Edsa Shangri-La, Manila

First opened in 1992, the Edsa was the Shangri-La chain’s first property in the Philippines. It was designed to resemble the self-contained beach resorts found in other parts of the country, with lush gardens dotted with palm trees and other tropical plants, a free-form pool complete with a poolside bar, and tons of amenities. Mandaluyong, the district where Edsa Shangri-La is located, is known for its corporate office buildings and malls, but the hotel feels a world away from the city buzz. The Garden Wing -- which houses the world-class CHI Spa -- was added in 2007, and certain parts of the hotel are now undergoing renovations through mid-2015. 

The main lobby is large and striking, with crystal chandeliers, wood furniture and ceiling moldings with LED lights. The numerous sitting areas are generally busy with business travelers, as well as with families drawn by the many on-site amenities and kid-friendly features. Off the main area is the beautiful lobby lounge, featuring high ceilings, delicate hanging chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the gardens. This is a popular spot for afternoon tea, but it also serves snacks and drinks throughout the day.

The hotel is located in Ortigas, a busy corporate area in eastern Mandaluyong. Few historic sights can be found in this part of town, but there are several shopping malls -- two of which are directly adjacent to the property -- as well as restaurants and a few bars, although nightlife is not the most hopping here. Major attractions such as Intramuros, Fort Santiago, University of Santo Tomas, Rizal Park, and the Manila Cathedral are all a 20-minute drive away. The airport is about the same distance from the hotel.

The hotel’s 632 rooms are spread throughout two separate towers (called "wings" here). The property is undergoing renovations through mid-2015, and a handful of rooms are yet to get a facelift. However, almost all units now feature sweet, elegant decor in earth tones and floral motifs in blue and white, and great amenities, including large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and electric kettles with free tea and coffee. All but Deluxe Rooms have separate tubs and showers, and many have expansive skyline views. Suites come equipped with dining areas, powder rooms, and walk-in closets, and offer access to the Horizon Club lounge, and to butler services. Edsa and Shangri-La suites also feature kitchenettes, DVD players, and large marble bathrooms. All Tower Wing rooms are non-smoking, but there are designated smoking rooms in the Garden Wing.

Designed to resemble a beach resort, Edsa Shangri-La features tons of amenities. There are six dining options on-site, including Italian, Japanese and Cantonese restaurants; a lobby lounge serving snacks and afternoon tea; a bakery offering homemade chocolates and other sweet treats, and a poolside bar serving up drinks and juices. The free-form pool is surrounded by tropical plants, and is a favorite among families for its kiddy water park and playground. The fitness center offers dozens of up-to-date machines, a few personal trainers, and a hydrotherapy area. CHI Spa is a top-notch, beautifully decorated wellness center complete with treatment rooms, relaxation areas, a yoga studio, and salon services. The hotel also offers a business center and fully equipped meeting rooms, as well as butler services, and babysitters on request. Free parking and valet service is also available on-site. Those looking to practice sports outdoors can book the on-site tennis courts at front desk.