The Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel exudes a tranquility that belies its booked-solid status. Of course, it is five o’clock in the morning; a bit of an indecent hour to be at the grind. But, if needs must, in the name of a good photo, Don (my stalwart editorial teammate) and I are up and at ’em, for exactly that. Save for the silent shifting about of a housekeeper, painstakingly polishing each crystal on one of several stately chandeliers, there isn’t much activity going on—yet. The emptiness is a tad jarring, in stark contrast to the busyness and bustle that will shortly commence; a frenzy of comings and goings.

In my mind’s eye, though, the expansive space isn’t desolate, not really. It teems with tales of time, tide, and the transience of thousands upon thousands of guests that have walked through the hotel’s statuesque doors. The roster is as elite as it is eclectic: from presidents and poets, luminaries of lands and leading personalities, to royalty and rock stars (and pretty much all else in between that radical range), The Manila Hotel has hosted them all.

From its charming Heritage Museum, serene spa, and luxe accommodations, to its gorgeous gastronomy across its many cars and restaurants, The Manila Hotel is a renowned haven of heritage and hospitality

THE CITY’S CHERISHED CORNERSTONE

Steeped in the soul and spirit of Old Manila, The Manila Hotel has been a cherished cornerstone of the city for over a century. Founded in July 1912—the country’s very first top-rated hotel—the highly historied hub of hospitality has welcomed a captivating cross-section of humanity through its doors. This Grand Dame is a beloved Keeper of Stories; a witness to whispers that still echo through her walls, to which the annals of history attest. Once home to the notable General Douglas MacArthur (oft-regarded as the Stuff That Legends Are Made Of, in these parts) the hotel embodies the elegance and endurance of the Philippine nation. The nooks and crannies of this sprawling California Mission Revival estate invite us to savor not only its sumptuous surroundings, but also the very essence of our collective journey, as Filipinos. To this end, the hotel houses the Heritage Museum which, while small in space, contains big chunks of decades gone by—the very scent of history permeates the air.

Gazing at the façade, at daybreak, I feel the weight of its legacy. Envisioned by American architect Daniel Hudson Burnham, the hotel was built in keeping with an integrated vision for the city, under the guidance of William Howard Taft. With the addition of the Tower Wing, designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin in the 1970s, the hotel elegantly blends the charm of the past with a more contemporary feel, creating a unique property where the best of Filipino culture thrives.

Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., President and Director of The Manila Hotel

“The Manila Hotel has always balanced modernization with tradition. While we have embraced technological advancements such as enhanced digital booking platforms, upgraded rooms with smart technology, and world-class conference facilities, we have taken care to preserve our historical architecture and iconic design,” Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., President and Director of The Manila Hotel, says. “Our evolution is a reflection of the needs of today’s discerning travelers who seek both luxury and authenticity. We continuously innovate while respecting the legacy of our heritage, ensuring that guests experience the grandeur of the past alongside modern comforts,” he adds.

SUITES OF DREAMS AND DELIGHT

This service ethos radiates in the hotel’s thoughtfully appointed accommodations, enabling guests to indulge in the comforts of the here-and-now (with creature comforts and amenities that make for a delightful stay), while basking in the luxurious embrace of a bygone era. What strikes me most about the elegant aesthetic of each guestroom and suite is the careful curation of quaint fixtures, furniture, and décor—preserving the past without going overboard. “Our heritage rooms offer an experience of timeless luxury, allowing guests to walk through history,” Atty. Lina points out.

The Main Building features rooms with soaring ceilings and spacious layouts that harken to days when opulence was the norm. Among them, the 330-square meter MacArthur Suite is a popular attraction for corporate bookings and guest tours (subject to the suite’s availability) alike. It is a regal sanctuary, adorned with luxe furnishings, tasteful trinkets, and rich fabrics. It is also a time capsule of historical mementos and old photos that are a nod to the General’s years at the hotel. Here, history sets the imagination on overdrive. Of the range of rooms and suites in the Main Building, however, my fast favorites are the Veranda Suites, with their recessed living areas and posh interconnected verandas, and the Park Suites, corner units that are light and cheery in vibe, overlooking Luneta Park and portions of Intramuros.

