Maxims Hotel – Resorts World Manila

Opened in late 2010, Maxims feels more like hotel within a casino than a hotel connected to a mall with a gambling center. There is no grand lobby here, just a small reception area occupying a low-ceilinged corner in the large mall entrance. A long wall with backlit display cabinets in dark wood and a seating area with a few tufted armchairs and couches is all there is here, and the space is generally busy. The hotel was conceived as a semi members-only property, with high rollers and VIPs in mind. Decor, although upscale, feels a bit generic, with a red-and-gold color scheme throughout. Amenities are luxurious but not over-the-top. 

Maxims Hotel is located across the road from Terminal 3 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, within the Resorts World entertainment center. The lobby is housed in the same building as the entrance to a mall, where guests will find a casino, dozens of restaurants and bars, a movie theater, and plenty of shops. Although the hotel is just a short distance from the airport, there is no pedestrian-friendly area, and walking can be dangerous. The hotel offers free airport transfers, but the ride can take much longer than the expected 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This location is convenient for transit passengers and those looking to spend time shopping and gambling. However, Manila’s main historic attractions and Makati can be more than an hour away by car due to the city’s infamous traffic. 

The hotel has 172 suites and villas, some of which are massive. Personal butlers are assigned to each room, and all units are well-equipped and modern. Suites are decorated in a striking red-and-gold color scheme and have a mix of classic and contemporary furniture, with large tufted headboards, white bedside tables, and dark-wood chests of drawers. In-room amenities are high-tech and upscale, including interactive flat-screen TVs with wireless keyboards, DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and iHome docks. Other basic amenities include electric kettles, safes, and minibars. Bathrooms are the most opulent of all room features, with deep soaking tubs, glass-enclosed showers, double vanities with wooden cabinets, golden-framed mirrors, and free hotel-brand toiletries. Some units have large shaded terraces with lounge chairs and patio furniture, and a few have dining and living areas plus wet bars.  

Villas are the crown jewels here, with their own private entrances, huge living and dining areas, private pools, and massage rooms. Decor is elegant and chic throughout, with a muted earth tone palette, exposed wooden beams, polished floors, and lots of wood accents. Villa bathrooms are massive and gorgeous, with Bulgari toiletries, jetted tubs, and flat-screen TVs. 

The hotel has four on-site dining options, including Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Mediterranean restaurants, plus an all-day cafe in the lobby, and a steakhouse. Additionally, the casino area adjacent to the hotel offers several other restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. A free buffet-style breakfast is served daily at La Terraza. 

The pool is long and appealing, with glass walls, several palm trees providing shade, and a number of padded lounge chairs. There are also several large cabanas with couches, curtains for privacy, and ceiling fans. Although the hotel is not particularly kid-friendly, there is a tiny plunge pool for children adjacent to the main pool. Bar service is available poolside. 

Located on the fifth floor, the fitness center is equipped with cardio and strength-training machines, and has large windows offering expansive views. Massages and beauty treatments are available at M Spa, adjacent to the gym. The hotel also offers free airport shuttle service, personal butlers for all guests, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. The allotted parking spots are a little away from the hotel, but there is also valet service.