Every traveller with an interest in the finer things in life knows the name Raffles. Who hasn’t dreamed of sipping a world famous Singapore Sling in the very hotel it was invented? While Raffles Singapore is world renowned, it may come as a surprise that there is another luxury hotel that sports the famous moniker. I was recently blessed to experience the magnificent Raffles Makati and my mind was blown. This is without doubt one of the best hotels in Makati. If you are still wondering where to stay in Manila you need to read this before you book …
Arriving At Raffles Manila Hotel On Makati Ave
Location was a key factor when we were deciding to where to stay in Manila. All the best hotels in Makati are clustered on Makati Ave so naturally that’s where we started our search. We were over the moon with our final choice. The rock star treatment starts from the moment you clear customs. Raffles Makati can arrange luxury private transportation to whisk you away from Manila’s manic NAIA or try using Uber in Manila. We stayed at Raffles’ sister hotel the Fairmont Makati on our first two nights in town and used the transfer service after a delayed cheap flight on Cebu Pacific from Sydney. I was very glad our driver was still waiting for us. The minute the doors closed the chaos outside was obliterated and we felt just a little bit sorry for those still kerbside trying to haggle with the touts. The transition from the Fairmont to Raffles couldn’t have been smoother. We checked out early and hit old Manila to see the sights. The ever helpful staff promised to transfer our luggage to Raffles and sent us our way with a wave and a smile. When we arrived at Raffles Makati at 1pm, we were melting after hours walking in the blistering heat and 100% humidity. We were not a pretty sight when we stepped into the sumptuous lobby. The icy blast of air conditioning was a welcome relief and instantly made us feel slightly more human. The plush sofas, extravagant chandeliers and immaculately dressed staff exuded class. As my eyes swept the area looking for the reception desk I came up empty. That’s because there isn’t one. Raffles treasured guests don’t stand in line, they complete check in formalities seated at private desk that would look equally at home in a senior executives private office. Kathrine was expecting us when we approached and had already pre-filled all our paperwork. Fastest check in ever! Before the ink on my signature was dry, our personal butler appeared from nowhere to escort us to our suite.
Read More: 15 Luxury Hotels In The Philippines (That Will Blow Your Mind!)
Rooms @ Raffles Makati
Raffles is an all suite hotel and suite 1016 took my breath away. Rarely does a hotel room have the capacity to delight me anymore but Raffles Makati nailed it. I felt a frisson of excitement as I stepped inside and was greeted by a dining room and sitting area in our very spacious suite. The mini bar is discretely housed in the cabinet below the TV and is well stocked. So well stocked that we had to remove a few items to squeeze our drinks in. The fridge didn’t appear to have a temperature control and I would have liked to have been able to crank it up to keep the contents a little colder.
As you step through the double doors and into the bedroom, the generous proportions of the suite become truly apparent. The dark wood floors are topped with intricately woven rugs that are heaven on bare feet. The inviting king sized bed was made with precision and delivered an exceptional night’s sleep. The chaise at the foot of the bed was perfect for lounging and had the best view of the TV. Two functional desks make working less of a chore and the large windows showed off the city in it’s best light.
The huge freestanding tub that dominates the fabulous bathroom was irresistible. I grabbed a bath bomb from nearby Lush and soaked an hour away with a glass of wine before wrapping my delicious smelling self in the fluffiest of towels. Alfred (remember our butler from earlier?) did offer to run the bath for me (seriously!) but I am very capable and just a little bit uncomfortable being waited on hand and foot so I politely declined. The space is generous and the light coloured marble adds a modern feel. The Hubs is always fascinated by the personal hoses installed in Asian bathrooms which he has crassly dubbed ‘bum squirters’. He had high praise for the one in Raffles Makati which featured variable pressure. There has been talk of installing one at home which I hose down (pun intended) every chance I get. His ‘n’ hers vanities are always a treat and there was plenty of bench space to keep all our essentials in easy reach. The oversized shower made getting clean a pleasure and I loved the hand held nozzle. Of course only the finest toiletries are good enough for guests of Raffles Makati and they smelled divine.
