I haven’t been to Manila for a very long time and this trip back to the Metropolis was one I had look forward. To be honest, I dread every Manila trip I had. I couldn’t stand the traffic and the rush Manila had but I’m super glad Vivo Philippines billeted us at Nobu Hotel Manila.
Nobu Hotel Manila is a laid-back luxurious hotel located at The City of Dreams, a 6.2-hectare luxury integrated resort and casino complex located on the Entertainment City gaming strip at Aseana Avenue and Roxas Boulevard in Parañaque City. Nobu Hotel Manila is just a 15-minute ride from NAIA Terminal 3 where majority of the domestics flight dock.
Upon arrival, we were ushered to the special lane for the bloggers who will attend the Vivo V5 Launch. Despite the numbers of guests, Nobu Manila’s reception area were composed. Though calm, it took us a little to an hour to settle down.
While waiting, Vivo Philippines took us to Red Ginger Restaurant within the City of Dreams for lunch. This 24-hour restaurant features popular Southeast Asian dishes. I had Grilled Squid and it was just perfect or probably I was too hungry after our long trip to Manila. I surely had enjoyed every bit of the squid. It was properly cooked and no signs of the rubbery feels when overcooked. I paired this meal with a lemon grass drink. Wait, I also heard that my grilled squid were charcoal grilled. Hey, that’s pretty impressive.
We went back to the reception area after our one heavy yet satisfying lunch. There were still a couple of bloggers who are yet to settle. I got my keycard and was directed to go immediately to my room to prepare for the Vivo V5 launch.
The room I was assigned at the 7th floor was totally spacious for an occupant – me. My room was facing NAIA in Pasay so I could clearly see the air traffic on my side. Joking aside, my view was a proof that I’m in the Metro. The room was lit! It has the modern Japanese feel.
My amusement to the room paused as I remember that my baggage has not arrived. Probably it took me around 2 calls to get it. Nobu Manila’s staff were courteous enough to trace and deliver it to the right room while I was making a quick bath to freshen up for the night.
Fast forward. We went back to Nobu Hotel right after the Vivo V5 Launch at Solaire Resort & Casino. I did a Facebook Live to update everyone of the news. Nobu Hotel’s WIFI was strong enough for me to make a live stream. No interruptions at all compared to my mobile carrier, Sun.
It was also easy to go to Mall of Asia as City of Dreams is just stones throw away from MOA. Cabs were available 24/7 around the area to pick you up. After a quick visit to meet DDI’s Glenn Santillan, my fellow CDO Bloggers decided to head back to the hotel to rest and sleep.
Here’s how I rated Nobu Manila:
Place – 5 of 5 – It’s well lit. It’s relaxing. It’s spacious and it has everything you needed from complementary fruits to a flat iron.
Food – 5 of 5 – Their complimentary buffet breakfast was one I enjoyed the most. I never intended to follow my meal plan as everything you’ll see on the table it tempting. The dining manager was also their to check how the food and the experience was. The restaurant also features an outdoor cabana-styled dining terrace.
Service – 4 of 5 – The staff were courteous except the hiccup I experienced with the luggage. It is something a hotel should consider – the tiny details of everyone’s experience.
Overall Experience: 4.6 – The experience was beyond average. I am definitely going back. There is still much to explore with Nobu Hotel Manila. I particularly liked the relaxing Japanese vibe and the minimalist interiors. It was pretty relaxing.