A Manila Hotel Christmas: Firmly rooted in tradition

MANILA, Philippines - As temperatures slightly drop and a cool breeze sweeps through the streets, Christmas arrives in Manila in a swift yet unmistakable manner. The city is transformed before our eyes as customary holiday elements start to appear: colorful parols lining the busiest thoroughfares in the city, glittering lights decorating the façade of homes, the familiar carols playing everywhere, and the mouthwatering aroma of puto bumbong and bibingka wafting through the air. Indeed, Christmas in this country is firmly rooted in tradition, and for many, Manila Hotel is an inextricable part of this.

To get the holiday festivities off to a good start, Manila Hotel opened the season with one of its much-treasured traditions on Dec. 2, the yearly Christmas tree-lighting ceremony. This year’s event included the children from Nayon ng Kabataan. The kids trooped to the majestic lobby of Manila Hotel and were greeted by 20 jolly Santa Clauses from the US and their kuyas from the Philippine Azkals, who were also billeted at the hotel during the ceremony. The tree-lighting was led by City of Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim and Manila Hotel president lawyer Joey Lina.

A yummy spread: The noche buena spread at Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang Ilang include beef morcon and pancit Malabon.

As in previous years, the tree-lighting ceremony signifies the beginning of the month-long Christmas celebration at the Grand Dame. To experience joyous Yuletide cheer, make a beeline to the Manila Hotel this month to jumpstart your holiday mood. From solemn Christmas dawn masses at the Roma Salon to the choirs serenading guests at the Lobby, Manila Hotel has arranged an exciting lineup of activities that will make you feel the quintessence of a genuine Filipino Christmas.

Manila Hotel is the perfect destination this season with its holiday room packages. For the entire month of December, Manila Hotel is offering special room packages with a host of exclusive privileges that includes accommodation in the hotel’s luxurious rooms and suites, grand buffets on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, complimentary shuttle service to various tourist areas, and a Christmas gift from Santa.

Sweet endings: The praline chocolate tree

Apart from these, Manila Hotel knows that what most defines the holiday season is great food. With this in mind, the Champagne Room, Mabuhay Palace, Café Ilang-Ilang, and the Taproom / Lobby Lounge, have each come up with delectable menus that are fit for hearty holiday feasting. For more information on December promotions, call 527-9469.

If you’re looking for a luxurious and tasteful gift for your family and friends, Manila Hotel’s Delicatessen is offering limited-edition signature hampers and artfully wrapped holiday treats that are perfect for adults and kids alike. For a truly authentic Filipino Christmas, one only needs to step inside Manila Hotel’s doors.

For dining inquiries and reservations, call 527-9469. For room reservations, call 527-0011 local 1175.

The taro ice with jackfruit swirl and red beans at Mabuhay Palace