It was our very first time in Manila, and we had no idea what to expect. But I knew for sure, If there is a Shangri-La hotel there, we're going to have a fantastic experience. And I was so right! Manila is a very overwhelming city and If you have never visited, please know traffic is close to insanity. And I live in Los Angeles so I know BAD traffic, ha! In the heart of Bonifacio Global City, known as (BGC), Shangri-La at the Fort is a luxurious much-needed escape from the city chaos.
Accommodations
The hotel features 576 contemporary, spacious guestrooms and suites. They also have a 1, 2, and even 3 bedroom residences. Together with the horizon homes, located on the high floors with remarkable city and bay views. Whatever option you choose, you won't be disappointed. This time we stayed at the one-bedroom residence, and it was perfection. We had a kitchenette, washer & dryer, dining/living room area, and a gorgeous bedroom with amazing views. The toiletries are my favorite since I'm a sucker for L'occitane products.
One of the things I love the most about Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts is that they are committed to their continued journey to sustainability. The brand has been recognized by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) as the only hotel group included in the index component within Asia/Pacific. Shangri-La at the Fort is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). They are a gold-certified green building committed to using strategies to improve energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, etc.
Dining & Entertainment
I kid you not, this is one of the best breakfast experiences we've had. The options and quality of food were out of this world. The all-day dining offers nine culinary stations you can choose from. It includes: Japanese, Mediterranean, Chinese, Western, Seafood, Raw Bar, Salad Bar, Rotisserie, and a Dessert section. It's mind-blowing. Our favs: Beef tapas & Laksa.
Fancy great drinks and excellent food? Look no further, ma' friend. Located on the 8th floor, Samba has got your back! You can order a drink by the pool and relax on the lounge chairs or cabanas. And you can also experience the flavors of South America cuisine with a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. We were feeling frisky and ordered a couple of drinks by the cabanas, and it was fantabulous.
Both places are not to be missed. Ministry of Crab was awarded one of Asia's 50 best restaurants and The Back Room which is a secret speakeasy was awarded one of Asia's 50 best bars! Check out our unforgettable dining experience HERE.
Modern Cantonese cuisine with a touch of glam yet relaxing dining environment.
Patties made from choice cuts of brisket, rump, and Wagyu accompanied by fresh, locally sourced produce and a special secret sauce created in-house? Sign me up!
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Horizon Club Lounge -
Horizon Club members can enjoy many privileges, including their breakfast buffet in the morning (which we also tried, and it was fantastic - see pics below), refreshments throughout the day, and cocktails + canapés overlooking the Manila skyline each evening. You can also use the meeting room, enjoy priority check-in, and a dedicated Club Concierge.
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BAKE HOUSE -
The Bake House was also a highlight of our stay at the Shangri-La at the Fort. If you are into freshly baked yummy pastries and yummy coffee/teas, make sure to check this place out. It's in the lobby area, very easy to find. By the entrance you see lovely fresh flower bouquets for sale and the beautiful, tasteful desserts. They are also very dedicated at being eco-friendly, using their ceramic plates, plastic-free coffee cups, cornstarch straws, recycled tissue paper etc.
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Shopping -
If you're looking into doing some shopping, there are so many iconic global brands around the complex; it will, for sure, exceed your expectations!
Leisure awesomeness
Located on Levels 5 and 6 of Shangri-la at the Fort hotel, Kerry Sports Manila offers aa lot of entertainment. An outdoor lap pool with a dining area, extensive gym facilities, exercise studios, and a spa with eight treatment rooms. Not to mention, it also has an NBA-grade indoor basketball court, two tennis courts, and two squash courts. The complex also houses an Adventure Zone, a multi-level indoor playground for children 12 years old and below, with engaging activities for themed party rooms.
I do want to say a special THANK YOU to Tiffany, for a wonderful stay and for spoling us with the best of the best. More than a luxurious stay, we experienced such warm and caring treatment from the Shagri-La at the Fort team, I can't wait to go back, this trip was super short but by all means, very sweet!
For bookings, visit Shangri-la at the Fort, Manila HERE.
Disclaimer:
We had the pleasure to be hosted by Shangri-la at the Fort in Manila and as always I’m very transparent with my audience. I keep it honest and all opinions are my own. Except when there is sarcasm, then, I don’t know where it comes from . Be kind, be well & keep climbing!
sjd68 says
What an unbelievable hotel this is! I just looked up the costs and it is very reasonable considering the amenities and rooms. This same hotel would cost a small fortune in NYC. Definitely on my list of places to visit and I would absolutely stay at SHANGRI-LA AT THE FORT without a doubt! I’d like to attack that breakfast menu!
Aryanne Padilha says
You’re absolutely right about the price being so reasonable. That’s another thing I love about Shangri-La Hotels, they keep the comfort and luxurious services at affordable rates. I have stayed in many hotels in NYC where I have paid double and the hotels were not even close to this. About that breakfast, YES! Now that I’m gone I often dream about it hahaha
sjd68 says
And that NYC hotel room would be tiny for $750 a night.
Aryanne Padilha says
Yup, no kidding! haha
ivanamearns says
oh wow – such pretty photos and you look so happy. What a stunning location. I have to confess that it’s the food photos that got my attention.
Aryanne Padilha says
Haha Thank you so much, Ivana! I love that the food got your attention because it was truly spectacular!!!
Adventure Aficionado says
Wow Manila looks fabulous! And that hotel is spectacular. They really do seem to have quite a lot to offer, and cater to all avenues of individuals which is refreshing and good to see. Seems like you enjoyed yourselves!
Aryanne Padilha says
Thank you so much, we did have a blast! Gotta go back and explore more of the city!
Think Happy Thoughts says
Wow! I was just in Manila 3 months ago and I wish I went here for a staycation. It looks lovely!
Charlotte Jessop says
This looks stunning! I’m going to have a lie down and close my eyes and pretend I am there. Hopefully, it will become a reality in 2020!
JENRON DESIGNS says
Wow this looks amazing, sign me up and add it to my bucket list for sure!
daphnetakahashi says
What a beautiful hotel! Everything seems so relaxing and the food amazing! Need to add this into my birthday gifts list! Thanks for sharing!
🖤💀Britt K💀🖤 (@AltSpeaking) says
The accommodations there look so luxurious, and oh what I would give to be there in the pool during the warmer weather. This looks like the perfect weekend getaway, one that I’ll have to add to my list of ideas for when my husband and I are in need of a little escape!
Sonia Seivwright says
Take me there right now!!! OMG!!! the hotel is simply me. I just love it. I see myself eating those Delicious food.
The Sunny Side Lifestyle Co. says
If I were staying at the Shangri-la at the Fort, I’m not sure I would ever leave the hotel! The restaurant options, the rooms and the sports/spa complex look absolutely amazing. One of the difficulties we have found traveling with children is in accommodations. Selecting a hotel that offers suites, in this case 1-3 bedroom options, is ideal to give everyone their space but still be together. Thank you for sharing this amazing hotel!
Alexandra says
That place looks amazing! I have never traveled in such luxury before and I’m not sure that I will ever get the chance to. But I still like visiting travel websites and living vicariously through others experiences. I guess it’s kinda like reading a book!
honeybunnytwee says
This post gives me major wanderlust! It’s such a contrast to the snowy/icy weather here in CT. Everything looks luxurious and it looks like you’re having a great time in paradise
Angela Ricardo Bethea says
Oh my! That place looks absolutely awesome and gorgeous. Definitely a great place to stay at and it looks like you guys had a wonderful time there.