Manila's Most STUNNING Designer Condo: You HAVE to See This!
Manila's Most STUNNING Designer Condo: You HAVE to See This! (Seriously, You Really Do) - A Messy, Honest Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill all the tea (and maybe a little coffee) on this designer condo in Manila. The hype is real, folks. This isn't your average cookie-cutter hotel experience; this place is dripping with, well, design. Think Instagram-worthy backdrops around every corner. But is it all style and no substance? Absolutely not. (Mostly. Okay, let's be honest, there are a few minor hiccups, but bear with me!)
First things first: Accessibility, Accessibility, Accessibility. Seriously, it's a huge win. I'm talking wheelchair accessible everywhere - from the lobby to the pool. Now, I don't personally use a wheelchair, but the fact that it's genuinely accessible is a huge plus. The ramps are gentle, the elevators swift, and the whole place feels… inclusive. Huge kudos! There's also accessible restaurants and lounges on-site - and trust me, you'll want to use them. Accessibility gets a big, huge, gold star.
Internet, Glorious Internet! Okay, let's be honest, in this day and age, good Wi-Fi can make or break a stay. And here? Boom. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (Take that, laggy hotel networks!) Plus, you've got Wi-Fi in public areas, and even Internet [LAN] if you're old-school like me and prefer a cable. Basically, whether you're a streaming fiend or a digital nomad, you're golden. I did a Zoom call from my room looking out at the pool, and my connection was flawless. Seriously, a dream. (Internet services are available too, but I didn't need them, so I can't speak to the quality).
Staying Safe & Sound (and Sane): They take cleanliness seriously, and it calmed my Covid-era nerves. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Hand sanitizer everywhere you look? Check. They even have a Hygiene certification proudly displayed. Now, I'm not a germaphobe, but knowing they're going the extra mile is… well, it's comforting. They also offer room sanitization opt-out. (Though honestly, why would you?). They also have individually-wrapped food options and a safe dining setup. They've thought of everything.
Rampant Relaxation & Ways to Unwind: Okay, now we're getting to the good stuff. This place isn't just about looking pretty; it's about living pretty. I mean, Swimming pool with a Pool with a view? Yes, please! The water's like a perfect turquoise rectangle, reflecting the ridiculously-tall skyscrapers. Pure bliss. I also loved the Spa. The Massage was heavenly. I actually fell asleep mid-massage (don't judge me!), and woke up feeling like a brand new human. They also have a Sauna, Spa/sauna, and Steamroom. Basically, if you can't relax here, something's wrong with you. And you can get a soothing Body scrub or a Body wrap at the spa.
Oh, and the Fitness center? Seriously impressive. I attempted a workout one morning (blame the jet lag), and the equipment was top-notch. Gym rats rejoice! And if that's not enough, there's even a Foot bath. (I didn't try it, but I'm sorely tempted on my next visit!)
Dining, Drinking, and Basically Blissing Out: From the moment I walked in, I was overwhelmed with options. And, oh boy, are some worth it. Firstly, the restaurants! They have Asian cuisine in restaurant, Asian breakfast, International cuisine in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, and Western cuisine in restaurant options. It was almost too much. I spent a good hour just staring at the menus, paralyzed by choice!
The A la carte in restaurant gave me the freedom to experiment! The Buffet in restaurant and the Breakfast [buffet], offered plenty of options. I also ordered the Breakfast takeaway service one morning (because, let's be real, sometimes you just want to eat in your bathrobe). They even had Alternative meal arrangement options (thankfully, as I'm a fussy eater).
I spent a fair amount of time at the Poolside bar, which is honestly where my soul felt most at peace. Sipping a cocktail, watching the city lights twinkle… pure magic. They also have a Bar, and on certain nights, a Happy hour so you can drink away the weekday blues.
The Coffee/tea in restaurant and Coffee shop always gave me the caffeine boost that I needed. You can grab a Bottle of water without hassle, and sometimes, I just need a quick snack. I loved the Snack bar! You can find sweet and savory treats in the Desserts in restaurant.
Room Service [24-hour] is a lifesaver, especially after a long day of exploring. And if you're feeling peckish late at night, they have a Soup in restaurant section on their menu.