Meanwhile, the Tower Wing’s accommodations offer a fresher, more contemporary design, while maintaining the hotel’s iconic charm. It’s impossible not to feel invigorated in these carefully curated spaces. The Sunrise Suites captivate me instantly for their chic modern Filipino ambiance and large windows that frame vivid views of Intramuros and the Baluarte. The Tower Wing also houses the Executive Club Lounge that offers an array of perks for guests billeted on the Executive Club Floor.

While the accommodations certainly make for a rejuvenating stay, those seeking deeper relaxation will find it at the hotel’s spa, with its blissful bevy of traditional Filipino healing treatments, providing an escape into tranquility.

GRACIOUSNESS, IN GREAT GASTRONOMY

Like any host steeped in the ways of graciousness, The Manila Hotel boasts luscious gastronomy throughout its dining venues. We feast at a number of them, during our brief but eventful stay, and our stomachs are as satiated as our souls, in no time. “Our dining experiences are central to the appeal of The Manila Hotel. We place a strong emphasis on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, and our signature restaurants are known for their innovative yet authentic dishes,” Atty. Lina shares.

Café Ilang-Ilang, a stylish venue that offers a wide range of global cuisines, has long been a beloved beacon of Manila’s culinary landscape. Eight live cooking stations make for an impressive buffet, while its Pan-Asian kitchen, Churrasco station, and delectable dessert section create multiple mouthwatering memories. The Lobby Lounge, a sophisticated but relaxed setting, is ideal for savoring light snacks, pastries, and beverages, or indulging in a lavish Afternoon Tea setup. Guests can sink their teeth into an array of eats and treats, like the perfectly battered Fish & Chips, made from tender grouper fish; juicy Beef Sliders; or a hearty selection of sausages. For those seeking a vibrant vintage vibe, the Tap Room is a cozy choice. Its atmospheric feel, live music, and signature cocktails make it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration or meetings.

Red Jade, the hotel’s premium Chinese restaurant, delivers gustatory gratification with dishes that celebrate authenticity of flavor. Executive Chinese Chef, Sun Bing, credits this to using “the freshest ingredients, with a classic style of cooking, but with a twist.” Standout dishes include the artfully created Long Life Prawns, succulent prawns enclosed in a nest of crispy fried rice noodles perfectly complemented with spiced vinaigrette dressing; Vegetarian Peking Duck, ingeniously crafted from beancurd skin, which surprises with its luscious depth of flavor; and, for meat lovers, the tender Pan Fried Angus Beef Tenderloin, drizzled with honey pepper sauce, for that spot-on balance of sweet and spicy flavors.

For a truly enchanting experience, the Champagne Room draws you into its Gatsby-esque gilded glitz and glam, creating a festive and romantic haven for memorable meals and unforgettable celebrations. The French-Italian menu offers exquisite dishes, including a tableside-prepared Caesar Salad which is every bit as fantastic in flavor (of which I relish every bite and ask for extra-extra dressing!) as it is in flair-filled presentation. The Seafood Medley is likewise a taste-bud tantalizer, featuring a symphony of scallops, prawns, lobster, and sea bass, atop a bed of creamy lemon risotto with tomato-olive relish. For dessert, go with the drama of the Baked Alaska, which the waitstaff flambé with flourish, right by your table.

AT HOME IN A HISTORIC OASIS

For all its fabulous facets, the heart of The Manila Hotel is its seamless service, rooted in the welcoming warmth of Filipino hospitality. Each interaction feels personal, imbued with the care and importance that the staff extends to every guest; a pampering experience that stretches beyond mere luxury, to feeling at home in this historic oasis. This heritage of hospitality is part and parcel of Filipino pride, reflecting the spirit of generosity and kindness that has been celebrated for generations.

At the Grand Lobby, circling back to where we began, I recline deeply into a plush armchair, lost in thought. It is now half past five in the morning, and I watch, as the chandeliers come to life, their shimmering lights reflecting warmly on the marble floors beneath them. Soon, the hubbub will begin. For now, though, it’s just me and my musings, and I am happy to sit and savor the Grand Dame’s grace and grandeur.

The Manila Hotel: History and Hospitality, Hand in Hand

THE CITY’S CHERISHED CORNERSTONE

SUITES OF DREAMS AND DELIGHT

GRACIOUSNESS, IN GREAT GASTRONOMY

AT HOME IN A HISTORIC OASIS

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The Manila Hotel: Heritage, History, Heart

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