Manila Hotel : The Grand Dame by the Bay

The Manila Hotel is the place of many memories, history even. Michael Jackson, the Beatles and Gen.Douglas MacArthur once graced the halls of this proud institution. During his stay in the country, literary giant Ernest Hemingway had the highest praise to give to the “Grand Dame by the Bay.” When he was asked during an interview, “What makes a good story?” he answered with, “It’s a good story if it’s like the Manila Hotel.”

"History is not synonymous with old,” stresses the Manila Hotel’s assistant vice president of PR and corporate communications Nian Liwanag-Rigor. Glad to have successfully combated such a misconception, she shares that the challenge today for the Manila Hotel is preserving its heritage and remaining relevant in the 21st century — especially in a highly competitive scene as Manila. “With all due respect to the other hotels especially the chain hotels,” she says, “the Manila Hotel is not here to compete with them. We believe that we are in a league of our own — firstly because we have history. Unlike luxury, one cannot replicate history.”

Not much has changed it seems — the Manila Hotel will be celebrating its 99th year on Oct. 6 this year — the piano still plays on the elevated stage and its twinkling notes float over the scene of clinking glasses and guests engaged in conversation at the lobby. Our photographer turns to me and says, “You know you’re in the Manila Hotel when you see the chandelier and hear the piano playing onstage.” He fondly shares how as a boy, his father, the veteran lensman George Tapan, would take him along to shoots at the Manila Hotel. 

At first glance, it may seem that Manila Hotel has remained unchanged, but a walk through its corridors and a peek into its suites show that the Manila Hotel has very much adapted to the times. 

For example, restaurants have been revamped with more exciting dining concepts. The newly opened Cafe Ylang Ylang boasts nine stations of international cuisine. (As you go around each station, notice how the interiors reflect the country of origin of the cuisine). The ethereal French-inspired Champagne Room has become the toast of the town with its Cirque du Soleil inspired menu, “Degustacion.” With its spanking new health spa, pool and gym; fully-refurnished MacArthur lounge which has an unparalleled view of the bay; and its romantic Sunset Suite — the Manila Hotel is undoubtedly new and improved. 

On the other hand, all of the suites have been newly renovated. The rooms have retained much of their Old-World charm and elegance with warm wood interiors and capiz accents, but they are now fitted with upgraded, modern amenities like LCDs in the bathroom, Italian marble baths and VingCard electronic door locks to name a few. It is important to note that although new, the Manila Hotel remains fondly familiar. 

“If there is one hotel in the country that clearly reflects and mirrors the history of its host country, it would be the Manila Hotel. We believe that the Manila Hotel stands for a legacy of luxury, rich history and genuine Filipino hospitality.” Indeed, the Manila Hotel is where it rightfully belongs — at the heart and pride of Manila.