Some people travel because of work, while some travel just to satisfy their wanderlust. others travel with the need to experience something better and on my last trip to Manila, I indeed experienced something better thanks to my stay at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila.
The newest Marco Polo Hotel in the Philippines, 45-storey, 315-room the Marco Polo Ortigas is a landmark building in the Ortigas business district giving guests a central area between Quezon City, Mandaluyong, and Pasig. Shoppingeras will love that the Marco Polo Ortigas just just a short stroll to the Podium Mall, SM’s Megamall as well as the popular Shangri-La Mall.
The Philippine’s first true sky hotel, the Marco Polo Ortigas’ lobby is located at the 24th floor giving guests who are checking in a fantastic view of Pasig and the rolling hills of Antipolo beyond.
Five-star rooms
From the already massive 40-square meter deluxe room, I was upgraded to a cavernous 51-square premier room located at the corner of the hotel. My well-appointed room came with Netspresso coffee machine, a huge 42-inch HDTV, fast WIFI connection, and an in-room safe that can fit even 15-inch laptops.
Since the Marco Polo Ortigas is all about extras, the bathroom has a rain shower area that is separate from the luxurious marble bathtub. Tech heads will love staying in as each room had a plethora of USB charging outlets as well as universal power outlets to ensure that all gadgets are properly charged. Even the in-room phone system has two USB charging ports for travellers who forgot to bring their adaptor.
Although I love the amenities, a good night’s rest is always the litmus test of any hotel and the Marco Polo Ortigas passes with flying colours. Its goose down pillows were soft and cool to the touch while the king-sized bed was a dream to sleep in. It was firm and supportive yet was soft and cozy to sleep in, easily one of the best beds I have ever slept in.
Five-star facilities
What is a staycation without a little exercise? Aside from their five-star accommodations, the Marco Polo Ortigas also has a spa, fitness center and pool. Located at the 23rd floor of the hotel, the Flow Fitness Centre features the latest gym equipment in the market, the sky-high views added to the adrenaline rush while I was running on the treadmill.
Giving a sense of having a private oasis in the middle of the city, the Marco Polo Ortigas’s pool was one of the most unique pools I have ever experienced. Aside from being on the 23rd floor of a building, the indoor temperature-controlled 20-meter pool gave swimmers a surreal swimming-on-top-of buildings experience thanks to its massive wide windows and infinity edge.
Five-star cuisine
Food lover will never be out of options at the Marco Polo Ortigas with its many outlets. Breakfast as well as buffet lunch and dinner is served at Cucina which is located at the hotel’s 24th floor. With cool modern interiors and city views, Cucina filled my stomach and made me excited to explore the city.
For nightcaps or barkada bonding, I would suggest a visit to Vu’s, a first-of-its kind sky bar and lounge located on the top 45th floor of the hotel tower. The bar features cutting-edge design, a high-end sound system, relaxing vibe and savoury Mediterranean tapas served indoors or al fresco style.
A visit to Lung Hin, a contemporary specialty restaurant located on the 44th floor of the hotel tower for their authentic Cantonese cuisine and fresh seafood is a must.
Top-class in Manila
One may argue that there are many other five-star hotels in Metro Manila and it is true that these properties may have many other things going for them, but for me, the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila is one of those rare gems with the right balance of luxury, attitude, style, and service that literally keeps me wanting to go back and stay some more.