Exceptional Details @ The Best Hotel In Makati
Raffles Makati’s attention to detail is second to none. We were delighted to find fresh fruit in the room, but even more delighted with the chocolate box filled with treats. Every part of this incredible creation was edible including the sign. Fresh flowers (orchids no less!) in the room never fail to thrill me and housekeeping were always on point. In fact, all the staff at Raffles Makati were superb. Even the elevators at Raffles Makati are fancy. Padded leather walls, gleaming mirrors and subtle lighting from three separate chandeliers make a very mundane experience extraordinary.
Relax @ Raffles Manila
Remember I said we were melting when we arrived? We wasted no time stripping off, slipping on one Raffles’ silk robes and heading down to the 9th floor for a dip. Cocktails were of course in order and they were delivered promptly from the Mireio Restaurant. I chose the Ma Cherie, a divine combination of Chambord, sparkling wine, cucumber and honey. The perfect refresher in the heat. The water temperature is just perfect for lolling around in the shallows but those who are so inclined have plenty of room to swim laps. Grab a cabana and make a day of it if time permits.
Breakfast @ Makati’s Favourite 5 Star Hotel
Breakfast at Spectrum was amazing. The buffet had every conceivable breakfast food and then some. I can’t say that I have ever had an empanada for breakfast before but I did at Raffles Makati! I also had feta and salami. Don’t judge, who is to say what is breakfast food anyway? Everything I ate was delightful with the exception of the sausage and bacon which were simply not to my taste. It’s one of the few things I miss about home when I travel. Aussie short cut bacon and beef sausages are the bomb and nothing I have found overseas compares. The Hubs proclaimed the scrambled eggs the best he has tasted in the Philippines which is high praise indeed. Our server Emel was so polite and nothing was too much trouble. When we thought we could eat no more, he encouraged us to try the hot chocolate which is made from cacao grown near his home. It was divine!
Top Hotel Bars In Makati
The Raffles Hotel Makati houses two bars in its sumptuous lobby. We sampled both. The plush furniture in the Writers Bar encourages guests to linger. After dinner cocktails, including the world famous Singapore Sling, are a must. If you are looking for a little more lively atmosphere head to the Long Bar which features local bands regularly. Modeled on Raffles Singapore, Long Bar sure draws a crowd at happy hour. On our last day in the Philippines we had a 10 hour layover in Manila after our early morning Cebgo flight from Coron. Rather than spend it at the airport, we chose to head back into Makati for some last minute shopping. We finished up earlier than expected and decided to while away our last few hours in town in the Long Bar nursing a final Singapore Sling. We arrived around 6pm and were surprised to find happy hour in full swing. We couldn’t resist the lure of free flowing selected cocktails, spirits and beer for just 695 pesos per person (AUD$18 between 5pm – 8pm). One drink turned into six and we were feeling no pain when we headed to the airport for our 10 hour flight home. We slept like babies all the way to Sydney 🙂
The Final Word
Raffles Makati competes with a raft of 5 star hotels on Makati Ave and in my book comes up trumps in every way. The location is superb and shopaholics will love the fact that Manila’s best mega malls are virtually on the doorstep. A quick Uber ride will get you into old Manila to soak up the culture, but if you prefer to travel like a local, grab a Jeepney before they are banished from Manila’s streets forever. Our stay at Raffles was a very special experience. We felt like royalty and there were more than a few grumbles as we headed to NAIA to catch our Skyjet Airlines flight to Boracay Caticlan. If you appreciate the finer things in life and love a bit of old world glamour Raffles Manila is perfect for you.
So have I convinced you that Raffles Makati is the best place to stay in Manila? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Until Next Time …
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Disclaimer: I stayed as a guest at Raffles Makati. As always, all opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links which will earn me a few cents to contribute to the running of this site if you make a qualifying purchase at no extra cost to you.
Punita Malhotra says
I love everything about this hotel. The decor is classy and understated, and the feel is luxurious. And that freestanding tub with the view! Wow..
Allison Smith says
Raffles was sensational Punita. They definitely set the bar high. I only wish I could have stayed longer!
dennisallacross says
This is definitely a VERY decent place to stay! However, I think it is hard to call one hotel the best one in a city if you have only been to that one. Last time when I was in Manila for business, we had dinner with potential partners in one of the restaurants in the Peninsula Manila Hotel. The lobby was mind-blowing! Marble and chandeliers everywhere and on a balcony there was even a small orchestra playing while the guests enjoyed their high tea… it really felt like the exuberant luxury of the 1920s.
