TRAVEL

One of the best things about a Manila holiday is that it’s unbelievably easy on the pocket. Here, you can book a luxurious accommodation without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best low-cost Manila hotels.

A short ride away from shopping malls and business centres are the Legend Villas in Mandaluyong. “Tuloy po kayo” (“Welcome”) to this grand yet cosy hotel, where Venetian glass-framed mirrors, wooden staircases, and delicate chandeliers exude old world charm. A private stay in the affordable Premier Suites includes a kitchenette, two queen-sized beds, and a Jacuzzi. Four single beds can be found in the spacious Family Room, as well as a three-way toilet and bath. Try the best Filipino dishes at the Lola Maria Coffee Shop, and indulge in the brightly-coloured halo-halo (“mix-mix”), a sweet treat of shaved ice, milk, sugar, beans, jelly, bananas, custard, tapioca, and sweet potatoes.

Rizal Park commemorates the death by firing squad of Dr. Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero. Across is the legendary Manila Hotel, where American General Douglas MacArthur lived in the suite that now bears his name. Opulence and elegance befitting the country’s capital are found here, its rooms overlooking Manila Bay to the west, and the Walled City to the east, home to remnants of a Spanish colonial past. Guests will enjoy the indoor golf simulator, sauna, and massage services. Lessons in martial arts, swimming, and tennis are also available.

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Within a mansion that was built before World War II is the Orchid Garden Suites Manila, one of the top boutique hotels in the Philippines. Visitors can get local and international meals from Café Alicia or Cattleya Restaurant. Chill-out music is provided at Tutso Bar, where they also organize karaoke nights. Standard Rooms have marble bathrooms, two beds, and a desk. The best part of the stay is the famed sunset over the bay, seen from the large windows. One can also swim under the shade of trees in the outdoor pool.

Within walking distance of shopping malls, restaurants, and the lively night scene of Malate, the Bayview Park Hotel has a new offering: the Family Weekend Package. For a reasonable price, a family of four can enjoy an overnight stay in a Superior Room, a buffet breakfast, tickets to the newly-opened Manila Ocean Park, shuttle service all over the city, and use of the swimming pool and gym.