Microtel by Wyndham Mall of Asia

The Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manila/Mall of Asia markets itself as an attractive mid-range option offering great value in a bustling part of town. It is indeed a decent mid-range option near renowned Mall of Asia, but there are plenty of other hotels in Manila offering similar amenities at better rates. Best Western Hotel La Corona, for example, does not offer a pool, but generally has lower rates and more inspired decor in a location closer to the historic sights. Decor at the Microtel Inn & Suites is basic and generic, both in rooms and in common spaces. The lobby is small and simple, with brown wicker furniture, a small front desk, and several plants that add some color. The space can get crowded, as it is the only place aside from the rooftop area where free Wi-Fi is available. Right off the lobby is Millie’s, the hotel restaurant. It is pleasant and more attractive than the lobby, but also small. This means both the lobby and the restaurant can feel a little overcrowded in the mornings during breakfast. The best part of the hotel is the rooftop area, complete with an infinity-edge pool overlooking the Manila Bay and the gorgeous sunsets.

The hotel is located in Pasay, a part of Manila located between the airport and the historic center. This section of the neighborhood -- directly overlooking the Manila Bay -- was reclaimed from the sea, and is now an entertainment and business center, with the famous Mall of Asia, an entertainment park, and the SMX Conference Center as the main attractions. All three are located right next door to the hotel, making this a convenient location for all kinds of travelers. Ninoy Aquino International Airport is located three miles away, but the drive can take up to 30 minutes during rush hour. Historic sights such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, University of Santo Tomas, and Fort Santiago are a 15-minute drive away in normal driving conditions. Makati business district can be reached in 10 to 15 minutes by car.

Rooms here are clean and pleasant -- with big windows, lots of wood accents, LCD TVs, and mini-fridges -- but a little basic for the price. Decor is mostly generic, though all units feature a few nice details, such as accents walls, wooden shutters, and window seats (some units only). Suites offer a small living area complete with a sofa bed, a microwave, an electric kettle, a table and chairs, and a sink. Most rooms have nice views, but the best ones are arguably those overlooking the Bay on the higher floors. These rooms get uninterrupted views of the sunset and of the entertainment park lights at night. Wi-Fi is offered in-room for a fee; free Wi-Fi is offered in the lobby and in the rooftop area adjacent to the pool. Cribs are available upon request, and kids under 11 stay free when accompanied by an adult.

Millie’s is the hotel’s only restaurant. It offers a decent international menu, and an average breakfast buffet in an attractive, bright space off the lobby. It is small and can get crowded, so sometimes guests are forced to look for extra seating space in the lobby during the breakfast rush hour. The property features one meeting room with natural light, Internet access, and copying and mailing services. But probably the highlight here is the infinity-edge rooftop pool. It is small but lovely, with a wooden deck around it, and a couple of loungers. There is extra seating space down a few steps, in a more shaded area with tables, chairs, and a few plants. Free Wi-Fi is also available here.