Check out the Amazing Five-Star "Manila Hotel" in Manila, Philippines

One of the best five (5)-star hotels in the Philippines, the Manila Hotel first caught my attention when during the summer vacation last year, my family and I decided to go home to the Philippines and spend a week in Manila.

The building's whitewashed façade topped with green roofs stands tall along the Roxas Boulevard, 20-minutes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). It's presence, it seems, commands respect from its neighbors-the iron cast monument of Philippine National Hero Jose Rizal which rests at the center of the Rizal Park, the mossy green walls of "Old Manila," Intramuros and the orange sunset breathing their last breathes of fire from scenic Manila Bay.

But, don't get me wrong. The glory of Manila Hotel rests not only on the rich history of its neighbors, but also on its own history it has managed to nurture. Aside for being Gen. Douglas MacArthur's residence from 1935-1941, it has also played host to many foreign celebrities such as the Beatles, Ernest Hemmingway and former US president John F. Kennedy.

Lodging in one of its 500 newly refurnished rooms and suites, one would feel as though the presence of these celebrities still lingers within the corners of each room. With its exquisite furnishings and plush tapestries, one would truly feel the warmth of Filipino hospitality. Along with modern amenities like cable TV, a bedside radio and state-of-the-art Ving Electronic Card Security system, and creature comforts such as a fully stocked minibar plus windows and terraces that offer scenic views of the city, Manila Hotel is truly a perfect urban getaway.

We had 24-hour room service, even during weekends, delivering cold and hot snacks as we desire. When we wanted fine dining, several restaurants are available catering to the varied desires of our taste buds. For fine French cuisine, we found the Champagne Room. For outstanding steaks and seafood, we went to the Cowrie Grill. For sushi and and other Japanese delicacies, Ginza is the place to be. But most of the time, we would be found at the Pool Bar drinking refreshing fruit juices while cooling off at the pool.

If you'd be staying for a while at Manila, be sure to check in at the Manila Hotel and you'll what Filipino hotel accommodation means for Manila Hotels.