Following the trend of owner-developers launching their own accommodation brand, Ayala Land of the Philippines is opening Seda Hotel in Bonifacio Global City this week.
The product with an “urban lifestyle” DNA is located in the fast emerging hub – also known as “The Fort” harking back to the days when the district was a military encampment – across from Makati City where major business transactions still take place. More Sedas are being planned, Ayala Land officials say, with the next in Cagayan de Oro, a booming secondary metropolis in northeast Mindanao. Then, it's Davao in March 2013.
Capitalising on Ayala Land’s expertise in mixed-use developments, Seda Hotels will enjoy access to a wealth of commercial and retail attractions, Al C Legaspi, the group's chief operating officer told Business Traveller. At the doorstep of Seda Hotel is Bonifacio High Street and the Serendra strip, which boasts innovative dining and shopping options and is in the vicinity of rising office towers. Outdoor performances here have also become regular weekend highlights here.
Deluxe King guestroom
Free wifi service is promised throughout the 179-room hotel. Guest amenities include a 40-inch LED HDTV with cable programming, iPod docks, media panel with HDMI, USB and A/V connectivity, coffee and tea-making facilities, in-room safe, and iron and ironing board. Two outlets, the all-day dining Misto and rooftop bar Straight Up provide sustenance, and relaxation is offered by a gym and swimming pool. An "e-lounge" at Misto takes the place of a business centre, and there are four function spaces to hold small meetings.
Seda Hotels arrives at a time when the Philippine hotel scene, particularly in Metro Manila, appears to be on a rapid upswing after several years of being moribund. Manila Marriott led the way in 2010, opening at Resorts World Manila, Newport City Complex, across Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. This is to be joined in 2014 by a Hilton (see news) and in 2017 by a Sheraton. On December 3, The Raffles and Fairmont Hotels made their debut on a shared location in Makati City (see news).
In the future Resorts World Bayshore at Entertainment City, along Manila Bay, a Westin is planned to open in mid 2016. Mid-range chain Best Western has also been busy planting its flag in Makati and around the archipelago.
A detailed update of the Philippines' vastly improving profile will be featured in the January-February 2013 edition of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific.
For more details, visit www.sedahotels.com
Margie T Logarta
