If you are planning to visit Manila, the gateway to paradise, with a family or plan on an extended stay, a serviced apartment might be a better option than a hotel – you get a lot more space for the same amount of money and give up on some of the hotel services you may not need anyway. The Ascott Residence is a luxury apartment complex in the heart of the Bonifacio Global City and currently one of the best upscale offerings in that part of Manila! Read my Snapshot review for more information!

Location: The Ascott is in a great spot, just 1 block from Bonifacio High Street – the heart of Bonifacio Global City with lots of restaurants, bars, shopping and entertainment. It’s about 20-60 minutes from Manila’s NAIA airport, depending on the terminal and traffic. Fortunately, you’ll be able to reach many of the places-to-be in Fort Bonifacio by foot, so it’s a great base. For more transportation tips, check out How to get around Manila! Despite being in a great location, it is on one of the quieter streets, so noise should not be an issue. Click on my custom map for more details.

Room: The Ascott offers Studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. As part of my site inspection, I looked at the 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and was very impressed with both of them! They  are very well designed and appointed, with some of the most upscale furniture and accessories I’ve seen at any hotel in Manila! The 1-bedroom is large at 63-85sqm (680-915sqft) and has an open floor plan with a generous living room and big kitchen. The living room has a comfortable and stylish sitting area and dining table. The kitchen is fully equipped, including a cooker, microwave and large fridge, as well as a coffee maker and even a washer/dryer!
The bedroom is equally generous in size, furniture and decor with a king size bed and another large TV. The bathroom has high-end tiles and marble, a separate deep soaking tub and big glass-enclosed shower and double vanity, so it’s easy for a couple to get ready in parallel.
Many hotels in the Philippines, even upscale ones, cut corners on the materials and equipment selected, but not the Ascott. The built quality, materials and furnishings were of very high quality.
The 1-bedroom does not have a sofa bed, so for more than two people, a 2-bedroom or bigger would be the better choice. The 2-bedrooms are very similar in design, layout and features, adding a second bedroom (queen bed) and bathroom (shower only) with a total size of 100-127sqm (1080-1370sqft).

Amenities: The Ascott offers amenities similar to an upscale hotel. You have access to a large pool and jacuzzi with plenty of loungers to relax. Next to it is a large gym with LifeFitness cardio and weight equipment for a full workout and even a sauna!
Different from many serviced apartments, the Ascott has a 24h reception and concierge service that was well staffed and daily housekeeping service (except Sundays) and even grocery shopping services. For a fee, you have access to business and secretarial services, offices and meeting rooms, transportation, breakfast or restaurant services. They can even help with a doctor-on-call, babysitting or meal delivery.

Conclusion: Overall, the Ascott is a luxurious choice for families or long-term stays and currently the most upscale hotel in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). It’s also the highest ranked hotel in BGC on Tripadvisor – and that comes at usually the highest price in the area, but very competitive with similar properties in Makati or elsewhere in Manila. Studios start at a list price of $200, but are frequently available for less on agoda.com. You can also get lower monthly rates.
At a lower price point, you can stay at the Luxe Residences across the street or check out airbnb for private apartment rentals. Check out my post to find the Best Area to Stay in Manila , the Top Things to Do and the best Weekend Getaways or the Perfect Day itinerary!