You’ll almost certainly be in Manila at some point on your travels to the Philippines. You’ll have the Manila Irresistible City Guide handy – so here’s two Irresistible options for a stay: The Peninsula and The Henry Hotel. Plus the wonderful The Farm; a spa retreat a couple of hours south of Manila, and then, one the most luxurious island getaways in the world; the one and only Amanpulo. Manila is great for a party, The Farm for a recovery, and the Amanpulo to bring the romance back into your life.
The Peninsula Manila, known as the “Jewel of Makati,” has stood as a symbol of elegance since 1976.
Located in Makati, Manila’s bustling business and lifestyle hub, The Peninsula is perfectly positioned for both business and leisure travellers. Everything you need is a short walk away – whether it’s the luxury shops of Greenbelt or the culturally rich Ayala Museum. Manila is emerging as a new destination in Asia, not just a stop-over. With its numerous and quirky speakeasy bars, international cuisine and vibrant arts district, you can easily spend days exploring the city.
The Peninsula Manila is the only hotel in the city with its own helipad – a detail that sets it apart in Manila’s luxury scene. The hotel offers helicopter transfers for those with a champagne budget, taking guests off to various curated experiences.
Designed by the Filipino architect Gabriel Formoso, the building reflects the architectural trends of the 1970s, with a focus on strong lines, exposed concrete elements, and a minimalist approach that emphasises functionality. Despite its rugged Brutalist foundation, the hotel manages to blend luxury and elegance. There is so much to love about the Peninsula. A architectural and historic treasure in Manila.
The Grand Dame has been witness to a lot. A lot of joy, celebrations and then terrifyingly, in 2007, she became the stage for a dramatic moment when a group of rebel soldiers stormed the lobby in an attempted coup. Tanks crashed through the front doors, missing the Christmas tree by 6 inches, a metaphor of the Filipino resilience. Fortunately, no one was hurt and the hotel restored its elegance in no time. Standing in that lobby, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of that history and the hotels central role in the DNA of Manila’s past.
There’s something timeless about the hotel – the cool marble floors, the sound of a pianist playing in the background. It’s the kind of place where you could sit for hours and watch the world go by, while the history of the place unfolds around you. It’s the place of many celebrations, weddings, and business and political deals cut by some of Manila’s most discerning and powerful residents. And you can feel it when you walk in. The room is nothing short of spectacular with the Sunburst sculpture hanging above. Abueva’s famous “Sunburst” sculpture took a month to install. Its intricate work with copper, bronze, and stainless steel, provides a spectacular aesthetic upon entering. It soars four stories high, making it one of the most dramatic and spacious atriums in the city.
Weaving around the third floor in an open balcony style space is the Club Lounge which if your room includes access, has breakfast buffet, afternoon tea and evening cocktails and canapés. The rooms are a blend of classic luxury and modern comfort. Sweeping views of the Makati skyline, a comfy sofa, plenty of space, and a marble bathroom, complete with a deep soaking tub and rain shower, is the perfect retreat after a day being Manila cool.
There are five restaurants in the hotel. Spices brings the flavours of Southeast Asia together, and includes delicious fish dishes including barramundi and sea bass and tangy grapefruit salads, while in Old Manila Chef de Cuisine Gael Kubler and his team are running one of the best fine dining restaurants in Manila. Masarap!
Nestled in the heart of Pasay City, The Henry Hotel Manila has charm and a sense of nostalgia.
Unlike Manila’s towering skyscrapers and bustling thoroughfares, this boutique property offers a serene escape in a vintage setting that feels worlds away from the urban chaos. A cluster of pre-war houses turned into an art-deco-inspired retreat; The Henry Manila is where history meets contemporary comfort.
The Henry Hotel is more than a place to stay – it’s a living museum. Built in the 1940s, the property was originally a collection of post-war houses in the traditional bahay-na-bato style. Over time, these homes were lovingly restored and transformed into a boutique hotel, preserving their heritage while adding modern amenities. Each room and corner hold a piece of history, from the original wooden beams to the intricate floor tiles that whisper stories of the past.The name “Henry” is a nod to the timeless elegance and sophistication that the hotel embodies, making it a favourite among travellers looking for authenticity in their stay.
A lush, tree-lined driveway feels like stepping back in time. The property’s signature white-and-grey exteriors are beautifully understated, blending classic Filipino architecture with thoughtful landscaping
The Henry is all about the details. Expect locally woven fabrics, retro-style telephones, and even a curated mini-library in some rooms. The Henry Hotels are a locally owned chain and that sense of authenticity and real Filipino flavour sings through the whole property.
The Henry Hotel Manila is a rare find. It doesn’t try to compete with the glitz and glamour of five-star chains, but rather offers something far more personal and memorable – a true sense of place. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply in need of a quiet retreat, The Henry is a destination in itself. Best for: History enthusiasts, couples, and travellers seeking tranquillity with a touch of nostalgia.
The Farm, San Benito. Rediscovering wellness and transformation, Filipino Style
Through its innovative, medically supervised programs, The Farm at San Benito has set the benchmark for holistic retreats, blending natural healing with modern practices, in a setting that is as luxurious as it is sustainable.
From the immersive healing treatments and exclusive practitioner-led workshops to the serene landscapes and soul-nourishing cuisine, every element is designed to foster a sense of renewal and balance.
