Can You Handle a Weekend That Never Ends in Ortigas?

Ortigas, a dynamic business district in Metro Manila, is home to two iconic hotels that promise to transform your stay into a weekend that never ends. My recent stay experience showcased beginning from the brighter side of travel at the Holiday Inn Manila Galleria and seamlessly transitioning to business and leisure at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria. With many activities and experiences, I can truly say, the weekend never ends here.

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Holiday Inn Manila Galleria: A Legacy of Comfort and Warmth

Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, celebrating 31 years of hospitality—10 as Manila Galleria and 21 under the Holiday Inn brand—has undergone significant transformations. My stay in their corner One Bedroom Suite exemplified the newly renovated hotel rooms, blending classic comfort with modern amenities. The suite, spacious and thoughtfully designed, offered a panoramic city view of Ortigas, enhancing the serene ambiance.

The hotel’s top-rated restaurants are a testament to its commitment to culinary excellence. The variety of dishes, from local favorites to international cuisines, ensured that every meal was a delightful experience. Dining here in Ortigas truly showcased the best restaurants in the area, complemented by IHG service excellence.

The Private Check-In Experience

I was surprised when the Front Office staff ushered me to the Summit Lounge located at the top level of the hotel tower. That is the floor where the suite guests would have their check-in processed. It was my first time ever to experience a private check-in process – away from the bustle of the common ground floor hotel lobby. It was serene and quiet with the panoramic view of the Mandaluyong, Quezon City, and Ortigas skyline.

Summit Lounge in the Sky

From the moment I stepped into the Summit Lounge at the topmost level of Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, I knew this experience was going to be memorable. Reserved exclusively for suite guests, this executive club lounge gave me an elevated sense of luxury as I completed my check-in process while enjoying sweeping views of the city. After I left my stuff, we returned to enjoy the canapes, hors d’oeuvres, and choices of beverages.

Gallery Bar

A few moments before the sunset, I made my way to the Gallery Bar, located on the 3rd level mezzanine, which connects the two hotel towers. With its plush leather seats and a modest stage for live music, the bar provided a perfect ambiance for unwinding. I ordered a Negroni and sipped slowly as I watched the sunset and buzzing clocked-out yuppies behind and below the city skyline—a peaceful prelude to the evening ahead.

The Stay Experience at Corner One Bedroom Suite

The Corner One Bedroom Suite at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria was a remarkable retreat. It was my very first time to stay in a suite room – all thanks to Sir Jayvie Mendoza. I love the large windows that offer a view of both the hotel pool below and the different sprawling skylines. The suite certainly felt expansive, offering more than enough room to work, relax, and recharge. I particularly appreciated the well-equipped working nook and the spacious dining table, perfect for spreading out and organizing my stay. The bathroom was another highlight—everything from the hot shower to the luxurious toiletries was spot on. I loved the lotion and hair conditioner, which felt like small but thoughtful details that added to the overall comfort. The wardrobe was spacious enough to keep my belongings organized, and the kitchen sink made the suite feel like a home away from home.

The In-Room Dining Experience

Staying in allowed me to sample their in-room dining options, and it was a culinary delight. The Seasonal Wild Mushrooms and Truffle Ravioli were rich and decadent, while the Tar Dool—a vegetarian stew of lentils served with biryani rice, mango chutney, and papadum—was flavorful and hearty. The meal was rounded out with a fresh salad and Japanese rice rolls, making it a truly satisfying experience without leaving the comfort of my suite.

Breakfast at The Fab Restaurant

The next morning, I enjoyed breakfast at The Fab Restaurant. What I loved most about dining here was the panoramic view of ADB Avenue through the large windows. I saw how the streets breathed to life in coffee sips and spoonfuls of my breakfast. The buffet spread featured a diverse spread—meats, cereals, and local favorites were all on display, along with an unexpected but delightful addition of dim sum. The service stood out just as much as the food. The attentive staff made sure I didn’t have to lift a finger, offering me coffee refills and more of their delightful dishes, all with warm, genuine smiles. One extra mile is that the sio mai I wished came in late, but the staff made sure I had one fresh before I went back to my suite room – such a heartwarming feat.

Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria: Where Business Meets Pleasure

Just a stone’s throw away, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria has been a beacon of elegance for 19 years. Staying in their corner Executive Suite, I was impressed by the meticulous “corporate” design and functionality catering to both business and leisure travelers.

The fun continues after my overnight stay at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria and the business style begins at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, with its sophisticated amenities and lovely service. The top-rated restaurants, renowned for their exquisite and quality offerings, provided a culinary journey that was both satisfying and memorable. The transformation of these dining spaces into some of the best restaurants in Ortigas reflects the two hotel’s dedication to enhancing guest experiences.

