I have always been enamored by Pan Am. And although it's been a dead airline for almost 20 years now, it still conjures up images of glamour and new world luxury (below) of an age where long distance travel was only accessible to a rarefied and romantic few.
Back when Manila was still the Pearl of The Orient before World War II, Pan Am's China Clipper and Philippine Clipper Martin M-130s would make regular stops to Manila (below, in front of Manila Hotel) after flying from Hongkong, Wake, and Honolulu. One could only imagine how chic it must have been to be a tourist disembarking from one of those flying boats, swanning into a limousine that would cruise you to the Manila Hotel. All right before taking a quick stroll through the seven churches of Intramuros, and a little shopping on the Escolta.
Which is why I was pretty stoked to find an interesting hotel in the back streets of Makati called The Clipper Hotel. Done in streamline Art Deco, it's a real throwback to pre-war Manila. But even though it may seem all retro, all the amenities seem to be very up to date. All beds are fitted with 100% cotton duvets and sheets, all the air-conditioners are Panasonic, and all showers are heated with an environmentally friendly solar-electric system from Australia. And for those who like being close to the Central Business District, The Clipper Hotel is conveniently located walking distance to the nightlife of Kalayaan and Burgos Streets, the restaurants of Jupiter and Polaris, and Rockwell. Old world charm in the heart of contemporary Manila. Go check it out.
Check out photos of the hotel and rates on their site here: The Clipper Hotel.
THE CLIPPER HOTEL
5766 Ebro Street, P. Burgos Poblacion Makati City
(632) 890-8577 / 756-0939