Rooms: The Real Deal (and a Few Quirks): Okay, this is where it gets interesting, because the rooms? They are STUNNING. Like magazine-worthy, pull-out-your-phone-and-Instagram-immediately stunning. I stayed in a Non-smoking room (thank goodness!). You get a Balcony (amazing for those sunrises/sunsets!), Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, and a Bathroom phone (remember those?). There's also a Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, On-demand Movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], and a Window that opens.
But here's the thing: some of the design choices are a little… impractical. Like, the placement of some light switches? Mysterious. And the sheer number of pillows on the bed? Overkill. (But hey, at least I had options!). Oh, and the water pressure in the shower could be better. But honestly? Minor quibbles. The overall vibe is so luxurious, so effortlessly cool, that you forgive the little imperfections.
Services and Conveniences: The Bits You Might Need (and Some You Won't): They've thought of almost everything. Air conditioning in public area is standard. Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, and Xerox/fax in business center, are all ready for you.
There’s also, Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, and Kids meal.
Getting around? They provide Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, and Valet parking.
There's also a First aid kit on hand, a doctor/nurse on call, and a Fire extinguisher, which again, is reassuring.
The Not-So-Perfect Bits (Because Nothing's Perfect, Right?): I wish I could give this place a perfect score, but I'm nothing if not honest.
- The "Proposal Spot". I'm single, so the whole "proposal spot" thing just felt… awkward. Maybe keep those areas
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your Instagram-perfect Manila itinerary. This is a DISASTER waiting to happen… (maybe). This is my potential Condominium Conundrum of Chaos in Manila. And honestly? I'm kinda excited to mess it up.
Project: Manila Mayhem - Designer's Condominium Edition
(Disclaimer: My actual travel dates are TBD. This is pure, unadulterated hypothetical fun, subject to change based on my crippling indecision and the current state of traffic.)
Day 1: Arrival & "Luxury" (Read: Slightly Smelly) Digs
- Morning (Probably): Ugh. The flight. I swear, airplane air is recycled despair. Hopefully my noise-cancelling headphones are charged. Arrive at NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport). Pray to whatever travel gods are listening that my luggage arrives with me. Last time I flew, my bag ended up in… checks notes… Finland. Finland! What do I even need a parka for in Manila?!
- Mid-morningish (If Traffic Allows): Grab an airport taxi. Negotiate a price. Feel like I lost. Probably will lose. The drive to the "Designer's Condominium" (let's call it "The Glam Jam" for now) is a total crapshoot. Google Maps says 45 minutes. My gut says… 2 hours, minimum. Convince myself to embrace the chaos, the honking, the sheer density of humanity. It's a cultural experience, dammit! (And I'm probably going to need to pee by the time we get there.)
- Afternoon: Finally, THE GLAM JAM! Check in. Hopefully, the lobby looks designer-y. Hopefully, the elevators work. Pray to the sanitation gods the room is clean. Because let’s be real, “designer” doesn’t always translate to “spotless.” Unpack (badly). Snoop around the condo. Check for the promised "stunning views" while trying to ignore the inevitable construction across the street. Consider ordering room service, then remember my budget is currently a deflated balloon. Eat the emergency ramen noodles I smuggled in and immediately regret it. The sodium! The flavor! The sheer, unadulterated disappointment… but hey, it's food, at least.
- Evening: Attempt to venture out. This is where the real adventure begins. Maybe a quick walk to a nearby sari-sari store (convenience store). Panic a little trying to decipher the local currency. Buy a snack I can't identify. Accidentally eat a balut. (Okay, maybe NOT). Return to the Glam Jam, defeated, but with a newfound appreciation for air conditioning. Crash hard. Jet lag is a bitch. Curse the internet for allowing me to see 1000000 photos of Manila nightlife and convince myself that I need to "experience it".
Day 2: Intramuros Intrigued (and Possibly Overwhelmed)
- Morning: Ugh, rise and shine! (Or more like, groan and reluctantly open my bleary eyes). Coffee. Desperately need coffee. Make instant coffee in the room. Sigh. Plan to explore Intramuros, the historic walled city. Look up suggested routes. Get lost in a maze of online reviews and conflicting advice. Feel a wave of panic. Am I in over my head?
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Take… something… public transport to Intramuros. Jeepney? Grab (rideshare)? Taxi? The decision alone could break me. The potential for a cultural exchange. Expectation: Charming. Reality: Probably hot, loud, and slightly terrifying. Explore Fort Santiago. Be amazed by the history. Sweat profusely. Take a million photos. Eat halo-halo (shaved ice dessert) and try not to get brain freeze. Trip over something. Probably a cobblestone. Curse my clumsiness.