I suggest that next time when you go to Manila, you check out the Peninsula, too, so that afterwards you can answer the question you raised with this post 😉
Allison Smith says
Exactly why I raised as a question Dennis. I also stayed at the Fairmont and will be writing about that shortly. It may be a little while before I am next in Manila I’ll definitely take a look at the Peninsula.
Samah says
This is a great, detailed review. Raffles looks extravagant but I admit, I’ve never heard the hotel chain. I really like how spacious and luxurious it looks through the pictures and I’m thinking about visiting Manila, so I will definitely look into this hotel!
Allison Smith says
Make sure you check it out Samah when you do get to Manila!
Megan Jerrard says
I didn’t realize there was a Raffles at Makati – but it sounds like an incredible accommodation experience – I love that everything is the next step up from luxury in being so personalized, like private checkins and all suites – really steps it up from your average luxury hotel. The rooms are beautiful, and look so generous in size. Love how modern everything is, including the bathroom – that’s always the room which dates the most.
The whole experience seems to exude old world glamour – I would love to kick back with a cocktail outside the pool!
Allison Smith says
Definitely old world glamour Megan! We felt very spoiled and would love to go back!
Veronika Tomanova says
I would like to teleport myself there right now! Raffles Makati seems like an amazing place…with the swimming pool and excellent breakfast. I will keep this dreamy place in mind when planning a vacation!
Allison Smith says
Teleporting would be so cool Veronika! It’s only a 9 hour flight for me from Sydney but teleporting sounds so much better lol
Marcus and Mel says
We love staying in really nice hotels and the Raffles Makati looks fabulous especially as it is all-suite The bathrooms look good but more importantly, those bars and cocktails look really refreshing and tasty. We’ve stayed in a Fairmont branded hotel but never a Raffles.
Allison Smith says
Your would love Raffles then! Everything was perfect! Stay tuned for my next review in Fairmont which was also awesome!
Ami says
The rooms look quite lovely and very comfortable. I love the poolside the most. So relaxing for that drink that you are having. I particularly liked that huge spread of breakfast…nothing like a good one to set your day Nicely reviewed.
Allison Smith says
It was hard to drag ourselves away from the pool Ami. We were very lucky to have it almost to ourselves! Breakfast was incredible!
Samantha Sparrow says
I’ve heard so much about the Raffles brand, and Raffles Makati looks and sounds absolutely incredible. I could totally picture myself in the Writers Bar, that’s exactly the sort of spot I’d go for. Breakfast looks huge!! I’d definitely enjoy that, I’d start with the waffles.
Allison Smith says
The Writers Bar was very cool Samantha but very hard to resist the Long Bar happy hour lol. You’ll find me at the bar … ?
Heather says
Uuuuummmmm, yes! I am absolutely convinced that I will stay at Raffles Makati when visiting Manila. What struck me as truly unique is the check-in process. A comfy seat in lieu of a front desk would be an ideal first impression after arriving from a hectic airport. That rooftop pool looks incredible, it would be hard for me to leave and I can see myself spending an entire day there. That breakfast buffet looks scrumptious! I love the local touch of adding hot cocoa made from the local cocoa plants. Most importantly, I am making a note to take advantage of the happy hour at the Long Bar!
Allison Smith says
So glad I convinced you Heather! I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!
Kellyn says
Awesome post. This place is pure paradise. Manila is the at the top of my bucket list and although I don’t usually do luxury travel, I would splurge for this one. It’s worth it.
Allison Smith says
It is definitely worth the splurge Kellyn! Everyone has to treat themselves every now and then ?
Sherrie Fabrizi Allbritten says
Raffles Makati shows to be definitely following a 5 star rating. Such a lovely hotel right in the city. My kind of hotel!
Allison Smith says
The location was perfect Sherrie. So close to all Makati has to offer!
