The Retail Row is just an elevator ride away and if you don’t want to walk, Aruga’s Golf Cart can always bring you back and forth.

Aruga is perfect for anyone who is looking for a place to stay. It has the luxury of a hotel, but with the comforts of home.

Aruga at The Grove

117 E. Rodriquez Jr., Bgy. Ugong, C5, Pasig City

Tel No. 818 0000 / Fax No. 230 6732

reservations@aruga.com.ph