To rate properties, Forbes Travel Guide inspectors stay at each hotel for three days and two nights, posing as regular guests and paying their own way. They test up to 900 objectives, stringent standards, from modern-day luxuries—such as whether a room is set up to enhance sleep, and the food-and-beverage choices are health-conscious—to more traditional luxuries, like the quality of the interior décor and design of the staff’s uniforms.
Even in the midst of a global pandemic, service remains paramount. It’s more important than ever before that properties demonstrate the utmost regard for their guests’ wellbeing: 75 percent of a hotel’s rating is based on its service and genuine care and concern shown by the staff, while 25 percent is determined by the quality of its facilities.
5-Stars Verified Luxury
Marco Polo Ortigas Manila
Located 24 stories above the bustling Ortigas business district is the lavish lobby of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, one of the three Marco Polo Hotels in the Philippines. (The other two are in Cebu and Davao.) Opened in 2014 and dubbed as a "sky hotel" because it sits atop a mixed-use building, it is the first of its kind in the country.
The hotel is a celebration of artistry thanks to the architectural design concept by Mohri Architect & Associates and the interior look by Canada's Glyph Design Studio. The evocative pieces of artwork by young Filipino artist Jinggoy Buensuceso are displayed throughout the 23 levels of the hotel, its way of embracing and showcasing local culture and artistry.
Nüwa Manila at City of Dreams
Nestled in the progressive Entertainment City in Parañaque, and near the picturesque Manila Bay — home to thousands of glorious sunsets — Nüwa Manila at City of Dreams is one of the newest and most sought-after luxury hotels in the Philippines. Just a few minutes away from the international and domestic airports, this elegant property is in close proximity to bustling cities of Pasay, Makati, and Bonifacio Global City in Taguig via the NAIA expressway.
Officially opened in December 2015, the hotel is part of City of Dreams Manila, an impressive integrated resort complex, which houses three hotels (Nobu Hotel and Hyatt are the other two).
Nüwa Manila is all about sophistication and luxury, down to the finest detail, from the gold-laden entrance to the custom wallpaper inside guest rooms. Designed by world-renowned architect Michael Fiebrich, every nook and cranny exudes elegance.
Okada Manila
One look at Okada Manila and it’s apparent why the opulent hotel is called “Manila’s Grand Icon.”
Opened in December 2016, Okada Manila is one of the newest additions to the thriving hospitality scene in the Philippine capital.
Situated on the Entertainment City gaming strip, the 993-room hotel and casino occupy an ideal locale, just a few minutes away from the airport and in the center of the action. While the property is surrounded by malls, theaters, and the gorgeous Manila Bay, there’s so much more to explore within its 108 acres.
Divided into the Pearl Wing and Coral Wing and connected by a golden sky bridge, the building has marble interiors that are lavishly adorned with jewels, precious stones, and vibrant shades of plum and blush, giving it a warm sense of welcome and easing you into an enjoyable and luxuriously relaxing stay.
The Peninsula Manila
The only recognizable landmark of the central business district of Makati City in Manila from more than 40 years ago is The Peninsula Manila, a grand, elegant luxury spot. The two-tower hotel has the same distinguished air as the day it opened, from the cascading waterfall at the entrance of the building to the lobby’s four-story ceilings, which bathe the tufted chairs and iconic sunburst sculpture with natural light.
As you stroll past the potted palm trees in the lobby and up the curved marble staircases to your room, the iconic Old Manila restaurant, or the tranquil spa, you’ll likely see why The Peninsula is known as “the jewel in the capital’s crown.”
Sky Tower at Solaire Resort & Casino
The gleaming 17-story Sky Tower, located within Solaire Resort & Casino, is the most recent addition to the resort company’s growing gaming complex along the picturesque Manila Bay in the Philippines. Considered a VIP extension of the Solaire Bay Tower, Sky Tower exudes luxury without compromising utility — from the main entrance adorned with a glamorous Swarovski chandelier to the exquisitely decorated suites.
Renowned hotel and casino architect Paul Steelman (famous for designing numerous high-end leisure properties in Las Vegas and Macau) headed up the sleek, dynamic design.
Sky Tower’s courteous and well-trained staff — clad in outfits designed by celebrated local fashion designer and innovator Rajo Laurel — represents fine Filipino hospitality, adding a whole new level of satisfaction to the all-suite Manila hotel.
4-Stars Verified Luxury
Fairmont Makati
Located in the Philippines’ central business district of Makati City, Fairmont Makati is a gleaming tower of modernity and comfort. The 280 tastefully contemporary guest rooms, restaurants, and spas are spread across 30 levels.
The building was designed by an international U.S.-based architectural firm Arquitectonica and its sleek interiors were created by Bent Severin International. And while the Makati hotel is thoroughly stylish, it is also a tapestry of Filipino culture and influence.
Hyatt Regency Manila City of Dreams
Hyatt Regency Manila City of Dreams sits so close to Ninoy Aquino International’s runways that it’s technically considered an “airport hotel.” But we challenge anyone to name property with that tag as attractive in design and demeanor as this one or either of the other two, Crown Towers Manila and Nobu Hotel Manila, making up the hotel component to the massive City of Dreams complex.
