Manila is the buzzing capital city of the Philippines. It is a teeming metropolis where you can shop, eat and play to your heart's content
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Big name hotel brands as well as quality local hotel chains are currently springing up across the country, delivering an accommodation option to suit every budget.
“The GCC travellers are attracted to five-star hotels and resorts, particularly those that belong to international chain," says Bengzon.
"But the local brands are also gaining appeal, such as the award-winning Plantation Bay in Cebu, and Discovery Shores in Boracay."
He also reports a surge in demand for apartment hotels — always a popular option when it comes to GCC families.
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“There is distinct product differentiation. Business hotels such as the Bellevue and Mandarin have guestrooms that are markedly different from those in the H2O Hotel in Manila Ocean Park, which features wall aquariums,” he says.
First developed by its Spanish rulers in the late 16th century, Manila also has the added attraction of endless shopping opportunities — ranging from all the high-end international labels to authentic local markets, with the former being a particular selling point for GCC travellers.
The Philippines is also a value-led Asian destination on the food and beverage front, offering up keener prices than many of its Southeast Asian neighbours.
But above all, it is the natural hospitality of the people of the Philippines that leaves the most lasting impression.
The tourism board's tagline is 'Where Asia wears a smile' and undoubtably one of its best resources is the friendliness and laid-back attitude of its people.
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