Shweta says
Allison,
Like you, I also love luxury stays. The little things – fast check-in sitting comfortably in the reception, decandent toileteries, a bar with a view, a great ppol, smile on the staff faces – all go a long way in making a dicerning traveller relaxed.
I like what I read about Raffles Manila. Hospitality in Asian hotels in anyway far better than what I have found in other places. Do check out the lucury stays on my site.
Allison Smith says
Agree Shweta hospitality is Asia is superb but the Philippines is the next level. The people are so kind and eager to help. It sure makes for an amazing stay!
Carmelatte says
Philippines on my list for always ❤
Allison Smith says
Hope you make it soon Carmelatte!
Anu says
Raffles Makati looks awesome, especially the swimming pool and the room decor. After experiencing many luxury hotels, now what I know a certain level of luxury is on the offer. What differentiates a good hotel from the awesome is its staff. Their attitude is what matters the most. What do you say?
Allison Smith says
It really was Anu! We felt very spoiled and I would love to return ?
Danijela says
I’ve been to the Raffles in Singapore and was curious to see what this one looks like. And of course, I was immediately drawn to your photos
Oh, don’t you just love how the hotel pays so much attention to details! I mean, the fruit and the chocolate box nicely packed back in the hotel room – that’s just lovely. 🙂
Would love to visit and see it all for myself. 😉
Allison Smith says
I’ve been to the Raffles in Singapore Danijela but I didn’t stay there. The similarities are obviously in the old world charm. Everything was perfect at Raffles!
James says
I think I would just stay in the hotel the whole time I was in Manila! Everything looks perfect and 5 star from the airport pick up to check in, the rooms and breakfast. I like the sound of free flowing cocktails from 5-8 !
Allison Smith says
I was sure tempting James!!! And I can never resist free flowing cocktails!
Neha says
Raffles Makati a luxurious hotel reminds me of Indian 5 star hotels. I would love to stay here knowing the comforts they offer and its location which is good for shopaholics. the breakfast looks yum and made me hungry. Its a great post actually because you have covered everything I was looking for while making a booking. the pictures are fab and the pool looks inviting .
Allison Smith says
I haven’t been to India Neha so can’t comment but Raffles has an old world charm which is very appealing. We loved our stay!
Karo says
Wow, the whole place looks so fancy and luxurious! I personally love all suite hotels, they have a special atmosphere. You officially made me jealous with those amazing pool pictures, I would like to jump right in! I will totally add this place to my bucket list when traveling to Manila. Thanks for sharing!
Allison Smith says
Hope you get to cross it off your bucket list soon Karo!
Vijay Patel says
Makati is one of the beautiful places in the Philippines. The hotel looks beautiful and happening place. Interiors are modern and classy. Bathtub with a top view is amazing But first I should appreciate the quality of your pictures. These pictures make things look alive right in front. I am truly fascinated by those pictures. This is recommendable. I would love to stay. Thank you for sharing.
Allison Smith says
It sure was beautiful Vijay. If you loved the pictures you would love it in real life!
Yukti says
Raffles – Makati really looks like a luxurious stay in Manila. Interiors are modern and classy. Bath tub with skyscraper view is amazing. Fresh fruits and chocolates in room is nice gesture to welcome guests. As this hotel has all facilities with best location, I would really opt for this.
Allison Smith says
The welcome treats were very special Yukti. Raffles really thought of everything! I would love to go back soon ?
Anonymous says
Just curious about “NAIA which is notorious for dodgy taxi drivers trying to scam unsuspecting tourists”. Did you try boarding a taxi from NAIA to see if they will scam you or not?
I think that’s not fair judging your destination right ahead when in fact, you haven’t even tried. Taxi drivers in the Philippines are the kindest and the friendliest, in my opinion. And I think that statement is quite unfair to them (they have no blog or other venue to defend themselves from these unfair allegations).
I understand your view, but please, do not generalize. And try to experience riding a taxi from NAIA first before judging these taxi men.
Allison Smith says
Hi there,
I have amended the wording so as not to cause offense. I did not take a taxi from NAIA because of all the bad reviews I read online before my trip. When I travel I want things to be simple and fuss free and I didn’t want to take the chance of having a bad experience. While I am sure many of the taxi’s are indeed kind and friendly it is surely the unscrupulous ones that spoil it for the rest and these are the stories that feature prominently unfortunately which makes visitors wary.
