The first few days in Manila, we stayed at the Manila Hotel, the grand old dame of all hotels in Manila. The hotel is well known because among other things, it was Gen. Douglas MacArthur's residence when he oversaw the Philippines during the American colonial regime. We found this incredible deal on the Internet which allowed us to stay in this fabulous hotel for half the price.
The Manila Hotel continues to be the favorite among Manila's elite and government officials. While we were staying there, there were countless of weddings and receptions as well as meetings and conferences, particularly of medical alumni groups from the United States. Exactly a week after our stay, a high ranking government official with cabinet status ran amok on the 9th floor (which was the same floor were at) - threatening guests and hotel workers with violence. He was promptly sacked by the President.
