Imagine standing in front of a towering structure, one of the most anticipated hotels in the country—the Grand Westside Hotel. I recently had the opportunity to get an exclusive, whirlwind tour of this colossal property, located right beside Kingsford Hotel Manila. And let me tell you, it certainly lives up to its name.
A Modern Welcome
Stepping into the lobby, any sense of being overwhelmed by the hotel’s immense scale quickly fades. The lobby is sleek yet inviting, with high ceilings that create an airy feel. Tropical elements, natural wood, and stone accents lend warmth to the space, instantly making you feel at ease. It’s a taste of what’s to come—modern luxury wrapped in comfort.
Prime Location at Westside City
Grand Westside Hotel is situated at the heart of Megaworld's 31-hectare Entertainment City development, also known as Westside City. This bustling township lies along the famous Manila Bay, promising guests jaw-dropping views of its stunning sunset. Whether you're staying in one of the hotel's rooms or dining at one of its soon-to-open restaurants, that iconic view is a huge part of the experience.
The Largest Hotel in the Philippines
This hotel is no ordinary establishment; it’s the largest hotel in the country. Rising 19 stories high and offering 1,530 rooms, it caters to all types of travelers. Presidential suites feature their own living, dining, and kitchen areas, perfect for intimate gatherings or ultra-luxe staycations. For the everyday traveler, there are Queen Suites, Twin Suites, and Executive Suites to choose from, each thoughtfully designed for comfort and style.
What I found particularly impressive was the attention to inclusivity. The Grand Westside Hotel offers specially-designed rooms for guests with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay with ease.
Amenities with a View
One of the hotel’s standout features is its sprawling pool area, where you can relax while gazing at the Manila Bay sunset. There’s a separate children’s pool, a charming gazebo, and a zen garden surrounded by vibrant foliage. It's not just a pool, it’s an escape within the city.
For those looking to recharge, wellness facilities are on hand, including massage rooms for ultimate relaxation. Fitness buffs will appreciate the hotel’s gym, perfect for squeezing in a workout during your stay.
A Feast for the Senses
The Grand Westside Hotel doesn’t just focus on accommodations and relaxation. Dining is a major part of the experience. At Café by Westside, we were treated to an array of flavorful dishes, each one highlighting both local and international flavors. The Pomelo Thai Salad was a refreshing starter, followed by the deliciously fresh Tuna Kinilaw. Beef Salpicao and Pork Sinigang hit the spot, with the Gambas providing a nice seafood kick. And don't forget the drinks—Longan Calamansi and Black Iced Tea were standouts!
Business Meets Leisure
The hotel’s grandeur isn’t just for vacationers. The Grand Westside Hotel is also an ideal destination for corporate events and business travelers. With function rooms that can accommodate anything from intimate celebrations to large gatherings, and an exclusive Executive Lounge for VIP guests, the hotel offers a professional setting for meetings and business functions. The lounge also features boardrooms and smaller meeting spaces for a more private setting.
More Than Just a Hotel
The Grand Westside Hotel is part of something bigger. Connected to the upcoming Westside Resort complex, this vast entertainment hub will be home to four theaters, perfect for concerts and live performances. The crown jewel of these is The Grand Opera House—a first in the Philippines, with a seating capacity of 2,000. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to experience.
And for the shopaholics out there, the hotel’s first two floors will be dedicated to retail and commercial spaces, adding even more excitement to the experience.
Final Thoughts
My quick tour of the Grand Westside Hotel was enough to leave a lasting impression. Its scale is grand, but it manages to balance that with thoughtful, human touches. From its luxurious rooms and serene amenities to its unbeatable location with a view, the hotel is designed to offer guests an extraordinary experience. Whether you're there for a staycation, a business trip, or an event, this new gem promises to deliver something special.