Marcie says
Haha! I’ve stayed a few places with an “overstocked” mini bar. I always figure out what I can take out to make room for my stuff in the fridge! I’ve never heard of Raffles before, but it seems like a nice, clean place to stay in the Philippines.
Allison Smith says
Exactly Marcie! I always manage to for something in the mini bar! Raffles is amazing! We loved our stay!
Carmen Baguio says
I would definitely want to stay at Raffles Makat. From the bathtub to the scrumptious food and drinks, it sounds like a relaxing place to unwind. We are planning on a visit to the Philippines summer 2019. Pinning this for later!
Allison Smith says
Hope you love Raffles as much as we did Carmen! Bring on 2019!
dorie says
Oh this looks truely amazing!
♥ Dorie
www.thedorie.com
Allison Smith says
Sure was Doris!
Suzanne says
I had no idea there was another Raffles in the world. You learn something new everyday, I guess. This hotel is so posh! It looks like the perfect escape from the heat, humidity, and general chaos of the Philippines.
Allison Smith says
It really was posh Suzanne and a great place to retreat to! I never wanted to leave lol
Hendrik says
I am truly fascinated by the beauty of this place, it seems to me, that the approach is to put perfection into every detail! The style is just beautiful, these dark elegant furnitures and also such a spacious bathroom – must be fun as well as relaxing to stay in the Raffles Makati. But the real highlight personally for me would be to grab 2,3,4,5 snacks from this fantastic looking breakfast and spend the rest of the day relaxing at this relaxing area at this pool.
Allison Smith says
Sounds like a plan Hendrik! The pool was fabulous and we had it almost to ourselves which was a bonus ?
Lisa says
You’ve convinced me 1000% to stay here if I get to Manila, what a hotel! I’ve been (not stayed) at the Raffles in Singapore, but to see inside the rooms here are phenomenal. So sweet you had a butler, though I wouldn’t let him run my bath either! The breakfast choices are incredible and I’m drooling over those huge crosissants and the best scrambled eggs. Definitely a must for me!
Allison Smith says
I’ve also been (not stayed) in Singapore and Raffles are just superb aren’t they? We loved every minute of our stay and I only wish we could have stayed longer but Boracay was calling and flights were booked ?
Savannah says
So I’m sitting here eating my breakfast… of Greek yogurt… as I read this. I’m finished with both now, and I still feel hungry. My breakfast felt remarkably inferior to the breakfasts at this hotel! You have totally convinced me to stay here when I go to Manila!
Also, when I look out my window it’s all cold and white, so I can’t even remember the last time I was poolside with a drink in my hand. You made me feel warm and sunny for just a few minutes, so thank you.
Allison Smith says
Awww Savannah thank you! I would rather be poolside than somewhere cold and white as well ?
umiko says
Nice hotel! The room, the facilities, the food, the view, everything. If I have Manila in my next destination, I will keep Raffles Makati in my list.
Allison Smith says
Make sure you do Umiko! I’m sure you will love it!
Anna Schaeffer says
The hotel looks gorgeous! That marble in the lobby made me swoon! I hope your view was as beautiful as your room was. Looks like an amazing trip.
Allison Smith says
The view was of the bustling city Anna. Everything about Raffles was superb!
Sarah says
We don’t have any Raffles hotels in Australia, but after your comprehensive review I will keep it in mind when we are travelling internationally.
Allison Smith says
It’s such a shame we don’t have Raffles in Oz but I think the fact that it is rather exclusive makes me like it just that bit more ?
Krupa says
Raffles manila hotel looks so amazing . Your review is very well written and descriptive. I will try to stay here when i visit Manila. The bars looks so appealing. Thanks for sharing.
Allison Smith says
Long Bar was great Krupa! Make sure you go at happy hour ?
David says
I was in Manila a few months ago and wish I read this blog before then. It seems like an amazing hotel and the Writers Bar looks just up my alley. Thanks for sharing.
Allison Smith says
It was my first time in Manila David and I loved Raffles! The Writers Bar was perfect for after dinner drinks ?