More than 15 acres in size, the City of Dreams Manila offers the usual distractions — a casino, numerous restaurants, and entertainment venues — you need for a long layover or a short vacation, but it’s the hotels that truly amaze.
The biggest property in the tantalizing trio, Hyatt Regency Manila City of Dreams soars with 362 spacious rooms, two restaurants, and one unwavering philosophy among its staffers to ensure that every customer request is met with a smile.
Nobu Hotel Manila
Japanese culinary extraordinaire Nobu Matsuhisa's culinary empire is known all over the world and Nobu Hotel Manila aims to further the reach of the master chef. Famed for his delectable and unparalleled Japanese-Peruvian cuisine, Matsuhisa has expanded his hospitality portfolio to include his namesake hotels.
Actor Robert de Niro was such a huge fan of the acclaimed chef that he waited more than five years before Matsuhisa agreed to be his business partner. And so, with Hollywood producer Meir Teper, the three opened the very first Nobu Hotel in Las Vegas in 2013.
Just two years later, they opened the first Nobu hotel in Asia inside the massive casino-resort property City of Dreams Manila. The Japanese-inspired aesthetic permeates throughout the stylish hotel, which happens to house not only a Nobu restaurant but a spa and an outdoor pool, too.
Raffles Makati
Raffles Makati debuted in a brand-new 30-story tower in the Philippines’ central business district, Makati City. Given its proximity to the Philippine Stock Exchange and numerous embassies, the hotel is a natural choice for business travelers. But it’s also right next to Greenbelt and other posh shopping malls and just a few minutes away from the trendiest bars, which lures in leisure guests as well.
Inside that new tower, you’ll find several properties: the 32-suite Raffles Makati hotel and 110-unit Raffles Makati Residences, which offer everything from a one-bedroom suite to a spacious four-bedroom option. Raffles Makati also shares the complex with another sought-after hotel, Fairmont Makati.
Despite being a new addition, Raffles Makati carries all the attributes that make its 1867 brand a standout, from the attentive, individualized service to the famed Singapore Sling (which was created at its sister Singapore property). Of course, the Philippines hotel adds its own local flavor (for example, it created its own decadent Makati Luxury Sling that includes 24k gold).
To stay at Raffles Makati is to experience modern amenities and Old World warmth.
Shangri-La at the Fort, Manila
Towering above the posh urban jungle that is Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is the sleek and contemporary Shangri-La at the Fort, Manila.
Located in BGC — the most walkable space in Metro Manila— Shangri-La at the Fort is surrounded by verdant greenery, the trendiest hangouts, the most talked-about restaurants, and the headquarters of some top multinational companies. Though you’ll find plenty of desirable hangouts, destination restaurants, and a standout gym that trumps most facilities you find in hotels within the walls of Shangri-La at the Fort.
Speaking of which, the entire complex is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certified for its high-quality and thoughtful design that is sustainable and eco-friendly.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is a thoughtfully elegant and thoroughly modern resort on the majestic Manila Bay. It was established in 1976 as the first hotel in the Philippines of international caliber and was designed by Philippine National Artist Leandro Locsin.
In 2007, global hotel operator Accor acquired the property and turned it into the luxurious bayside retreat it is today. With gorgeous landscapes, lavish contemporary interiors, and indulgent spa, it’s no wonder it’s often the hotel of choice of visiting VIPs, from former U.S. President Barack Obama to the Queen of Pop Madonna.
Recommended by Forbes Travel
Conrad Manila
As you step out of Conrad Manila’s elevator into the main lobby, the unobstructed view of Manila Bay welcomes you, radiating the warmth of the tropical sun and world-class Filipino hospitality.
Perched on the waterfront just above S Maison (a high-end retail complex), the luxurious hotel looks like a giant yacht, blending into the bay’s backdrop filled with leisure boats and the golden sunset.
The 347-room property is owned by the Sy family, known for the ubiquitous malls found in almost every city in the Philippines. Between the owners’ deep knowledge of Philippine culture and Hilton’s world-class standards for service and amenities, Conrad Manila is poised to make your stay memorable.
Makati Shangri-La, Manila
True to its name, Makati Shangri-La, Manila is a luxurious respite from the hustle and bustle of Manila’s business capital.
Once you step foot inside its carpeted floors, you will find yourself faced with a sweeping grand staircase and beautiful live orchestral music that serenades and seduces you to sink into one of the plush chairs and indulge in freshly baked pastries and a warm cup of tea or two.
It’s quiet and relaxing, which makes it a favorite refuge for both locals and tourists looking to get away from the crowds of nearby malls.
Although recently announced its temporary hiatus to their clients, Makati Shangri-La Manila is one of the best destinations in the heart of Makati.
When you’re ready to travel again—whether it’s to embark on a far-flung escape or a low-key staycation—check into one of the best hotels in the Philippines.
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