The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences

Looking for an ambience as vibrant and unconventional as world renowned artist, Pablo Picasso? Let's listen to General Manager, Jan Michel Gautier invite us to make The Picasso our home away from home in the Philippines.

The Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences is every bit as chic and avant-garde as the creative genius that served as its inspiration. Wowing the public with its unveiling in November 2009, the design and concept in each of the 9 guest floors and 136 rooms reflect the artist’s philosophy, inevitably drawing guests in to enjoy this fashionable art hotel.

Located in the center of the Makati Business District, a 45 minute drive (10 km) from the Ninoy International Airport, The Picasso is conveniently within easy reach of offices and shopping centers. The hotel also offers scheduled complimentary shuttle service to comfortably transport their in-house guests to the Makati Commercial Center.

Living Room Area

All spacious and stylish studios and suites stay true to Picasso’s palette and were aptly named after cities where the famous artist resided many years ago.

Deluxe Rooms
Malaga Studio	45 sqm
Barcelona Suite	88 sqm
Executive Rooms
Madrid Studio	45 sqm
Montparnasse Suite	88 sqm
Picasso Suite	93 sqm

Room Features
- Centralized air - conditioning	- Kitchenette with electric stove
- Balcony	- Microwave
- iPod docking station	- Electric Kettle
- High-speed internet (for a fee)	- Refrigerator
- 32" Plasma Cable TV	- Chinaware, silverware & glassware
- DVD player (for executive rooms)	- Hairdryer

***Rice Cookers and Iron & Ironing Boards are available upon request***
***Complimentary Internet Access is available 24-hours at the business lounge area***

Bedroom

Studio Kitchenette

Studio

The Picasso is also home to Brasserie Boheme, an equally trendy restaurant with adjoining deli; with Executive Chef Tom Hines at the helm creating mouth-watering cuisine, this is fast becoming a favorite of food connoisseurs in the city. Other facilities on site are Qi Wellness Spa, Studio 119 Salon, 2-story fitness gym, ELAN Models International Agency, and a fully equipped function room that can comfortably accommodate 50 people.

In celebration of Filipino Contemporary Art, the Picasso features various local artists every month and a half. An assorted collection of masterpieces are showcased in the Art Gallery located at the 4^th floor, and are also displayed on the different guest floors for a truly unique visual buffet.

FUN FACTS:

1. Just a few steps away is the popular street bazaar, Salcedo Market. It is open to the public every Saturday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
2. A far departure from the usual corporate uniforms of regular hotels, upon entering the lobby you will be pleasantly surprised by the friendly smiles of modernly attired staff; the concierge staff accessorized with fedoras, and housekeeping personnel in gondola stripe shirts, neckerchiefs, and jeans.
3. Textured concrete found from the demolition of the old building’s construction are used as accents in the lobby. Fondly called “found art”, it gives an almost sentimental ambience to the ultra-contemporary look of the hotel. A beautiful parallel to the concept of marrying the past with the current.

RATING   5 out of 5

Aside from new and well maintained facilities, and its unique approach to hospitality, one thing that contributes to the ultimate appeal of Picasso is the feeling of privacy and exclusivity from not being situated in the center of the commercial district.

For a flawless mix of comfort and style without being over-priced, The Picasso is the perfect choice.

Accommodation: The spacious studios and suites are ideal for long-staying guests and also for those who intend to entertain a few visitors. Each room has a balcony that allows occupants to enjoy the view of the city and its cool night air.

Food & Beverage: There are an assortment of appetizers, entrees, and desserts to choose from, all of which are pretty to look at and even better to taste. The Lemon Sole with Spinach Risotto is highly recommended for a light but hearty meal; and do not even think of leaving Brasserie Boheme without a sip of the most refreshing frozen grape juice paired with their top seller, Mango Madness.

Service: Service is efficient and accommodating. All employees are knowledgeable and eager to introduce you to the property for better appreciation of its uniqueness.

