Tatler Best-in-Class: Awarding the best hotels in the Philippines 2025

Tucked away in a quiet, leafy residential neighbourhood in Pasay City, The Henry Hotel Manila is a boutique property set in a beautifully restored 1940s-era mansion. This former private residence blends vintage charm with contemporary flair to offer a distinctive urban retreat. It’s a haven for design enthusiasts, art lovers, and discerning travellers seeking a stay that is both stylish and meaningful. The property boasts 35 spacious guest rooms and suites, an elegant dining room, and a swimming pool surrounded by lush native flora. Whispers and slivers of nostalgia can be found throughout—from the original, intricate floor tiles to soaring beamed ceilings. Guests will also find locally sourced goods, from woven fabrics to Philippine-made eco-friendly bath products. This commitment to preserving history and culture adds another layer of depth to the experience, whether one is seeking to partake in a tour of the vibrant city or indulge in a quiet escape. The Henry Hotel Manila’s sprawling tropical garden provides the perfect setting for moments of peace and contemplation. It likewise makes a fantastic venue for intimate weddings and celebrations, especially when combined with the staff’s personalised service and attention to detail.

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Once the favoured haunt to see and be seen by the city’s high society, the historic Admiral Hotel Manila along Roxas Boulevard reopened in 2022 under Accor’s design-centric MGallery Collection. This saw the icon of old Manila vivified with thoughtful, new touches that draw inspiration from the rich locale and the storied legacy of the property. Guests will find tributes to the beloved original hotel throughout—from the stylish Spanish Room reception lounge to the eye-catching Las Paginas de la Historia (Pages of History) art installation, art deco elements and traditional barandilla balconies, not to mention the restored and reimagined Machuca floor tiles, a homage to the country’s Filipino-Spanish heritage. The hotel has six uniquely-themed floors that showcase the local culture, including festivals, heroes, folk dances, native objects, traditions, and Philippine travel destinations. Each of the 123 guest rooms is artfully designed and equipped with all the amenities for a memorable stay. During which, one mustn’t miss the rooftop pool bar that overlooks Manila Bay in all its glory, as well as the chic Parisian-style spa and its relaxing signature treatments.

When in Boracay, the Shangri-La beckons. Upon arrival on the world-famous island, guests are escorted to an exclusive speedboat which takes them, in under 30 minutes, to an exquisite stretch of private white sand beach. This iconic resort radiates a strong sense of place—not only for its secluded location but also for its celebration of local Filipino craftsmanship. Shangri-La Boracay’s main building is a sprawling pavilion with a pitched roof and an exterior crafted from local coral stone; the decor constitutes handwoven textiles, ten-foot-tall tribal drums, carved wooden sculptures, and local art. The Tree House Villas are particularly stunning, offering absolute privacy and luxury with its terrace, a jacuzzi, and sweeping ocean views. As the sun sets, the coast bathes in golden light. Hidden among the lush treetops is Rima, the perfect spot for a sumptuous dinner. Or, indulge in the island’s best seafood at Sirena, a restaurant and bar perched on a clifftop high above the picturesque waters. For the deepest relaxation, escape to Chi, The Spa, which is situated on a rocky peninsula with views of a private bay.

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With a backdrop of the Philippines’s untarnished splendour, Pangulasian, El Nido, in Palawan requires little embellishment to impress. Still, the attention to detail and polished hospitality of its proudly local staff take this Ayala Land Hospitality opus to a whole new level. After an hour-long flight from Manila, a short drive to the shore, and a scenic boat ride, one descends onto the crescent-shaped island’s white sands, feted by the staff’s warm, cheerful song. On the club car ride to guests’ private villas—either canopy, beach, or pool—more of these small yet profound and memorable touches of genuine Filipino hospitality become apparent. Walking around the “island of the sun,” as touted by locals, feels as if one is merely discovering a well-kept secret—even though this is not the case. The sense of intimacy and quietude is something rather intentional. One will never be made to feel rushed by activities or crammed into a pack of tourists. The friendly and well-trained staff know each guest by name and are always prepared to fulfil requests with a smile. Seeking an exquisite dinner within a hidden cove or under the stars? May your wish be Pangulasian’s command.

Echoes of history resonate through the stately halls and manicured gardens of this iconic Mission-style edifice right beside kilometre zero, where the city of Manila begins. The Manila Hotel officially opened on the day of American independence in 1912, making it the oldest premier hotel in the Philippines. In the decades that followed, dignitaries, celebrities, and heads of state from all over the globe graced its elegant suites, ballrooms, and restaurants—general Douglas MacArthur and his family even called it home in the 30s. Much like the property’s ornate regalia, the refined hospitality that guests enjoyed then has stood the test of time. Its distinction as one of the country’s most prestigious landmarks endures today, attracting the favour of discerning travellers and guests who seek a blend of history, luxury, and impeccable Filipino service. The hotel has over 500 rooms, 22 function rooms (including three ballrooms), a spa, a health club, an art gallery, a heritage museum, and six celebrated dining outlets too. There’s Café Ilang-Ilang, Champagne Room, Red Jade, Tap Room and the distinctive Lobby Lounge, a timeless spot for tea and meetings. Don’t forget to pop by the delicatessen to try (and bring home) some of the hotel’s signature breads, pastries, and chocolates.

