Ortigas center is probably one of the most underrated mini-cities in Metro Manila when it comes to world-class hotels and bars, especially when compared to BGC and Makati.
But scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find that Ortigas also offers class-leading shopping malls, restaurants, and bars.
But you know what else is underrated? The 5-star luxury hotel, Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila.
Located at the heart of Metro Manila in Ortigas. Marco Polo hotel prides itself as a highly rated 5-star hotel that indulges guest with the best luxury rooms and amenities.
MARCO POLO, ORTIGAS
1600 Meralco Ave., San Antonio, Pasig
Website: https://www.marcopolohotels.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila
Email: manila@marcopolohotels.com
Contact: +632 720-7777
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The building itself has 2 lobbies, the one on the ground floor services all guests and corporate offices while the main hotel lobby is conveniently located on the 24th floor of the building.
Upon entering the “sky lobby” you’ll be greeted by a very spacious and elegant hall with huge panoramic windows that offers an undisputed view of the Sierra Madre mountain range.
With its elegantly furnished spaces and halls, the Marco Polo hotel has been part of the global hospitality landscape for years.
Not to mention the global hotel has received a five-star award for the second time by Forbes travel guide for 2018.
CHECKING IN
Overall, there are a total of 316 upscale suites, luxurious guestrooms and an exclusive continental club floor in this first ever sky hotel in the Philippines.
I stayed in this luxurious yet modern single bed deluxe room that is surprisingly spacious enough for two adults and two children. (under 12 years old)
But what I liked most during my stay in Marco Polo were the floor to ceiling glass window walls that offer an excellent view of the city and mountain range.
All rooms and bathrooms come well-equipped with modern amenities like an LED face mirror and this fancy automatic toilet.
I especially like how the bathroom and the bathtub are only separated by this huge glass wall.
RESTAURANTS
Adding to Manila’s best dining destinations are Marco Polo’s own set of Culinary dining experience, namely all day dining restaurants Lung Hin and Cucina.
Located just across the lobby, Cucina is Marco Polo’s main dining and buffet restaurant that caters to most checked in guests, especially for their breakfast needs.
Even their trademark floor to ceiling glass windows carry over to the dining area. Now, can you imagine having your breakfast with that city view?
What I like most about Cucina is their open and interactive kitchen that features a fresh and healthy buffet and an a la carte menu that offers Continental and Asian cuisines.
With their wide range of seafood and dessert and for the price tag of only P2,750, I really think that Cucina is one of the best hotel buffets not to mention one of the most underrated in the Metro Manila.
(Lunch Monday to Saturday and P3500 for Sunday | Dinner P3500)
I also go to try their highly rated Chinese restaurant by Chinese Executive Chef Terry Lai of Lun Hin.
Located high up in the 44th floor. Lun Hin offers an even better city view, food selection, and overall dining experience.
Decorated with intricate Chinese decorations, Lun Hin’s interior looks like a modern restaurant straight out from China.
For dinner, we tried out their special Cantonese set menu that is perfect for families and is good for up to 6 persons.
For P12,500, the set menu comes with all the traditional Chinese dishes plus their signature whole roasted goose ala Hong Kong style.
But if you’re not in set menus, you can try and come back for lunch and order from their a la carte menu. I particularly liked their Hong Kong clay pot rice with Chinese sausage, waxed meat, and taro.
With their elegant private dining rooms and of course their signature floor to ceiling walls. Lun Hin offers that executive and luxurious feeling that is ideal for business meetings and or intimate gatherings.
AMENITIES
When it comes to modern amenities Marco Polo never disappoints as they always seem to step up their game against the completion.
For starters, there is an entire section allotted for continental club members which have its own breakfast buffet and an even better view of the bustling city.
And a concept lounge/gallery right across the front desk which offers modern work and social space with delectable light meals. There is another relaxing café on the ground floor called Café Pronto which I sadly didn’t get to visit
And of course, modern amenities that will take care of your relaxations needs. Like this huge heated indoor pool overlooking the Ortigas skyline. (w/ Jacuzzi and sauna room)
A modern gym with again, of course, their trademark floor to ceiling design aesthetic.
And this spa that offers a wide range of treatments and private massage services like their signature “Flow” massage that is perfect for unwinding and relaxation.
And not to mention a one of a kind sky bar all that is located all the way up their highest floor.
Vu’s is Marco Polo’s crown and glory with its world-class cocktails and an awesome view to match.
Be sure to order their flaming signature drink, The Sapphire Road which kinda tastes like a mojito but lighter and more refreshing.
Other facilities include workspaces, business services rooms, kids playroom and 2-floors of usable space for big events, meetings, and conferences.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall, I was genuinely surprised by the level of quality that Marco Polo provides. They offer exceptional services at concierge, restaurants and halls. I really appreciate their warm and professional service.
But I was really more impressed with how elegant and spacious the overall place feels. I particularly like the simplicity of how the glass walls aesthetic were carried out all throughout the hotel.
I also love the fact that the hotel is located at the heart of Metro Manila making it accessible to all neighboring cities. Not to mention the fact that you can walk to major shopping malls like SM, Podium and Robinsons Galleria.
Making this the perfect hotel for Business travelers and families who seeks an own urban oasis amidst the chaos of Metro Manila. It certainly is a cut above the rest and I will definitely come back to this hotel.
MARCO POLO, ORTIGAS
1600 Meralco Ave., San Antonio, Pasig
Website: https://www.marcopolohotels.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/MarcoPoloOrtigasManila
Email: manila@marcopolohotels.com
Contact: +632 720-7777
Live an Awesome Life,
NICO of Team Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: Our stay in Marco Polo Hotel Ortigas was courtesy of Marco Polo. I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.