Opened in June 2016, the Conrad Manila is an opulent place with a futuristic-looking exterior meant to resemble the cruise ships that pass by the adjacent Manila Bay. Interiors are unsurprisingly swish, with lots of neutral tones, shiny marble floors, and striking sculptures made by local artists. Numerous spaces are designed to make the most of the bay and amusement park vistas, particularly at C Lounge, which has floor-to-ceiling glass and outdoor terraces. Chic metalwork, water features, and stunning modern chandeliers add upmarket touches at nearly every turn. The hotel occupies the top eight floors of a 10-story building, with retail complex S Maison occupying the bottom two. A variety of leisure and business travelers come here, many of which are attracted to the familiar Hilton brand. 

Located in the Pasay area of Metro Manila, the hotel is set just one block from Manila Bay. Although removed from downtown (a 20-minute drive), the Conrad is ideally located for those attending conventions at SMX Conference Center or looking to do shopping at the SM Mall of Asia, as both are connected to the property via walkways. The ritzy S’Maison mall is just downstairs, and SM By the Bay Amusement Park, which has a ferris wheel, is across the the road. Numerous restaurants are within a 10-minute walk, including chain eateries such as McDonald's and Starbucks. The historic center of Manila is a 20-minute drive away, or an hour by public transport. Expect a 20- to 40-minute drive to Ninoy Aquino International Airport by car, or an hour via public transportation. 

The 347 rooms at the Conrad are spacious and swish, decorated in various neutral-tone textures -- think gray patterned carpet, wood-and-black-metal furniture, leather headboards, and patterned wallpaper. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in lots of light, and upgraded units have furnished balconies. Modern amenities are consistent with luxury properties, smart TVs with premium channels like HBO, seating areas, kettles and Nespresso machines, minibars, and closets with electronic laptop-sized safes, ironing facilities, hairdryers, and bathrobes. Marble bathrooms have rainfall showers, high-end Aromatherapy Associates toiletries, and digital scales. Suites add lounge areas and separate bathtubs. Although some rooms have lovely vistas, some have poor views over buildings. 

Features at the Conrad Manila are geared toward both business and leisure travelers. Outside is a decent-sized swimming pool with a little island, set in a sunny terrace with a pool bar that serves snacks and drinks. Views of the bay can be seen through glass windows. Other dining options include Brasserie 3, the all-day eatery that serves local and international fare buffet-style and a la carte. An a la carte Chinese restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, plus there's a coffee shop and chic C Lounge, which offers the best views of Manila Bay. An elegant spa offers a variety of treatments, a sauna, steam room, and hot tubs. A spacious, well-equipped gym has a variety of cardio and weight-training machines, and free weights. Multiple meeting and event spaces are on-site, the largest of which holds a maximum of 1500 people. Wi-Fi is only free for Hilton Honors members, though it's free to join. On-site parking is free and shared with the downstairs mall.