Overview
The Peninsula Manila is a perfectly reasonable luxury choice in Manila.
Given the Peninsula’s brands deserved reputation for quality though staying here might be a disappointment for those that have experienced Peninsula Hotels in other destinations.
The hotel feels its age and is due for a significant makeover, but it still brings an old-world ambiance away from the hustle of the Philippine capital.
Hotel
The Peninsula occupies a prime piece of Makati, which is Metro-Manilas Central Business District.
Opened in 1976, the hotel was the first overseas expansion away from the original hotel in Hong Kong.
The hotel has an international luxury feel but still contains some wonderful local touches that remind you of your location.
Service is welcoming and friendly without being overly formal.
Location
The Peninsula occupies a prime piece of Makati City which is the most upmarket area of the city.
Indeed walking around Makati feels more like Singapore than the chaotic streets of Metro-Manila.
Makati is the perfect base to explore Manila, although once you leave these quieter streets you will face the full force of mad Manila traffic.
Room
UCT stayed in a Grande Deluxe room which was large and welcoming.
All rooms at the Peninsula feel comfortable and timeless.
They are all very large compared to more modern hotels with the smallest room being over 40m2.
The king-sized bed is perfect for resting after a hectic Manila itinerary and the sheets are good quality as befits the Peninsula brand.
The bathroom is large and contains the usual amenities.
Food and Drink
The hotel has a wide variety of excellent dining options.
Old Manila offers contemporary market cuisine and grill.
Spices offer Asian cuisine and Escolta is the hotels international buffet.
The hotel has several places to get a drink but the best of them is the wonderfully luxe Salon de Ning.
The hotel has an onsite delicatessen and bakery.
Amenities
As you would expect the hotel has every amenity you would expect of a luxury hotel.
The pool is a great place to spend some time out of the Philippine heat.
The hotel has a great spa and a comprehensive gym.
The property also runs its inhouse wellness program that offers guests different options to work on their physical and mental well-being.
Final Word
Anyone who has stayed at the Peninsula in Hong Kong, Paris or New York is bound to feel a little disappointed at the Manila outpost.
The hotel is dated and it lacks the wow factor associated with other Peninsula Hotels around the globe.
Once you factor in the very reasonable rates offered at this property, even in comparison to other luxury offerings in Manila, then you can appreciate this still represents a luxury bargain.
You can find out more the Peninsula Hotel group here.
If you want to stay at the Peninsula Manila book below.
