Manila doesn’t make many Aussie’s travel playlist, including my own, despite having a significant Filipino population here.
However, it should be and its as chaotic, eclectic and fun as many other Asian cities, including Bangkok, but without the big Australian contingent you see in places like Thailand and Bali. The Peninsula Manila, known as the “Jewel of Makati,” has stood as a symbol of elegance since 1976.
Location
Located in Makati, Manila’s bustling business and lifestyle hub, The Peninsula is perfectly positioned for both business and leisure travellers. Everything you need is a short walk away – whether it’s the luxury shops of Greenbelt or the culturally rich Ayala Museum.
For me, this central location made it easy to move between meetings and the vibrant city life that surrounds the hotel. Manila is emerging as a new destination in Asia, not just a stop-over. With its numerous and quirky speakeasy bars, international cuisine and vibrant arts district, you can easily spend days exploring the city. Cuba Expo, a hub for creatives, hipsters, and vintage lovers, is also a must-visit for your bohemian clients. The Peninsula Manila is the only hotel in the city with its own helipad – a detail that sets it apart in Manila’s luxury scene. The hotel offers helicopter transfers for those with a champagne budget, taking guests off to various curated experiences.
First Impressions
The lobby of this grand hotel has been the place of many celebrations, weddings, business and political deals cut by some of its most discerning residents. And you can feel it when you walk in. The lobby is nothing short of spectacular with the Sunburst sculpture hanging above. Abueva’s famous “Sunburst” sculpture took a month to install. Its intricate work with copper, bronze, and stainless steel, provides a spectacular aesthetic upon entering. It soars four stories high, making it one of the most dramatic and spacious atriums in the city.
There’s something timeless about the hotel – the cool marble floors, the sound of a pianist playing in the background. It’s the kind of lobby where you could sit for hours, and watching the world go by, while the history of the place unfolds around you. And when we arrived on a Sunday afternoon, it was buzzing with people gathering for afternoon tea, a social gathering for locals and tourists alike. The Christmas decorations and trees were already up, as it the Filipino tradition, a deeply Catholic country. The Christmas spirit starts in early October, we are told. Faith has played a big role in helping the country’s people during the difficult dictatorship years it has endured recently, but they are positive, generous and welcoming.
Rooms
The rooms are a blend of classic luxury and modern comfort. My suite offered a sweeping view of the Makati skyline, and a comfy lounge where I could write and catch up on my day’s emails. The polished wood furnishings, the crisp sheets, and the local art on the walls gave it a warm, inviting feel. The marble bathroom, complete with a deep soaking tub and rain shower, was the perfect retreat after a day in the city.
Dining
There are 5 restaurants in the hotel, but our personal highlight was at Spices. It brings the flavours of Southeast Asia together. The dishes are simple and fresh, representing Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, India, Sri Lanka—they all have a taste here. The place feels like you’ve stepped into a tropical world, with its Balinese décor and the green of the gardens outside. We enjoyed delicious fish dishes including barramundi and sea bass, along with a tangy grapefruit salad. Masarap!
The Gallery Club Lounge
My Club Room provided us complimentary access to the Club Lounge. The lounge gives Club Room guests a little bit extra by the way of complimentary breakfast buffet, afternoon tea and evening cocktails and canapés. Weaving around the 3rd floor in an open balcony style space, it is an excellent place for meetings.
The History
The Grand Dame has been witness to a lot. A lot of joy, celebrations and then terrifyingly, in 2007, she became the stage for a dramatic moment when a group of rebel soldiers stormed the lobby in an attempted coup. Tanks crashed through the front doors, missing the Christmas tree by 6 inches, a metaphor of the Filipino resilience. Fortunately, no one was hurt and the hotel restored its elegance in no time. Standing in that lobby, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of that history and the hotels central role in the DNA of Manila’s past.
Overall Impression
Designed by the Filipino architect Gabriel Formoso, the building reflects the architectural trends of the 1970s, with a focus on strong lines, exposed concrete elements, and a minimalist approach that emphasises functionality. Despite its rugged Brutalist foundation, the hotel manages to blend luxury and elegance. There is so much to love about the Peninsula. A architectural and historic treasure in Manila.
