Melo Villareal
Waterfront Pavilion Hotel and Casino Manila Review
Of all the municipalities in NCR, Manila, for me is the richest if we’re talking about history and culture alone. Manila may have a crooked reputation making it a less ideal place to visit for local and foreign tourists alike but as of late Manila is compensating for lost tourism opportunities.
Manila is not like other metropolitan cities where there are a lot of modern establishments such as malls, hospitals, and restaurants but what Manila has is its old world charm; something you won’t find in other places in the Metro. I love immersing myself in different cultures and Manila certainly has that. Only in Manila will you find historical landmarks, museums, old cathedrals, parks and a lot of hotels.
During my staycation in Manila, my temporary home was the Waterfront Pavilion Hotel and Casino Manila (hotel info). It is conveniently located near Intramuros and the famous Rizal Park.
It used to be called Manila Hilton Hotel and built in 1968; it is also famous for being the first tallest five-star hotel during those times. It became a part of the prominent chain of hotels of Waterfront Philippines and underwent several renovations and redesigning by world-renowned interior designer Sonia Santiago-Olivares. The renovation resulted to a more elegant yet homey atmosphere.
Accessibility
Waterfront Pavilion Hotel is easy to get to; it’s just a 30-minute drive from NAIA, very near shopping malls, Intramuros, Manila Ocean Park, old churches, museums and Rizal Park. You can also just take one jeepney ride and you can get to Chinatown where you can feast on delectable Chinese food from dimsum to roasted Peking Duck.
Ambiance and Reception
I love how the hotel offers a cozy environment while still keeping up to the restless energy of Manila. The service is exceptional and everyone is always treated like a VIP and all their employees make sure everyone enjoys their stay.
During the earlier times, Gen. Carlos P. Romulo has been a regular visitor of this hotel along with National Artist Federico Alucaz who made it his official residence for years. Up to this day, the hotel offers the same welcoming appeal and warm reception from the hotel itself and through its employees.
Rooms
The Manila Pavilion Waterfront Hotel and Casino Manila (hotel reviews) has more than 400 fully-furnished and stunningly designed rooms (deluxe, deluxe premium, en-suite, premier room and suite, ambassador room and suite, executive suite and presidential suite. All rooms have been well-thought of with only the happiness of the guests in mind.
Every room are designed with sophistication and class and the moment I entered my assigned room, I instantly felt more welcome and super ready to relax further because their room is spacious and their bed looked so tempting. Their rooms overlook Manila’s skyline by the way so it makes it extra special; orange and red gives the room a tasteful appearance.
There is a small table with two grand couches by the bed and there is a dressing table at the bottom. The bathroom is close to the bed and there is a closet next to it. There is also a large flat-screen TV with cable connection and free Wi-Fi to present guest the best leisure and business experience.
Features and Services
During my stay here, I’ve mastered the art of getting in the zone and got really familiar with their features and special services like the lounge for guest which is exclusive on the 21st floor, complimentary buffet breakfast, free flow non-alcoholic beverages, complimentary cocktails from 5pm-7pm, a butler service and express check in and check out so both leisure and business travellers are going to enjoy it here.
Food
The Waterfront Pavilion Hotel and Casino is home to three premium restaurants and a bar in the lobby. There is also a French style pastry Pattiserrie, Boulvar Sports Bar and Seasons where international cuisines are being served. The selection is really extensive so careful choosing is a must. Other specials famous to this hotel are their tuna turnover and ensaymada, both deserve applause.
Amenities
The Manila Pavilion Waterfront Hotel has its very own chapel and its open 24/7. They also have a spa, a fitness gym and an outdoor pool and true to its name, there is a casino inside the hotel where everybody can enjoy a game or two while drinking cocktails.
Surroundings
Besides the historic hotel, there are things you can do around the area that will really highlight your stay in Manila. First you have walk around the hotel; you just have too because the magic is right there, there is so much history around the area that it will be a sin to miss it.
Check out the casa, canyons and forts and relive the how the old world is from Spanish occupation until the time Intramuros was restored.
Waterfront Pavilion Hotel and Casino Manila
Book Online via Agoda
Address: United Nations Avenue, Corner Ma.Orosa Street, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
Telephone: (02) 526 1212
Also Read: List of The Best Manila Luxury Hotels
