More about hotels in Manila
Manila — A Vibrant Capital for Malaysian Travellers
Manila is one of Southeast Asia's most energetic and culturally rich capitals, offering an experience quite unlike any other city in the region. As the gateway to the Philippines, Manila greets millions of international visitors each year, and Malaysian travellers are among those who have discovered its unique appeal. The city's history spans over 400 years of Spanish colonialism, American influence, and Filipino resilience, all of which are visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Modern Manila is a sprawling metropolis with distinct districts, each offering its own atmosphere and attractions. From the historic walled city of Intramuros to the gleaming towers of Bonifacio Global City, Manila rewards curious travellers with a rich tapestry of experiences.
Best Areas to Stay in Manila
Manila is a large city, and your choice of neighbourhood can significantly shape your experience. Here are the main areas to consider:
Makati is Manila's premier business and lifestyle district. It is home to upscale shopping malls (Greenbelt, Glorietta), fine dining restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene along Poblacion. Hotels range from RM 100 to RM 800 per night. Makati is the top choice for business travellers and those seeking a polished urban experience.
Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is a modern, well-planned township with wide pedestrian-friendly streets, art installations, and a thriving café culture. Hotels here cost RM 150 to RM 700 per night. BGC appeals to travellers who prefer a clean, contemporary environment.
Ermita and Malate are centrally located neighbourhoods near Manila Bay and Rizal Park. Budget hotels start from RM 50 per night, making this area popular among backpackers and budget-conscious Malaysian travellers. The area is close to Intramuros and the National Museum.
Pasay and Manila Bay Area is convenient for travellers arriving at or departing from NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport). It is also where you will find the Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping centres in Asia. Hotels here range from RM 60 to RM 500 per night.
Quezon City is a large residential and commercial area with a more local feel. It is home to several universities and popular food streets. Accommodation is generally more affordable, from RM 50 to RM 250 per night.
For more destinations in the Philippines, consider exploring Tuguegarao or Santiago City.
Manila Hotel Prices for Malaysian Travellers
The Philippine Peso is weaker than the Malaysian Ringgit, giving Malaysian visitors excellent purchasing power in Manila. Here is a price guide:
Budget Hotels and Hostels: RM 50 – RM 120 per night. Basic but clean rooms with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Many budget options are located in Ermita, Malate, and near the airport.
Mid-Range Hotels: RM 120 – RM 300 per night. Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, swimming pools, gyms, and breakfast. Popular areas include Makati and BGC.
Luxury Hotels: RM 300 – RM 1,000 per night. Five-star international brands with full-service spas, multiple restaurants, club lounges, and premium locations. Manila's luxury hotel scene offers exceptional value compared to similar properties in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
Prices may increase during peak travel periods such as Christmas, New Year, Holy Week (March–April), and Philippine Independence Day (June). Booking through Traveloka ensures you access the best available rates and promotional discounts.
Best Time to Visit Manila
Manila has a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons:
December – May (Dry Season): This is the best time to visit, with warm sunny days and lower humidity. January and February are the most pleasant months, with temperatures around 25–31°C. This period coincides with many Filipino festivals, adding cultural colour to your visit.
June – November (Wet Season): Heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons are common, especially from July to October. However, hotel prices drop significantly, and indoor attractions like museums, malls, and restaurants remain fully accessible. Many Malaysian travellers visit during this period for the savings.
Regardless of the season, Manila's indoor attractions — from world-class malls to museums and restaurants — make it an enjoyable destination any time of the year.
Getting to Manila from Malaysia
Direct Flights: Multiple airlines operate direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (KLIA/KLIA2) to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Flight time is approximately 3.5 hours, and return fares typically range from RM 350 to RM 800 depending on the airline and season.
From the Airport to the City: Grab is the most reliable option for getting from NAIA to your hotel, costing RM 10–30 depending on the destination and traffic. Airport taxis are also available with metered or fixed-rate fares. Some hotels offer airport shuttle services.
