Somerset Manila: Luxury Condo Tower 1 — Unbelievable Views & Amenities!
Somerset Manila: Soaking Up Luxury (and Maybe a Bit of Regret for Overstuffing Myself at the Buffet) - A Review That's Actually Honest
Okay, listen up, future luxury seekers! I've just emerged, gloriously exhausted and slightly food-coma-y, from a stay at Somerset Manila: Luxury Condo Tower 1. And let me tell you, it’s… an experience. Buckle up, because this review is gonna be less "polished brochure" and more "honest ramblings from a slightly overwhelmed but ultimately impressed guest."
First Impressions: Views That Actually Leave You Gasping (and the Elevator Wait Times That Might Make You Grumble)
Right off the bat, the "unbelievable views"? Not kidding. Seriously. They’re what you’d imagine a billionaire's Instagram feed looks like, if billionaires were actually smart enough to stay at Somerset. I'm talking panoramic cityscapes, twinkling lights at night, dramatic sunrises… the works. The room itself? Spacious. Super spacious. Like, I could probably hold a small rave in the seating area. (Don't worry, I didn't. Mostly.)
Getting There & Getting Around: Okay, the Traffic is Still a Thing (But the Concierge is Your Savior)
Accessibility: (Okay, I need to mention this, because I’m going to be honest, this is a bit of a weakness of mine, I totally forgot to check and I just went to the bathroom, ugh… there, I did it!) I did peek around, and the common areas seem pretty accessible, with elevators and ramps. I think they have facilities for disabled guests. But I can't give a definitive yes or no here. This is where I feel like I failed as a reviewer! So, I recommend you double-check this aspect with the hotel directly if it's a crucial concern for you. They do have an elevator, which is a huge win. Parking is easy (they have free parking!) and Valet parking is available. Airport transfer is available, though I didn't use it. Taxi service: readily available. Car park. One thing: Manila traffic is, well, Manila traffic. Factor in some extra time for getting around. However, the Concierge is a lifesaver. Honestly, these guys are magicians. They can basically make anything happen, from booking a tour to finding a lost sock (ahem, mine).
Rooms: Sanctuary (With a Few Tiny Quirks)
The rooms themselves are where Somerset really shines. We're talking Air conditioning, Air conditioning, Air conditioning (important in Manila!), Blackout curtains that block out the zombie apocalypse, and a bathroom that might be bigger than my first apartment. The bed was ridiculously comfy, like sleeping on a cloud made of marshmallows and dreams. I mean the bathrobes and slippers are great stuff, everything is great. Extra long bed for the tall people, High floor giving the better views. Internet is good, Internet access – LAN and Internet access – wireless give tons of options.
My only gripes? The desk situation – seemed a little cramped. My laptop workspace was a little cramped. Other than that, it was good.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Buffet… Oh, The Buffet! (And Other Culinary Adventures)
Okay, let’s talk about the food. This is where I may have gotten a little… carried away.
- Breakfast [buffet]: This is where my “slightly food-coma-y” state comes in. Seriously. A decadent spread of Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, and everything in between. I may – or may not – have eaten my weight in pastries. Okay, I definitely did. Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant. The Buffet in restaurant is just the most outstanding meal in history.
- Restaurants: There are several restaurants on-site. I sampled a few, and they were all solid. The coffee/tea in restaurant is available all the time.
- Poolside Bar: Perfect for a sundowner. The Happy hour is a must.
- Room service [24-hour]: Because sometimes, you just want a burger at 3 AM. It’s there. God bless it.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Pampering, Pools, and the Eternal Quest for Bliss
This is where Somerset truly flexes its muscles.
- Pool with view: Absolutely stunning. I spent a shameful amount of time just floating around, staring at the skyline.
- Gym/fitness: I attempted to use the gym, mainly to burn off the aforementioned buffet calories. It's well-equipped.
- Spa/sauna: They have it all. Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage & Spa… I went full-on pamper mode. The Sauna and Steamroom were especially delightful after a long day of sightseeing.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: More swimming! More views! More happy sighs!
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe (Which is Always a Plus)
- Cleanliness and safety.
- Anti-viral cleaning products.
- Daily disinfection in common areas.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Hygiene certification.
- Rooms sanitized between stays.
- Staff trained in safety protocol. There’s a real commitment to safety. I felt secure the whole time, which is definitely a huge plus in a bustling city. I do think the Safety/security feature are a must, so this is a must. First aid kit, Smoke alarms.