- Afternoon (Intramuros, Act II): Wander the streets. Look at the architecture. Get a sense of what life must have been like in the Spanish colonial era. Get harassed by tricycle drivers. Decline every offer. Secretly wish I hadn't declined every offer. Look at the church. Feel a deep sense of peace. Realize I'm hungry again.
- Evening: Back to the Glam Jam (preferably in air conditioning). Order dinner in (because I am exhausted). Maybe try something adventurous, like adobo. Or maybe just order pizza. No judgment. Watch some local TV to feel more immersed in the culture, then quickly switch it to something I understand (e.g., re-runs of Friends). Fall asleep immediately.
Day 3: The Mall-ocalypse & Questionable Karaoke
- Morning: Another day, another struggle to get out of bed. Today, attempt to navigate a gigantic mall. SM Mall of Asia, anyone? Or perhaps Greenbelt? Or one of the other thousand malls. My head hurts. Plan to buy something I need. Probably end up impulse-buying something ridiculous. Like, a sequined fanny pack.
- Afternoon (Mall-ing): Get lost. See everything. Get overwhelmed. Get hungry. Eat way too much food court food. Spend a fortune on something that's probably marked up to hell. People-watch. Marvel at the sheer variety of humanity on display. Consider getting a massage. Chicken Out. Regret it.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Embrace (or at least attempt to embrace) Filipino karaoke. Find a karaoke bar. Force some new friends, make plans to bring them to Karaoke bar. Pretend I can sing. Sing badly. Laugh a lot. Possibly cry a little. (From the embarrassment, or the karaoke, I don't know). Maybe drink too much San Miguel. Remember the lyrics. Or maybe not. Film myself singing and post it to social media. Immediately regret it.
- Night: Stumble back to the Glam Jam. Vow to learn Tagalog before my next trip. Pass out.
Day 4: Trying (and Failing) to Be Cultured
- Morning: Museum-hopping! Well, maybe. There's the National Museum… Or maybe I'll go to the Ayala Museum. Look at art. Try to look intelligent. Pretend I understand abstract concepts. Fail miserably. Spend more time people-watching.
- Afternoon: More exploring? Maybe a park? Or a coffee shop? Or just the Glam Jam's pool (if it exists and isn't filled with questionable substances). Contemplate my life choices. Wonder why I thought this trip was a good idea. Remember why. The food! The people! The… mess!
- Evening: One last attempt at local cuisine. Something I haven't tried yet (like kinilaw maybe). Or go back to that place I liked the first time. Risk the traffic for a last walk through a park
- Night: Prepare to leave. Pack (badly). Feel sentimental. Maybe even a little sad that it's over. Or maybe just relieved. Set an alarm. Hope the flight isn't delayed. Try not to think about the inevitable jet lag. Reflect on the adventure and laugh. Say goodbye to The Glam Jam and pray for good luck.
Day 5: Departure & The Post-Trip Blues
- Morning: Early wake-up. Check out. Taxis. Airport. Flights. And maybe my luggage makes it home with me this time.
- Afternoon: Back home. Unpack (eventually). Start planning my next trip. Already miss Manila.
Final Thoughts:
This itinerary is not perfect. It's probably going to involve some screw-ups, some wrong turns, some moments of utter frustration. But that's the beauty of travel, right? Embrace the chaos. Learn from the mistakes. And hopefully, have some stories to tell (even if they're embarrassing). Manila, here I come…. (Probably. Maybe. Eventually.)
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Lamswaarde Getaway Awaits!
1. Okay, spill it. What makes this condo so... stunning? Like, beyond the usual "Instagrammable" stuff?
Alright, alright, here's the thing: it's not JUST the marble, the infinity pool that *actually* feels like it flows into the sky, or the ridiculously gorgeous art. It's the feeling you get. Like, the first time I walked in, I actually gasped. (Yes, a full-on, theatrical gasp. Judge me, I dare you.) It's the way the sunlight floods through the floor-to-ceiling windows, making everything glow. It's the *smell* – don't judge, it’s a really subtle, expensive-smelling scent that hits you when you walk in. It’s a complete sensory overload, but in the BEST way. Seriously, I want to live there… and eat all the tiny, exquisitely crafted sandwiches that’s probably offered during the open house.
