The Mabuhay Manor

The Mabuhay Manor prides itself on being the first balikbayan hotel in Metro Manila, which means it caters to overseas Filipino families visiting the country for leisure purposes. Indeed, the hotel features cheerful murals depicting traditional Filipino scenes, a small area in the lobby equipped with traditional Filipino board games, and a small restaurant offering local cuisine, all of which may be particularly appealing to those visiting home after spending a long time abroad. The vibe here is laid-back and friendly -- but the property could use an update. Decor is dated, with basic furniture and old technologies. However, the hotel offers solid amenities for a value property, a convenient location near the airport, and nice freebies.

The hotel is located in busy Pasay, in the triangle formed by three of Manila’s most famous thoroughfares, Roxas Boulevard, the ESDA, and Taft Avenue. This locale is convenient for those with an early flight as well as for those looking to explore the main historic sights, as the neighborhood is located between the airport and central Manila. This part of Pasay is adjacent to Bay City, a shopping and business district home to the famous Mall of Asia, an entertainment park, and the SMX Conference Center. Makati and the airport are both about three miles from the hotel, but Manila is known for its traffic and getting there might take longer than expected. Historic sights such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, University of Santo Tomas, and Fort Santiago are a 15-minute drive away in normal driving conditions.

The hotel features 115 clean rooms, all offering ample space to move around, and private bathrooms with showers. In-room amenities are basic and dated, including old tube TVs and loud minibars and air-conditioning units. The gleaming wooden floors are probably the most attractive feature of these otherwise older-looking rooms. However, families and groups may find the different bed arrangements convenient: There are rooms with two queen beds, others with five twin beds and two bathrooms, and yet other units with two levels offering separate living areas and kitchens as well as two rooms. This gives all types of travelers a wide array of options to choose from, and a chance for larger groups to save some money. Wi-Fi is available for free in all rooms.

The hotel features a large pleasant pool with a few plastic loungers, a lifeguard, and a separate kiddy pool in a shaded area equipped with plastic tables and chairs. Lola’s serves a solid breakfast buffet in a bright room on the second floor. Those looking to have a taste of traditional Filipino cuisine may want to eat at Sala, the restaurant located in the lobby. The small fitness center features a handful of cardio and strength-training machines, and the business center is equipped with three computers and a printer. The hotel also offers four meeting rooms and room service, as well as great freebies that add value, including airport transfer (one way only), Wi-Fi, breakfast, and on-site parking.