The Services & Convenience: Everything You Could Possibly Need (and Then Some)
- Concierge is beyond helpful.
- Daily housekeeping: Rooms are spotless.
- Doorman: Always there with a smile.
- Convenience store: For late-night snack runs (because, yes, I did).
- Meeting/banquet facilities: Looked impressive, though I didn't need them.
- Car park [free of charge].
- Elevator: Super important.
- Facilities for disabled guests: Check with the hotel directly.
- Luggage storage: Easy and efficient.
- Room service [24-hour]: A true luxury.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Vibes (But I Don't Have Kids, So Take This With a Grain of Salt)
- Babysitting service: available.
- Family/child friendly: they seem geared towards families.
- Kids meal: offered.
The Downsides (Because No Place is Perfect)
- Elevator Wait Times: Sometimes, the elevators felt a bit… slow. Especially during peak times.
- Location, to a point While the hotel is great and near the best things, you need to use taxi service, with no other means.
My Emotional Verdict: Book It! (But Maybe Pace Yourself at the Buffet)
Look, I'm not going to lie. I loved my stay at Somerset Manila. The views are incredible, the amenities are top-notch, and the staff are genuinely lovely. The Rooms, the Dining, the Ways to Relax: Amazing. Was it perfect? No. But was it a luxurious, relaxing, and ultimately memorable experience? Absolutely.
My advice? Book it. Just maybe… lay off the third plate of pastries. (Or, you know, don't. I won't judge.)
SEO-Friendly Summary & Compelling Offer:
Somerset Manila: Luxury Condo Tower 1 - Your Ultimate Manila Escape!
Escape to breathtaking views and unparalleled luxury at Somerset Manila! This top-rated condo hotel offers stunning cityscapes, world-class amenities, and impeccable service. Relax by our Pool with view, indulge in the Spa/sauna, and savor delicious cuisine in our variety of Restaurants, including a buffet to die for! Enjoy convenient Accessibility and a host of services designed to make your stay unforgettable.
Here's why YOU should book NOW:
- Unbelievable Views: Wake up to panoramic cityscapes that will take your breath away.
- Luxurious Amenities: Pamper yourself at our spa, unwind by the pool, and stay fit in our state-of-the-art fitness center.
- Spacious Rooms: Enjoy the comfort and convenience of spacious, well-appointed rooms with all the modern amenities you need.
- Exceptional Service: Experience unparalleled hospitality from our friendly and attentive staff.
- Unbeatable Location: Close to the best of Manila, with easy access to transportation.
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
- Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays.
Book your stay at Somerset Manila today and receive a complimentary upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability) and a special welcome amenity! Don't miss out on the ultimate Manila luxury experience!
Nanas Dorsett KL: Bukit Bintang Luxury for Couples (Pavilion View!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're doing this. This ain't your polished travel brochure. This is me, bumbling through a couple of days in Somerset Condominium Tower 1 in Manila. Get ready for the beautiful mess.
Somerset Manila: A Clumsy Adventure (or, How I Tripped Over My Own Feet and Still Had a Blast)
Day 1: Arrival & Initial Panic (and a Side of Sisig)
- 7:00 AM: My alarm screeches. Apparently, "jet lag" is a real thing, even when your flight was only, like, twelve hours. Drag myself out of bed, feeling like a zombie who’s been at a bad rave. Attempt to navigate the hotel room – spacious, fancy, and already judging my sleep-dishevelled appearance.
- 7:30 AM: Breakfast. Somerset’s buffet is…a lot. Seriously. Mangoes galore (yes!), a questionable selection of pastries (no!), and a guy in a suit hovering near the coffee machine like it’s the Holy Grail. I attack the mangoes. It’s the only choice.
- 9:00 AM: The Pool…the first moment of peace. I mean the pool is pretty incredible. The water is that perfect shade of blue and the sun is perfect.
- 10:00 AM: Attempt to “explore.” Head to the mall, where I get immediately disoriented. Seriously, it’s like a city within a city. Lose my way approximately twelve times.
- 12:00 PM: Ah, lunch: Sisig! Found a little hole-in-the-wall place near the mall. It felt like the sun was beating it's heat on me while I sat there with my head down, in the hopes of getting shade. The Sisig was a taste of pure bliss. Spicy, crispy, everything I ever wanted in life. I order another plate. Judge me if you will.
