Part of the world-renowned Fairmont Hotels chain, this property has a similar vibe to its sister hotels around the world, with a quiet, upscale atmosphere, world-class service and elegant decor throughout. A number of porters, valet parking attendants, and door staff await guests at the main entrance, greeting and leading them to the classy lobby adorned with local artworks, plush carpets, flowers, and mahogany accents. Clay-colored veined marble floors, beige couches, and a grand staircase with wrought-iron railings give the space a classic upscale feel, while strategically placed LED lights and large white ornaments behind the front desk are stylish contemporary touches. The rest of the common spaces have a similar mix of contemporary and classic decor, with an earth tone palette with saffron accents, striking waterfall and pendant ceiling lamps, and mahogany floors covered with fluffy carpets.

The hotel is located in a busy area in central Makati chock-full of restaurants, stores, and movie theaters. In fact, the Fairmont offers direct underground access to several renowned malls, and is within walking distances of several others. Makati Avenue’s famous nightlife scene is also a short walk away. While this location is convenient for business travelers and those looking to go shopping, travelers interested in seeing the historic sights of Manila may want to note that major attractions such as Intramuros, Fort Santiago, University of Santo Tomas, Rizal Park, and the Manila Cathedral are all about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. The airport can be reached in 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

The Fairmont Makati has 280 rooms, all of which have large floor-to-ceiling windows offering either city or pool views. Decor is elegant if a little bland for this category, with dark wood furniture, plush beige carpeting, brown bed runners, and dark orange or brown bed skirts. But mahogany headboards with delicate flower carvings, and dark wood cabinets with pearl inlay handles, add a local touch. 

All units have large flat-screen TVs, stocked minibars, a king or two twin beds, media panels to connect personal devices, air-conditioning, electric kettles, and French presses. Marble bathrooms are large and luxurious, with separate walk-in showers and soaking tubs, Le Labo toiletries, and a separate toilet cabin with a frosted glass door. Wall-to-wall mirrors add lots of visual space. Fairmont Gold Rooms offer a number of additional perks, including in-room espresso machines, access to a lounge with free breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres, and private check-in. Wi-Fi is available for an extra fee. 

As a hotel that caters to business travelers, the Fairmont Makati offers a wide array of services for those in town for work, including extensive meeting space with up-to-date technologies, secretarial services, IT butlers, and airport transfers. The hotel’s five dining options include an international all-day dining restaurant, a cafe with fresh pastries, a lounge for afternoon snacks, a pool bar with a short food menu, and a quiet, elegant library serving afternoon tea. The Long Bar serves signature cocktails. With an array of high-tech cardio and strength-training machines, personal trainers, and panoramic city views, the fitness center is a great place for a workout, while luxurious Willow Stream Spa is the perfect spot to get pampered. It features five treatment rooms, a hair and nail salon, and a hydrotherapy area. The outdoor pool has a kiddy section, padded loungers, parasols, and towel and bar service. 

For those willing to pay a little more, the Fairmont Gold level offers a more exclusive experience, which includes private check-in and access to the Fairmont Gold Lounge, with free continental breakfast, afternoon drinks and hors d’oeuvres, and evening chocolates and other sweet bites.