2. So, designer, huh? Who are we talking about? Like, are we talking about some hotshot international architects and interior designers that's so popular right now?
They're not just *any* designers! From what I’ve heard, it's a team of big shots. The kind of names that people whisper about in hushed, reverent tones in art galleries. I may or may not have googled them during a presentation – don't tell anyone! It's a blend of local talent with an international flare that's just...chef's kiss. You see it in every detail, from the handcrafted furniture to… okay, I’m going to stop now. I’m getting obsessed again.
3. Amenities! Spill the beans, what can you do there? Beyond pretending you're a millionaire, of course.
Oh, the amenities! Where do I even begin?! Okay, so obviously the infinity pool, that's a given. But also, there's a state-of-the-art gym (which I will *never* use, let's be real), a private cinema (perfect for hiding from the world), a chef's kitchen (where, again, I will probably just attempt to make instant noodles…with *style*), a dedicated co-working space (because we all have to pretend to work sometimes)...and...and...a freaking HELIPAD. A HELIPAD! I’m pretty sure even if I *did* acquire a helicopter, I’d be so intimidated to use it. I'd probably just sit there, staring at the view and dreaming of my next instant noodles.
4. Location, location, location, eh? Where is this slice of heaven located? And is it actually convenient?
It’s right in the heart of... well, okay, this is where it gets a bit messy because I'm not entirely sure. The realtors were being all vague and “luxury real estate-speak” about it. But let's just say, it's smack-dab in a prime spot. Access to everything in the city is relatively easy. Depending on traffic, of course. Let’s be honest, with Manila traffic, nothing is EVER truly convenient. If you can handle the constant, overwhelming desire to scream when you're stuck trying to get where you need to go, then yeah, it's convenient.
5. Okay, the price. Let's rip the band-aid off. How much?
Look, if you have to ask...you probably can't afford it. But fine, I'll give you a hint: think "penthouse price tag – a real, real big one". Let's just say, it's in the realm of "sell your kidneys and maybe your firstborn" expensive. I actually choked on my complimentary canapé when they told me the initial asking price. I’m pretty sure I started sweating. I think I may have blurted out, "I can't even afford the *air* in here!" That was embarrassing. The takeaway? It's… a lot.
6. The people. Who’s actually going to BUY this place? Do they even *exist*?
Good question! I was trying to figure this out too. In my mind, it's going to be a mix of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, successful entrepreneurs, and maybe, just maybe, a very, *very* lucky (and wealthy) influencer. People who probably have personal assistants who handle all the boring stuff, like paying bills. The kind of people who never, ever experience Manila traffic. The kind of people that eat caviar for breakfast. The things they do at 3 AM while I stare at a wall of assignments… it makes me jealous!
7. Any downsides? Anything I should be wary of? (Besides the obvious "can't afford it" thing.)
Okay, let's be real. Probably a lot. First, let's be blunt: the HOA fees are probably the cost of a small car. And then there's the whole "being surrounded by other ultra-rich people" thing. Could be amazing. Could also be a recipe for epic social anxiety. Imagine trying to casually chat with someone who owns a private island and casually drops it in a conversation. It would be so awkward. And then, the noise… there is a TON of construction going on around the place, and it would be so loud…
8. Would you recommend it? Like, would *you* live there, if you could?
Ugh… that's a tricky one. On a purely superficial level, YES, ABSOLUTELY. I'd sell my soul for a year of living there! The design! The views! The sheer audacity of it all! But (and it’s a big but), the logistics. The price. The constant awareness of my own financial inadequacy... it's a lot to handle. So, if I won the lottery? Instantly. If I had to actually work for it? Probably not. I’d probably just visit and weep quietly into a designer pillow. And maybe… steal a hand towel. Don’t judge me!
9. Okay, what’s the weirdest/most memorable thing you learned/saw?
Okay, this is a good one. I saw a tiny, incredibly expensive-looking dog wearing a diamond collar. A FRICKING DIAMOND COLLAR. On a DOG. And it looked incredibly bored. Then the owner, a woman who looked like she’d stepped straight out of a fashion magazine, casually mentioned something about “redecorating the dog’s penthouse suite”. IStay Finder Blogs
