New World Makati Hotel

After more than 16 hours of travel from the UK, check-in was very smooth. The location is convenient for the airport and nearby malls. The shower pressure was probably the best I've experienced, almost like a small Karcher jet wash. Breakfast was delicious and had lots of variety. We were only there two days, and the staff were attentive and very helpful. Special thanks to Miko Cabrera, who helped us make plans for our limited time in Manila and arranged a packed breakfast for our early flight to Palawan. Thank you so much!

The room gave our group of three plenty of space to hang out, which you don't always get in newer hotels. Greenbelt is right across the street and links to the other Makati malls, so getting around was easy. We had pancit that was much tastier than I expected, with a generous portion. At the pool bar, the Beef Pares taco was a favorite, but the Spinach and Ricotta pizza wasn't for me. The spinach had a very strong green taste, a bit like Laing made with old gabi leaves. The pool itself was quiet, though the water was freezing, possibly because it had rained. The lobby lounge with its pianist was a nice place to unwind, but smoke from the nearby outdoor smoking area sometimes made it smell awful. Service was okay. There was only one counter for check-in and checkout, so the line took a while. Getting the bill at the lounge also took ages. I raised my hand for a long time while only three other tables were occupied, and someone finally came over when I stood up as if I were leaving without paying. Still, it's a nice option for a quick weekend staycation.

Greenbelt Gate 3 is right across from New World Makati Hotel, and Sto. Niño de Paz Chapel is an easy, pleasant walk away inside the mall. That made shopping, meals, a stroll, or a quiet moment for reflection very convenient. I appreciated how the staff kept checking whether I needed anything. They were polite throughout, and the front desk welcomed me warmly and granted my early check-in request. Payment was easy too, with cash and local or international debit and credit cards accepted. My room was spacious and nicely set up. The soft pillows, smooth sheets, comfortable bed, and warm comforter made for a good night's sleep. The lighting felt cozy, and the clean, roomy bathroom had a steady supply of hot and cold water. Breakfast at Café 1228 was fine, somewhere between average and good for both selection and flavor. The dining room was comfortable and service there was efficient. I stayed one night, December 3-4, and found the whole visit comfortable and enjoyable. I'd gladly consider coming back and would recommend it to people looking for quality accommodation in Makati.

The staff at the gym were excellent, and Izzy at the front door went well out of his way to help me, even after I told him I had no Filipino Pesos to tip him. The pool area is pretty amazing too, and being across from that very high-end mall is a great location. What I couldn't get over was the mattress. For a five-star hotel it was unbelievably hard, like sleeping on a rock. The front desk sent up a topper, a feather layer about two inches thick, but I needed two of them to sleep properly. No, I'm not morbidly obese. I honestly wondered if I was on an episode of Punked. Apart from that mattress, the hotel was excellent.