Cleansing and bodywork involves yoga sessions amidst the greenery, sound healing meditation and no end of brilliant treatments at the Healing Sanctuary Spa, such as warm herbal wraps and the signature Hilot massage, a traditional Filipino healing technique which is an ancient practice that uses heated herbal poultices and long strokes to ease tension and restore balance. There was also a night lucid dreaming session run under the magnetically energetic vortex that is the old Mango Tree. Visiting practitioner Dr. Xander Pratt was there to guide the group through the depths, and The Farm will often have internationally recognised visiting practitioners on the schedule.
Each meal is plant-based, designed to support the body’s natural detox processes while delivering a burst of flavour. Dinner includes a vibrant selection of dishes, from raw lasagna made with zucchini and almond ricotta to a comforting turmeric-infused soup. The culinary team’s dedication to freshness and balance is clear and the food really is a highlight, which is why it’s also good that all guests can experience The Farm’s offerings within the scope of their cultural or dietary requirements. They are Halal certified and can accomodate any other special needs.
There’s plenty of opportunities to be immersed in nature and mindfulness and The Farm offers a range of fitness and movement practices, from Tai Chi to Qi Gong.
The Farm combines eco-luxury with a profound commitment to holistic well-being, making it a sanctuary for those seeking both relaxation and transformation. The Filipino staff’s warmth and expertise make every interaction meaningful, adding a layer of authenticity that is rare to find in wellness destinations.
The Amanpulo on Pamalican Island. The celebrities aren’t wrong.
Amanpulo presents a transformation of natural beauty that borders on ethereal. The journey by private seaplane – a cinematic touch – adds an air of mystery, as if we’ve crossed into another world, and become celebrities needing to escape. Whether you’re going to transfer straight from an international flight, or if you’re already in Manila, getting to and passing through the private hanger for the flight to Pamalican Island is as seamless and slick an experience as you’re ever likely to have in an airport. Amanpulo is a fantastic destination for a couple, and they even can put on a non-binding ceremony. It’s a perfect place to elope to.
Tucked away on the secluded Pamalican Island, Amanpulo lives up to its reputation as an exclusive hideaway. We hear the murmur of famous names—Bill and Melinda Gates are said to be frequent visitors, and the legend goes that Madonna herself stayed far longer than planned, leaving a $6.2 million impression in her wake. The staff, loyal to their code of silence, neither confirm nor deny.
Amanpulo’s casitas and villas blend into the natural landscape, each designed to make the most of the island’s beauty without being over the top. The casitas, inspired by local Filipino homes, are thoughtfully placed to maximise privacy. Only steps away from the stunning white sandy beach, with open, airy interiors and natural materials, it is understated luxury.
The Beach Club is the go-to for casual meals, while the Lagoon Club serves Filipino dishes with some creative twists. There’s also the Kawayan Bar, a floating bamboo raft perfect for a sunset cocktail and snorkel among the bale of turtles swimming around to say hello.
A standout is the resort’s dedication to sourcing locally. A lot of what’s on the menu comes straight from Amanpulo’s own organic garden – herbs, greens, and even some fruit. It’s a nice touch that you can taste, and it cuts down on the resort’s carbon footprint too. Supporting local farmers and fishermen is part of the experience.
Sustainability here is woven into the fabric of Amanpulo, not paraded as a slogan but just done. A solar farm can just be spotted hidden away among the forage while whizzing around in personal electric golf carts. Waste, too, is managed with care and intention. Recycling, composting, and thoughtful disposal practices ensure that Amanpulo treads lightly, leaving the island as unblemished as possible.
While the main draw is the white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, Amanpulo has a range of activities to keep things interesting. Snorkelling and diving are as good as it gets, with reefs and a dive centre that doubles as a conservation hub. The turtles are beautiful, abundant, and calmly swim by the small numbers of swimmers they might encounter.
There’s yoga classes, an unsurprisingly lovely spa featuring Filipino healing techniques, and a very good tennis coach.
Bespoke Private Dining is also newly available- secluded locations for private picnics and romantic fine dining on the island, whether in an ocean front cove or high on the hillside with views across the horizon. The cliff-top setting known as Gary’s Nest is one such venue, and several secret beachfront spots are also dotted around the coastline. It’s even possible to dine on the island’s runway–a one-of-a-kind setting for an evening under the stars.
Amanpulo is more than just a beautiful place. It’s a resort that feels respectful of its surroundings, both environmentally and culturally. From the solar farm to the locally sourced menu, it’s clear that Amanpulo’s goal is to preserve what makes this island special. It’s the kind of luxury that doesn’t scream, it whispers. And as you fly back over the blue-green waters, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve been somewhere rare – not just in terms of beauty, but in approach. Amanpulo isn’t just an escape; it’s a reminder of how luxury travel can be done right.
THE PENINSULA
Corner of Ayala & Makati Avenues,
1226 Makati Ave
Makati City,
Metro Manila,
Philippines
THE HENRY HOTEL
2680 F.B. Harrison street,
Pasay City
Metro Manila
Philippines
THE FARM AT SAN BENITO
119 Brgy. Tipacan,
Lipa City,
Batangas 4217,
Philippines
AMANPULO
Pamalican Island
Cuyo
Palawan
Philippines
If you’re the kind of person who would rather do everything through a travel agent, this is your guy.
Eric E. Boroy, photographed here by Irresistible on one of his recent trips to Sydney, is the General Manager of the Baron Travel Corporation, who have been fixing up trips for people for 56 years. Eric is well known to go above and beyond.