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Head deep into the lush hills and hinterland of Batangas, a 90-minute drive south of bustling Manila, and you will stumble upon 52 hectares of health and wellness nirvana, better known by its illustrious name, The Farm at San Benito. The Farm is home to 70 exclusive suites and villas, as well as five must-try wellness restaurants. A proud member of CG Hospitality, this eco-luxury medical wellness resort is a secluded place to recalibrate away from the city’s frenetic pace and energy. Here, with fresh air, vast greenery and views of the majestic Malarayat Mountain Range, a nourishing and life-affirming essence flows throughout the grounds. Guests come for many reasons, from seeking rejuvenation to addressing specific health issues, and they find comprehensive support at The Farm. A healing journey here consists of five key components: holistic, integrative medical programmes; nurturing spa and hydrotherapy services; plant-based, whole-food wellness cuisine; mindful movement and functional fitness; and a restorative environment with the heartfelt service and care of Filipinos. This world-class retreat takes pride in its team of licensed health professionals— specialised doctors, nurses, spa therapists, nutritionists, chefs, and fitness coaches who provide guests with sustainable wellness practices.

Nestled between the ancient mangrove forests and white sand beaches of Siargao—one of the most popular surf destinations in Asia and home to the legendary Cloud 9 barrelling wave—lies a stunning destination resort where barefoot luxury reigns supreme. Home to just ten exclusive thatched-roof villas, Nay Palad Hideaway is distinguished by its sustainable architecture (envisioned and realised by architect Daniel Pouzet) and the myriad of guest experiences available. Between exploring nearby underground caves, delighting in various water sports, enjoying an outdoor movie night and more, each day at Nay Palad entails a new adventure. Following a major renovation from 2022 to 2023, the resort’s owners and staff continue to work with the local community to conserve and protect the abundant natural beauty around them. These initiatives include nursing damaged coral reefs, mangrove replanting, regular coastal cleaning, and fostering the organic “farm-to-plate” dining experience.

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The dynamic energy and sophistication of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig constitute the beating heart of this five-star establishment. Shangri-La The Fort, Manila is where modern society’s crème de la crème gather—for coffee and pastry at Bake House, international delicacies at High Street Café and High Street Lounge, Cantonese cuisine at Canton Road, Latin American fare at Samba, and perfectly grilled meats at Raging Bull Chophouse & Bar, plus cheeky tipples at The Back Room speakeasy. This hotel par excellence stands 250 metres high in the cradle of the central business district, neighbouring some of the metro’s finest spots for dining, shopping, and nightlife. A premier choice for business and leisure, it houses contemporary guest rooms and suites that package luxury with a touch of local flair and sweeping city views. Select rooms have access to the Horizon Club, which offers checked-in guests exclusive benefits including a buffet breakfast, and cocktails and canapés in the evening. Shangri-La The Fort also boasts over 20 event spaces, providing a range of flexible venue options—from intimate meetings to thousand-capacity parties. The hotel’s grand ballroom has a total area of 1800 sqm and can be divided into three, greeting guests with its expansive foyer.

Barely a year old, the country’s sophomore Solaire property has enjoyed nothing short of fanfare and acclaim in the last few months—and it’s not hard to see why. Situated along Edsa, in the heart of Quezon City, Solaire Resort North welcomes guests with The Mangrove, Nikolas Weinstein’s massive glass installation which rises up to the lobby’s skylight. This, alongside the refined interiors and an enviable collection of over 2,000 pieces of artwork, lends the hotel its striking visual identity and grandeur. The 38-storey property boasts 530 guest rooms and suites, four gaming levels across more than 10,000 square metres and 14 wide-ranging dining options—from casual cafés and signature restaurants to premium bars and lounges. Just as tremendous is the hotel’s 1,800 sqm, pillarless grand ballroom, which can accommodate over 1,600 guests and also be divided into three event halls. Leisure for all ages can be found throughout Solaire Resort North. Couples and families must indulge at the 1,400 sqm health club, which houses an expansive spa and gym, for some of the finest in-city rejuvenation. Overlooking the surrounding urban sprawl, the hotel’s infinity pool beckons with its calm waters, inviting cabanas, and a fun-filled waterpark for kids.

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