Art Gallery

Gym

Found Art

Function Room

New World Makati City, Manila Hotel

Under New World Hotels and its promise of “Modern Oriental Hospitality”, General Manager Farid Schoucair leads a team of unique individuals who strive to provide consistent 5-star quality service, and nurture long-lasting relationships with their guests. 

An approximately 40-45 minute drive (9 km) from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport brings you to the heart of the Central Business District of Manila; New World Makati City Manila Hotel is literally a mere stone’s throw away from Greenbelt Ayala Center, one of the best shopping centers in the Metro. Sitting in such an ideal hot spot, it is no wonder the Hotel attracts both Business and Leisure travelers alike.

Hotel Lobby

598 charming guestrooms and suites ranging from 34 to 132 sqm will serve as your temporary home. All rooms are fully furnished and equipped with a flat screen TV, a mini bar, and a safety deposit box for your valuables. A sitting area, work desk, and iron & ironing board contribute to making your stay a convenient one. 

Room Type	Size
Superior Room	34 sqm
Deluxe Room	34 sqm
Premier Room	36-40 sqm
Executive Deluxe Room	34 sqm
One Bedroom Suite	48 sqm
Director Suite	68 sqm
Specialty Suite	130 sqm
Presidential Suite	132 sqm

The large elegant suites with separate living rooms and powder rooms can comfortably accommodate the longer staying guests and visiting VIPs. Access to the exclusive Executive Club Floor and its benefits may be availed at a certain fee.

Complimentary Benefits

• Exclusive access to Executive Club Lounge serving daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails and Hors d' Oeuvres
• Executive Club Lounge Open Monday to Sunday : 24 hrs
• Welcome fruit on arrival
• Internet access in guestroom
• Internet access at the Executive Club Lounge
• Use of Business Centre : 2 hrs / stay
• Use of Executive Club Lounge Meeting Room : 2 hrs / stay
• Daily local newspaper delivered to room
• Local phone calls
• Parking
• Express check-in and check-out

Executive Club Floor - Reception Area

For meeting and events, New World Makati City Manila Hotel boasts 9 boardrooms, 2 mid-size function rooms (Rose and Peony), and a majestic Grand Ballroom. Maximum capacity varies depending on set-up required. Rates change based on packages availed. There are event specialists available on weekdays during office hours for assistance.

Even with dozens of restaurants nearby to choose from, it would be a shame to miss giving the various food & beverage outlets a try. M2M (morning to midnight) offers international buffet selections, live cooking stations and an ala carte menu from -- morning until midnight (6:30 AM to 12:00 MN). For a cozy lounge ambiance  Cinnabar serves light meals, coffee and cocktails from 7:00 AM to 2:00 AM. There is an outdoor patio that overlooks a Koi Pond, and live entertainment to serenade you in the evening. For fine dining Cantonese cuisine, head over to Jasmine which is open to serve daily from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Not up for a dining out? Order in from their 24-hour room service.

Outdoor Pool

Superior Room - Twin Beds

Living Room - Specialty Suite "Pacquiao Suite"

Bedroom - Specialty Suite

M2M (before operating hours)

A video from New World Makati City Manila Hotel is under maintenance. This will be uploaded as soon as possible. 

RATING

Overall Satisfaction: 3 out of 5    

The best thing about New World Makati City Manila Hotel is its location. You would have to deal with some light Makati traffic to get there, however having everything at arm's reach is a great incentive for both business and leisure travelers. They also offer very reasonable room rates (although this may vary subject to occupancy) for a luxury property. I would advise business travelers though to expect additional charges for both wired and WIFI internet access, if not staying at the Executive Club Floor.

I would recommend New World Makati City Manila Hotel for travelers who are looking for an easy, hassle-free stay in the Philippines.

Accommodation: Although with noticeable wear and tear garnered from 17 years of service, all rooms and facilities are maintained daily with on-going projects for continued up-keep. A full renovation is expected by 1st quarter of 2012.