- 2:00 PM: Realize I've spent most of the day lost and slightly sweaty. Decide to head back to Somerset.
- 3:00 PM: Shower. Bliss. Then, more bed.
- 6:00 PM: Order room service because I just cannot deal with the outside world anymore. The chicken adobo is decent, but I mostly enjoy the blissful silence of the room.
Impression of the day: Exhausted and overstimulated, but surprisingly happy. Manila is intense, but the food is saving my life. The sheer density of people, shops, and noise is overwhelming, but there's this undercurrent of infectious energy that keeps you going. Also, how does anyone navigate those malls?! Someone please send help.
Day 2: Culture Shock & Karaoke Chaos (and a near-miss with a street dog!)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up feeling slightly less zombie-ish. Still can’t figure out the AC controls. Give up. Embrace the mild humidity.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. This time, I’m a pro. Mangoes, check. Coffee, check. Avoid the questionable pastries. I take the initiative to greet the guy in the suit. He seems relieved I didn't ask for holy grail.
- 10:00 AM: Decide to "do" some culture. Visit Intramuros, the old Spanish colonial district. The cobblestone streets, the horse-drawn carriages… It’s beautiful, honestly. But also, HOT. Like, actively trying to melt. I think I burned in seconds.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch in Intramuros. Another small restaurant. I'm sweating, I'm tired, and I'm starting to wonder if my sunglasses made me look cool or just even more of a sweaty tourist. The food is amazing again, though. Filipino BBQ, and I am smitten.
- 2:00 PM: Walk back to Somerset. On the way back I almost got mugged by a street dog…or maybe he just wanted to play? Who knows! I panicked and ran off, nearly tripping over a loose paving stone. I'm probably not cut out for the rugged life.
- 4:00 PM: Nap. Essential.
- 7:00 PM: Karaoke night! This was a disaster. I picked a song I thought I knew… Turns out, I only knew the chorus. My voice cracked, I forgot the words, and I'm pretty sure I traumatized everyone in a five-mile radius. But, you know what? We laughed. A lot. And the beer was cold. So, win?
- 9:00 PM: Back to the room. Try to put my travel journal together (mostly just a collection of scribbled observations and embarrassing moments). Fail. But I got a plate of fruits, so, yay!
Impressions of the day: Culture is interesting, but humidity is cruel. Karaoke: a mixed bag of horrors and hilarity. I definitely need to learn a few more words of Tagalog. Actually…I need to learn some. Street dogs: potentially friendly, definitely intimidating. My inner explorer is both exhilarated and utterly exhausted.
Final Thoughts (or, my slightly-unhinged hotel room review)
Somerset? It's…fine. (Okay, that's probably an understatement.) The rooms are nice, the staff is helpful (even when I’m being a total idiot), and the pool is a lifesaver. The location is convenient, and the breakfast buffet, once you figure out what to avoid, is pretty good.
Manila? Intense to say the least. Beautiful, chaotic, overwhelming, and… absolutely unforgettable. I’ve eaten some incredible food, almost gotten run over by a jeepney, and made a fool of myself in public. I haven’t seen it all, and I’m still confused about a lot of things. But I wouldn't trade it for anything. Would I go back? Absolutely. As soon as I recover from this trip. Because, wow.
**JB's BEST City View Loft Suite (7 Guests!) – CIQ Luxury!**
Okay, spill the tea – Somerset Manila: Actually LUXURY LUXURY, or just Manila-Fancy?
Alright, let's be real. "Luxury" gets thrown around like confetti, doesn't it? And in Manila? Sometimes it means a nicer than average lobby and a slightly less leaky aircon.
My verdict on Somerset Tower 1? It's... good. Really good. Remember trying to find an affordable luxury experience in Manila? I went and was like, 'Okay, THIS is the closest I've gotten.' The views are legitimately jaw-dropping. I'm talking, wind-in-your-hair, 'wow, Manila actually looks *good*' type of views. They *really* sold those views. You feel like you're floating above the chaos. It makes the traffic jams a little more bearable, at least in theory. I've been stuck in a taxi *looking* at Somerset, wishing I was *in* Somerset. (True story, happened last Tuesday – utterly humiliating).
What are the amenities ACTUALLY like? Is the pool a glorified kiddie pool?
