Where to Stay?
Because of its huge population and an inadequate public transport system and traffic congestion, Manila comprises multiple business centers – Makati (the CBD), Ortigas, Alabang, Eastwood, Quezon City, Pasig City, Mandaluyong, and The Fort / Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Interspersed in between are a host of smaller business districts.
The majority of outsourcing service providers are located in all of the above.
RECOMMENDATION: Until you establish operations within Manila, the BEST place to stay is Makati, Manila’s CBD.
Makati is centrally located so it is easy to go north or south — is home to many outsourcing service providers — is close to Mandaluyng, Pasig Cty, Ortigas and The Fort / BGC where many other outsourcing operations are based — and it offers a broader selection of hotels, dining and entertainment options during your stay.
Below are a selection of hotels in Makati. Click on the links to learn more. From there. go to an online portal such as Agoda or Booking.com. If you have specific needs, contact the Hotel direct and negotiate a suitable rate – many will match what you pay on the online portals and often give you extras.
The quality hotels provide airport pick up and drop off services.
4 and 5 Star Hotels
- Shangrila Makati – the quality you expect in a 5 star hotel. The lobby lounge is one of the best – and most popular – “business” meeting spots in Makati. On the first floor are quality restaurants and Conways Bar which features live bands.
- New World Makati Hotel – located across the road from Greenbelt 3 and so easy access to multiple entertainment and dining options outside of the hotel.
- Peninsular Hotel – variety of options within the hotel, including many places where you can meet.
- Fairmont Makati – the newest 5-star in Makati, located across the road from Greenbelt 3. Incorporates Raffles Hotel and Residences.
- Dusit Thani – Not as convenient a location but this is a quality hotel and the dining is superb. It’s a favorite for many of our visitors.
Close to Expat Bars:
- City Garden Grande Hotel – a new 4-star hotel located on Makati Avenue, next to the new Century City development. Many shopping, dining and entertainment options available within minutes from the door.
- St. Giles Hotel Makati – 4-star hotel located on Makati Avenue across the road from the City Garden Grande.
3 Star and Budget Hotels
- City Garden Hotel – across the road from the City Garden Grand Hotel, next door to St Giles Hotel. The combination of value, quality rooms and service has made this many of our “returning” visitors favorite hotel.
- Makati Palace Hotel – a condhotel where many stay to get a feel for Makati … and somewhere they may be able to base themselves long term.
- Red Planet Hotel Makati – formerly Tune Hotel, this is a clean and well run “budget” hotel. Small rooms although having Team Insider, one of the better Sports Bars in Makati, on the ground floor helps.
- Best Western Antel Plus Suites – situated in the heart of Century City and close walking distance to the local Expat Sports Bar scene.
Also available: There are some brokers who organize long term room rentals in some hotels. Typically, you pay one month deposit and one to three months rent in advance. Long term leases are preferred by most.