Arrival

I had booked a transfer directly with Shangri-La WW Reservations and was confirmed with an email for US$10 each way. However, upon landing the Shangri-La rep was there but didn't have my name on the list of arrivals.

I had to wait about 25 minutes before a car arrived to take me to the hotel.

Traders Hotel

The hotel's location is actually quite convenient - located next to a shopping mall, and only around 15 minutes from the airport. I think it previously used to be a Holiday Inn - it sure felt like a Holiday Inn.

This hotel is in serious need of refurbishment to bring it up to scratch. Whilst the staff were friendly (nothing special as they all are in the Phils.), the physical product left much to be desired.

I was booked into a Traders Club room (can be booked for US$99++ through Shangri-la.com) which entitled me to club access, breakfast, free broadband, free laundry etc etc...

The initial impression of the room was that it was large but dated. The mattress was very lumpy and i even wrote a note to the GM about this! On my first night i woke up in the middle of the night and flipped the mattress over to see if it was any better.



Good thing was that they did offer a pillow menu and was able to get pillows that i like.

These rooms are marketed as 'executive rooms' however, the hardware didn't match. The chair and table was more dressing table than workstation which was in their room description. The chair was not comfortable at all for extended periods of time.



The bathroom was your usual Holiday Inn feel, with grubby grouting and questionable water pressure. However, the amenities were of a high quality.



Overall, the room was not a highlight of this hotel - the GM did reply stating that they were planning a major refurbishment for February. I'm sure that after, this property could become a good budget alternative for Manila.



The hotel has a spa and a swimming pool area. I did venture down but wasn't tempted to try out either - even though i was looking for a good massage. A friend of mine recommended this outfit (www.asianmassageph.com) who do hotel visits of a strictly professional nature. I highly recommend them as the masseuse was extremely professional and had great technique - I did a two-hour Swedish massage and a 45 minute foot reflexology for a total of US$14! The hotel spa charged US$25 for a 1 hour swedish massage. Again, they were really great and highly recommended if you are looking for strictly massage only - they don't do 'specials'!!

Breakfast was served in either the club lounge or in the coffee shop downstairs. The range at both locations were mediocre - however, the coffee shop was usually a zoo with a long line every day whilst the lounge upstairs was a lot more peaceful.





The evening cocktails was a different story. They served a good selection of spirits, wine, and the snacks were spot on.

I would recommend this hotel if one had to be near the airport but only if staying on the Traders Club floors. It is of good value, and if you forget that it's actually run by Shangri-La (i.e. lower your expectations) - you will have a pleasant stay.