Hilton Manila

Located within Resorts World Manila, this newly-opened property heralded the entry of the flagship brand in the Philippines. Rosa Ocampo checks in for a short stay, and reveals why it deserves a look from corporate planners.

Hua Yuan - Brasserie Chinoise

Rooms
For 4D/3N, home for me was Hilton Manila’s 40m2 executive room. It’s five-star plush: a spacious, dedicated work desk; two Serenity double beds with the softest beddings and pillows; tasteful furniture and fixtures with attention to details – why, even the air vent is artistically camouflaged. This aesthetic is continued in the four-point bathroom that boasts a separate vanity area, toilet, bathtub, and rainshower.

The room is also smart. For instance, the motion sensor automatically switches the light on and off accordingly when leaving and entering the room; and the door automatic closes and locks. Hilton Honors members can also make use of their smartphone or tablet as their room key.

MICE facilities
The elegant ballroom for up to 600 guests, and the hotel’s six meeting and event spaces have up-to-date MICE technology expected of hotels of this calibre.

For me, the humongous resort-style lagoon pool (which Hilton shares with its partially-opened neighbour Sheraton Manila), complete with a freestyle pool bar, promises a number of creative ideas for corporate events and incentive trips.

On Valentine’s Day for instance, I watched from my 11th floor room how the hotel transformed the pool into an al fresco dinner rendezvous with tables set on the edge of the shallow part of the pool, while myriad lights glimmer under and above the waters. Gorgeous!

Another promising MICE venue that is creatively decorated is the Hua Yuan Brasserie Chinoise Chinese restaurant. It exudes luxury, from the gilded ceilings and chinoiserie to the intricately-designed cutlery. Moreover, the restaurant has three private dining rooms that fit up to 12 persons each, perfect for a business C-suite luncheon.

Other facilities
Hilton Manila has five restaurants including Madison Lounge and Bar whose high tea I just love; as well as an executive lounge for club guests. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free airport shuttle service.

I also had a meal at all-day dining Kusina Sea Kitchens, but found that the flavour on certain Asian offerings – such as laksa – could be improved on.

Service
Warm hospitality distinguishes this hotel, right from the entrance when the staff politely assisted in the security check for my bags, up to the genial greet staff in the check-in area. Some housekeeping staff are shy, perhaps because they are young and new in the industry, but they are helpful.

Verdict
As a woman traveller, Hilton Manila makes me feel safe. As a business traveller, I’m satisfied with thoughtful touches such as free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and the ergonomic desk chair.

Number of rooms 357
Contact
Email mnlph_hotel@hilton.com

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