Our recent stay at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) was a luxurious escape, made exceptional by redeeming points earned through the World of Hyatt Credit Card and leveraging a Guest of Honor Certificate as we worked toward Globalist status. The hotel’s generous upgrade to a corner room with lounge access, superb staff, and outstanding lounge dining elevated our experience, while its prime BGC location sealed the deal. Here’s why this hotel is a must-visit in Manila.
Arrival and Check-In: A Warm Welcome
Stepping into the Grand Hyatt Manila, located on floors 25 to 66 of a sleek BGC tower, we were greeted by a stunning lobby with modern Filipino art and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing city views. The check-in process was flawless, with staff recognizing our Guest of Honor Certificate, a Globalist perk we applied to secure elite benefits during this stay. To our delight, they upgraded us from a standard room to a Grand Corner Room with Grand Club Lounge access, a rare treat that set the tone for a memorable stay. The staff’s warmth and efficiency made us feel instantly valued.
The Room: Spacious Comfort with Panoramic Views
The Grand Corner Room, spanning 538 square feet, was a highlight. Its corner location offered wraparound windows with breathtaking views of BGC’s skyline and Manila Bay in the distance, especially vibrant at sunset. The room featured a plush king bed, a sleek work desk, and a cozy seating area with modern Filipino accents like woven textiles. The bathroom was a standout, with a deep soaking tub, a rain shower, and premium toiletries. The room’s smart controls for lighting and curtains added a tech-savvy touch, making it both luxurious and functional. We felt pampered every moment we spent here.
Dining: Exceptional Meals in the Grand Club Lounge
With lounge access included via our Guest of Honor Certificate, the Grand Club Lounge on the 60th floor became our go-to spot. The breakfast buffet was a culinary delight, offering Filipino specialties like adobo and longganisa alongside Western staples like fresh pastries and made-to-order omelets. Evening cocktails and canapés were equally impressive, with highlights like lechon sliders, fresh sushi, and tropical fruit tarts, paired with an extensive selection of wines and cocktails. The lounge’s panoramic views of Manila’s skyline added a magical backdrop to every meal. We also dined at The Grand Kitchen, where the à la carte menu featured flavorful dishes like kare-kare and grilled seafood. Every meal was top-notch, with attentive staff ensuring a seamless experience.
Amenities and Service: Superb Staff Shine
The Grand Hyatt Manila’s amenities are world-class. The infinity pool on the 8th floor, overlooking BGC, was a serene escape, perfect for unwinding. The fitness center was well-equipped, and the Nara Spa offered tempting Filipino-inspired treatments, though we didn’t have time to indulge. The staff’s service was exceptional, from personalized greetings to proactive assistance with dinner reservations and local recommendations. Their attention to detail, like checking on our comfort in the lounge and ensuring our room was pristine, made us feel like VIPs throughout our stay.
Location: Prime Spot in BGC
Situated in the heart of Bonifacio Global City, Manila’s upscale business and lifestyle hub, the Grand Hyatt is perfectly positioned. We strolled to nearby BGC attractions like High Street, with its trendy shops and restaurants, and Market! Market! for local crafts. The hotel is a short drive from Makati’s Greenbelt malls and Manila’s cultural sites like Rizal Park. BGC’s safe, walkable vibe and proximity to dining spots like Uptown Parade made it easy to explore, while the hotel’s elevated perch offered a peaceful retreat from the city’s energy.
Value and the World of Hyatt Credit Card
We redeemed 9,000 points per night, earned through the World of Hyatt Credit Card, to book this Category 3 property, a steal compared to cash rates of $250 to $400 per night. The card, with a $95 annual fee, offers automatic Discoverist status, but spending $15,000 annually helped us work toward Globalist status, unlocking benefits like the Guest of Honor Certificate. This certificate granted us Globalist perks, including the corner room upgrade and lounge access, typically reserved for elite members. The card’s 9x points on Hyatt stays and annual free night certificate (up to Category 4) made it a game-changer for maximizing value. The upgrade and lounge access, valued at $500+ per night, transformed our stay into a luxury experience at minimal cost.
The Verdict
The Grand Hyatt Manila is a five-star standout in BGC, blending modern luxury with Filipino warmth. The corner room upgrade, exceptional lounge dining, and superb staff made our stay unforgettable, while the Guest of Honor Certificate and points from the World of Hyatt Credit Card delivered incredible value. Whether you’re visiting Manila for business or leisure, this hotel is a top choice for a chic, comfortable escape. We’re already planning our next visit!
Pro Tip: Book early with points or certificates for peak seasons and mention your Guest of Honor status at check-in to maximize perks. Check Hyatt’s website for rates and redemption options.
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