It all started with a Facebook post … I actually learned about Manila's Free Heritage Tour from a post I saw on the Manila Hotel’s official Facebook page in celebration of World Tourism Day. It instantly caught my attention — the idea of walking through one of the most historic hotels in the country for free sounded too good to miss. Without thinking twice, I registered right away.
When the big day came, we all gathered at the grand lobby, where one of the reception staff welcomed us and gave a few reminders before the tour officially began. Our guide, Alicia, greeted us warmly and introduced herself with the kind of calm confidence that made everyone feel excited.
From the moment I stepped inside, the entire hotel felt alive with history — chandeliers glimmering above marble floors, the soft scent of polished wood, and that quiet old-world charm that only The Manila Hotel carries. Built in 1912, this 113-year-old landmark by Manila Bay has hosted presidents, royalty, celebrities, and world leaders — which is why it’s rightfully called the Grand Dame of Manila.
First Stop: The MacArthur Suite
Our first stop was the legendary MacArthur Suite, one of the most historic and luxurious rooms in the hotel. This elegant two-bedroom suite was once the official residence of General Douglas MacArthur, who lived here with his family from 1935 to 1941 while serving as the Military Advisor to the Philippine Commonwealth.
Today, the suite can still be booked — but only for those who can afford its incredible ₱600,000 per night rate, making it one of the most exclusive suites in the country. Inside are two spacious bedrooms, a large living area overlooking Manila Bay and the ferry dock, a formal dining room, and a small office that recreates MacArthur’s own workspace. The chair displayed there is a replica — the original now sits safely inside the hotel’s museum — and the desk is decorated with replicas of his medals, generously shared by his sister.
Every corner exudes timeless sophistication — chandeliers, carved wooden furniture, and portraits of the general. Standing by the window, it was easy to imagine MacArthur himself looking out over the bay, pipe in hand, before uttering those famous words, “I shall return.”
A Glimpse into General MacArthur’s Legacy
Before leaving The Manila Hotel, General MacArthur had already become a figure of loyalty and courage to Filipinos. When World War II broke out, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered him to evacuate from Corregidor Island in 1942. From there, he sailed to Australia, where he made his historic vow: “I shall return.”
He fulfilled that promise in October 1944, leading the Allied landing at Leyte Gulf, which marked the liberation of the Philippines. After the war, he oversaw Japan’s post-war rebuilding as Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, later commanded UN forces in the Korean War, and eventually retired in the United States. MacArthur passed away in 1964 in Washington, D.C., leaving behind a legacy forever tied to both America and the Philippines.
The Other Hero Suites: Gabriela Silang and More
The Manila Hotel also honors other national heroes through its Hero Suites collection like the Jose Rizal Suite and Andres Bonifacio Suite. We only got to see Gabriela Silang Suite because if I am not mistaken the other suites are either currently occupied by guests or other matter I totally can't recall. Though smaller — about 145 square meters — it has a cozy, regal charm. The suite overlooks Intramuros, the walled city across the street, and is adorned with amber wallpaper, polished wood floors, ornate gold accents, and even an antique-style telephone that instantly caught my attention.
It has a living room, a small kitchenette, and tasteful Filipino artwork that perfectly represents the strength and grace of Gabriela Silang, the first Filipina revolutionary leader. It doesn’t carry the same wartime story as the MacArthur Suite, but it radiates a quieter, more feminine form of heroism.
Fun Fact: There’s an Even Bigger Suite — The Presidential Suite
While the MacArthur Suite is steeped in history, the Presidential Suite holds the title as the largest and most luxurious room in The Manila Hotel. Spanning roughly 1,300 square meters, it’s nearly double the size of the MacArthur Suite and designed for heads of state and international VIPs.
This grand space features several living and entertainment areas, a formal dining hall, and two kitchens — including a show kitchen where private chefs can cook meals right in front of guests. It also has its own office and study, a lavish master bedroom, and sweeping views of Manila Bay and Intramuros. Guests enjoy 24-hour butler service, customized amenities, and exclusive Executive Club access.
At around ₱800,000 per night, the Presidential Suite ranks among the most expensive hotel rooms in the Philippines. We didn’t visit it since it isn’t part of the heritage tour, but hearing about its grandeur gave us a glimpse of how The Manila Hotel continues to blend living history with modern luxury.
Exploring the MacArthur Suite felt like stepping straight into a living museum. Every chandelier, painting, and piece of furniture seemed to whisper stories from a century ago. This tour reminded me that The Manila Hotel isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a national treasure, a witness to war and peace, to change and celebration. As our guide gently closed the suite doors, she smiled and said, “Next stop: the museum.” And with that, we made our way to the ground floor to discover even more stories waiting inside the Manila Hotel Museum.
My Personal Thoughts about this FREE Tour of Manila Hotel
While I really appreciate that this is a free heritage tour offered by The Manila Hotel, I felt it could use a bit more personal touch. After the tour, everyone just kind of went their own way — which felt a little abrupt. Having organized walking tours myself before, I’ve learned that the best part often happens after the main activity: when people sit down over coffee, pastries, or even just a drink, and share stories or impressions. That’s where the connection truly happens.
Maybe The Manila Hotel can consider adding something simple like that — even just offering a glass of cold water after, or handing us the café menu to invite guests to grab a bite or drink. I think most of us wouldn’t mind paying for it; it would even be a nice way to support their in-house café.
The Facebook post also encouraged to wear Filipiniana attire, which was a nice idea — but since there wasn’t any photo-taking or group moment after, I suddenly wondered what is the point of wearing such? Still, it was a beautiful and insightful tour overall — a reminder of how rich our history is and how much The Manila Hotel continues to embody that timeless Filipino elegance.
CURRENTLY WRITING: MANILA HOTEL'S PART 2 FEATURING ITS RESIDENT MUSEUM. STAY TUNED!
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