Getting Around Manila: Grab is the most convenient transport option for tourists. The MRT and LRT train lines connect major areas including Makati, Quezon City, and the city centre, with fares of just RM 1–2 per ride. However, Manila traffic is notoriously heavy, so allow extra travel time during rush hours.
Top Attractions and Things to Do in Manila
Intramuros is the historic walled city built by the Spanish in the 16th century. Highlights include Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Guided walking tours cost around RM 15–30, or you can explore independently for free.
Rizal Park (Luneta) is a sprawling urban park and national monument dedicated to Philippine national hero José Rizal. It is free to enter and is a lovely spot for an evening stroll, with fountains, gardens, and open-air concerts.
National Museum Complex comprises the National Museum of Fine Arts, Natural History, and Anthropology. Entry to all three museums is free, making this one of Manila's best value cultural experiences.
SM Mall of Asia is one of the largest shopping malls in Asia, featuring international and local brands, an IMAX cinema, an ice skating rink, and a seaside boardwalk. Malaysian shoppers will find many familiar brands at competitive prices.
Poblacion, Makati is Manila's trendiest nightlife and dining neighbourhood, packed with rooftop bars, craft cocktail lounges, and restaurants serving everything from Filipino comfort food to international cuisine. A meal out costs RM 20–60 per person.
Binondo (Chinatown) is the oldest Chinatown in the world, established in 1594. It is a food lover's paradise with Chinese-Filipino dishes like Lumpiang Shanghai, Hopia, and Siopao. A food crawl through Binondo is a must for Malaysian travellers who enjoy street food.
For those continuing their Philippine adventure, check out hotels in Cauayan City or Bagabag.
Manila Food Guide for Malaysian Travellers
Filipino cuisine may be unfamiliar to many Malaysian travellers, but the flavours are approachable and delicious:
Must-Try Dishes: Adobo (meat braised in vinegar and soy), Sinigang (sour tamarind soup), Lechon (roasted pig), Kare-Kare (oxtail peanut stew), and Sisig (sizzling chopped pork). Most local restaurants charge RM 8–20 per dish.
Street Food: Try Isaw (grilled chicken intestines), Kwek-Kwek (deep-fried quail eggs), Banana-Q (caramelised banana skewers), and Halo-Halo (shaved ice dessert with beans, jellies, and ice cream, RM 5–10).
Halal Food: Manila has a growing number of halal-certified restaurants, particularly in Makati and BGC. Filipino halal chains and Middle Eastern restaurants are available. Check Traveloka food guides or apps like Halal Trip for updated listings.
Fine Dining: Manila's fine dining scene has gained international recognition. Restaurants in Makati and BGC offer tasting menus from RM 100–300 per person, showcasing modern Filipino cuisine at its best.
Manila Hotel Booking Tips
Choose Your Area Wisely: If visiting for leisure, Makati or BGC offer the best combination of dining, shopping, and nightlife. For budget stays near historic sites, Ermita is your best bet. For airport convenience, Pasay is ideal.
Factor in Traffic: Manila traffic can add 1–2 hours to your travel time during peak periods. Choose a hotel close to your main activities to minimise time spent in transit.
Book Through Traveloka for Deals: Traveloka frequently offers Manila hotel promotions, cashback deals, and bundle discounts. Using the app and enabling notifications keeps you informed of the latest offers.
Check for Hidden Fees: Some hotels charge resort fees or extra bed fees separately. Always read the full booking details on Traveloka before confirming your reservation.
Prioritise Security: Choose hotels with 24-hour front desk service and good guest reviews regarding safety. Properties in Makati, BGC, and reputable hotel chains offer the highest security standards.
Pack Light for Domestic Connections: If Manila is your gateway to Philippine islands like Palawan or Cebu, note that domestic flights often have lower luggage allowances. Book a Manila hotel near the airport for early morning connecting flights.