The Stay Experience in a Corner Executive Suite

*Deluxe and premium Corner Executive Suite that is so inviting and relaxing*

I was absolutely blown away upon knowing I would be billeted in the Corner Executive Room. After checking in at the Hotel Lobby, I was whisked to the 12th level, and to my surprise, an even more spacious and grander room awaits. Beginning with the room’s own receiving hall featuring an office-style setup and a separate toilet room. Adjoining is the spacious King bedroom with another 45-degree view of the skyline through a sliding door. A grander and larger toilet and shower room fitted with a large bathtub. The overall room’s layout, offering a nearly 180-degree panoramic city view, was perfect for unwinding after a day of meetings or exploring the city.

Xin Tian Di Unlimited Dimsum

One of the most unforgettable parts of my stay was indulging in the unlimited dim sum offering at Xin Tian Di. I had initially planned to try as many of their 30+ dim sum options as I could, but after speaking with Ms. Vianney, the Marketing Manager, I decided to be mindful and order only what I could consume. My favorites? The hakaw, siu mai, and soup were absolute standouts. The dips accompanying the dim sum elevated the experience even further, and the attention to detail in each dish made every bite memorable. In real life (IRL!), 2 to 3 orders of dim sum and dumplings already made me fill full. Hence, to certainly try and taste more, come in a group and have at least 1 serving per order.

How do you order during the Unlimited Dimsum promo? Your dedicated and friendly staff will sit you at your designated table and will hand you a checklist for your orders. The same sheets would be supplied in every new set of orders. Also, come a few minutes before the official period begins to allow yourself more time to enjoy and rest in between orders.

7 Corners Dinner Buffet

For dinner, 7 Corners was a culinary tour around the world, with seven stations offering a wide variety of cuisines. The steak, cooked to perfection and served with a Singaporean sauce as recommended by the chef, was so irresistible that I went back for seconds—okay, thirds. There was also a special focus on Pinoy cuisine during my visit, with a beautifully roasted lechon taking center stage. The salmon sashimi also tasted fresh and was plump to the bite.

Breakfast at 7 Corners was a more relaxed affair, starting with a soothing cup of freshly brewed coffee. I opted for cold cuts and salads, a light yet satisfying meal to begin my day. The variety was impressive, offering something for everyone, from local flavors to international favorites.

Warm Soak Before Check Out

Before I checked out, I indulged in one final moment of relaxation with a warm soak in the bath. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on my stay before heading back to the bustling world outside. The entire experience left me refreshed and recharged, eager to return.

Both hotels have undergone major transformations, from rooms to restaurants, ensuring guests experience the best of what Ortigas has to offer. The seamless service and commitment to guest satisfaction are evident in every interaction, from the warm greetings of the front desk staff to the meticulous attention to detail by the housekeeping team.

Staying at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria and Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, I experienced firsthand the blend of comfort, convenience, and culinary delights. These two iconic hotels of Ortigas have set a high standard for hospitality, making them the perfect choice for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or work, these hotels promise a stay that truly feels like a weekend that never ends.

A Unified Experience of IHG Excellence

LET’S ROUND UP THINGS

Reflecting on my two-night stay at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria and Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, it’s evident that these two iconic hotels in Ortigas offer much more than a place to rest. They deliver an immersive experience where relaxation, top-rated dining, and exceptional service blend seamlessly. From serene getaways to productive business trips, these hotels ensure that your time feels like a weekend that never ends. Here are my top five compelling reasons why these IHG gems promise an unforgettable journey through the best of travel and hospitality.

Renovated Rooms with Stunning Views:
- Both hotels feature newly renovated rooms that combine comfort with modern amenities. The corner One Bedroom Suite at Holiday Inn and the corner Executive Suite at Crowne Plaza offer panoramic views of Ortigas, enhancing the overall experience.
Top-Rated Restaurants:
- The culinary offerings at both hotels are exceptional. From local favorites to international dishes, the top-rated restaurants ensure every meal is a delightful experience, complemented by impeccable service.
Seamless Service Excellence:
- IHG’s commitment to service excellence is evident in every interaction. Both hotels’ attentive and friendly staff go above and beyond to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
Perfect Blend of Business and Leisure:
- Holiday Inn Manila Galleria provides a relaxing start to your weekend, while Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria seamlessly transitions to business, offering sophisticated amenities and services that cater to both work and leisure.
Iconic Legacy and Transformations:
- With a combined legacy of over 30 years, both hotels have undergone significant transformations, from rooms to restaurants. This dedication to continuous improvement ensures guests experience the best of what Ortigas has to offer, making your stay feel like a weekend that never ends.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

My heartfelt thanks to Sir Jayvie and Ms. Vianney for this unforgettable experience! I will never forget such a pampered and high-end staycation experience!

The Kapampangan Traveller

Stories, tips, techniques and bit of travel hacks in exploring the PHILIPPINES, one province at a time