Makati Diamond Residences

Makati can be a frenetic place, so this contemporary 28-story hotel aims to provide a proverbial “oasis of calm.” The location, on a comparatively quiet side street, helps set a tranquil tone that is solidified once the doorman ushers guests into the long, double-height lobby. Tastefully done up in marble and dark wood, with lots of geometric patterns and minimal wall art, it’s a swish, refined space. Dining and drinking areas are a bit more design-heavy, with cool accents such as vintage file cabinet-like wallpaper, leather tufted armchairs, and posh hanging light fixtures. Rooms, comparatively, are a bit generic and underwhelming, though modern. Guests are a mix of business and leisure travelers, thanks to the hotel's array of top-notch facilities and central location.

The Makati Diamond is situated in the Legazpi Village neighborhood, about an eight-minute walk west of the intersection of Makati and Ayala avenues, which places it at the country’s financial epicenter. Nearby office towers and corporate headquarters make it a practical choice for business travelers. It’s also a convenient one for retail addicts because the hotel is across from the Greenbelt Shopping Complex, and several other high-end malls are within walking distance. Makati’s famous nightlife scene is close at hand, too; the caveat, for sightseers at least, is that the historic attractions of Manila proper are not. Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Rizal Park, and the Manila Cathedral are all about a 25-minute drive away. The airport can be reached in around the same amount of time, depending on traffic conditions, and transfers can be arranged on-site.

• One-minute walk to the Greenbelt Shopping Complex
• Five-minute walk to the Ayala Museum
• Eight-minute walk to Greenbelt Park 
• 10-minute walk to Legazpi Park/Sunday Market
• 12-minute walk to the Philippine Stock Exchange Plaza
• 12-minute walk to the PBCom Tower
• 13-minute walk to Glorietta Mall
• 14-minute walk to Ayala Triangle Gardens  
• 15-minute walk to Ayala Metro Station
• 15-minute drive to the Philippine International Convention Center 
• 19-minute drive to the SMX Convention Center
• 22-minute drive to Ninoy Aquino International Airport 

Rooms here are contemporary and clean-lined, outfitted in a neutral palette of wood floors topped by branch-motif rugs, wood furniture, and gray walls and curtains. Framed artwork is lovely, and the overall look is sleek, if a bit generic. Entry-level 345-square-foot Studios are the only units without kitchenettes, while all others come with stovetops, microwaves, mini-fridges, free snacks and drinks, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Work desks, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and sitting areas make rooms functional, and beds are comfy. Closets come with bathrobes and slippers, electronic safes, and ironing facilities. Suites add ovens and washer/dryers, plus there are dishwashers and large living spaces in some units. Modern marble bathrooms are a highlight here, with wet room-style rainfall showers next to soaking tubs. Quality toiletries and full-size hairdryers are provided. 

Facilities at Makati Diamond Residences are top-notch, starting with the array of wellness features. On the fourth floor are an indoor lap pool, a TRX studio for suspension training, an on-request yoga studio, and a 24-hour gym that’s above average in terms of its size, equipment, andservices -- free classes and personal training sessions, for instance, are offered. One floor down is the swish full-service spa, offering a variety of massage and beauty treatments.

The hotel also boasts a pair of in-house eateries: the elegant Alfred, specializing in East-meets-West cuisine, and Baked, a sophisticated cafe. Light bites and beverages are available at either the moody pool-level bar or, for those with club-level access, a classic-looking whiskey and cigar bar. All rates include an American- or Filipino-style breakfast, though many past guests have found the spread a bit limited.

 Other hotel features include a small movie room and 16,000-square feet of meeting space that encompasses everything from an ornate ballroom to boardrooms outfitted with the latest audiovisual gear. A business center, free underground parking, and free Wi-Fi are available. 

Travelers in upgraded suites get access to the Club Lounger, where free breakfasts, evening hors d'oeuvres, all-day refreshments, and assorted business services are offered.