Westin is making a re-entry to the Philippines with The Westin Manila, which brings the brand back to the country and shows off its signature wellness amenities with pride. Its location in the heart of town and near two popular shopping malls gives it a great position for tourists and visiting business travelers. Westin’s “heavenly” suite of products are in every room, and its focus on health and wellness is a refreshing change from the usual hotel experience. Here are five top reasons to stay at The Westin Manila.
The rooms
The views from this skyscraper are exceptional showing off the growing skyline and green trees all around. From floor-to-ceiling windows (and in some rooms, windows in the bathroom), the natural light fills the modern room. The centerpiece is the Westin Heavenly Bed with its pillowtop mattress, plump pillows against a cushioned headboard and all white duvet. No matter how jet-lagged you are, this bed can help get some serious rest. Bedside power outlets are easy to reach, and a wireless charging pad atop the alarm clock is a welcome sight.
Side tables work well as a desk or for dining, and a sofa or armchair in the corner provides a great spot to watch TV. A refrigerator has complimentary bottled water, which is replenished daily. A walk-in closet has two robes and plenty of shelf space. It’s clear that a lot of thought went into designing the accommodations.
Bathrooms have the famous Heavenly Shower although instead of the former two showerheads, it has a drenching rainfall showerhead and a separate wand, both of which have exceptional pressure. A soaking tub sits next to the shower, and the white tea-scented toiletries (a familiar Westin perk) are now packaged in wall-mounted pump bottles to be more environmentally friendly. On the vanity, additional toiletries include dental kits and shaving sets. The housekeeping staff are meticulous and friendly, and they return in the evening for turndown service.
The pool
A pool deck features a spacious swimming pool with an infinity edge that makes it seem like the water is spilling over the edge. Located on the fourth floor, it has nice views amid the neighboring skyscrapers. A bar serves refreshments to one side for guests enjoying the lounge chairs.
Next to the pool is a large gym with modern equipment including Peloton equipment and free weights. Westin takes great pride in the fitness amenities, and this property’s WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio is no different. A fridge holds chilled towels to enjoy during workouts.
Another Westin favorite is the RunWESTIN program, which provides guests with a jogging map, towels and water by the front door. Several times a week, guests can also participate in guided runs led by hotel staff who can point out local sights along the way. There are around 225 run concierges around the world.
The dining
Seasonal Tastes is the main restaurant here serving three meals a day. Its breakfast buffet alone is something worth experiencing with numerous stations preparing food to order like noodle soups, eggs and even a waffle station. Westin’s menu of freshly squeezed wellness juices and infused waters are a popular kickstart to the day.
Each morning, there is a rotating selection of Filipino dishes, which is a great way to sample new food if you’re pressed for time. A tropical fruit station also has yogurt and frozen popsicles made from fresh juice.
The restaurant switches to a variety of international dishes with several Filipino options later in the day. Guests can order from either a la carte or from the buffet. Dinner sometimes features themed buffets (the seafood night is always a hit). Certain weekend rates are all-inclusive packaging in multiple meals for those that want a staycation. The lobby lounge serves a wide range of drinks and light snacks.
The wellness focus
Westin’s brand promise is geared around wellness, and this is evident all around the hotel. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a calming, white tea scent that fills the space. Restaurant menus offer the option to order half portions, which can take some of the worry out of eating too much when on the road.
Workout gear is available to borrow, and guests can also request certain fitness items to be sent to the room like yoga mats and resistance bands. Also on offer are recovery kits, including Hyperice equipment for air compression massage to relieve tension. Not only is this great after a workout, but also after a long flight.
An in-room menu focused on getting a good night’s rest offers things like specially blended herbal teas and other drinks and dishes that help facilitate sleep. By the bed, housekeepers leave an aromatherapy oil that is calming and relaxing. There’s also a spa offering a menu of massage and beauty treatments.
The staff
Filipino hospitality is well-known, but this property takes things up a notch. Whenever a staff person passes you, they put their hand over their heart and say hello. From the maintenance staff to the concierge, everyone expresses genuine care and interest in your stay. They may suggest things to try while in the city or places to visit, too.
The fourth floor club lounge is for top Marriott Bonvoy elite members as well as guests that book a club category room. It features several complimentary food and beverage options. Guests can have breakfast here or in the main restaurant. Throughout the day, light snacks and beverages are available. During the evening happy hour, a filling buffet of hot and cold items can serve as a complete meal. Each evening, different Filipino recipes are also on offer. An open bar fuels the fun, and the staff in the lounge make you feel like home. No matter where you go in the hotel, there is a smiling face.
