Formerly the Hyatt Regency, the New World Manila Bay Hotel caters to business travelers and tourists alike with large rooms, a central location, and luxurious amenities. Aside from the fact that it takes up a whole city block, the tall L-shaped building housing the hotel doesn’t look much different from nearby structures, which tower over smaller shops and cafes lining the busy Malate streets.

Interiors here are upscale without being decadent, defined by contemporary decor mostly in earth tones. The lobby is small if compared to other luxury properties, but its round shape makes it feel larger that it really is. The long curved cream-colored front desk stands out against the black and brown floors and large emerald pillars, while the green-and-yellow LED-lit stairs add a contemporary touch. Wood accents are elegant and stylish.

All common spaces show great attention to detail, but the most striking ones are the restaurants. Fireplace, the hotel’s steakhouse, has decidedly masculine decor with dark furniture and lots of wood, exposed stone, and brass accents. Low lights, polished wood floors, and gleaming vaulted ceilings make the space elegant. Li Li, the hotel’s Cantonese restaurant, has gorgeous Herringbone hardwood floors, delicate crystal chandeliers and Chinese-inspired decor throughout. Glass cabinets display dozens of fine wines along the restaurant’s several dining rooms.

Rooms are upscale but a little bit generic, especially if compared to the grand common spaces. Nevertheless, all units are large and comfortable, with plush carpets, king beds (or two twins upon request) and goose down duvets.

Hotels in Luzon, Philippines