Gay Manila Manila City Guide

Let’s just get this out the way. Manila is crowded. And hot. And polluted. And there are malls. A lot of them. But the way we see it, that’s a small price to pay for the enormous payout. The “Pearl of the Orient Seas” sobriquet is fitting, since the shelled mollusc doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside an iridescent gem awaits to be discovered—if you’re willing to exert some effort to pry it open to get at it. This Asian megapolis is not for the faint of heart, so if exploring the world’s most densely populated city scares you, it’s probably not your place. From war to natural disaster, Manila’s been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times in its history, some say more than even Troy. These misfortunes have only served to strengthen the joie de vivre and spirituality of its people. Manila exudes immense energy and creativity. Manileño culture, food and language is a tasty hodgepodge of Chinese, Malay, Arabic, Spanish and American influences. Considered one of the most gay-friendly countries in Asia, the Filipino people are overwhelmingly pro-gay in their attitudes. Manila has irrefutable gay creds. True fact: the queer subculture has its own secret slang language called ‘Swardspeak’ that’s been around since the 1970s and one of its gorgeous citizens, John Raspado, nabbed the Mr Gay World title in 2017.

Where to stay in Manila

For discerning gay travellers seeking the pinnacle of luxury in Manila, the Raffles Makati stands as a beacon of sophistication. Nestled in the heart of the bustling Makati district, this opulent haven boasts on-call butlers, a palm-fringed pool, and gleaming wooden floors that exude timeless elegance. Art aficionados will be delighted by the hotel’s curated collection of over 1,000 commissioned pieces, predominantly crafted by local artists, creating a captivating fusion of Filipino culture and contemporary design.

For those who fancy a touch of excitement, the Grand Hyatt Manila presents an enticing blend of luxury and entertainment. Towering over the skyline in Bonifacio Global City, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking views of the metropolis from its rooftop bar, The Peak. Gourmands will relish the diverse culinary offerings, from the authentic Cantonese cuisine at No. 8 China House to the innovative cocktails at The Cellar.

Meanwhile, The Peninsula Manila, an iconic institution since 1976, continues to set the standard for refined hospitality. Situated at the heart of Makati’s illustrious shopping and business district, this grand dame seamlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary luxuries. The hotel’s legendary afternoon tea in The Lobby is a must-experience ritual, offering a delightful respite from the urban hustle. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the Peninsula Spa provides an oasis of tranquillity, featuring treatments inspired by Filipino healing traditions.