The Historic Manila Hotel

As Wikipedia says..."The Manila Hotel is the oldest premiere hotel in the Philippines, built in 1909 to rival Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines, and opened in 1912.   It was the residence of General Douglas MacArthur from 1935 to 1941."  We were particularly thrilled about the bit about MacArthur in residence, and thought of Papa a lot while at this hotel.  He would probably have enjoyed the military history.

The hotel was definitely a "faded glory" experience.  The highlight was the lobby, which really highlighted traditional Filipino craftsmanship...

...including beautiful dark wood vaulted ceilings,

 

 

and capiz shell chandeliers and lamps (a favourite of Mama's in particular).

They often have small orchestras and pianists performing in the lobby. Katy practiced piano on the baby grand in one of the side lobby bars.

Up in our room, we enjoyed lovely views of Manila Bay, although it's not the most interesting seaview in the world.  The sunsets are meant to be famous, but...