PENINSULA MANILA
The Peninsula Manila has been operating in Manila since 1976. The hotel is half an hour drive from Manila International Airport and transfers are in a Mercedes Benz S-class limousine. It was extensively renovated following its involvement in a military coup in 2007 and now the spacious rooms are designed in what is described as a “timeless Filipino theme” with elegant furnishings and marble bathrooms. Complimentary broadband is available for all room categories as well as a multi-function control panel next to the bed to take care of thermostats, lighting and alarms. The Peninsula Suite retained many of its luxurious original features after the renovation including light wood panelling, cream upholstery on comfortable furnishings, thick pile carpets, a formal dining room for private dinners (that seats 12), a full kitchen in which meals are prepared, a sitting area, private library, marble bathroom with whirlpool and baby grand piano. It also comes with a resident butler.
The menu at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Old Manila combines traditional French dishes with modern international options. Escolta features an open plan kitchen and live-action cooking stations, and serves everything from charcuterie to sushi, employing a “farm-to-table” concept which highlights fresh produce and Filipino favourites. Spices offers dishes from seven Asian cuisines and The Peninsula Lobby puts on afternoon tea and a buffet feast in the evenings.
In 2010 the hotel launched Salon de Ning, a nightclub inspired by 1930s Shanghai and the world of socialite Madame Ning. The Salon’s entrance leads to a main lounge which in turn leads to five themed rooms including “Le Boxing Room”, a shrine to 1937 World Heavyweight Champion Joe Louis, “Shoe Room”, featuring hundreds of pieces including boots and stilettos, and “Zeppelin Room”, inspired by German Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin.
As for things to do, The Peninsula Academy offers heritage tours, visual arts programs and culinary experiences that include cooking classes.
Rates: Rooms start from PHP7,500 (about A$169) per night for a Superior Room Queen, and a Club Deluxe Room starts from PHP18,000 (about A$406) per night. peninsula.com/Manila