Red Planet Manila Binondo

I’ve stayed here regularly since 2019, so this was especially disappointing. Booking and payment went smoothly, and I had messaged ahead through the front desk chat app to say we’d arrive around 10:00 AM and ask about early check-in. I needed time to change before an important business meeting. We arrived at about 10:25 am, then waited roughly 2.5 hours without a clear update or an estimate. One front desk employee kept telling us to wait, communicated poorly, and showed little consideration for guests who had traveled a long way. Meanwhile, guests who arrived later were checked in by that same employee. Her explanation when we asked about it felt inconsistent, and after we raised the concern politely, she walked away instead of answering us. A female and a male receptionist were approachable, listened, and helped us. Early check-in depends on availability, but the poor communication and lack of professionalism and basic consideration need serious improvement. Management should review staff training and how early arrivals are handled.

We felt safe and looked after throughout our stay, thanks to the friendly staff and guards. The room was clean and well kept, and the location made it easy to walk to Binondo food spots and Quiapo. It was a comfortable visit, and we’d happily return.

There are several malls nearby, Starbucks on the next block, a hospital across the river, and a 7-Eleven right next door. Manila traffic is awful, though, and locals may treat you like a deity or like trash depending on what you are. It feels like there’s no in-between. For the price, the hotel looks modern and is very clean. My room actually had a kettle and fridge, which many chains at this price don’t, and I didn’t see any pests. Housekeeping were very friendly and the staff were helpful. I like Red Planet Hotels and think this location and BGC are the best you’ll find in Manila for the money. There are some real downsides: no free drinking water in the room, thin walls, no room phone, an app that never works for tourists, and no one answering on Whatsapp. Housekeeping were constantly dragging furniture, and there was night maintenance with power tools and more furniture being dragged.

I won’t be coming back. I booked online for the following night and checked the date several times before paying by card, but the email confirmation showed a different date. Later, at checkout, I was charged a 2,000 fee because we were told my friend had smoked in the room. They said she smoked inside, though she’s a smoker and the smell was on her, and I wondered why they couldn’t check CCTV to see if she’d gone downstairs or use smoke detectors.