We
heard traffic was really bad going to the airport that the Philippine Airport
officials actually advice passengers to be in the airport three hours in
advance to avoid flight delay. So for us, we stayed in a nearby hotel a day
before our flight to avoid the traffic jam and to relax before we finally head
back to SG.
We
chose Nobu Hotel-City of Dreams Manila because of its proximity to the airport , it's new, and we are hearing good hotel reviews.
Arriving, we (and our luggage) passed through security guards for the car check, metal detectors and a sniffing canine. Nobu Hotel doesn't have a grand lobby. The reception area kinda looks like that of a boutique hotel. But there are a lot of seating areas (4 in total) on both left and right side of the entrance. We stayed in the same building as the reception and the Nobu Restaurant which was very convenient especially for families with young kids.
Ashrie at the foyer with fresh alliums in the background.
Behind her is the entrance to the casino.
The kiddos making themselves at home in the lobby.
We arrived earlier than check-in time so after we have deposited our bags, we headed to the restaurants in the casino side of the hotel. Here, you can see the grand space lacking in the entrance lobby. Please note that some restaurants are still under construction.
Honestly, I think we've ordered too much because it seems that the portions are for good for two. The panini halves are filling and the big pot of meatball pasta is just too much for one. But everything was good. After the hearty meal, it's time to get the room keys!
The view from our room
As the hotel name implies, it is a Japanese hotel and one obviously calls for Japanese interiors. Although it is not very minimalist, or very zen if you would like to put it, there are indeed Japanese elements incorporated in the overall feel. The use of wood is prevalent and also, representations of the yin-yang, Japanese style. There is a huge calligraphy on the headboard wall which on close inspection is actually a wallpaper print. There is also a gallery wall on the side atop a deep brown abaca wallpaper. To balance the simplicity of the bed, a rug is laid out. It is a very graphic addition and nice to walk on barefooted. Speaking of feet and yin-yangs, the slippers are black with a white strap and the other pair is white with a black strap which are matched with the robes in the bathroom, one black and one white.
The Bathroom is simple but equipped with designer fittings. It has a very chic, deep sink that could work well as a baby's bathtub. I still prefer the under-the-counter-type sink type, though. I guess it is the most practical and the "user-friendliest" of all sink types. There's a counter and stool on the side but no mirror on the wall for it to work as a vanity, so you need to use the mirror behind the sink for this purpose or grab that small table mirror in the corner. Our room has no tub, but since we were near the swimming pool, it didn't bother Ashrie so much. We had a short dip in the 4-meter deep pool with amazing views of the golden glass facade of the surrounding buildings until sunset. Then it's dinner time!
NOBU RESTAURANT.
Nobu Restaurant is not just a feast for the tummy but for the eyes as well with its beautiful interiors. The use of natural materials is very evident. Handmade paper with leaves on the ceiling, natural wood and marble for the flooring, and wood posts as wall accent. Just note how they use a huge wood slab as table for the drink station and the very long bar. The area is basically neutral in color scheme with hints of florals here and there, a nod to Japanese interiors indeed.
Food-wise, there is a limited number of food choices in the buffet breakfast. But what they lack in variety, they make up for in presentation. Surprisingly, I personally love the roasted tomatoes above all in the menu.
Overall it's a fun place to stay even for families with young kids especially if you are not preparing for a next-day flight. There's more to do if you are into casino, spa, gym, or if you still have more time, DreamPlay or just visit Mall of Asia which is just a few minutes away by cab.
Will we visit City of Dreams again? Why not? But we'll probably try Hyatt or Crown Towers next time!
