In It To Win

Much more than just high-roller heaven, the casino hotel Okada Manila offers hedonism of every kind

- Joyce Ip

On my arrival, I’m told to look for a hotel rep in a plum-coloured blazer.

Curious about this fashion choice, I soon come to understand why. The car collecting me from the airport was plum-hued, as is the property logo, lobby centrepiece and a large part of the hotel. Rumour has it this shade is meant to uplift gamblers, reasoning I dare not question, as the hotel’s founder is ‘Pachinko King’ Kazuo Okada after all.

To call Okada Manila a casino hotel doesn’t do it justice. There is much more to it, namely a US$30 million musical fountain spanning the equivalent of 50 Olympic pools, a nightclub which plays host to world-class parties and gay pride celebrations, a children’s play area where jungle gyms run floor-to-ceiling, and a spa complete with celebrity manicurist.

Opened in 2016 but currently undergoing a largescale revamp, what is housed within this golden trapezoidal exterior is the first phase of three, sharing a taster of the F&B and wellness offerings to follow over 44 hectares.

Though luxury is in abundance, Okada Manila has something for every holidaymaker, with meals ranging from US$200 Japanese set dinners prepared by the head chef to corndogs from a cart. The same goes for shopping, with everything from Swiss fashion brand Bally to Sunday market souvenirs.

ROYAL TREATMENT

For therapy of a different kind, the 4,500sqm Retreat Spa comprises a 50s-style barbershop for trims with tipples, as well as an express beauty salon featuring eco brands like Davines, SpaRitual and Deborah Lippmann. A domed reception (it resembles a planetarium) garners much attention. Treatment rooms named after famous Filipino bays and vintage trunks lining the walls continue a travel theme.