The Luxe List 2013: Fairmont Makati/Raffles Makati, Manila

By Jeffry Gunawan - October 9, 2013
  • The hotels are situation in a quite corner of Manila's financial center.

    The hotels are situation in a quite corner of Manila's financial center.

  • Each hotel has its own pool but share a spa and gym.

    Each hotel has its own pool but share a spa and gym.

  • Guests at either property have access to seven restaurants and lounges.

    Guests at either property have access to seven restaurants and lounges.

  • Spectrum restaurant serves fine local cuisine.

    Spectrum restaurant serves fine local cuisine.

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The first five-star-branded property to open in Manila in 20 years was worth the wait. Occupying a rare quiet corner in the capital’s financial hub, it is divided into two wings: the elegant Raffles, with just 32 suites, all dressed in white marble and glittering chandeliers and catering primarily to leisure travelers; and the 280-room Fairmont, with its orange-hued jazzy style and a smart executive lounge better suited to business types. Both wings have their own swimming pools while sharing a gym and spa, and guests have access to a combined seven restaurants and lounges, including all-day restaurant Spectrum (which does wonders with such Filipino favorites as kinilaw and sizzling sisig) and an outpost of Singapore’s storied Long Bar. Also a winner is the decadent Sunday brunch, which features free-flow Veuve Clicquot champagne and a whole spit-roasted pig.

1 Raffles Dr.; 63-2/555-9777; Raffles Makati website and the Fairmont Makati website; doubles from US$273

See more from The Luxe List 2013

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