The conversion of the upper floors of the 40-storey I’M Hotel into the Oakwood Makati Avenue provides corporate, long-stay, and bleisure travellers with an easily-accessible home away from home option
Rooms
Oakwood Makati Avenue offers 150 serviced suites in four categories: the 44m2 Studio Premier, the 57m2 Executive Suite, the 76m2 Deluxe Suite, and the 100m2 Executive Suite. Being a dual property, the I’M Hotel offers another 284 rooms.
As I walked through the wide hallway of the 26th floor, I passed an open lounge area before entering my One Bedroom Executive Suite. With its muted colour palette, engineered wood flooring, tasteful minimalist decor, and well-equipped kitchenette, the suite promised a cosy and relaxing overnight stay.
Case in point: I drifted into dreamland as soon as my head hit the soft pillows on the large bed with its 1,000-threadcount linens.
The kitchenette is another reason why I really like the Oakwood Makati Avenue. After enjoying a tasting menu at Osteria M, I stored the generous leftovers in the fridge and reheated them for breakfast the next day.
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows in both the living area and bedroom filled the suite with natural light and provided a sweeping view of the city. The marble bathroom, complete with a large bathtub, exuded luxury. The dedicated workstation with high-speed Wi-Fi was ideal for remote work.
MICE facilities
A dual property, I’M Hotel and Oakwood Makati Avenue share facilities, including those for business events. The 504m2 Narra Ballroom accommodates up to 335 guests, alongside four meeting rooms can host up to 265 guests, and a meeting room on Basement 1 that can accommodate up to 25 guests.
Other facilities
The I’M Onsen Spa is the largest spa in Manila. Spanning 3,800m2 across six storeys, it offers modern and comfortable venues for small gatherings, including VIP spa suites for up to 25 guests. Executive suites are also available for groups of six.
The onsen features authentic Japanese thermal baths using proprietary technology that mimics the mineral composition of hot springs in Japan. There are also spa pods with ensuite jacuzzis or steam rooms, all of which are gender-specific.
All spa treatments include access to the onsen, a relaxation lounge with free-flowing wellness teas, Finnish sauna, and steam room.
Unfortunately, I did not have time to experience I’M Onsen Spa. But a friend who owns a large service company sends her staff to I’M Hotel Spa as an incentive reward, and they rave about the experience.
The acrylic-bottom swimming pool on the fourth floor is another interesting amenity, as it allows swimmers to be visible from the street level.
The Antidote Gastropub on the roof is whimsically playful and can host up to 350 guests. It offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, with the wind, stars, neon lights, and drinks combining to create a dreamy nighttime atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the newly-opened Osteria M offers a contemporary take on Filipino-Italian cuisine. Ingredients in the menu are sourced mostly from local farmers and producers, and feature handmade pastas and artisanal breads.
Another new addition is Barangay Bar, an indoor space and a weather-proof dome for fun entertainment.
Service
The service is friendly. I also appreciate the no-tipping policy, as the policy explains that the excellent service guests receive is included in their payment. However, I’M Onsen Spa is an exception and accepts tips.
Verdict
Staying at Oakwood Makati Avenue felt akin to staying home, and is an ideal space in which I can both relax and be productive should the need arise.
Number of rooms 150
Contact details https://www.discoverasr.com/en/oakwood/philippines/oakwood-makati-avenue
