After our incredible experience in the Philippines a year ago, we made arrangements with Philippine Airlines to have a 24-hour layover in Manila. During our 2016 trip to the Philippines, we had the honor of being some of the first guests at Shangri-La Hotels newest property, Shangri-La at The Fort. Due to our unforgettable experience, we decided to book our 24-hour layover accommodations at the same hotel to see how it had transformed over the past year.
Our flight from Bangkok arrived at Ninoy Aquino International airport late in the evening where we were whisked away via luxury car provided by the hotel’s limousine transfer. After an exhausting day of travel, we didn’t mind the superior comfort and hospitality we experienced upon arrival. Once we arrived at the hotel we were personally welcomed by the hotels executive staff before being ushered to our room. Our room was exactly as we remembered from a year ago - luxuriously cozy. The spacious rooms with vaulted ceilings and windows provide stunning views of the city, allowing travelers to feel right at home. The room’s aesthetic was nothing short of amazing and every inch of the hotel is garnished with subtle decor allowing travelers of business and pleasure to step into a world of luxury.
Knowing we only had 24-hours in Manila, we woke up the next morning off and running. First thing on the agenda: breakfast. Located on Levels 37-40 is Shangri-La at the Fort’s Horizon Club, where we enjoyed exclusive privileges. We had full access to the following complimentary benefits: internet services, cocktails in the evening, non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day and more importantly, a breakfast buffet that is served daily from 6am to 10:30am. Please note that there is a dress code for the club lounge.
After enjoying our breakfast we set up a bike tour of the surrounding area, Bonaficio Global City, popularly known as “BGC”. Our guide was knowledgable of the area, providing history of Manila while pointing out talented local street art. The brand of bikes we used were local to the Philippines and completely made out of bamboo. *Side note: we recommend setting up a tour by noon before the temperature rises; it’ll make your experience more comfortable.*
Once our bike tour concluded, we spent the rest of our afternoon exploring Bonaficio High Street and the newly developed areas of the hotel property to see how it had changed over the past year. During our stay in 2016, the property was newly open and certain areas weren’t complete. Fast forward a year later and now there are restaurants, a fitness club with state of the art fitness equipment, and the overall atmosphere was thriving.
At the end of our eventful day, we made our way to the airport for our return flight home with Philippine Airlines. If you ever visit Manila and want to experience luxury accommodations that will satisfy your every need, then be sure to book your stay at Shangri-La at The Fort. Due to the hotels location in the city, you are able to maximize your time with activities, from shopping on High Street to bike tours of the surrounding area.
Check out our Travel Vlog for a Virtual Tour of Shangri-La Hotel at The Fort in Manila, Philippines!