Traveling the world for work can certainly have it’s share of benefits. I have been fortunate to have stayed in some of the best rooms of the top hotels and resorts all over the world. There are properties all over the globe that I love, and I generally say that I can never pick a favorite, however I may have changed my mind about that. The one hotel that has stood above the rest in is the Shangri-La At The Fort in Manila.

This Shangri-La property is located in a newer part of Manila called Bonafacio Global City (or BGC for short). Bonafacio Global City has seemingly popped up out of nowhere. In the last several years, businesses have been leaving Makati for the up and coming BGC area. Recently, the Shangri-La has stepped into this new town with their newest property Shangri-La At The Fort. This property is the shining star of Manila, and truly something every luxury hotel should aim to become.

Shangri-La has spared no detail to ensure that this new Manila property is one of the most impressive and beautiful hotels. Upon stepping foot inside the Shangri-La At The Fort, you will immediately notice their signature gold and crystal chandelier and will be greeted by smiling faces welcoming you as you approach the front desk.

Bikes

There are many benefits to staying at the Shangri-La at the Fort. The location is incredible. It's in walking distance to High Street. It's also a great place to ride a bike. Bamboo bicycles are available as a courtesy to all guests at the Shangri-La. One of my favorite adventures during my visit was grabbing a bike and venturing around the High Street area.

Spa

The Spa offers both in-room and in-spa treatments. I opted for a deep tissue massage in my hotel room, which was a perfect way to relax right before bed.

Food

No matter how picky or sophisticated your tastebuds may be, there are plenty of unique and innovative dining options for all palates both inside and outside of the hotel. My favorite dining option at the property was breakfast. Breakfast at any ShangriLa property is always a real treat.

I have never seen a breakfast as comprehensive as the Shangri-La’s High Street Cafe. The soft golden ensaymadas and charred bacon that was cooked on the grill were some of my favorite breakfast dishes. As with all Shangri-La properties that I have visited, both Asian and Western breakfast options are plentiful!

High Street

Manila's Bonafacio High Street is filled with a mix of upscale shops, dining and entertainment from all over the world. One of my favorite parts of BGC was the Mercato Centrale (Central Market). It is one of Manila's largest night markets, and a great place to fill up on local foods!

Kerry Sports

Kerry Sports is Manila’s most comprehensive indoor workout club, and the most impressive gym on a hotel property that I have ever seen. With 8,000 square meters and two floors, Kerry Sports has everything one would need or want to get in a complete workout. It boasts an NBA-grade indoor basketball court, two tennis courts, two squash courts, an outdoor lap pool and top of the line equipment. In addition there are studios for yoga, pilates, dance, spinning, kickboxing. The facility is also home to a wellness spa, a smoothie bar and Adventure Zone for kids. The smoothie bar, Kerry Sprouts is a great place to grab a quick to-go breakfast or lunch before heading out for the day, or before heading to the airport to catch a flight.

The Pool

The pool boasts some incredible city views and is a nice way to relax after a day full of activities and Manila traffic!

The Art

The property has some of the most beautiful art that I have seen in a hotel. It's definitely worth your time to take a walk around checking out all of the pieces of art and the incredible ballroom which was designed after a jewelery box.

Bonafacio Global City is truly where it’s at in Manila. I was told time and time again, that there is nothing to do in Manila. Not only did my visit to Manila prove that wasn’t true, but even if it were, the Shangri-La at The Fort would be reason enough for a visit!

30th Street corner 5th Avenue Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Philippines
T:(63 2) 820 0888

Hotel Review: Shangri-La At The Fort Manila