1. Classic design that doesn’t age
One of the first luxury hotels to open in the city, in 1976, The Peninsula is the grand dame of hotels in Manila and has set the benchmark for luxury and sophistication with its cascading waterfall features and lush greenery throughout. The spacious 469 rooms and suites are furnished with sleek furniture and marble-finished bathrooms that incorporate classic Filipino design elements like solihiya (rattan) and capiz window panels. Be sure to take a ride in the hotel’s bespoke jeepney, originally a World War II US military jeep now kitted out with the brand’s signature luxury touches such as air conditioning, tan leather seating, complimentary Wi Fi and a mini bar with ice cold water and towels.
2. An iconic lobby, open round the clock
With towering palm trees and warm lighting, the vast lobby lounge has been a popular attraction for the hotel since its opening over 40 years ago. Serving up a 24-hour menu, it’s famous for the Pen Beef Burger as well as the award-winning Halo-halo Harana (a cooling dessert made with shaved ice, tropical fruits and evaporated milk topped with a scoop of purple yam ice cream). The Lobby is also home to the iconic Sunburst sculpture by Philippine National Artist Napoleon Abueva.
3. Designed for every kind of traveller
The Peninsula caters to both business and leisure travellers. In particular, the hotel’s Club Deluxe room is designed for those travelling for work, with useful facilities such as an executive work desk and access to local and international digital newspapers. Club-level guests are also entitled to various amenities and services, including meeting rooms at the Club Lounge and laptops on loan. In addition to the complimentary breakfast buffet, there are also afternoon tea and evening cocktails.
For those travelling with children, The Peninsula Kids’ Explorer offers a collection of fun activities such as toy-making classes. Guests of all ages can join the Peninsula Academy, which offers up an introduction to Filipino culture through local heritage tours, cooking classes and a chance to explore the country’s fashion scene through couture and design experiences. The hotel also hosts workshops specially for children, such as Filipino craft and dessert-making classes.
4. A full suite of luxury relaxation options
Check in to The Peninsula Spa where one can experience award-winning treatments using Asian, Ayurvedic and European methods. Not to be missed is the Philippine Signature Massage based on Hilot, an ancient Filipino technique that uses heated banana leaves, virgin coconut oil and organic lemongrass essential oil.
In addition to the spa is a 24-hour fitness centre with personal trainers available on request, as well as yoga and Pilates group classes. Be sure to visit the sauna and steam rooms to relax post-workout.
5. Refreshments with a historical touch
Inspired by 1930s Shanghai, Salon de Ning is an excellent location to while away the evening, with creative cocktails and live music (from Tuesday to Saturday). The bar also features four private rooms, all themed differently, for more intimate gatherings. Reminiscent of the dimly lit, romantic bars of Havana, The Bar is a more casual space where an ice-cold beer is the beverage of choice.
Singapore Airlines flies direct to Manila four times daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
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