The amenities are where Somerset actually delivers. The pool? Not a kiddie pool (thank GOD). It's proper lap-swim-capable, but also has a nice shallow area for… you know, pretending to be a sophisticated human being while sipping a cocktail. And the gym? Equipped. I'm pretty sure they have more treadmills than I have pairs of socks. The spa? Worth it. My massage therapist actually *knew* what she was doing. I'm not sure if that's standard in Manila, tbh. So, bonus points there!
BUT. And there's always a but, right? The last time I was there, the jacuzzi jets were a little… anemic. Like, barely a trickle. I mentioned it to the staff, they were super polite, told me it was a 'temporary issue.' Look, I’m not saying it’s a *dealbreaker*, but a good jacuzzi is a core amenity in my books. It’s like the foundation of a good relaxation strategy! (I have one… somewhere…)
The views... Really that good? Compared to what, the view of your neighbor's laundry?
Okay, the views. I cannot stress this enough: THEY ARE AMAZING. Manila is a city in flux, a beautiful hot mess. And from Somerset, you see all of it. The glittering skyline, the sprawling landscape, the sunsets that are so intense, they almost burn in your retinas. Seriously, bring sunglasses, even indoors, because the light is epic. Forget your neighbor's laundry, you're looking at the whole city!
One evening I was in one of the higher floors, and I swear I saw a rainbow. Maybe I was tired. Maybe it was the cocktail. Doesn't matter. What matters is that the experience was so surreal, so peaceful, I immediately forgave all the Manila traffic woes I'd endured that day. I even considered, briefly, becoming a morning person, just to experience the sunrise from there. (The thought faded quickly. I *am* a realistic person!)
What about the rooms themselves? Are they cramped, cookie-cutter boxes, or actually comfortable?
The rooms are… well-appointed. A bit of a safe, practical design, but not offensive. They're not trying to be overly trendy or push any boundaries, which, honestly, is probably a good thing. You get space. Lots of space. Big windows. Good lighting. Comfortable beds (critical!). The furniture isn't going to blow you away with its originality, but it's solid and functional. Not the kind of place where you worry about breaking something just by breathing near it. Also, important detail: decent storage. Which is a huge win, because I ALWAYS overpack.
My only real gripe? The decor felt a little… generic luxury. It could be anywhere in the world. I would pay extra for a little more *personality*. Maybe a quirky local artist's artwork? Some actual *soul* in the rooms? But hey, I'm splitting hairs. It's still a very comfortable place to crash, and after a long Manila day, that's all that matters.
Is it family-friendly? Kids running wild? Or more of a sophisticated space?
This is a good question. Somerset leans towards family-friendly. They have a kids' play area, and I saw a few families around. It's not a *rowdy* kind of place, but it's not stuffy either. You won't feel out of place with a toddler doing laps of the lobby, which is a major win for anyone travelling with little ones. It's that good. The downside? Sometimes, there *are* kids running around. It's a trade-off but a good one.
Location, Location, Location! Is it even *convenient*? Easy to get around?
Okay, the location. It's good. *Very* good. Close to everything, but far enough to not get *completely* swallowed up by the city's chaos. It's not smack-dab in the middle of the busiest districts, which is a HUGE point in its favour. You can hail a taxi, or book a Grab, relatively easy. The surrounding area is safe and well-lit, which is always a plus in Manila. BUT, remember Manila is Manila. Traffic is a beast. Getting anywhere during rush hour is an exercise in patience. Plan your trips accordingly. Seriously. Add extra time. Lots of extra time. Bring a book. Or ten. Or a strong cocktail. You'll need it.
There were a couple of times when my Grab couldn't find the entrance... that was a minor inconvenience. The security guards are really helpful when that happens, however!
The Price? Is it a budget buster?
Let’s get down to the serious business: the price. Let’s be honest, Manila luxury isn’t cheap. Somerset is… in the upper tier. It's not gonna drain the bank account, if you're used to western prices. But, it's not *cheap* either. Think of it as an investment in your sanity, a splurge for your soul. And, hey, those views? Worth every penny. Think of it like paying for a little slice of heaven, even if it's just for a night.
My biggest tip? Shop around for the best deals. Try booking well in advance, or check for special promotions. That said, I wasn't *thrilled* at what I paid, but I don't regret it. Because those views... they are worth it, every time. You could bring your own food, but go to the restaurant they have or order to yourHotel Bliss Search