Food & Beverage: There are many mouthwatering selections to choose from; quality and freshness is always assured in all their outlets. The garlic shrimp prepared in M2M's live kitchen is simply outstanding! I will be remiss if i do not also recommend a taste of their Mango Cheesecake which is just a little slice of heaven in your mouth. 

Service: The friendly smiles and warm "hellos" from all the hotel staff are genuine and consistent. Managers are also available at the lobby to provide extra assistance should there be any needed. 

Palm Beach Resort, Laiya Batangas

Owned by Mr. Marcelo N. Naval, Palm Beach Resort (La Frondosa) which was originally a family vacation house, opened its doors to the public in 2006. Located in San Juan, Batangas along the coastlines of Laiya, travel time to this nature’s paradise will take approximately 3-4 hours. Its relative seclusion gives the resort a luxurious and serene setting.

Beach 

The Balinese-inspired Casas and Casitas with a total of 32 rooms are a perfect haven for a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a group of friends craving adventure, and even a family in search of some fun under the sun. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a refrigerator, DVD player and cable TV. All lodgings have balconies that offer a panoramic view of the ocean and beachfront.

Units	Capacity
	Standard	Maximum
Casa Alexandra (3 Bedrooms & Living Room)	12	15
Casa Isabel (5 Bedrooms & 2 Living Rooms)	20	25
Casitas Premier	4	6
Casita De Luxe Regular	4	5
Casita De Luxe Junior	2	3
Casitas Royale Regular	4	5
Casitas Royale Junior	2	3

Casitas

Private Nipa Huts are also available for rent from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm for those who opt for day trips. There are easily accessible outdoor/indoor showers, dressing rooms, cabanas, and a main pavilion. Packages for team building are also offered, although the rates vary depending on the season.

Cabana

A wide variety of activity areas are also made available to Palm Beach guests: Volleyball and Basketball Courts, Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi and Videoke Room.

Massage Therapist	P300/hr
Jetski	P1,250/15 mins. OR P4,000/hr	Minimum 15 mins.
Speed Boat	P1,375/15 mins. OR P4,500/hr	Minimum 15 mins.
Kayaks	P300/2 hrs.	P100/addl hour or fraction
Bancas	Rate available upon request	Rate available upon request
Snorkels and Masks	P100/2 hrs	P50/addl hour
Aqua Shoes	P100/2hrs	P50/addl hour
Banana Boat w/ Speed Boat	P1,500/15 mins. for 7 pax OR P5,000/hr.	minimum 15 minutes

Bringing in of food is strictly prohibited. Buffet meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks and dinner) are available at the pavilion and may be included in the packaged rate to be availed.

Notes:

• Mass Service is offered during weekends, the schedule is available at the pavilion.
• The pavilion is WiFi accessible (rooms do not have wireless internet available).
• Pets are not allowed
• Only SMART network has a signal in the resort.
• Wearing of booties/aqua shoes ishighly recommended

RATING

Overall Satisfaction:

It is quite an easy drive down the slab of concrete heading to the resort; however you will have to cross an uphill dirt road that may be a challenge for some cars. Van service is available at the peak to take you to the resort proper.  

You have to be ready to put the outside world on hold and immerse in nature’s wonders since only SMART network is supported in the area, and WIFI internet signal is intermittent.

I recommend Palm Beach Resort as a perfect retreat for people who want to unwind, have a good time, and generally get away from it all.

Accommodation: Rates are reasonable and all rooms and facilities are spacious and well maintained. Lean seasons are utilized to schedule regular refurbishments.

The beach water is so clean and clear that you can see straight to the very bottom. The sand though is mostly tiny pebbles that can hurt your feet so make sure to wear aqua shoes to avoid injuries.

Food & Beverage: The various choices are tasty and worth every penny. Some snacks are pricier than others so make sure to bring extra cash.

Service: The employees are courteous and accommodating however there were lapses in terms of speed and efficiency.

Resort Manager Mrs. Cory Danan, a pioneer having been of service for over 6 years, tells us why Palm Beach Resort should be YOUR home away from home in the Philippines.